By Rupert Howell
Sardis Mayor Billy Russell has announced the “Mississippi Mills” building at 301 Highway 51 S in Sardis will be sold to Annointed Prophetic Ministries for $87,500 following a special call board meeting held Monday, December 23.

Russell said two appraisals were needed to find the value of the building after the church had offered the city $85,000. When the two appraisal came in, one at $85,000 and the other at $90,000, the difference was agreed upon as required by law, the Mayor explained.

Russell has been actively involved in the town’s real estate since taking office in July.

The Steel-Matic Building on Highway 51 N has been recently sold to Conveyor Tech, Russell said, noting the town owned the site and the sale relieves the town of approximately $6,000 a month on a building note.

He noted that Conveyor Tech will employ 5 to 6 people and hopes to add additional employees as they expand. Conveyor Tech owns the adjacent building.

He explained the Mississippi Mills Building negotiations had gone on for a while and the building is presently being used by the Prophetic Ministries.

Sardis Police Department has ordered new bullet proof vests and Russell noted that every officer should be equipped with one soon.

Several clubs, organizations as well as individuals have donated to the police department to help supply funds for the vests, Russell added while hinting that funds were still needed for a dashboard camera that will fully equip the fleet with video recording cameras.

In an end-of-year statement, Russell said, “We are hoping to place two “Welcome to Sardis” signs; a directional sign for the Industrial Park and a sign that will have a changeable marquee for posting upcoming events such as NPHS sports, plays at the Panola Playhouse and other activities happening in town.”

 He also mentioned the Clean Up Sardis campaign stating, “I would like to thank Brenda Black for her efforts in heading up this project. 

“Letters are also going out to property owners who still have more work to do on their property.  I have had several meetings with potential prospects for a grocery store. 

“These two issues and efforts to bring more businesses to Sardis are ongoing.”