OK, all you computer warriors and politicians looking for a sound bite, pay attention.
YES, Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux will soon PROPOSE to the Shreveport City Council a 18 month two (2%) water bill hike to pay for demolition of abandoned apartment complexes.
NO, not all the details have been fleshed out on this notion, but they will be BEFORE presented to the Shreveport City Council.
YES, it is the COUNCIL, not the mayor, who must make a decision(s) on how to rid the city of these complexes which are breeding grounds for vagrants, crime, rats and danger traps for Shreveport firemen responding to the numerous fires at these complexes.
No, there is NOT money in the current Shreveport budget for this demolition in addition to those funds for Property Standards which focuses on vacant, abandoned houses.
YES, the Council will soon receive the proposed 2026 Shreveport City budget and the Council CAN move money around to handle the apartment demolition.
NO, the proposed hike is TEMPORARY and after 18 months any extension will require the approval of the then City Council.
YES, it is the job of the mayor to make SUGGESTIONS, i.e. proposals, to the legislative body (the Council) for action.
NO, no other pot of money has yet been suggested by Council members to fund these needed demolitions.
YES, computer warriors the definition of a PROPOSAL is "a suggestion put forward for consideration and acceptance by another group."
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.