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NATCHEZ — After a special meeting that lasted less than half an hour, the Natchez Board of Aldermen voted 3 to 1 to file an appeal of the March 7 order by Sixth District Circuit Court Judge Carmen Drake involving the Truth Lounge.

The aldermen discussed the issue in a closed session, which is allowed to discuss litigation issues. Aldermen Felicia Bridgewater-Irving and Ben Davis were not present. Alderman Billie Joe Frazier cast the lone nay vote.

City Attorney Jack Lazarus said the appeal was filed to clarify the Natchez Planning Commission’s authority to amend, modify, restrict, or revoke any special exception.

The Truth Lounge was forced to close in June 2024 after the Natchez Planning Commission voted 4 to 3 to revoke the special exception to operate it granted the nightclub on March 16, 2023.

After opening in 2023, neighbors of Truth Lounge routinely complained of loud noise and unruly crowds gathering outside the club, partying and littering nearby parking lots.

On April 25, 2024, the planning commission in a 4 to 3 vote moved to revoke the special exception granted the Truth Lounge.

Banks and Haywood appealed that decision to the Board of Aldermen, who on June 18, 2024, voted 3 to 2 to leave the planning commission’s decision in place.

On June 28, 2024, Banks and Haywood appealed the Board of Aldermen’s decision to the Sixth District Circuit Court.

On March 7, Circuit Court Judge Carmen Drake sided with Banks and Haywood and reversed the Board of Aldermen’s decision, writing that the planning commission has no authority to revoke a special exception once issued.

On Thursday, Banks said he was unsure when he would re-open the lounge at 719 1/2 Franklin St.