The Adams County Board of Supervisors and the Natchez Mayor and Board of Aldermen deserve a big “thank you” for setting aside their differences and stamping out a smoldering problem together.

For more years than we can remember, the city-county fire agreement has been a point of contention.

Historically, city leaders have always griped that the county doesn’t pay the city enough for the professional fire services the city provides.

On the other hand, county supervisors complain that the coverage isn’t as good as they’d like and it costs too much.

It’s a debate that has become so contentious that it’s come to threats before — “pay us more or we’ll pull the plug.”

Last fall, the matter came to a head, and fortunately Natchez Inc. stepped in to say, “Let’s stop the madness.”

Earlier this week, both the city and the county boards passed a fire plan that would seemingly make both sides happy.

The plan comes after much meeting and compromise between all the various sides and players involved, including county fire coordinator Stan Owens, Natchez Fire Chief Oliver Stewart and others, including consultant Jay Fitch, who volunteered his services to help out his town.

Many thanks to all involved in the matter for sticking with this important public safety matter and hammering out a good compromise for the whole community — city and county.