Jackson County BOCC October 28th Regular Meeting Highlights

On October 28, 2025, the Jackson County Board of County Commissioners held a Regular Meeting. This is a recap of some of the reports and requests included in that meeting.

The meeting began with Recognition of Citizens Academy 2025 Participants. Jackson County is proud to announce the continued success of our Citizens Academy, a program designed to bridge the gap between citizens and local government by fostering education, engagement, and community involvement. Now concluding its fourth year, the Academy has provided participants with valuable insights into the workings of our local government and the roles of various departments in serving the community.

This year’s class saw outstanding participation with 31 dedicated citizens who completed the program, demonstrating a growing interest in understanding local government and how residents can make a meaningful impact. We are grateful for their commitment and look forward to building on this momentum in future programs.

During this meeting, some of the participants in attendance were recognized by the Board for their dedication to Jackson County and presented with certificates of completion. Those in attendance included: Beau Alday, Susan Blount, James Gibson, Gail Hill, James Kirkland, Jet Kirkland, Keith Koppelman, Susan Koppelman, Jesse Lusk, Shannon Lusk, Willie Mack, Ashley Merrill, Shayna Murphy, Rebecca Robinson, James Sallas, Randy Smith, Sylvia Stephens, Deanna Strickland, Charlene Trickey-Durham, Thomas Wood, and Tresa Wood.

Other participants who completed the program, but who were unable to attend the meeting included: Victoria Albritton, Timothy Bennett, Vickie Godwin, Terri Hardin, Brenda Hoagland, Rana Oliver, Darvin Owens, Lisa Owens, Tyler Schaeffer, and Paul Smith.

A request was then made for Approval of Pilot Travel Center Addition. The Board held a public hearing and approved a General Development Order for an expansion project for Pilot Travel Center located at 2209 Highway 71 South in unincorporated Jackson County. The project includes a 2,883-square-foot addition to the existing building and 5,693 square feet of new sidewalks and vehicular use areas, supporting continued commercial growth in the area.

A request was then made for the First Reading of Ordinance Revision to the Jackson County Comprehensive Plan. The Board held the first reading of a proposed revision to the Jackson County Comprehensive Plan and scheduled the second reading and public hearing for November 12, 2025. Earlier this year, the County adopted updates to the Comprehensive Plan in coordination with the Florida Department of Commerce. Following the adoption, the state identified a policy conflict related to recent legislative changes under Senate Bill 180. After collaborative discussions, it was agreed that the County would readopt the amendment with Chapter 4, Policy 2.1 reverting to its previously approved language to ensure full compliance and consistency with state law.

The meeting continued with a request for Approval of MOU Project blue Sky-Endeavor Industrial Park. The Board approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to move forward with potential occupancy of the spec building at the Endeavor property, marking an important milestone in long-term economic development efforts. Over the past seven years, Jackson County has partnered with the U.S. Economic Development Administration and the Florida Department of Commerce to prepare the site and construct the facility to attract new businesses. A local company has now expressed interest in leasing the building and assuming responsibility for taxes, insurance, and maintenance. Approval of the MOU represents the next step toward activating the space and supporting local job growth, pending final approval of an amended grant agreement with the Department of Commerce.

Then a request for Approval of Holley Timber Rd Change Order, Final Pay and Closeout Documents. The Board approved the final payment and project closeout for Holley Timber Road, marking another completed infrastructure improvement for Jackson County. The project, funded through an FDOT Small County Outreach Program (SCOP) Grant, was constructed by Southeast Construction and has passed all inspections. A final change order by DRMP adjusted quantities for underruns and overruns, resulting in a project decrease of $21,566.20. With construction complete and all requirements met, the Holley Timber Road project is officially ready for closeout.

The meeting continued with a request for Approval of Reddick Mill Bridge Final Pay and Closeout Documents in Graceville. The Board approved the final payment and project closeout for the Reddick Mill Bridge project. The project was funded through an FDOT Bridge Small County Outreach Program (BSCOP) grant and constructed by Extreme Land Restoration. All work has been completed, inspected, and approved, with final documentation and certification of completion submitted. With this milestone, the Reddick Mill Bridge project is officially ready for closeout, improving safety and reliability for travelers in the area.

A request was also made for Approval to Negotiate with Highest Rank Proposer for Building Inspection Services. The Board approved staff entering into negotiations with the highest-ranked proposer, EP Consultants, Inc. (EPCI), for Building Inspection Services. Bids for the project were opened on October 9, 2025, and evaluated based on qualifications, experience, client references, and cost of services, with cost carrying the greatest weight. Following a competitive review process, EPCI received the top ranking, with Willdan and Bureau Veritas tying for second place. The upcoming negotiations will finalize service rates and contract details to ensure continued quality and efficiency in building inspection services across Jackson County.

The meeting continued with a request for Approval of Contract for Waste Removal Services with Waste Pro of Florida, Inc. The Board approved Contract 2425-12 for Waste Removal Services with Waste Pro of Florida, Inc., following successful negotiations between the County and the company. Under the agreement, Waste Pro will be providing countywide residential and commercial waste collection, including weekly service for households, curbside assistance for disabled residents, and support for community cleanup events. The partnership ensures reliable, efficient waste management services for Jackson County residents, with more information to be shared in the coming weeks.

Finishing off was a request for Approval to Solicit RFP 2526-05 Contract Legal Services. The Board approved moving forward with a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Contract Legal Services and confirmed the members of the ranking committee that will evaluate submissions. This action follows prior Board direction to review options for legal service delivery and ensure continued support for the County’s operational and legal needs.

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