Two towns in Concordia Parish have decided recently to take steps to help clean up their downtown areas.

Ferriday aldermen on Thursday passed an ordinance to give them more power to eliminate dilapidated businesses downtown, while Vidalia officials said they will soon begin stricter enforcement of a sign ordinance.

While some people see such decisions as a means to take too much control over businesses, these ordinances are standard in forward-thinking communities that want to beautify and improve their downtowns &045;&045; not only for potential visitors but for existing businesses.

The Ferriday ordinance is also a step the town needs to take to become a certified local government, a designation similar to the Main Street program that promotes development in downtown areas.

Such moves will actually help local businesses, because beautiful, clean streetscapes attract more visitors and shoppers. We applaud these governments for their proactive decisions.

Former IP mill workers can take advantage of grant

Former International Paper workers have an opportunity to receive benefits from a $1.15 million jobs grant.

The Employment Securities Commission is administering the grant, which will aid in such tasks as job searches and education.

But since the IP mill in Natchez closed last summer, time is running out for former workers to apply for benefits. We encourage anyone interested to contact the employment office.