By Skyla Carter
During the Tuesday, May 5 meeting of the Holmes County Board of County Commissioners, commissioners heard updates and public concerns involving local fire departments, county projects, traffic safety, and development activity in the Dror Acres community.
During public comment, Pittman Fire Department Fire Chief Alfred Sellers told commissioners that one of the department’s fire trucks experienced a catastrophic mechanical failure while responding to a fire last week. Sellers said repairs totaled $1,565 and noted that rising operating expenses, including a recent $765 power bill, could place the department under financial strain before the start of the next fiscal year on Oct. 1.
Commissioner Clint Erickson said he was not aware of the issue before the meeting, while Commissioner Wilmer Stafford recommended tabling the reimbursement request until the board’s next meeting.
Residents also raised concerns about traffic safety on Corsey Road. Marie Bowman thanked County Coordinator David Corbin for arranging brush removal near recently installed road signs, saying the work improved visibility in the area. Bowman asked commissioners to consider adding flashing lights near the signs and requested an increased law enforcement presence along the roadway.
Resident Richard Wilsey also addressed commissioners about speeding concerns on Corsey Road and suggested rumble strips as an alternative to speed bumps.
Discussion surrounding the Dror Acres development drew extended public comment from Chaim Rabinowitz, who spoke on behalf of homeowners within the association. Rabinowitz said residents are seeking answers about what Holmes County approved when the development moved forward in February 2022, and whether county officials were aware a school and dormitory housing out-of-state boys would later operate within the subdivision.
Rabinowitz said homeowners purchased property believing the development would function as a Jewish residential community. He questioned whether commissioners were informed that a developer-controlled non-profit would operate what he described as a boarding school on one of the lots.
He also questioned why application fees tied to the project were waived and asked about an interest-free loan reportedly provided through the Holmes County Development Commission. Rabinowitz further requested clarification regarding ownership interests involving Holmes County Development Commission Executive Director Joe Rone and Shan Hatfield, both of whom he said are listed on property records within the development.
Rabinowitz told commissioners that homeowners notified the county by email on Jan. 13 about concerns involving the school’s operation, including alleged violations related to fire safety, building codes, health regulations, Department of Education requirements, and subdivision covenants.
Rabinowitz also raised concerns about emergency access and liability if a fire or other emergency were to occur on the property. He requested the county review the development’s approval history, release relevant public records, and provide written clarification regarding what uses were approved within the subdivision and what enforcement actions may follow.
Commissioner Erickson said the concerns would be taken under consideration. The matter remains ongoing.
Commissioners also discussed placing a school board sales tax referendum on this year’s ballot. During discussion, officials clarified the measure would involve a one-half cent sales tax rather than one-half percent. Commissioners approved the motion.
Holmes County Public Library Director Becky Marsh presented three bids for repairs to the library’s HVAC system and recommended accepting the lowest proposal from Pat’s Heating and Cooling. Commissioners approved the recommendation, and Marsh thanked Commissioner Keith Bennett for assisting with the issue
The board also revisited ongoing concerns involving leaks at the Holmes County Agricultural Center. Corbin said additional leaks were discovered following recent rainfall despite previous repairs. County Attorney Nate Nolin recused himself from matters involving the project.
Contractors said repairs included replacing the ridge cap, sealing seams, and applying expandable caulking. Bennett said he reviewed the repair work with contractors and believed the repairs had been completed properly. Commissioners noted the county has not yet conducted a final walkthrough of the building and that approximately $80,000 remains unpaid on the project.
During commissioner items, Commissioner Erickson recommended Jackie Faircloth for the Holmes County Development Commission District 5 seat. The appointment passed unanimously
Holmes County Sheriff John Tate also spoke with commissioners regarding discussions about restructuring county fire departments under the Sheriff’s Office. Tate said he had met with local fire chiefs and was exploring a long-term plan for county fire services.
Tate said one goal would be staffing the Pine Log Fire Department during weekdays and pursuing a SAFER Grant to strengthen emergency response capabilities across the county. Commissioners approved a motion requesting Tate return at the next meeting with a formal proposal regarding the fire departments.
The next meeting of the Holmes County Board of County Commissioners is scheduled for Tuesday, May 19 at 9 a.m.
Staff Report 
GARETT VALCOURT 