KEN KREFFT
The city of Shreveport is in a strong financial shape. The combination of 2020 cost-cutting moves, federal monies related to the pandemic and the large spike in our 2.75% sales tax on which I wrote May 7, results in an opportunity to appropriate general funds for several of the “Unfunded Needs” shown in the 2021 Operating Budget. At the Nov. 20, 2015, budget hearing in the mayor’s conference room, District A Councilman Willie Bradford drew a clear distinction between “wants” and “needs.”
Willie correctly stated that he understood that a need to one might be judged only a want by another. Fair enough. However we slice it, there are many items to be repaired, purchased or updated. 2022 should be the year in which many of these necessary items, whether your need or my want, will be appropriated with general funds. Here is your chance to weigh in.
Mayor Adrian Perkins and his department heads are guests of the Broadmoor Neighborhood Association at its 6:30 p.m. meeting Tuesday, April 18, in the gym of the Broadmoor Presbyterian Church, 1915 Grover Place. There will be a presentation followed by Q&A with the audience. There are four broad categories that include crime, infrastructure, economic development and technology. You might wish to tell the mayor via his Facebook page which is most important to you.
My preference is a new Fire House #11 at Youree Drive and Albany Avenue. This station was built in 1940. This house also needs a new fire engine. A variety of both operating and capital needs exists.
I again ask that city employees get a 2.75% raise.
THIS ARTICLE WAS PUBLISHED IN THE May 14 ISSUE OF FOCUS SB - THE INQUISITOR.