As communities across southeast Mississippi prepare for the 2026 legislative session, leaders in Lamar County say public safety, infrastructure funding and workforce challenges are among the most pressing issues facing small towns.
This story is part of a Roy Howard Community Journalism Center reporting project examining what mayors and county supervisors across southeast Mississippi want from state lawmakers during the 2026 legislative session. The project includes county-by-county reporting and an interactive overview highlighting shared priorities, regional differences and policy challenges facing local governments.
In Lamar County, those concerns are reflected in the priorities of Sumrall officials as they balance legislative changes, infrastructure needs and community resilience, according to town leaders.
Legislative Priorities, Infrastructure and Workforce Challenges
Sumrall Mayor Joel Lofton, now serving his second term, said one of the town’s top concerns heading into the session is how recent legislative decisions affect local funding. Changes made to lower taxes statewide have altered how reimbursements are distributed, creating challenges for small towns that rely on predictable funding streams.
Lofton said Sumrall continues to focus on improving public roads and utilities, including wastewater projects supported by federal COVID-era funding. Maintaining that funding — and securing future state support — remains critical as the town grows.
Another major issue is Mississippi’s Public Employees’ Retirement System, particularly changes that affect first responders. Lofton said the current structure requires new employees to work 35 years before reaching retirement eligibility, which he believes is unrealistic for many in law enforcement and other physically demanding public safety roles.
“With the 35-year requirement for new employees before you reach retirement, you see an awful lot of first responders that don’t survive 35 years in the career,” Lofton said.
He added that competition from private-sector employers offering higher pay and benefits has made it harder to recruit and retain public employees. He said the state should consider allowing a shorter retirement term to help local governments remain competitive.
Community Resilience, Public Spaces and Economic Development
Severe weather and infrastructure needs have also pushed Sumrall leaders to seek funding for a dedicated storm shelter. After recent storms caused injuries and property damage, the town began working on plans for a multifunction facility that would serve residents year-round — not just during emergencies. The proposed building would include space for senior citizen programs and children’s activities.
“We want it to be a place that can be used, not just for a storm, but for the community each and every day,” Lofton said. “So that when the bad day comes, folks can just go there, and they’ll be used to being there and be comfortable and safe there.”
In addition to safety and resilience efforts, Sumrall is investing in public spaces that support long-term economic and cultural development. One of the largest projects underway is Beam Park, funded through the Mississippi Outdoor Stewardship Trust Program. The park is being developed as both a recreational area and a venue for large events, including a future amphitheater.
Once completed, Beam Park is expected to accommodate more than 2,000 people, with seating for about 1,200. Lofton said the town already has multiple events scheduled for 2026, including concerts and a performance by the Parchman Penitentiary Band. That event will also serve as a regionwide food drive in partnership with the nonprofit Extra Table, giving residents a chance to donate canned goods and support efforts to reduce food insecurity across the state.
This story reflects responses from local leaders who were available to participate during the reporting period. Readers who would like to hear from city or county leaders not included here are encouraged to contact RHCJC News, and additional outreach will be made when possible.
This article is one of 10 county-level stories in the Roy Howard Community Journalism Center’s project examining local leaders’ priorities for the 2026 legislative session. The full interactive project is available at rhcjcnews.com.
