District G Forum Raises Questions About Data Centers and Absent Officials

 The Pines Road Area Business Association hosted a candidate forum at Gracepointe 
Church of the Nazarene, where candidates addressed infrastructure, economic development, and concerns about data centers in West Shreveport. PRABA Secretary Giselle Proby-Bryant moderated the event alongside Caddo Parish Commissioner Ken Epperson Sr. Attendees included former State Sen. Greg Tarver, State Sen. Sam Jenkins, School Board member Dottie Bell, and former State Rep. Barbara Norton-Irving.
 
Mayor Tom Arceneaux and District G Councilwoman Ursula Bowman did not attend. Epperson said both officials were invited but did not respond.
 
“This is the second time that I’ve come to a public forum in West Shreveport and neither the mayor nor the councilperson is in attendance,” District G resident Mattie Smith said.
 
“What’s really going on?”
 
Smith also questioned how proposed data centers could affect residents’ utility bills. Mayoral candidates discussed nondisclosure agreements, transparency, and economic development.
 
District G candidates Derrick L. Henderson and Steven Hall both participated. Henderson called for stronger representation and economic investment across the entire district.
 
“District G deserves a councilperson with the skill and will to serve the entire district, from Ingleside to the Old New Castle neighborhoods,” Henderson said. He added that he would not support a mayor who does not prioritize economic development in District G.
 
Hall, a Queensborough pastor, advocated additional community meetings and cited his military service and experience as a Bossier Parish Community College professor.