I am growing concerned with crime in our great community, and though I don’t want to be overly negative, I think it’s time we all started talking about the problems.

I know it’s all over and all around, not just in Natchez, but we need to address crime here.

Natchez could be such a lovely place with the walking trails, but are they safe to walk on? Could we put officers on bicycles on the trails and through downtown?

I know the police department doesn’t have any money, and I understand that, but we need to consider increasing security in some way.

Neighborhood Watch is a good program, and I’ve never had any trouble in my neighborhood. But I worry about tourists walking downtown who may walk too far in the wrong direction.

What can we do to protect them?

I used to walk Silver Street every day, and it was so pleasant. But is it safe now?

I want Natchez to be safe for people to get out and do things and enjoy life.

Billy Smith

Natchez resident