BOS votes to approve ferry bid

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — The Warren County Board of Supervisors voted to approve the bid from Smith Towing to provide 24 hour-seven day ferry service to Kings Point Island at Monday’s meeting. 

Smith towing will provide the service at a weekly cost of $4,850 which comes to an annual cost of $2,384,200.

Board President Dr. Kelle Barfield stated the total cost would be more than the $2.3M.

“And that’s exclusive of the cost of fuel, maintenance, insurance and other expenses,” pointed out Barfield. 

District 3 Supervisor Shawn Jackson stated for the record the additional expenses would be passed on the county as well; which according to Barfield would be an estimated $800,000. 

Tax payers will be footing the bill for an estimated cost of $3,184,200 annually to provide the 24 hour seven days a week ferry service to Kings Point Island. 

This follows the most recent court order making the county liable for the service after a legal battle lead by the landowners of the island. 

Kings Point currently has no residential homes and the land is used mostly for hunting purposes and timber harvesting. According to multiple records, the landowners of the island already have a private ferry used solely by property owners on the island. 

Dr. Barfield did point out Smith Towing was up-to-date on the requirements of the U.S. Coast Guard which govern the public use of boats on U.S. waterways. 

“Smith Towing, which currently provides the service are in compliance with the elevated Coast Guard regulations, so we do know they will be qualified to provide the service,” said Barfield. 

While the BOS is approve the bid from Smith Towing, Jackson pointed out the contract would still need to be negotiated and approved.