Bossier City Council Makes Big Moves with 2025 Budget and Infrastructure Projects!
Bossier City is buzzing with excitement following the city council’s latest meeting where they adopted a 2025 budget that has been a hot topic around town for quite some time. As a democratic process, this budget must be introduced and then approved twice, with a majority vote at separate meetings. This week, it was clear that the council means business as they tackle some pressing issues.
Budget Debate: A Rocky Road to Approval
During the meeting, budgeting issues were raised by concerned citizens. One member of the Bossier Term Limits Coalition, David Crocket, voiced his concerns about the proposed budget. He specifically took issue with a plan to withdraw a whopping one million dollars from the streets and drainage fund. With potholes and cracks plaguing roads across Bossier City, the citizens are rightfully worried about the condition of their streets.
“How can we take money from the fund when people are driving through pothole-riddled roads every day?” Crocket passionately argued. While he showed support for the idea of pay raises for city employees, he believed that not all employees should receive the same increase. He noted that some higher-ranking police officers already earn above the market rate and shouldn’t receive the same raises as less experienced officers.
“There’s a police wage disparity in Bossier City, especially at the lower ranks,” Crocket continued. “You’re giving everyone the same pay raise. I think that’s foul.” He also highlighted that lesser-known city workers, such as those in sewer and maintenance roles, often remain underpaid despite their critical positions.
City Council Responds
In response to these concerns, the council reassured those in attendance, especially police officers, that they would all be compensated at or above the market minimum. District 3 council member Don Williams emphasized that nobody would be underpaid. Furthermore, Williams mentioned that he consulted both fire and police departments about their recommendations, and indicated that the budget reflects their requests.
Interestingly, the only dissenting voice during the last meeting was District 1 council member Brian Hammons. However, after discussing the budget with its creators, Hammons changed his tune, stating that while the budget had its flaws, it was ultimately fair. This week, the budget was passed unanimously, marking a significant milestone for Bossier City.
Construction Projects Get the Green Light!
But that wasn’t all the council had on their agenda! They turned their attention to much-needed construction projects, approving additional funds for various initiatives around the city. One notable project, the Airline Drive Rehabilitation Project, required an extra $50,853 due to unforeseen field conditions. The council approved this addition without any hesitation.
Moreover, two vehicle detection systems, totaling $40,000, were also given the thumbs up for the intersections of Stockwell Road and Shed Road, as well as Shed Road at Hickory Ridge Drive. The existing systems had failed, and replacing them is expected to enhance public safety significantly.
Lastly, the council declared an emergency regarding the replacement of three gravity sewer manholes and a complete gravity main segment on Bruce St. and O’Keefe streets, which suffered from extensive use and groundwater issues. Are you ready for the price tag? This critical infrastructure repair is set to cost about $754,548.
What’s Next for Bossier City?
As the council charges forward with their plans, it’s clear that Bossier City is making strides towards addressing both budgetary and infrastructure needs. While there may be a few bumps along the way, it’s evident that the city is committed to ensuring that both its employees and residents have what they need for a vibrant and thriving community.
Stay tuned for further updates on these exciting developments in Bossier City!
