Rule breaking without consequence means there was really no rule at all.

At least that appears to be the case in the City of Natchez where rules are like fruit on a tree — you pick the ones you like and you leave the others to rot.

The developers of the former First Baptist Church site clearly broke city policy and procedure when they bypassed the Natchez Preservation Commission and began building demolition without a permit.

The board of aldermen helped the developers pick out a few good fruits when they told them go ahead with plans, despite the fact that the group hadn’t visited with the preservation commission.

And now, a few weeks and an apology later, the group has the go ahead again and no punishment.

Don’t get us wrong, we are glad someone wants to do something with the old church building. It’s falling down; it’s ugly; it’s an eyesore.

We wish them godspeed with their work, as long as they follow the rules.

Historic towns with a quaint small-town feel can become strip-mall, urban sprawl without rules.

Governing boards like the preservation commission and the planning commission exist to regulate renovations, watch growth and guide the city down the right path.

These groups aren’t against growth. In fact, the preservation commission has said they are in favor of the church condo project.

It’s past time the city got back on track with following the procedures it has outlined.

The responsibility lies with the board of aldermen, who must set the tone, enforce the rules and make sure we don’t have rotten fruit all over the place.