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Shreveport City Council Backs Film and Historic Preservation

Historical buildings in Shreveport, Louisiana with film production equipment

News Summary

The Shreveport City Council unanimously voted to support vital tax credits for film production and historic preservation, essential for local economic growth. The Motion Picture Production Tax Credit and Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit not only boost job creation but enhance local pride and attract tourism. As the industry faces challenges, advocates push for these incentives to ensure Shreveport’s thriving film scene and preserved landmarks.

Shreveport City Council Takes a Stand for Film and History

A buzz is in the air in Shreveport! The Shreveport City Council has come together in a unanimous vote to support the continuation and enhancement of important tax credits that keep the filmmaking and historic preservation scene thriving in Louisiana. These tax credits play a crucial role in bringing both film and television projects to the city and caring for the rich architectural history we all cherish.

Why These Credits Matter

The resolutions passed by the council shine a spotlight on two major tax credits: the Motion Picture Production Tax Credit and the Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit. These aren’t just fancy terms; they’re the lifeblood of economic activity in the region, helping to create jobs and boost local businesses, all while protecting our architectural gems. With these credits, Shreveport has seen historic landmarks like the Municipal Auditorium and the Texas Street corridor restored to their former glory, bringing new life to our neighborhoods.

Local Pride and Tourism Surge

The effects of these investments ripple out further than just the immediate benefits. One council member pointed out that keeping historic structures in excellent condition enhances local pride. Tourists flock to see these beautiful sites, and their presence attracts even more investment in the area. It’s a win-win that showcases Shreveport’s rich history and cultural allure.

A Starring Role in Film Production

Did you know that Shreveport has played backdrop to some big productions, including the intense military flick “Battle: Los Angeles” and the gripping “The Highwaymen”? This city is not just a pretty face in the film industry; it has attracted heavyweight entertainers, including Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, who sees the potential of developing a film studio right here in town.

The Competition Heats Up

Louisiana holds the title as the first state to offer tax credits for film productions—a groundbreaking move that has yielded remarkable success over the years. However, as legislators discuss various changes, there are genuine concerns about the future of these incentives. For instance, this past November, lawmakers reduced the yearly cap on state TV and film credits to $125 million. Such cuts have raised eyebrows regarding potential job losses in the booming film industry.

Fighting for the Future

The Shreveport Bossier Film & Entertainment Commissioner is optimistic that film production will continue in the area, though they acknowledge the struggle ahead without these much-needed incentives. Longtime filmmakers emphasize that tax incentives have become a vital factor in deciding where to shoot scenes, especially for those looking for the right location and high-quality crew and equipment availability.

A Significant Economic Contributor

Let’s not forget the big picture: the film industry in Louisiana is responsible for about 10,000 jobs and brings in roughly $1 billion in economic activity every year. That’s a whole lot of hustle and bustle that keeps our local economy thriving!

A Call to Action

As the conversation heats up about the state’s film tax credits, advocates for the industry, including organizations like Film Louisiana, are pushing hard for the safeguarding of these vital incentives. The Shreveport City Council aims to convey the economic benefits of these tax credits during the upcoming special session on tax reform. The goal? To rally support from lawmakers so that Shreveport can continue to shine in the world of film and renew its historic landmarks for years to come.

So, let’s keep our fingers crossed that the creativity, history, and economic growth that define our beloved Shreveport continue to flourish, and that these tax credits will be preserved for the bright future ahead.