Shreveport City Council Takes Action on Police Department Relocation
In a recent meeting, the Shreveport City Council made significant strides regarding concerns over the Shreveport Police Department and its current location. The council opted to postpone voting on various initiatives linked to the upcoming 2024 bond issue projects, instead choosing to focus on an issue that has been increasingly urgent—the deteriorating conditions at the police station situated at 1234 Texas Ave.
Concerns Over Health and Safety
During the meeting, council members expressed serious concerns regarding health and safety risks posed by the current police station setting. Councilpersons James Green, Tabatha Taylor, and Grayson Boucher took the initiative to write a letter on September 16, urging the need for immediate action. In this letter, they highlighted that the subpar conditions not only affect officers and the administrative staff but also the safety of the public.
Boucher, Green, and Taylor emphasized the importance of relocating the police department to a safer environment, stating plainly that “the working conditions are just not acceptable.” They were determined to include legislation in the agenda for Tuesday’s meeting that would encourage Mayor Tom Arceneaux to declare a state of emergency due to these conditions.
Unanimous Support for Safety Measures
As a result, the resolution passed unanimously, requesting that the mayor take immediate action to move the officers and administrative staff. The resolution pointed out that improving working conditions is essential for retaining personnel and ensuring effective law enforcement in Shreveport. If the conditions remain unresolved, it could jeopardize the stability of the police force in the area.
Previous Bond Measure and Ongoing Delays
It’s important to note that in December 2021, voters approved a bond measure allocating $27.5 million for the construction of a new police station. This measure was overwhelmingly supported, with around 62 percent of voters in favor of the initiative. However, frustrations have been building over the fact that construction on this new facility has yet to begin, leaving officers and citizens alike feeling disheartened.
Despite the bond measure passing, there has been minimal progress, leading to growing calls from council members and the public for a swifter reaction from the city administration. The resolution underscored the urgency of relocating personnel to a safer space while construction plans remain stalled.
Mayor Arceneaux’s Response
Mayor Arceneaux did respond to the concerns expressed in the council meeting. In an official message on September 20, he assured the council that the poor conditions at the police station have been “on our radar for quite some time.” He detailed plans in motion aimed at improving the environment and also mentioned that efforts were being made to relocate nearly 20 percent of city employees currently working at the police station.
Additionally, he indicated that the city is moving towards awarding a contract for the construction of a new substation on Monkhouse Drive “shortly.” Although his response provided some reassurance, many still view the situation as not moving quickly enough.
Public Safety Meeting Highlights
Before the much-anticipated council meeting, Councilwoman Ursula Bowman voiced her intent to delay discussions on new bond-related business until various issues concerning the police station were dealt with. Many believe this approach may prompt the administration to pick up the pace in addressing the pressing matters at hand.
Overall, Shreveport residents—and indeed, everyone involved—hope that the city can swiftly navigate these challenges, ensuring police officers and the public alike have access to a safe and functional environment. It’s a matter that holds great weight for the community, which is eager to see positive improvements soon.
