Jackson Free Press

On Monday, Pope Benedict XVI shocked Roman Catholics around the world by announcing his retirement at the end of February.

In making the announcement to a group of cardinals, Benedict, who became pope eight years ago, said: "In order to govern ... both strength of mind and body are necessary, strength which in the last few months has deteriorated in me to the extent that I have had to recognize my incapacity to adequately fulfill the ministry entrusted to me."

It was a shocking announcement not only its suddenness or even in its rareness--Benedict's is the first voluntary papal resignation in nearly 600 years--but in its courageousness.

We could use some of that courageousness here in Jackson. District 2 Supervisor Doug Anderson infrequently attends the bi-monthly meetings of the Hinds County Board of Supervisors. When he does attend, he rarely speaks. When he speaks, it's never above a whisper.

So when Anderson--or, more precisely, when his daughter--announced Anderson's resignation in early December after nearly two decades on the board, the news seemed welcome.

After all, Anderson has been sick for a long time now, having suffered at least two strokes. In recognizing Anderson's 36-year-long tenure as a public servant, which includes the last 19 on the Hinds County board, fellow Supervisor Peggy Hobson-Calhoun said she hoped Anderson's retirement from the rigors of public service would have a positive effect on his physical health.

Then, abruptly, Anderson--again, through his daughter--changed his mind about stepping down in early January. 
 One might assume that upon reflection, Anderson was reinvigorated by his sense of duty to serve out his term and would return to the board rejuvenated and ready to work.

But since rescinding his resignation, Anderson has continued being a non-contributing member of the board, often missing meetings and hardly ever making a meaningful contribution to the proceedings.

Stubbornly remaining on the board is not only likely deleterious to Anderson's own health, but is also a disservice to his District 2 constituents, some of whom have given up on trying to access county services through the office of their elected representative.

If Anderson is able to complete the responsibilities he swore to carry upon earning re-election 2011, we applaud him for dutifully serving out his term. But if he cannot, Anderson should step aside and allow the citizens of District 2 the opportunity once again have active representation on the Hinds County Board of Supervisors.