Adams County supervisors back Old South Winery expansion, urge applicant to secure state approvals

The Adams County Board of Supervisors agreed during its meeting to support Old South Winery’s plan to expand and pursue resort-area liquor licensing, but the board stressed that state approvals remain required.

The decision came after owner Scott Galbert told the board he had bought property on Highway 61 and plans to build a vineyard, a new facility and visitor space. He told the supervisors the Mississippi Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) had told him county wineries may need a resort-area designation to serve customers on site.

The board’s action was framed as a local endorsement and a pledge not to “stand in [the winery’s] way,” rather than any grant of regulatory approval. Supervisor Gray moved that the board work with the applicant as he pursues the necessary approvals; the motion was seconded by Supervisor Middleton and the board voted in favor.

Why it matters: ABC rules determine whether a winery can serve customers on site under Mississippi law, and local endorsement can help an applicant assemble the documentation ABC may request. Board members repeatedly told Galbert the county would assist where possible but that the state agency’s decision is controlling.

Details and discussion: Galbert described a multigenerational family business and said he had bought property “across from the driver’s license place” to expand retail and visitor services. He told the supervisors he had not yet reached ABC and planned to contact the agency to resolve whether resort-area status was required. Supervisor Gray said the board historically has not blocked business expansion and that supervisors would help the applicant “work with them to get their approval.” Several other supervisors voiced support for the business remaining and growing in Adams County.

Board action: Motion by Supervisor Gray, second by Supervisor Middleton. Vote: motion carried (board recorded as “Ayes have it”; no roll-call names recorded in the transcript excerpt). The board did not adopt any ordinance or change county zoning during the meeting; its action was to offer support and assistance to the applicant as he pursues state licensing.

What’s next: Galbert said he will pursue follow-up with the Mississippi ABC and return to the board if needed. The board’s endorsement does not substitute for any state licensing or permit requirements.

Speakers quoted in this report are identified in the transcript and include the applicant and named supervisors.