The Hattiesburg American, 3/21/8
Rep. Gene Taylor, D-Miss., held a town meeting in Hattiesburg Thursday that consisted of answering questions from constituents for about 90 minutes.
About 25 people came to Jackie Dole Sherrill Community Center.
Five members of Taylor’s staff were on hand to answer questions about Social Security, veterans benefits or Hurricane Katrina-related concerns.
Several local officials were present, including Hattiesburg Mayor Johnny DuPree.
Chris Bowen, Forrest County supervisor, asked Taylor about federal funds for the proposed new Forrest County jail.
“I know we’re going to have to think outside the box to get federal funding,” Bowen said. “We’re going to build something hugely unpopular.”
Bowen said the jail would cost about $27 million in local taxes.
