Supervisors move forward on plans for new building

The Pearl River County Board of Supervisors have agreed to move forward with Landry, Lewis, and Germany architects in finalizing plans for the purpose of constructing a new, two-story 39,102 square feet building. The building would be located adjacent to the existing courthouse in Poplarville on the north side.

During last week's meeting, the board reviewed preliminary plans from the architects and voted to move forward with detailed plans and an intent resolution for bond funding at the next meeting.

The project will provide two court rooms for the Circuit Court and Chancery Court, new offices for the Tax Assessor and Collector, Chancery Clerk, 911 and Planning, and the District Attorney.

Rendering of the building by Landry, Lewis, and Germany architects

The supervisors have conducted many sessions discussing what is the best plan to move forward to address aging buildings and the need for new space due to current, and expected future growth in the county. Part of the plan is to renovate portions of the existing courthouse and utilize that space for the Sheriff’s Office, Circuit Clerk’s Office, Public Defenders, and a board room for the Supervisors.

The new building will also alleviate some security concerns when court is in session and will also provide more functionality by grouping departments and judicial personnel in a strategic manner than is not possible with the current county buildings in use.

The estimated cost of the building based on the current plans presented is $9,414,628.00 which includes $500,000.00 for renovations to the existing courthouse and a 10% contingency. The estimated timeline shows the building being ready for occupancy in November 2019.

Detailed studies by the Board of Supervisors and County Administrator Adrain Lumpkin show that the cost of this work will not cause a tax increase nor an impact on other related services in the county.