Jessica Cauthen

The board discussed several items, including the approval of yearly and six-month general supply bids and the selection of an architectural firm for professional services related to the 2026 CDBG public facilities application. Discussions also covered capital improvement projects for the repair and rehabilitation of an existing retaining wall and alley pavement. Furthermore, the board reviewed and approved policies regarding grant management, internal control, risk assessment, and Title VI civil rights compliance. Travel authorization for traffic signalization training was granted, and MDOT was authorized to access the site for erosion control repairs near the Canal Street Bridge. Finally, the board received a clean audit opinion for the fiscal year.

The meeting included presentations of certificates of appreciation to individuals who served on the Natchez Convention Promotion Commission. Representatives from AT&T and the Natchez National Historic Park provided updates on asbestos cleanup and cable infrastructure improvements involving the replacement of copper cables with fiber optic technology at no cost to the city. Additionally, the Downtown Natchez Alliance shared updates on revitalizing the downtown district, marketing efforts, and upcoming events, followed by the recognition of the Alliance's president for dedicated service and leadership.

The meeting featured several key discussions, including a partnership presentation from the Mississippi Small Business Development Center to host a small business expo in Natchez. The board expressed support for the installation of Narcan vending machines at Merit Health to combat overdose deaths. Additionally, the Downtown Natchez Alliance provided an update on downtown projects, including the Depot Bluff Park renovation, the city's wayfinding program, and the upcoming Downtown Unlocked event.

The meeting commenced with an invocation and the pledge of allegiance. A significant portion of the agenda involved a public hearing on adjudicated properties, where Officer Vasquez presented on eight properties cited for blight and offensive accumulations, detailing the process of inspection and notification. During this hearing, an owner of 5 Bowmont Street addressed the board regarding progress on siding replacement. Furthermore, the board recognized Mr. Butch Johnson for 15 years of dedicated service to the Natchez Planning Commission, including administering roll call in the absence of the city clerk. Discussions also touched upon securing permission for code enforcement entry to properties concerning open systems.

The document appears to be an audio transcript for an event titled "Kickback at NAPAC" held on February 20, 2026, to honor retired educators over the age of 80. The discussion centered on the experiences of educators during the period of school integration in the Natchez Adams School District, specifically detailing policy influences perceived as harmful or inconsistent. One panelist, a former teacher and union president, recounted challenges related to the 1989 court order mandating school consolidation, including curriculum control, group selection policies (specifically for choir groups), and later facing contract modifications suggesting a reassignment to an elementary school position following a Reduction in Force (RIF) policy review.