During their meeting on Monday, February 3, the Choctaw County Board of Supervisors heard from county engineer Marty Crowder concerning bridges in the county, with the main focus on the Fentress-Panhandle bridge over Tibby Creek.
Crowder stated that it has been known for some time that the bridge is in bad shape and an inspection revealed that the pilings below water are 63% corroded away, and a load test led to the recommendation to close the bridge. Crowder added that the bridge is programmed as a Federal Aid bridge through State Aid, however Surface Transportation funds are no longer available.
The County has not been able to secure the right-of-way that is required for rebuilding the bridge but is making a concerted effort to do so. Negotiations have been going for two years, but he landowner has refused offers made by the County. Crowder stated that everything is in place to make a final offer, and if the landowner still refuses, the County could turn to the courts.
In other action, the Board:
• Voted 5-0 to approve the ash report and jail inspection.
• Voted 5-0 to approve a donation of $5K to the Summer Youth Program.
• Voted 5-0 to move Dillion Cates from part-time deputy to full-time.
• Voted 5-0 to reimburse Supervisor Chris McIntire $545 for the purchase of an air compressor motor, for solid waste. McIntire made the purchase with the approval of Chancery Clerk Steve Montgomery, which saved the county approximately $1.3K.
