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Rankin County OKs 2‑mill increase to fund Langford Volunteer Fire Department
Summary
After a public hearing, the Rankin County Board approved a 2‑mill increase to the Langford Volunteer Fire District; Chief Adams said the increase would cover operating costs and equipment needs, with the county attorney estimating about $75,000 annually.
The Rankin County Board of Supervisors voted on Dec. 1 to approve a 2‑mill increase in fire‑protection millage for the Langford Volunteer Fire Department, after a public hearing in which department leaders described operating shortfalls and capital needs.
Chief Adams, representing Langford Volunteer Fire Department, told the board the department spends “about 25,000 to $30,000 a year just [on] operating expenses” and has faced major equipment repairs that depleted reserves and delayed replacement of aging apparatus. He described community fundraising and outreach but said those efforts were not sufficient to meet capital and maintenance needs.
The county attorney explained the request falls within Mississippi Code Annotated Section 19‑5‑189(c) and noted that a 2‑mill increase is the maximum permitted for fire protection districts formed after 1987. The attorney estimated the additional 2 mills would generate roughly $75,000 annually for the Langford district.
Supervisors asked for assurances about outreach and fiscal stewardship; Chief Adams said the district had posted required notices in three locations, held a town hall and publicized the request on social media. Board members voted to approve the 2‑mill increase by voice vote.
The action authorizes the clerk’s office to record the millage change and the treasurer to apply the levy in the next tax cycle for the Langford fire protection district.
