During a recent government meeting, local residents voiced their concerns regarding increased traffic and public safety in Southern County. A deputy sheriff and firearms investigator highlighted the significant rise in traffic on a local road since the opening of a Dollar General store, expressing fears that a proposed new business would exacerbate the situation. The deputy emphasized that the road was primarily designed for residential use, not as a thoroughfare for commercial traffic, and urged officials to reconsider plans for further development in the area.

Another resident, Chris Griffin, who has lived in the county for nearly five decades, discussed the growing demands on the sheriff's department, which he noted is already overworked. He proposed the reintroduction of constables to assist with law enforcement duties, suggesting that this would alleviate some pressure on the sheriff's department without incurring additional costs for the county. Griffin explained that constables could handle various responsibilities, allowing deputies to focus on more critical tasks.

The meeting underscored the community's concerns about balancing growth and maintaining the quality of life for residents, as well as the need for effective law enforcement solutions in response to increasing demands.