The Webster Parish Police Jury (WPPJ) conducted its regular meeting on December 3 at the Courthouse Annex. Board members Beverly Kennon, Allen Gilbert, and Adam Lee were absent. All agenda items passed unanimously.
Public Hearing and Budget Approval
The meeting opened with a public hearing regarding the proposed 2025 budget. No public comments were offered, leading to the board’s approval of the budget with accompanying notes. Routine invoices and committee reports were also approved.
Appointments and Reappointments
The jury made several new appointments, including:
- Melinda Davidson as director of the WPPJ Office of Community Services for 2025, with signature authorization.
- Mickey Chandler to a two-year term on the Webster Parish Fire District #7 board (term expiring December 31, 2026).
- Sara McDaniel, Kyle Robertson, and Rachel Longfellow Miller to two-year terms starting January 1, 2025, on the Webster Parish Convention & Visitors Commission board.
Reappointments included:
- Lisa C. Balkom, Jim Bonsall, and Col. Carl Thompson to one-year terms on the Pine Country Education District board.
- Brian Williams and Tynesa Grigsby to four-year terms on the Webster Parish Communications District board.
- Linda Watson to a five-year term on the Webster Parish Library board.
Additionally, Nancy Hines was appointed to replace Jim Bonsall on the library board.
Fire District Tax Election
The jury approved Resolution 008-2024, calling for an election on March 29, 2025, in Fire Protection District No. 2 (Sibley). The election will determine the renewal of a special tax.
Community Updates
Community leaders provided updates on local developments:
- Groundbreaking has begun for a new library in Doyline.
- The 911 dispatch center is experiencing a spike in hangup calls.
- The assessor’s office is managing an increased workload ahead of year-end property tax deadlines.
The LSU Ag/Extension Office highlighted upcoming activities and opportunities, including:
- A gingerbread decorating event on December 18.
- Applications for paid summer internships, due March 7, 2025.
- Openings for a SNAP Ed instructor and participants for the Master Gardeners program.
Legislative Insights from Senator Adam Bass
State Senator Adam Bass addressed the board, summarizing outcomes from the recent legislative special session. He noted the removal of the franchise tax, lowering of the personal income tax and corporate income tax, but an increase in the state sales tax to 5%. Bass also detailed a proposed constitutional amendment set for a March vote that could bring financial benefits to Webster Parish. Key points included:
- Possible permanent pay raises for teachers of up to $2,000.
- Doubling the standard deduction for seniors to $12,000.
- Uncapping severance taxes and altering splits for certain resources such as lithium.
Bass emphasized the potential financial impact of uncapped lithium deposits discovered in the parish. “Instead of an 80/20 split with 80% going to the state, it’ll be a 50/50 split,” Bass said, highlighting the potential for significant revenue.
Next Meeting
The WPPJ meets monthly on the first Tuesday at 10:30 AM in the Courthouse Annex at 401 Main Street. Residents are encouraged to attend.