The City of Minden hosted a breakfast on August 13 at the Minden Community House to bring together local ministers and city officials to discuss challenges facing the community. The event aimed to foster dialogue and develop collaborative solutions between city leaders and religious representatives.
The gathering was attended by ministers from various Minden churches and local government and law enforcement officials, including Councilmen Pendergrass, Roy, and Myles; Fire Chief Williams; Sheriff Parker; Police Chief McIver; Kathy Babers, representing Speaker Mike Johnson’s office; and several city department heads.
“You all are the leaders,” said Mayor Nick Cox. “This room represents a minimum of 12,000 people in leadership. What you all do for our city matters. The role that you all fill, it matters.”
Mayor Cox provided updates on the city, including the recent passage of the city’s first balanced budget in years and plans to allocate $2.5 million for road work. However, he noted that roadwork on state highways requires coordination with the state. Cox also mentioned that bids will soon be requested for a new animal shelter.
Police Chief McIver discussed the presence of student resource officers in Webster Parish schools, which has been well-received by teachers and students. He also expressed interest in partnering with the sheriff’s office to enhance security at churches.
When questioned about arrests for failure to identify, Chief McIver explained that officers may request identification for various reasons. Refusal to provide said information or providing false information could be considered resisting an officer under state law LRS 14:108.
In response to concerns about racial profiling, McIver stated, “We 100% do not condone racial profiling whatsoever.” McIver concluded by saying, “If you ever have an issue, you can reach out to me.”
Chief McIver also addressed the possibility of a ride-along program, inviting ministers and public officials to participate. One pastor suggested that pastors could offer mental and spiritual support to officers during ride-alongs, a proposal McIver welcomed, acknowledging the emotional toll of police work.
Mayor Cox concluded the meeting by stressing the importance of open communication in addressing the city’s challenges. “Some of the things that happen in our city are not the most comfortable or the prettiest things, but it’s good that we can come together and talk about it,” he said. “We’re working together to solve our problems. And that’s the kind of city we want to live in — a city where we can help one another.”
Breakfast was provided by Geaux Fresh, with coffee from Brick Street Coffee.