Jake Middleton, Alderman Ward 6, announces his candidacy for mayor of Natchez. Middleton has been an alderman for the past 16 years. In that time, he served as Chairman of Utilities for three years, and is currently serving as Chairman of Recreation, a position he has held for the last 13 years.

Middleton cited several accomplishments during his 16 years, including the $26 million bluff stabilization project, construction of the Intermodal Transportation and Visitors Center, the Convention Center, completion of the Natchez Trace Parkway, widening and four-laning of Linda Lee Mead and Wilson roads, relocation of the by-pass fire station, establishment of the spraygrounds at North Natchez Park, and the construction of the Federal Courthouse in Natchez. As chair of Recreation for the past 13 years, there has been a total of $562,000.00 in grants and donations received by the recreation department for creation of new programs and continuation of existing programs. Since 1995, there have been 34 major tennis and baseball tournaments held in Natchez, creating an economic impact to our community of $6,886,500.

Middleton is a 1969 graduate of Natchez-Adams County High School and a 1973 graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi. He is an active member of Jefferson Street United Methodist Church, where he has held several key leadership positions. He has served as a member of the Administrative Board, Chairman of the Stewardship Committee, and Chairman of Ushers. He has also served as President of the Adams County Chapter of the University of Southern Mississippi Alumni Association and President of The Big Gold Club. Presently, he serves on the Board of Directors of the University of Southern Mississippi Alumni Association. Middleton is also a member of the Santa Claus Committee, Ducks Unlimited, University of Southern Mississippi Eagle Club, Natchez-Adams County Humane Society, and he is also a past member of the Natchez Jaycees.

Middleton is married to Dr. Mitzi Ferguson and they are the parents of four children; Leslie and her husband Bryan, Wes, Even and Kerry and two granddaughters, Ella Wesley and Lucy. He is the president and owner of Big M Supply Company.

Middleton feels that there are several projects the city needs to complete over the next four years. These projects include: creating a program for resurfacing and maintaining our city streets, continuing to consolidate city and county services, construction of a city-county owned and operated recreational complex, and offering law enforcement employees salaries that are competitive with other cities and counties throughout the state.

During this critical time of growth in the city of Natchez, Middleton feels that strong leadership and good fiscal management are essential to move the city forward over the next four years. He feels the mayor must have strong communication skills and the ability to work with other agencies involved in the growth of Natchez and Adams County.