Lobbyist delivers $4.5M to Madison
Officials can expect $4.5 million in federal dollars for three major road projects in Madison County, according to one of the county’s lobbyist.
Lobbyist C. Stevens Seale told the Board of Supervisors on Monday that federal funds have been allocated for three projects – the Reunion interchange, Gluckstadt interchange and the Lake Harbour Drive widening – with each receiving $1.5 million.
Seale commended county agencies like the Madison County Foundation and the Madison County Economic Development Authority for their help in pushing for the projects, but especially commended County Engineer Rudy Warnock for his work.
“Rudy Warnock has done a great job putting the information and reasons for these projects together,” Seale told supervisors. “You have to have a good project and take it to them to convince them to fund it.”
He also commented that Sen. Roger Wicker and Sen. Thad Cochran both pushed for the projects in Washington D.C.
District 2 Supervisor Tim Johnson lauded Seales efforts.
“I just want to thank Steve and I know he’s worked hard and had to wear several hats,” Johnson said. “That Sens. Cochran and Wicker are behind these projects is a great sign.
“Literally thanks a million Steve,” he added. “Thanks $4.5 million.”
Recently supervisors hired former state Sen. and Canton Attorney Barbara Blackmon as a second lobbyist for the county, paying her and Seale $75,000 annually, plus expenses.
Madison County Journal
8/6/9
Magnolia Tribune
