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NATCHEZ — Natchez Inc. Executive Director Chandler Russ made his case before the Adams County Board of Supervisors Friday morning to increase funds to Natchez Inc. from the county.

Russ said Natchez Inc., funded primarily by the private group Natchez Now, the City of Natchez, and Adams County, has had to use reserve budgets to meet its budget needs for the last two years.

Russ said Natchez Inc. has not received an increase in funds from the county in 18 years. The economic development agency is asking that the county increase the $165,000 it receives annually to $225,000, which is the equivalent of a quarterly option payment from Velocys.

“We are asking that the county earmark or transfer one of those quarterly payments for the next two years while we work on a more permanent solution,” he said.

Supervisors made no decision on the Natchez Inc. request today but said they would take it under advisement as the county’s budget for fiscal year 2024-25 is created.

The City of Natchez increased what it provides to Natchez Inc. last year to $100,000 annually. Natchez Now contributes $120,000 annually to Natchez Inc., which also applies for several grants throughout the year for various programs and marketing.

Russ said Natchez Inc. employs three people, including himself, and the agency has cut back on expenditures to come closer to living within its budget.