Local officials went to Jackson to make their case to Gov. Haley Barbour. On the agenda were economic development matters and what Barbour’s office can do to help attract new industries to southwest Mississippi.

The State of Mississippi has a wide array of incentives it can use to help entice a prospect to the area.

Although those who attended the meeting wouldn’t give specifics, state help could come in the form of grants and loans for everything from worker training to infrastructure.

Even having an audience with key state government officials, including Barbour, makes a real impression on any business looking to come to the area.

We think the fact that a cross-section of our local economic development and governmental leaders went to Jackson with a unified front can only be a good thing.

If nothing else, Barbour knows we’re serious about working together to bring prosperity back to Natchez and Adams County.

And when discussing economic matters that affect southwest Mississippi, Barbour will be better able to put a face with a name.

Now, we challenge Barbour to exert himself to do all in his power to bring to the area industries that will be a good fit.

Natchez and Adams County have plenty to offer, from infrastructure to worker training.

It’s in Barbour’s best interest to do his utmost to help us &uot;sell&uot; to prospective industries the things we have to offer.

After all, Mississippi as a whole cannot reach its utmost potential until citizens in every part of the state &045;&045; southwest Mississippi included &045;&045; have access to quality jobs with decent pay and benefits.