Smith Calls for Order After Contentious Natchez Board Meeting

The Board of Aldermen “was contentious and we were out of order,” Smith said of its Jan. 27 meeting, when they discussed the process for seeking applicants to replace Natchez Police Chief Cal Green, who’s retiring.

Smith directed her colleagues Tuesday to abide by Robert’s Rules of Order by speaking only when recognized, not to interrupt others and otherwise “maintain decorum” – or they’ll be booted out of the meeting if too unruly.

“I just want to see us follow our Robert’s rules and be respectful of one another and the person that’s speaking,” she said.

Alderman Billie Joe Frazier said he respects his colleagues and understands the need for order, but “on this board, everyone has a voice. You just can’t ram something down people’s throat and we just sit here and take it.”