Jackson County Approves Debris Removal Contract with Two Veteran Firms

By Shelia Cloud Mader

The Jackson County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a new contract for debris removal and disposal services, awarding the job to two experienced firms, Ceres Environmental and DRC Emergency Services. Both companies have a history of working with the county during past disasters, including Hurricane Michael.

Interim County Administrator Rett Daniels presented the recommendation during the board’s regular meeting, outlining the bidding and selection process.

“On March 27th, we posted the solicitation for debris removal and disposal services. Proposals for this solicitation were opened on June 8. The ranking committee approved by the Board on May 13 completed their ranking and rankings were tabulated by Tony Pumphrey. The top two ranked proposers were Ceres Environmental and DRC Emergency Services.”

Daniels noted that both firms have been under contract with Jackson County in the past and have successfully performed emergency services during major weather events.

Commissioner Paul Donofro inquired about the recent tornadoes that impacted the eastern part of the county, asking whether both companies responded to that event.

“Just DRC was engaged,” Daniels replied. “Due to the size of it, it was manageable by one company. “Just for information, back during Hurricane Michael we actually had three contractors and felt that in the future, if it’s another large-scale event, two really could handle it.”

Donofro also asked about Ceres' past performance during Hurricane Michael. Daniels confirmed that both DRC and Ceres were active during the 2018 storm and that the county was satisfied with their work.

On a motion by Commissioner Edward Crutchfield, seconded by Commissioner Donofro, the board voted unanimously to approve contracts with both Ceres Environmental and DRC Emergency Services.

The contract ensures that Jackson County is prepared for future emergencies with trusted, experienced contractors ready to respond quickly and effectively.