Harrison County Commissioners are tackling a pressing issue regarding vehicle safety, with 23 recalls currently affecting county vehicles. The recalls date back to 2022 and extend into this year, raising concerns about the safety of drivers and the implications for vehicle sales.

During the special meeting on November 13, 2024, officials emphasized the importance of addressing these recalls. "We want y'all drivers to be safe when they're in the vehicle," one commissioner stated, urging staff to pay close attention to the nature of each recall. While not all recalls prevent vehicle operation, safety-related recalls must be prioritized to ensure driver safety.

The discussion highlighted the logistical challenges of managing these recalls. Some vehicles may require repairs at local dealerships, while others might not have available fixes due to their age. "We are actively working on getting the recalls fixed," a commissioner noted, mentioning that two vehicles had been repaired that very morning by a mobile unit.

However, the process has not been without its complications. Delays in receiving necessary paperwork from dealerships have hindered the timely resolution of recalls. "We've had a lot of trouble with the ones that we've sent back, getting the paperwork so they can come and get it," one official explained, underscoring the bureaucratic hurdles faced.

As the county prepares to sell vehicles, all recalls must be resolved beforehand, adding urgency to the situation. The commissioners are committed to ensuring that all necessary repairs are completed, emphasizing the importance of safety and compliance in their vehicle management strategy. The meeting concluded with a breakdown of vehicle sales for fiscal year 2024, indicating a proactive approach to addressing these challenges.