NATCHEZ — Ward 3 Alderman Bob Pollard uses two words to sum up his eight-year career as an alderman: no regrets.

Pollard was elected as Ward 3 alderman in 2004, and he said he campaigned on the platform of bringing Natchez back to prosperity. Pollard said he decided to run for office because he had a desire to help put Natchez back on the map.

“I wanted to be part of the team to bring Natchez back to greatness,” Pollard said.

Pollard said he faced many challenges while in office, but he said the biggest challenge was tourism.

Pollard served as head of the tourism committee during his time as an alderman, a job he said no other alderman wanted.

“They told me I didn’t know what I was getting myself into, and I didn’t,” he said. “But now look at tourism. Through all the tough economic times, tourism has been our one constant thing that has kept us going.”

Pollard said he wanted to thank the voters in Ward 3 for allowing him to serve the city of Natchez for eight years.

“I’m proud of that. I have no regrets, and it’s time for me to move on,” he said.

Pollard said he is looking forward to spending more time with his family and possibly buying his own business. He said he is somewhat relieved to be out of the public eye.

“I’m glad to not be under the microscope anymore,” he said.

Pollard and outgoing Mayor Jake Middleton and City Planner Bob Nix were honored at a reception at the Natchez Visitor Reception Center Thursday evening.

Pollard was presented with a framed Natchez flag, which he said he has always wanted.

Pollard said he hopes people remember him as an elected official who always tried to do what was best for Natchez.

“I hope people remember that I always did what I thought was right,” he said. “Whether they agree or disagree with me, I hope they always know I did what I thought was best for the city of Natchez.

“We’re on the right road, and I hope the new board keeps the right momentum,” Pollard said.