The problem at the heart of the latest downtown property debacle may be more than just hot air and dryer lint.

Work on a new laundry planned for a prominent downtown corner has stopped, while the owners wait for the proper approvals from the city.

But dryer-vent holes have already been put in the exterior wall without the proper city permits.

The business owner says he didn’t know a permit was needed, and he stopped work when he realized his wrongdoing.

The property is in the downtown historic district, and permit requirements should have been obvious.

Still, similar violations have occurred in the past.

Too many times past violators have received a final OK from the aldermen, reinforcing the thought that it’s perfectly acceptable to act now and ask for permission later. In years past, the appointed members of the Natchez Planning and Preservation commissions have said “no” only to have the board of aldermen overrule them and grant permission to rule breakers.

It’s a precedent that’s been set, and it will take a firm hand to change the idea in too many minds.

We wish no ill will to would-be businesses hoping to get started in our great city. However, the city must take a hard line when it comes to making sure businesses follow the rules.

Rules and regulations exist to make our lives safer, our communities better and to protect the property values of adjacent neighbors. We don’t call policemen unfriendly to drivers when they stop reckless speeders, and we shouldn’t call our city leaders unfriendly to business when they enforce city code.

Without ordinances to guide us, our city leaders would truly be simply blowing hot air.