Residents of Carmack and surrounding communities will have an opportunity to discuss recurring power outages with state and utility leaders during a town hall meeting later this month.
The meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21, at the Carmack Community Center, 24452 Highway 35 North in West.
Mississippi House Speaker Jason White, Northern District Public Service Commissioner Chris Brown and Entergy Mississippi President and CEO Haley Fisackerly are scheduled to attend. They are expected to answer residents’ questions and discuss potential steps to improve electrical service in northern Attala County.
Approximately 160 residents living near Highway 35 have reported frequent and sometimes prolonged outages. Residents say aging utility infrastructure and overgrown trees near power lines have contributed to disruptions that have persisted for several years.
According to reports, residents have also reported power surges that they believe damaged household appliances and air-conditioning systems.
Entergy said it has contacted customers who experienced frequent outages and is evaluating the electrical system serving the community.
“We understand how frustrating power outages are for our customers,” the company said in a statement. “We have been in contact with Attala County customers who have experienced frequent outages and appreciate their patience as we work to address the issue.”
Entergy said crews conducted vegetation maintenance in the area earlier this year and scheduled a full circuit inspection to help determine the causes of the interruptions. The company said it would develop and share an action plan after completing its inspections.
Organizers are encouraging affected residents to attend the Sept. 21 meeting, share their experiences and hear directly from officials about proposed long-term improvements.
