The Red River Parish Police Jury’s regular meeting was held on September 3, 2024. All members were present.

During the Committee meeting, Debra Jones, Registrar of Voters, thanked members for the new Registrar of Voters office on Front Street. Jones invited everyone to a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 19 at 11:30.

During the Commercial Vehicle Units report, a calculation was presented that $16,000 in permits were registered in August.

During New Business, the President, Tray Murray, announced that the Board of Review had been set for October 2, 2024. He also introduced Mr. Tripp Dungan from CLECO, who addressed members with a 25-year exclusive franchise agreement proposal. Voting on the agreement is expected at the next meeting.

New Board members for the Red River Tourism Commission were approved. Chandra Wilson, Coronda Banks Jones, Charlotte Taylor, Janelle Givens, Scotty Martin, and Joshua Terry will join Ward York and Tangela Smith.

During the Budget Review item of Finance, Mr. Davis reminded members that the budget may need to be adjusted due to the changes in Sales Tax and ad valorem revenues. The reduction in income is an ongoing discussion for most Parish entities.

Members also voted to approve the First Responder property tax exemption. This exemption is a $25,000 tax break in addition to the $75,000 awarded for homestead exemption. First responders who qualify include sheriffs, police officers, firefighters, emergency medical service workers, dispatchers, and operators.