Natchez-Adams County is now officially a member of the Lower Mississippi American Rivers Heritage Alliance, Mayor F.L. &uot;Hank&uot; Smith said.

Smith and James Johnston, Natchez Economic and Community Development coordinator, returned from Washington, D.C., Tuesday after accepting the membership from the national Council on Environmental Quality.

&uot;I’m glad to see it finally come to closure,&uot; Smith said. The city and county submitted the joint proposal in March, and officials were confident all along the application would be accepted.

Vicksburg and Warren County were also extended membership at the meeting, making Natchez-Adams County the only other Mississippi municipality in the alliance.

Supporters of the alliance say it encourages partnerships among members to promote economic development.

&uot;I think it was helpful that we were there and showed support for the proposals,&uot; Smith said. Expenses related to the trip were paid for by the council.

Smith said he and Johnston were available to answer any basic questions the council had about the area, but added that the council members were already familiar with the proposals.

The area may not see any immediate effects from acceptance into the alliance, but officials hope the partnership will lead to better consideration for federal grant money. No fees are associated with alliance membership.