Recently released U.S. Census Bureau statistics confirm what we have known for quite some time — Adams County continues to lose population.

However, Adams County is not unique. Population in Franklin, Jefferson and Wilkinson counties is down, as is population in Concordia Parish.

Times have changed. Thanks to advances in technology, businesses and industries operate typically with fewer employees. Today’s manufacturing jobs often require specific skills requiring advanced training.

When long-time employers such as International Paper, Armstrong Tire and Rubber and Johns Manville pulled up stakes, taking thousands of jobs with them, Natchez was actually fortunate. Unlike many communities that have suffered similar job losses, Natchez had its history on which to fall back. Thanks to our location high above the Mississippi River, our historic past and unequalled collection of antebellum houses, tourism continues to bring people and dollars to Natchez.

In addition, Natchez has successfully landed several manufacturers that are beginning to grow and create well-paying jobs here, such as Great River Industries, von Drehle and Delta Energy.

As important as recruiting new jobs and tax-paying businesses, insisting elected officials scale back the size and cost of government to match our smaller population should be incumbent upon all residents.

That means pushing our elected officials to find ways now to save taxpayer dollars by constantly looking for ways to save on expenses and consolidating duplicated services. It is way past time for Adams County and City of Natchez officials to begin that conversation in earnest.

A great starting point for consolidation efforts would be to combine law enforcement and public works efforts.

With our continuing decrease in population here, the size, cost and scope of government should decrease in equal proportion.