Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson has completed the purchase of the old M.L. Bath Building on Market Street. This expands his downtown property portfolio to 11 properties costing more than $4.6 million.
To date Jackson has been consistent in doing little to nothing to improve these properties. But he did spend $32 thousand with a Texas firm for the fence rather than support local business.
Presumably Jackson’s redevelopment/reconstruction plans are totally contingent on getting the $50 million LED grant application. Just changing ownership of dilapidated buildings does not add value to the downtown area.
Big plans and big development talk are always good. Spending money and following up with promises is much, much better. 50’s track record of non-action at Millennium Studios and Expo Hall is certainly a statement in and of itself.
Admittedly, Jackson is a celebrity, but that status does not equate to a free pass on civic responsibility. 50 may be a great guy but to date he has yet to become a good corporate Shreveport citizen. Talking about all roads leading to Shreveport may sound great, but the proof is the pudding.
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.