The Red River Parish Police Jury discussed library taxes, board appointments, rising parish costs and community projects during its June 3 committee and regular meeting.

Vice President Ben Taylor presided over the meeting with jurors Young, Hillman, Taylor, Davis, Moore and Brown present.

Public discussion centered on the Red River Parish Library millage. Resident Bill Jones urged jurors to consider reducing the current 8.13-mill property tax to 3 mills. Jones cited figures from the Louisiana Legislative Auditor showing the library held a fund balance of more than $16.6 million at the end of 2024, while collecting just over $2 million in tax revenue and spending approximately $635,700 during the year.

A library board representative reminded jurors that the board had previously requested a reduction in the library millage. However, concerns about parish finances and future expenses led officials to leave the rate unchanged. Police Jury Administrator Jessie Davis said similar concerns remain today, noting the parish is facing significant increases in health, building and liability insurance costs. Jurors agreed to table discussion of all parish millages until July and requested committee meetings before the next regular session.

District Attorney Julie Jones also addressed questions regarding Library Board appointments. She reported that legal research indicated the board’s 10-year term limit applies retroactively, potentially affecting most current members. Jurors postponed further discussion until July.

Acting Head Librarian Mary Adkins informed jurors she has assumed leadership following the resignation of former Director Trey Lewis. She requested guidance on advertising the position, and the request was referred to the employment committee.

In other business, jurors reappointed Karisma Williams to a second three-year term on the Northwest Louisiana Human Services District board.

Davis reported that parish sales tax revenues remain steady, but rising costs for fuel, road materials and construction continue to strain budgets. He noted that 2-inch compact asphalt now costs more than $227,000 per mile, while soil cement costs more than $184,000 per mile.

Officials reported progress on the new parish health unit, which is awaiting roof repairs, internet installation and final construction cleanup before moving can begin.

The library also announced several new community programs, including CDL training assistance, workforce development meetings, genealogy workshops, Story Time and the Summer Reading Program.

The next Police Jury meeting is scheduled for July 1 at 10 a.m.

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