The concept of addressing our recreation needs seems simple, especially understanding there is keen interest in the community as evidenced by previous referendum and subsequent planning, gum flapping and editorials. How some of the volunteers have stuck with this process this long is beyond me. For their commitment to make something happen, I say, “thank you.”

It seems like such a simple process of developing a consolidated city-county recreation agreement, including a director, commission and funding; hiring a director to help identify needs and priorities whether they be repairs, upgrades or new construction; and moving forward with construction within approved funding levels.

The fact that nothing has happened falls to inefficiencies and lack of leadership in our elected officials. For years, plan after plan has been laid at their feet and nothing has happened. Now, it seems that a pool, which is the most fiscally irresponsible of all the plans put forth to date, may get approved due to the strong support of some vocal politicians and others are afraid to say, “No.”

It is time for the mayor, alderman and supervisors to stand tall and nix this pool proposal before more time is wasted or, worse, financial obligations are pledged.  Then, move forward with at least one supervisor and one alderman committed to work out a consolidated city-county recreation agreement that can be approved. It seems there are several drafts to jump-start such an effort.

If the two governing bodies cannot reach agreement within a designated period of time (e.g., 90 days) or there is not sufficient funding, then tell the public: “We are too inflexible or do not have sufficient funding to move forward with a recreation plan. You are stuck with what you have.”

Then, if this is truly an important issue, we can choose to either elect people who have the imagination and flexibility to work together in representing the interest of Natchez and Adams County to make some level of a fiscally responsible recreation plan happen on the ground, or we can drop the subject until better fiscal planning falls from the sky and funding is available.

I am tired of the rhetoric.

 

Will Stevens

Natchez resident