By By Fredie Carmichael/The Meridian Star
June 12, 2001
The executive director of the Mississippi Department of Human Services, criticized by state legislators last week for her decision to fire more than 20 employees, visited Meridian Monday two days before a Senate committee reconvenes to consider her actions.
Janice Broome Brooks declined to comment on the matter as she toured the Lauderdale County Department of Human Services and the Multi-County Community Service Agency.
Sen. Robert G. "Bunky" Huggins, R-Greenville, questioned Brooks' actions last week. Huggins is the chairman of Senate Public Health Committee.
Brooks said the focus of her visit Monday was on the two Meridian agencies she toured.
Her first stop was at the Lauderdale County Department of Human Services, where she met with employees and local elected officials.
At Multi-County Community Service Agency, she was greeted by Director Callie Cole and several Lauderdale County supervisors.
Brooks will have her hands full as she heads back to Jackson. On Wednesday, Huggins' committee will resume meetings into her actions.
Fredie Carmichael is a staff writer for The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3228.