Natchez had a good day Thursday! The Natchez Board of Aldermen voted for Natchez by voting no to revising the Roth Hill Casino lease again.

All six aldermen stood up to the mayor and city attorney and refused to entertain going into executive session, in what was an obvious attempt by the mayor to have discussion of issues behind closed doors and away from public ears.

During the discussion of the casino contract it was surprising, the city attorney didn’t have a fluent and working knowledge of the two previous amendments to the original contract. You would think with all the scrutiny going on for the last few months he would have been able to converse on it without notes.

The board stood strong and united in spite of repeated efforts by the mayor to intimidate them. Even when the motion was called by Rickey Gray, the mayor tried yet again to intimidate the board and then the audience by calling people out for noise and laughter.

But finally, when the vote was taken, all six in unison voted no to any changes. It was a great day for open government and listening to the voice of the people.

Natchez needs new business, but only those that bring a fiscally sound business investment.

If the casino at Roth Hill is meant to be, it should be on Natchez’s terms and mutual benefit. We need well-capitalized, financially-sound and well-managed companies for the city to partner with to truly improve and help the citizens of this great city.

I hope this new open air continues in our city government; it’s very refreshing.

The board of aldermen is to be commended for their demanding open information and voting in the best interest of the citizens of Natchez.

 

Paris B. Winn

Natchez resident