Lamar County's population has grown to 49,121 since 2000 - U.S. Census Bureau data says it is one of state's fastest growing counties...according to the Hattiesburg American. Read more below...
From the story:
To say Lamar County's population has grown since 2000 is an understatement.
Lamar County's increase is an eye-opener, with a 25.7 percent increase from 39,068 to 49,121 since 2000, according to new data from the U.S. Census Bureau.
Next to DeSoto County's 44 percent growth, it is one of Mississippi's fastest growing counties.
Lamar County Administrator Chuck Bennett said many factors are at work in explaining the county's growth, which has been continuous in its rapidity for nearly 40 years. The attractiveness of the Hattiesburg region has been a significant factor, he said, bolstering Lamar County's population at a higher percentage than Forrest County because it had more room to expand.
"All we're doing is catching up a little," he said, citing Oak Grove and Sumrall as two areas of particular growth.
Bennett uses the phrase "managing the growth" to describe the challenges facing Lamar County. Law enforcement is one area that will require attention.
"We need to stay on top of youth detention. We're not on the point of needing a jail, but that's something we're going to need to stay right on top of," he said.
Lamar County Sheriff Danny Rigel said an increase in population means an increase in law enforcement. The county has boosted its number of deputies from 24 to 40 in the past five years and is aggressively looking at grants to help put extra officers on the roads.
"We look forward to the growth," he said. "But at the same time, it's one of those things you have to plan for."
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