Natchitoches Parish

The commission reviewed and approved five separate applications for the survey and subdivision of land parcels for the purposes of acts of sale or donation. Properties located at 154 Buster Lewis Road, 193 Bobby Cooper Road, 9396 Hwy. 1, 662 Catholic Lane, and one additional parcel without a physical address were processed. No other public hearings or office business items were brought before the commission.

The commission held a meeting to discuss and take action on various items. Key topics included the amendment of the agenda to include a recommendation to the parish council regarding the adoption of administrative chapters for building code and property maintenance enforcement to address code violations. The commission reviewed and approved several applications for survey and subdivision of land, including requests for lot line adjustments, acts of donation, and acts of sale for properties in the parish. Additionally, the commission opened preliminary hearings regarding district zoning amendments and variances.

The council discussed water infrastructure projects, including funding assistance through the Louisiana Rural Water Association and issues related to contractor damage. A representative presented a request for the council to authorize the execution of documents to join a national opioid settlement. The Henry O. Flipper Foundation presented a request for financial support for low-income housing projects. Additionally, the council received updates on department reports, budget matters, and discussed upcoming elections involving propositions for Road District 40, government buildings, the health unit, and the library. A Congressional candidate introduced themselves and discussed their platform.

The council discussed various operational and administrative matters, including grant applications for transportation and water enrichment, as well as fire protection district tax renewals. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to debating the outsourcing of building official and permitting services, specifically regarding the financial impacts and the role of third-party contractors versus parish employees. Furthermore, the council reviewed board appointments and ongoing website development projects.

The council meeting featured a presentation regarding the progress and future plans of Swift Fiber, emphasizing the installation of high-speed fiber internet and clarifying community coverage and service timelines. Department heads provided reports, noting positive progress on service calls, upcoming Christmas festival arrangements, and an update on financial performance, including a moderate increase in sales tax revenue compared to the previous year.