Henderson County Commissioners Court voted to appoint Danny Crossley to the Natchez–Trinity Valleys Groundwater Conservation District board for a four-year term beginning Jan. 1, 2026. The appointment followed staff notification that Dr. Sam Hurley would not accept reappointment when his term expires Dec. 31.

Two candidates were listed in the meeting backup: Danny Crossley, a Chandler resident who described 17 years in the state public water supply program, and Thomas Joe Whatley, who the court record describes as having about 40 years of water-industry experience. Crossley spoke to the court, saying he had become concerned about local groundwater and alleged that state-level interests and individuals were seeking to move water out of the area; he referenced a person named 'Mr. Bass' drilling wells and said someone needed to 'stand up to the state' to protect the county's water supply.

Commissioners noted constituent feedback favoring a change in board representation and thanked outgoing board members for service. One commissioner said the community desired 'a new voice' for this district. A motion to appoint Crossley passed unanimously by those present.

The record includes no administrative rebuttal to Crossley’s assertions about state-level activities or the named driller; commissioners instead emphasized the need for local representation and oversight on the district board. Crossley stated he could resign from another board (RPM water board) if a conflict arose. The court did not specify additional follow-up beyond the formal appointment.