Warren County secures over $1.5 million for storm damage repairs

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The Warren County Board of Supervisors has greenlit the reception of $1.5 million in federal aid. This fund allocation aims to address damages sustained from the storm and tornado on Mar. 24.

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Group Nine pinpointed seven sites in Warren County in need of repair: Oak Ridge, Southern, Whatley, Old Jackson, and Roy Young roads, among others. County Engineer Brian Robbins elaborated that the money, totaling $1,558,637.13, is earmarked for rectifying erosion problems in these areas. Some of the damages were direct results of the storm, while other sites had pre-existing minor drainage issues which the storm exacerbated.

The storm on Mar. 24 wreaked havoc across Mississippi, with towns like Rolling Fork, Silver City, and Amory bearing the brunt of mammoth tornadoes.

Warren County, while not suffering to the same extent, was recognized as needing support, leading to the provision of assistance from NRCS. During the Board’s Oct. 16 meeting, the funding — entirely sourced from federal coffers — received unanimous approval.

Board President Kelle Barfield highlighted the board’s dedication to working in tandem with state and federal agencies to ensure Warren County’s well-being. The specific timeline for the start of the remedial projects has yet to be defined.