NATCHEZ — During a special meeting Monday the Adams County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to temporarily pay insurance on a $2 million crane used at the Natchez-Adams County Port.

Port Director Anthony Hauer requested the supervisors transfer the crane from the county’s inventory list to the port’s. Hauer explained the port is a separate entity from the county, managing its own budget and paying its own bills.

Hauer said besides the crane, the port insures all other equipment.

“It’s standard operating procedure for us (to pay the insurance premium) on the crane, and it saves you guys a lot of money,” Hauer said.

“And liability,” Board President Darryl Grennell added.

Supervisors Henry Watts and S.E “Spanky” Felter both said it’s virtually impossible for the county to avoid liability. Watts motioned the decision be postponed, but Board Attorney Bobby Cox later advised the crane must be insured.

Felter suggested the board consult with Natchez, Inc., before making a final decision.

In other news:

The board reviewed bids for an Emergency Watershed Protection project on Tubman Circle. Midway Construction submitted the lowest bid totaling $66,275. The project’s estimated cost is $63,869.

Grennell said the project will be awarded to Midway Construction if the low bid meets specifications. County Engineer Jim Marlow said the project is slated for completion in October.

The board voted unanimously to enter into executive session to discuss personnel and industrial prospects.