Adams County has been awarded $1.7 million from the governor to prepare the former Natchez International Paper site for new industry. The funding is part of more than $100 million granted statewide by Governor Tate Reeves for economic development projects. The Adams County grant will support clearing and leveling 106 acres of the 478‑acre property, including the removal of existing concrete. The county purchased the site in 2013 for $9 million with the goal of attracting new industries. International Paper closed its mill there in 2003 after 53 years of operation.
In Louisiana, homeowners insurance rates are shifting. Premiums for policyholders with Shore Choice and Elevate are expected to decrease next year, following approval of an average 7.5 percent rate reduction driven primarily by lower reinsurance costs. The decrease will vary among individual policyholders. Meanwhile, State Farm customers will see an average increase of nearly 10 percent in their homeowners premiums. State regulators attribute the rise to State Farm’s risk model and continued exposure to hurricane forecasts.
The Mississippi State Department of Health reports that Mississippi’s mortality rate remains higher than the national average, and the gap continues to widen. Data from the Office of Vital Records and Public Health Statistics indicate that approximately 234,000 deaths might have been prevented since 1950 if the state had matched the U.S. mortality rate. State Health Officer Dr. Daniel Edney says mortality rates have not returned to pre‑pandemic levels.
In Louisiana, the Revenue Estimating Conference has increased its projections for tax and fee collections. The revised outlook provides the legislature with sufficient revenue to maintain any current program or service. The forecast rose by $214 million for the remainder of this fiscal year and by $217 million for the next fiscal year. Higher‑than‑expected income tax revenue is a key factor, despite previously enacted rate reductions.
The Mississippi River at Natchez and Vidalia is at 14.31 feet and falling.
