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NATCHEZ — Joyce Arceneaux-Mathis recently announced her candidacy for re-election as Alderwoman-Ward 1, City of Natchez.

“This is a critical election as we are currently in unchartered waters, not only in Natchez but in the State of Mississippi, the entire country and the world,” Mathis said. “During the next four years, elected leaders, whether locally, statewide or nationally, will be challenged with crucial decisions regarding our health, welfare, economy and way of life.”

Mathis said COVID-19 has had a strong impact on the future and she has the experience needed to help Natchez move forward.

“… It will be vital to have leaders who have built a successful relationship with state and national elected officials who are able to provide needed assistance to this rebuilding process,” Mathis said.  Mathis outlined her accomplishments from her sixth term representing constituents in Ward 1, including having:

*Secured over $3 million in appropriations to complete the North Natchez Drainage Project Phase II-D targeting: Marblestone [currently in construction]; Brookview; Brown Subdivision; Old Smith Lane

*Worked to build a new swimming pool and provide countywide access to 21st century aquatic events

*Worked with the Mayor and Board of Aldermen to fund summer youth employment

*Secured over $1.6 million dollars in NRCS-EWP funding to stabilize: Learneds Mill Road, Marin Avenue and Cemetery Road. [complete]; Bob Lee Williams Lane and Gloucester Court awaiting construction

*Lobbied the Mississippi Legislature and secured $900,000 in matching funds for Emergency Watershed Projects in all wards of the City of Natchez

*Fought for Jobs and Economic Development in Natchez-Adams County

*Secured over $74,000 in SNAP Grants to improve housing-Ward 1

Mathis outlined her plan for Ward 1 and city for the next four years:

Focus on Community Safety; Economic development based on a strategic plan to locate 21st century technology jobs [including support for Film Natchez] in Natchez-Adams County; Continuous work on quality of life issues for the constituents of Ward 1; Development of a comprehensive plan for good quality housing and blight free neighborhoods; “Save Sadie V. Thompson” project; Restoration of Natchez College as a venue for Biblical Study, religious services and performances; Revitalization of the Woodlawn Historic District.

“…I need your vote…,” Mathis said. “Please go to the polls on June 2 … at the Council Chambers on Pearl Street and vote to re-elect me. I … appreciate your continued faith in my abilities and support …”