The Webster Parish Police Jury met Tuesday morning, approving all items on its agenda, including a resolution calling for special elections in November for two road district millage renewals.
Jurors Allen Gilbert and Beverly Kennon were absent. All votes were unanimous, and no public comments were made.
The special elections are scheduled for November 15, when voters in Road District A and Road District B will decide on 10-year millage renewals. The District A renewal would continue a 2.65-mill tax projected to raise about $521,600 annually for road and bridge work beginning in 2028. The District B renewal would continue a 3.92-mill tax estimated to generate $454,000 annually, beginning in 2027.
Jurors also approved precinct survey forms for Webster Parish voting precincts with fewer than 300 active registered voters, an amendment to add three hospitals to the Local Hospital Assessment Plan, and reappointments of Sara McDaniel, Derek Melancon and Dianne Blake to the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Commission through December 31, 2028.
Carmen Gonzales and Genny Hasty requested and received a Dysautonomia Awareness Month proclamation for October. Gonzales, who was undiagnosed for several years with the disorder, has visited parishes across Louisiana to raise awareness. Dysautonomia affects the autonomic nervous system and is estimated to impact more than 70 million people worldwide. Gonzales and her group want to visit hospitals and healthcare facilities to raise awareness about the condition.
“If we can have doctors here learn the symptoms, learn to recognize it, it will be a great asset,” said Gonzales.
In committee reports, Webster Parish Libraries announced that October 7 is the deadline to register for the annual Trunk or Treat events. Minden’s event is set for October 23 and Springhill’s for October 30. Both branches will also add local author spotlight shelves.
Tourism director Amie Poladian reported that about 15,000 visitors came to Webster Parish over Labor Day weekend, with many attending the Froggy Bottom Reunion and Mudstock. Dorcheat Museum director Jessica Gorman said the first phase of the museum’s expansion is nearly complete, and a fundraising gala is scheduled for Monday, September 8.
The Police Jury meets the first Tuesday of each month at 10:30 AM at the Webster Parish Courthouse Annex. The public is encouraged to attend.