The Webster Parish Police Jury met for its regular meeting on August 6, with all members present and all agenda items passed unanimously.
The jury approved invoices and minutes from various meetings. Jennie Henry of Allen, Green & Williamson presented the audit of the financials, noting increases in ad valorem tax and sales tax revenues. She highlighted that American Rescue Plan funds remain available but must be obligated by year’s end. An added note in the financials regarding funds from an opioid settlement was explained, specifying that these funds will be dispersed over 18 years and must be used for opioid abatement.
Board appointments for the Evergreen Fire Protection District were approved: April Shaw was reappointed as chairman, and Emmett Jones as a member, both for 2-year terms expiring December 21, 2026. The jury also approved precinct survey forms for Webster Parish’s voting precincts, with no changes from last year.
A donation of immovable property to the St. James Water System was approved for audit purposes. Attorney Patrick Jackson explained, “It was in our name only, but it’s not our property. We had to be the sponsor for the grant, much like we have to be sponsors for many federal grants.”
A meeting was announced for Tuesday, September 2 at 10:30 AM to consider adopting a resolution ordering and calling an election to authorize the levy of an ad valorem tax for courthouse buildings maintenance, a measure that comes up every 10 years.
During the committee reports, Johnnye Kennon of Webster Parish Tourism announced several upcoming events, including Webster High School celebrating its founding 102 years ago, the Piney Woods Jamboree in Springhill featuring the brother of Charley Pride, Food Truck Night at Miller Quarters Park on August 19, Camp Minden’s 1st Annual Charity Gala on August 24, the Classic Car Show on September 14, the Springhill Rodeo on September 21-23, the Jet Rally Air Show at Minden Airport on September 21, and the 2nd Annual Witch’s Ride on October 24.
Brian Williams of the Office of Homeland Security reported that five tornadoes had touched down in Webster Parish during Hurricane Beryl, with winds up to 110 mph. Williams also noted upcoming US Army training in the area, including refueling tasks involving 16 Chinook helicopters at Minden Airport.
The next meeting of the Webster Parish Police Jury will be held on September 3 at 10:30 AM at the Webster Parish Courthouse Annex. The public is welcome to attend.