Residents of Hard Times Road voiced their frustrations during a recent government meeting, highlighting ongoing issues with road maintenance that have persisted for over 15 years. Sebastian Thompson, a local resident, expressed concerns about the deteriorating condition of the road, which has been neglected despite previous promises for repairs. He noted that logging activities have exacerbated the situation, causing further damage and making it difficult for residents to access their homes.

In response, the road manager confirmed that the road has been on the repair list since January 2020 and requested a motion from the board to proceed with the necessary repairs. The board unanimously approved the motion to move forward with the project, which will involve asphalt work, contingent upon compliance with state regulations regarding engineering oversight for projects exceeding $25,000.

The meeting also addressed an urgent sewage leak reported by Frederick Johnson, a resident of District 4. Johnson described the leak's impact on his property, including foul odors and overflowing toilets. The board agreed to contact the appropriate contractor to assess the situation promptly, recognizing the emergency nature of the issue.

Additionally, the board discussed a recreational trail improvement project funded by a $150,000 grant from the Mississippi Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. The board authorized the president to sign the necessary agreement to move forward with the project, which is set to commence in December 2024.

In other business, the board considered a request for sponsorship from the Mississippi Cultural Crossroad for a holiday event, which was also approved. The meeting concluded with discussions about appointing a representative to the Southwest Planning Board, emphasizing the importance of having an engaged member to ensure effective participation in future meetings.