Jackson County March 24th BOCC Regular Meeting Highlights

On March 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM, 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.

A request was made for approval to set a public hearing for Vertical Bridge Wireless Telecommunications Facility. The Board approved a request to schedule a public hearing on April 14, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. to consider the proposed construction of a 250-foot wireless telecommunications facility with a 5-foot lightning rod on property leased from Mary Catherine Braxton, Trustee. The proposed tower would be located on the north side of Peanut Road, approximately one-half mile northwest of the intersection of Peanut Road and Highway 231 in unincorporated Jackson County. The Planning Commission reviewed the request on March 16, 2026, and recommended approval.

A request for ratification of the appointment of Jana Barfield, MSN, RN as the Administrator of FDOH-Jackson was made. The Board approved the ratification of the appointment of Jana Barfield, MSN, RN, as Administrator of the Florida Department of Health in Jackson County. In doing so, the Board reaffirmed the importance of continued collaboration between Jackson County and the Department of Health to support the delivery of effective public health programs and services. The Board expressed its support for Barfield in her new role and looks forward to working together to address the health needs of the community.

The meeting continued with a request for approval of the Tourist Development Council’s special event sponsorships and grants. The Jackson County Tourist Development Council is committed to supporting and promoting tourism-related events that showcase the local culture, attractions, and businesses. To achieve this goal, the department offers special sponsorships/reimbursements and grants to event organizers who demonstrate a positive impact on the local economy and community. By investing in these events, the department hopes to attract more visitors to the county, increase tourism revenue, and create memorable experiences for both residents and visitors alike. During this meeting, Tourist Development Council Director, Kelsi Jackson, requested Board approval of three (3) sponsorships/grants, which were approved.

• Partners for Pets Paws-a-Palooza: Partners for Pets will be hosting a 1-day disc golf tournament fundraiser on April 11 at Citizens Lodge. The TDC board met on 3/9/26 and recommended $900 in funding for social media ads ($250), t-shirts ($350), and Caverns ticket giveaways ($300).

• JC Disc Golf for JC Flex Series: This is a sponsorship request for Jackson County Disc Golf for the 2026 Summer Flex Series hosted across three dates in May, June, and September. The TDC board met on 3/9/26 and recommended approval for $2710 in funding for custom disc set up fee ($100), sanction fees ($150 and $480), and custom discs ($1910).

• Raylene Reserve Rhythm & Arts: The Third Annual Rhythm & Arts Festival is taking place in Grand Ridge at Raylene Reserve on April 4. The TDC board met on 3/9/26 and recommended approval for $300 in social media ads.

Approval of Amendment #2 to FDEP Grant LPA0309 Drainage Improvements was also requested. The Board approved Amendment #2 to FDEP Grant LPA0309 for the Jackson County Road Drainage Mitigation Projects. The amendment adjusts funding allocations within eligible expenditure categories to align with actual project costs, while maintaining the total grant amount. All work associated with this portion of the project has been completed on Watson Street and Poplar Springs Road.

This grant-funded initiative addresses multiple roadway drainage concerns across the county, focusing on improving infrastructure resilience. Through targeted drainage improvements such as roadway stabilization and culvert enhancements, the project helps reduce roadway impacts, protect surrounding properties, and maintain safe and reliable access for residents.

A request was also made for approval of entering into an MOU between County and “Clean Health”. The Board approved entering into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with CleanHealth, a Florida-based company, to outline a non-binding framework of expectations, requirements, and potential obligations as discussions continue regarding a proposed project in Jackson County. The MOU serves as an initial step in exploring the development of future binding agreements between the parties.

The agreement reflects the County’s intent to provide appropriate support to encourage CleanHealth to establish and operate a facility within Jackson County, with the goal of creating job opportunities at or above the county average and contributing to the local economy.

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