Bossier City Council Meetings Spark Outcry Over Civic Disrespect and Exclusion

Bossier City Council Meetings: A Growing Concern for Civic Interaction

In the heart of Bossier City, tensions are heating up at city council meetings, leaving many residents feeling unheard and disrespected. What was once a platform for community discussion has become, it seems, a battleground for authority and dissent. Just last week, another citizen was escorted out of a council meeting after attempting to voice their opinions, following a similar incident that took place six weeks prior.

A Pattern of Disrespect

Anyone who has followed the goings-on in Bossier City might agree; there’s a noticeable shift in the demeanor of council members, and not for the better. In a recent meeting, David Montgomery, at-large council member, stirred up controversy with a comment that seemed to dismiss the concerns of a prominent community voice, David Crockett. Montgomery defended his proposed budget during the session but felt it necessary to imply that Crockett’s opinions didn’t matter simply because he resides outside of Bossier City.

“This council’s not here to take something that we might think might be better for the police, for the fire, for the municipal employees, and it is our prerogative,” Montgomery stated, emphasizing his point by reminding attendees that the people of Bossier City granted the council such power. “The people of Bossier City, by the way, not those that don’t live in the city.”

Voices Silenced, Concerns Ignored

When Crockett attempted to speak up, defending his civic engagement and position, Montgomery was quick to silence him. “No, sir, you do not have the floor!” echoed Montgomery, who then requested for Crockett to be removed from the room. As Crockett was escorted away by marshals, Council President Don Williams was reportedly overheard commenting, “What a jerk, man.” This lack of decorum is causing some residents to scratch their heads in disbelief.

Meanwhile, council member Jeff Free, sitting next to Williams during the saga, nonchalantly encouraged him to share his thoughts. “You’re on the mike,” he quipped, to which Williams replied with a casual “I don’t care.” It’s a scene that has left many Bossier citizens reeling.

Community Outcry

As news of this event spreads, local citizens are voicing their frustrations. Many feel it’s not just Crockett’s treatment that needs addressing, but the overall disdain and disrespect now permeating council meetings. It’s concerning when the voices of the community, especially those like Crockett—who is a retired Colonel and has served to protect these very freedoms—are disregarded.

In a community that prides itself on equality and open discourse, it’s hard not to notice the underlying message: if you’re not a resident, your input is welcome to be disregarded. This sentiment contrasts starkly with the values usually championed in a free society. Eleanor Roosevelt famously stated, “Such are the places where every man, woman, and child seeks equal justice, equal opportunity, equal dignity without discrimination.”

A Call for Change

Residents are now calling for accountability and possibly an apology from the council members involved. After all, a local council should serve the community, not just the select few who may agree with their views. Many citizens are hoping for a return to a culture where dialogues can flourish and all voices—regardless of where they live—are welcomed and respected.

As conversations continue to buzz around the city, it’s crucial for the members of the Bossier City council to remember the roots of their authority and the people they are meant to serve. With greater engagement and respect for all community members, perhaps the council can steer itself back towards being a more inclusive and welcoming space.