The proposed move of the bus stop in front of STYLES raises many questions.
Some of these are:
1. The bus stops were funded by a federal grant.
a. did the feds approve this location?
b. Will the feds need to approve a move of the bus stop?
2. If moved, it will be in front of a closed bar--Inferno. If Inferno re-opens or another establishment opens there, will there be another request to move the bus stop?
3. If the move is approved, will this set a precedent for ALL other businesses with bus stops in front of them to request a move of the bus stop?
4. Is the proposed move discriminatory to the majority of SPORTRAN riders who are African American?
5. Is this the first time the council has funded a move of a bus stop at the request of a private business?
6. Is this a proper expenditure of city funds?
These questions need to be answered fully at the council meeting today BEFORE a vote on the proposed ordinance to fund the move.
If there are ANY questions unanswered or unresolved, good government dictates that the vote be delayed until the same are resolved.
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.