The Wednesday night county commission work session had a variety of constituents from multiple organizations. All board members were present to share reports on their districts and thank the citizens of Greene County for their continued support, patience, and generosity.
Commissioner Chair Spencer began the session by addressing a citizen’s concerns regarding the need for a unified Parks and Recreation board. Spencer stated that a revamp was to ensure “the county and city come together.” The commission welcomes input from citizens regarding potential summer uses of the Robert Young Center.
Following brief comments from the remaining commissioners, Spencer yielded the floor to Hospital Manager Roderick William. Williams came to announce that Wallace Community College in Selma is giving a grant to train students in Eutaw for the workforce. Wallace’s President, Dr. Donitha Griffin, was in attendance with the Workforce Development Coordinator, Brandi Dannelly, to detail the purpose of the grant. “We’re looking for every opportunity to employ people from the Black Belt,” Dr. Griffin began, “We know that we have resilient people.” The program will train students for healthcare positions, trades, and more.
Discussions shifted to the EMS ambulance service. Although the service recently received $18,000 from a fundraiser organized by Faye Tire, it still needs financial assistance. Commissioner Turner voiced concerns about the commission’s continued financial support for EMS services. “EMS has exhausted its resources; they’re in a hole to make payroll.” Turner reminded his fellow commissioners that they have yet to recoup part of the $88,000 advance they gave the EMS this past December, as the fundraiser funds were for vehicle repairs and other immediate needs. Commissioner Johnson responded to his concerns by saying, “We’re in a place where we can help them, so let’s help them.” Spencer also chimed in on the importance of continuing to support EMS services for the safety of the county’s citizens. “We have to keep this service open because the next person to need an ambulance may be you.”
The floor was then opened for a discussion with Valeria Walkins regarding a Summer Nutrition Program. The program is intended to provide produce on a ‘first-come, first-served’ basis to citizens in Greene County. Walkins is requesting $4,000 to cover the program’s induction this summer, as she has already used her own funds to secure a truck for distribution. “Everyone needs fruits and vegetables,” she stated. Walkins hopes to help local families and older people sustain themselves amidst rising food costs.
Finally, the President of the Greene County Historical Society, Julia Burke, came to request the “sole responsibility” for the Mesopotamia Female Seminary building, located right outside Greene County. The society is interested in preserving the building, with the hope that it will become a museum, as the college was a pioneer in women’s education in the county. Dr. Lloyd Dawe joined her to present the full proposal to the commission. He highlighted the society’s relationship with “great engineers” and their access to grants that the commission cannot apply for. “Greene County has a progressive history that we all should be proud of,” Dr. Dawe stated. The historical society is committed to turning the building into a museum on civil rights and women’s equality. Burke ended the proposal with a plea, “Please give us the opportunity to save this building.” Spencer replied that a public hearing will be held to gather input from the county’s citizens.
Greene County’s commission deliberates responsibly and respectfully for the well-being of all citizens. The commission welcomes and encourages the community to attend these public meetings to stay informed about its progress.
