Rankin County supervisors face backlash over mobile home ordinance changes

During the Rankin County Board of Supervisors meeting on May 5, 2025, a wave of public discontent surged as residents voiced their frustrations over recent zoning regulations affecting mobile homes. The meeting, which drew a large crowd, highlighted the community's concerns about government overreach and the need for transparency in decision-making.

One of the most impactful moments came from Andrew Baldwin, a local resident, who passionately criticized the board for not adequately informing the public about proposed ordinances. "A private citizen had to post about this on social media to get the outrage," Baldwin stated, emphasizing the need for better communication from the supervisors. He called for a mandatory waiting period before passing any new laws, suggesting that all proposed changes should be made public and accessible to residents.

The sentiment was echoed by several speakers, including Tanya, a mobile home owner, who expressed her disbelief at the new regulations. "Who can afford to get a new home every seven years?" she questioned, highlighting the financial burden such rules could impose on families. Tanya's emotional appeal underscored the personal stakes involved, as many residents rely on mobile homes for affordable housing.

Another resident, Steven Lawson, shared his concerns about the lack of public awareness regarding the supervisors' meetings. "I've lived in Rankin County pretty much my whole life, and I've never heard a date and time of any ranking county supervisor meeting," he remarked, calling for improved outreach efforts to keep constituents informed.

The board's decision to rescind the controversial mobile home ordinance was met with relief from many attendees, who felt their voices had been heard. However, the meeting also served as a reminder of the growing tension between local government and residents, with calls for greater accountability and transparency resonating throughout the discussions.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the supervisors face a significant challenge in rebuilding trust with the community. The overwhelming turnout and passionate testimonies reflect a community eager for engagement and a government that prioritizes the needs and voices of its constituents. Moving forward, the board will need to address these concerns head-on to foster a more collaborative relationship with the residents of Rankin County.