Public Meetings - Baton Rouge, Louisiana

The Metropolitan Council held its fourth and final budget hearing for the 2026 fiscal year on December 3, 2025. The hearing featured presentations from the East Baton Rouge Parish Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC), the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge, the City Constable’s Office, the East Baton Rouge Parish Library, and the Spanish Town Mardi Gras Parade organization. Each agency detailed proposed budget cuts, their operational impacts, and made appeals for reconsideration. Council members and the mayor acknowledged the difficult budget environment due to revenue shortfalls and the St. George incorporation, but signaled openness to some adjustments. Public Comments & Testimony - Charlie Spidell, a local attorney, spoke in support of the Constable’s Office, noting that reduced staffing in civil process service was driving some attorneys to file cases in district court instead of city court, reducing fee revenue to the city. - Byron Come, from the American Legion, highlighted the charity work supported by the Spanish Town parade, including a dental van for veterans, and urged the council to preserve the parade funding. - Lauren Least, chair of the Historic Spanish Town Civic Association, emphasized the parade’s role as a community-building event and the economic ripple effects for downtown businesses, and called for better communication ahead of changes. Discussion Items Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) - Executive Director Chris Anka presented, noting that the proposed 2026 budget reduces city funding by 54.4% (from $260,000 in 2025 to $125,000). He explained that the cut appears to conflate general city funding with separate opioid abatement funds. CJCC’s core operations (three staff salaries, rent, insurance) rely on city funding, while five program staff are fully grant-funded. Anka stated that a 10-12% cut would be manageable but 54% would force layoffs of one or two core staff. - Board Chair Judge Don Johnson argued for a holistic approach to public safety, urging the council to fund courts, public defenders, and prosecutors proportionally, and said CJCC helps the courts act as “first responders” through early intervention. - Chris Tell Slaughter from the mayor’s office acknowledged the difficulty but cited overall budget constraints. Council member Coleman called the cut “too deep” and asked the mayor’s office to revisit the figure. Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge - President & CEO Jonathan Grimes described the Arts Council as the city’s official arts agency, operating with a $2.5 million budget. The proposed cut from $333,930 (FY25) to $250,000 (FY26) represents a 25% reduction, with a possible zero in FY27. The cut would eliminate programs like Sunday in the Park, reduce arts teachers in schools, and threaten maintenance of public art. Grimes cited research that arts reduce crime and noted a 10-year projected economic impact of $40 million. - Council members questioned the economic impact and the share of city funding relative to total budget. Grimes stated the city’s contribution is about 13-15% but is crucial for leveraging grants and sustaining programs. City Constable’s Office - Constable Williams presented, objecting to an 11% cut, arguing that constables are POST-certified law enforcement and should be treated like BRPD and fire. She noted that the office already operates with 28 employees against 48 authorized positions, with 11 frozen vacancies. The cut would require freezing additional positions and potentially laying off 3-4 deputies. - Mayor Broome affirmed he considers constables law enforcement but noted the budget crisis affects all agencies. Chief Murphy Morris clarified that overtime costs for BRPD are unsustainable and that special events contribute to a $4 million overtime overspend. Williams also raised an unfunded agreement to provide security at City Hall, which BRPD previously funded but has not paid for in two years. Council members suggested revisiting that funding arrangement. - Finance director Angie explained that by freezing vacant positions (11 total), the Constable’s Office could meet the 11% cut without layoffs, but Constable Williams countered that would leave her severely understaffed. East Baton Rouge Parish Library - Executive Director Katrina Stokes reported that the library failed to renew its 10-year dedicated tax in November 2025, forcing a reduced budget. The proposed FY26 budget is $53.9 million, down from previous levels, and relies on fund balances until new revenue (expected from a June 2026 election) arrives in 2027. - To meet the reduced budget, the library froze 72 vacant positions, cut the book budget from 12% to 10.77%, and paused capital transfers. All 15 branches remain open, and services continue. Stokes highlighted that 68% of the parish holds library cards, and the library has already served 1.5 million visitors in 2025. - Councilman Noel asked for clarification on active cardholder statistics. The library reported 122,000 active cardholders (used within 12 months), which is 27% of the parish population. Spanish Town Mardi Gras Parade - President Robert King and former President Bill Broomfield detailed the parade’s economic impact: estimated $4.65 million total, with $200,000 in direct city revenue from taxes. They were informed that the city might require the parade to pay $75,000–$80,000 for police overtime (110 officers at $75/hr), which they said would be unsustainable and force cuts to charitable donations. - Councilman Dunn proposed developing a fair, criteria-based policy for all special events, using economic impact data from Visit Baton Rouge and the Downtown Development District. He acknowledged the current budget crisis and suggested long-term solutions rather than immediate charges. - Chief Morris explained that BRPD’s overtime budget is overspent and that the department faces a “systematic culture” of expecting free police services for events. He suggested a per-officer rate of about $50–$55/hour would be more feasible and allow staffing to fill needed posts. - Councilwoman Roca asked the mayor’s office to convene a meeting of all parade organizers to discuss options for the 2026 season, noting the Spanish Town parade is weeks away (Valentine’s Day). Christelle from the mayor’s office committed to working on a policy but indicated no immediate changes for this year. Key Outcomes - CJCC: Council member Coleman requested the mayor’s office revisit the 54.4% cut; the mayor’s representative agreed to do so. No final decision was made. - Arts Council: Council members expressed support for the arts but took no immediate action. The budget remains subject to amendment. - Constable’s Office: Mayor Broome affirmed constables are law enforcement. The finance director stated the 11% cut could be met by freezing vacant positions without layoffs, but Constable Williams argued that would exacerbate staffing shortages. A potential reallocation of City Hall security funding was discussed but not resolved. - Library: The library’s proposed budget was presented without immediate objection. The council acknowledged the funding uncertainty and expressed support for the library’s efforts. - Spanish Town Parade: The council did not vote on police funding. Councilman Dunn pledged to work on a special-events policy for future years, while Councilwoman Roca requested a meeting between parade organizers and the administration. The mayor’s office indicated that this year’s parade would likely proceed without major changes. - General: Councilman Norris noted the structural budget crisis caused by dedicated taxes and the St. George incorporation, warning that service cuts will be necessary. The budget is subject to amendments in upcoming council meetings.

The Metropolitan Council of East Baton Rouge Parish met on November 25, 2025, in the Council Chamber in Baton Rouge. The meeting opened with an invocation by Dr. Gabrielle Swaggart of Family Worship Center, the Pledge of Allegiance, a special resolution recognizing Mayor for the Day Juliet, and a birthday recognition for a District Five staff member. The Council then conducted introductions, considered a large agenda of property, contract, grant, and administrative items, heard public comments, and voted on two items declared as emergencies. No agenda or minutes accompanied the transcript; this summary is based solely on the meeting transcript. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the Metropolitan Council meeting of November 12, 2025, and the Metropolitan Council zoning meeting of November 19, 2025. - Introduced items on the introduction list, with a successful motion to introduce all items except Item 4, and with amendments to Item 34 (changed amount to $4,915,204) and Item 35 (changed start date to October 1, 2025). - Adopted the Department of Public Works scheduling recommendations as amended: proceeding with the recommended items; two weeks on item 83; 60 days on items 78, 79, 82, 84, 87, 89, 90, 101, 109, and 110; 90 days on items 77, 96, 102, 103, 104, and 107; and deletion of items 76, 85, 93, 97, 99, and 100. - Deleted Item 112, the ordinance creating the Delmont Economic Development District, after Councilman Hearst moved to delete it and to bring forward another version at a future meeting. - Waived the rules and introduced administrative matter items A and B, including a hazard mitigation project management contract with Hunt Gillett and Associates and a juvenile health services agreement with Total Occupational not to exceed $150,000. - Approved numerous routine contracts, grants, leases, and property actions, including: - Item 114: a 12-month lease with the Scotlandville High School Hornets Alumni Association for the Jill J. Newman Community Center at $350 per month. - Item 115: a property taking for the bus rapid transit project. - Item 117: sale of surplus property at 3048 Voss Drive to Eric James Sr. and Darren Dimby for $8,000. - Items 119, 120, and 121: an emergency management grant award of $110,000, an airport HVAC contract amendment of $12,888, and a law enforcement grant award of $50,981. - Items 123 through 129: amendments to Ryan White program subrecipient contracts. - Item 130: rescission of a notice to attend for the property at 1008 Epperson Street. - Items 131 through 134: construction testing, professional engineering, and construction inspection contracts for Move BR projects. - Items 136 through 170: sale of adjudicated properties to the listed high bidders, with Item 152 deferred to January 14, 2026. - Item 171 and final acceptance: South Boulevard Area ADA transition project change order credit of $8,090.36 and final cost of $261,272.54. - Items 174 through 177: acceptance of low bids, including the Jones Creek Regional Library, prison security windows, detention equipment maintenance, and the PS299 Regional Pump Station project at $8,949,900. - Item 173: deletion of the landscape maintenance low bid with direction to rebid. Public Comments & Testimony - Maya Wiseman, a Baton Rouge resident for one year, spoke on Item 76 and expressed appreciation that the matter was being discussed in a public forum. - Nick Miller, owner of the property associated with Item 110, stated that the property was being donated to Habitat for Humanity and asked that it be removed. The Council deferred the item for 60 days to allow documentation of the donation to be provided. - Councilmembers noted that they received one email comment in opposition to Item 115 and one email comment in opposition to Items 123 through 129. Discussion Items - Item 113 - Retirement ordinance cleanup: James Mack, Retirement Director, explained that the ordinance amendments were cleanup language unanimously recommended by the retirement board. Changes included correcting statutory references, replacing “qualified domestic relations order” with “division of benefits order,” removing unnecessary board approval language once a member is eligible to retire, and addressing notice mailing provisions. In response to Councilwoman Rocka’s questions, Mack said a reduction in workforce does not change the dollar amount of the unfunded accrued liability, but spreads those costs among fewer workers and can raise employer costs. He said the impact of the currently discussed workforce reductions would be “impactful” but not “greatly impactful” in the current iteration. He also said the new municipality is not yet in arrears on payments because the payments are tied to an incorporation date that has not been established, which may require court determination. He offered to send actuary estimates to the Council, and Councilwoman Harris asked that he email the information to all members. The item was approved. - Item 118 - Juvenile services food contract: Dr. Wade of Juvenile Services described a proposed contract not to exceed $480,480 for meals at the juvenile detention facility from January 1 through December 31, 2026. She reported that the facility has taken in nearly 600 juveniles this year, the highest in three years; daily counts range from about 25 to 47; and meals include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack. Three years ago the city was paying more than $600,000 for staff, benefits, and food preparation. This year only $233,000 of the $480,000 had been expended with December remaining, compared with $308,000 last year, representing nearly a 50 percent cost savings. She also noted this was the first time the contract was done through a formal RFP process. The Council approved the item. - Item 122 - Maintenance management software: A staff member described a proposed five-year software-as-a-service agreement with True Point Solutions LLC, not to exceed $802,000, to track work orders and asset maintenance. The cost would be split with 69% attributed to drainage, 20% to environmental services, and 11% to transportation and drainage, with $250,000 allocated for implementation services. The Council approved the item. - Item 135 - Bridge program agreement: Transportation and Drainage staff explained a two-year agreement with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and the Federal Highway Administration for the off-system bridge program. Federal and state funds would cover construction and design of selected bridges, while the city would be responsible for right-of-way and utility relocation costs. Two candidate bridges were identified: Hurricane Creek on Lanier Drive and one on the East Accord Railway. The item was approved. - Emergency Item C - Head Start retention allowance: The Council declared an emergency and approved a one-time, non-pensionable retention allowance of $5,000 for current active employees and new employees hired by December 5, 2025, in eligible Human Development and Services Head Start and child care food program classifications. Staff confirmed the allowance would be paid on December 19, 2025, would have no impact on the general fund, and would be funded entirely by federal grant funding allocated to Head Start. Councilmembers noted that staff had advocated for the allowance and that it was being approved before year-end budget deadlines. Key Outcomes - Approved the minutes, introductions, Department of Public Works scheduling requests, and the routine consent items listed above. - Did not introduce Item 4 (the Delmont Economic Development District ordinance) and separately deleted Item 112, a related Delmont EDD ordinance, with an intent to bring forward another version at a future meeting. - Approved Item 113 retirement ordinance changes. - Approved Item 118 juvenile food service contract and Item 122 software agreement. - Approved Item 135 bridge program agreement. - Approved Emergency Item C Head Start retention allowance and Emergency Item 178, authorizing a supplemental agreement with HNTB Corporation for continued engineering services for the East Baton Rouge Parish Stormwater Master Plan at an amount not to exceed $160,000. - Deferred Item 110 for 60 days pending Habitat for Humanity donation documentation and deferred Item 152 to January 14, 2026. - Directed Retirement Director Mack to email the Council the actuary estimates related to new municipality payment projections.

The Baton Rouge City Council held its third 2026 budget hearing on November 24, 2025, receiving presentations from the Department of Development, Buildings and Grounds, Department of Maintenance, Transportation and Drainage, Environmental Services, and the Big Buddy Program. Departments detailed service reductions, staffing cuts, and revenue challenges. No formal votes were taken during the hearing; the next budget hearing was scheduled for December 3, 2025. Department of Development (Rachel Lambert) - The department faces a $1.1 million reduction for 2026, eliminating 31 vacant/frozen positions and reducing contracts by about $900,000. Overtime will be eliminated. - Revenue through October 2025 was $3.2 million, down about 30% from $4.7 million in the same period of 2024. Total 2024 revenue was $5.3 million; 2023 revenue was $5.8 million. - Permit activity declined: 6,700 permits issued in 2025 vs. 9,300 in 2024 (about 20% decrease); 1,000 plan reviews in 2025 vs. 1,700 in 2024 (about 30% decrease). Plan review turnaround is under 3 days; guaranteed times are 7 days for residential and 24 days for commercial permits. - The revenue drop was attributed primarily to the City of St. George transition, which began in October 2024. The department also took a 17% budget reduction from 2024 to 2025 in anticipation. - Blight/condemnation activity: over 2,000 condemnation inspections, 327 condemnations introduced, 230 structures condemned, and 178 demolitions (47 in-house, 131 contracted). About 30 more structures are expected to be demolished by year-end, with 70 condemned structures waiting and about 90 introduced/in process. - Average contracted demolition cost is about $10,000; 75% of demolished structures contain asbestos. About $1.37 million in CDBG funds was used. For 2026, there will be zero general fund dollars for contracted blight abatement; in-house crews will handle most work, and CDBG-ineligible areas include South Mid-City, South Baton Rouge, and parts of Scotlandville. - Proposed mitigation: increase permit fees (e.g., reinspection fee from $20 to cover $75 inspection cost), subdivision fees, fines/fees/penalties, and pursue grants. Fee changes would require council ordinance amendments. - Additional stats: nearly 3,000 blight violation notices, almost 12,000 blight court inspections, about $320,000 in fees/fines assessed, over 450 court orders, and 729 liens rolled onto tax bills. 45 condemnation rescissions occurred this year; recording costs are $125–$135 per property. Buildings and Grounds (Joe Butler) - The 2026 budget is $12,316,000, a reduction of $1,565,000 (11%). Staffing drops from 65 to 63 allotments with no layoffs. - Focused maintenance accounts were reduced an average of 21%, totaling $811,000. Preventive maintenance will move to quarterly; contractor response crews will be reduced by 50%, likely extending response times. - Work order completion rate is 92.5% overall and 93.5% since July; average turnaround is 3–4 days. HVAC callouts at the prison dropped about 20% after new chillers and air handling unit replacements. - Priority capital needs: waterproofing/leaks at 19th JDC and City Hall, B2 parking garage security, City Court water intrusion, and City Hall elevator upgrades. A FEMA project for City Hall window replacement is still awaiting approval. - A vibration analysis of 180 pieces of equipment costing about $8,000 identified about 75 findings, including a failing bearing that could have caused $35,000–$40,000 in damage if not caught. - The department maintains 160 facilities, actively servicing about 150, including EMS stations, fire stations, BRPD, community centers, pump stations, courts, and the prison. Department of Maintenance (Mr. Brunfield) - The department is reducing its budget by approximately $2.5 million, eliminating 32 funded positions (10 already frozen and 22 vacancies) with no layoffs. - Overtime will be reduced by $230,000; seasonal employees drop from 60 to 40 ($182,000 savings); landscape services reduced by $822,000; other contractual services reduced by $149,000. Approximately 435 acres were removed from the parish inventory due to St. George. - Service impacts: pothole crews from 3 to 2, asphalt patching crews from 2 to 1, concrete crews from 3 to 2, reduced ditch/litter crews, and fewer storm response personnel. Lower-priority corridors may see longer mowing cycles. - Mitigation measures include new work order and GPS fleet systems, supervisor training with LSU Leadership School, possible use of autonomous mowers, and greater reliance on contracted services using parish transportation funds. - Councilman Dunn asked about port-a-potty vendor response times during events; the vendor is based outside the parish and the contract has one renewal remaining. Mr. Brunfield said he would look into it. Transportation and Drainage (Fred Ravert) - The department is responsible for about 380 city bridges and over 470 traffic signals. It will lose about 40 previously frozen positions, reducing from 108 to 68 allotments; about 11 positions are currently frozen. - Sign replacement and pavement marking services will slow. The sign shop's machine is down, and replacement would cost a couple hundred thousand dollars. Restriping costs about $8 per foot; last year's restriping spent just over $1 million. - The city has agreed to maintain traffic signals within St. George for $8,500 per signal; about 40–50 signals are involved, with some state-owned. The agreement was pending execution. - Drainage: the department continues to pursue grants and submitted seven projects for Capital Outlay funding. A $29 million Ward's Creek realignment/channel improvement project for Manchac was highlighted and is expected to come before the council. Ravert stated a new revenue source will be needed for drainage maintenance and projects. Environmental Services (Adam) - Environmental Services covers sanitary sewer, solid waste, and stormwater compliance. Sewer and solid waste are enterprise funds; stormwater compliance is a general fund division. - Sewer: 2026 revenue expected to be just over $190 million (user fees nearly $123 million; half-cent sales tax under $61 million). Operating budget is just under $73 million, with contractual services about 70%. About $83 million is budgeted for SSO debt service. - Solid waste disposal: proposed commercial tipping fee increase from $42 to $44 per ton and out-of-parish from $46 to $48, to be introduced at the December meeting. The landfill life is about 20 years; the adjacent Red Mud Lake property (700+ acres) is the likely future landfill site. - Solid waste collection: residential user fee is $35.23/month, while service costs are about $38/month; the fee has been held using fund balance. Republic/RDI contracts include 4% annual escalation. - Stormwater compliance: $3.5 million budgeted for 2026, funded from general fund fund balance; it includes $1.8 million for stormwater pipe point repairs, $600,000 for inlet repairs, and public education. Councilman Mook noted this is a one-time funding source, creating a challenge for 2027. - The old abandoned wastewater treatment plant on River Road is currently being demolished under contract. Big Buddy Program (Ms. Mack) - Big Buddy is a local mentoring and youth development organization serving over 500 youth per day and about 1,400 youth annually. Programs include one-on-one mentoring, after-school/summer/holiday camps, and the Mayor's Youth Workforce Experience (My We). - 2025 My We expanded with $670,000 in funding, providing workforce experiences for over 300 youth; 47% of funds went directly to youth stipends. Average cost per youth for the eight-week program was about $3,097. - Proposed 2026 city funding is $80,000 from American Rescue Plan interest earnings (not general fund). General fund support was $68,850 in 2024 and $55,800 in 2025. - The $80,000 would support mentoring matches at Glen Oaks and Northdale and supplement middle school/holiday camp programs, but would not cover the full cost of My We (about $3,500 per youth). Ms. Mack said Big Buddy would need to fundraise to fill the gap. - Councilman Dunn asked the administration to explore continued funding. Chris from the mayor's office said they would go back and look at options. Councilman Moak raised questions about duplication among youth programs; Ms. Mack responded that Big Buddy is unique as a local organization and suggested a coordinated nonprofit council. Key Outcomes - No votes or formal council actions were taken during the hearing; it was informational. - Several fee increases and budget adjustments were flagged for future council action, including permit fees, subdivision fees, tipping fees, and stormwater modeling fees. - The next council budget hearing will be held December 3, 2025, following a 4:00 p.m. zoning meeting, with the budget hearing expected to start at 4:30 p.m. Additional agencies may still be added to the agenda.

The Baton Rouge Metropolitan Fire and Police Civil Service Board convened on November 24, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. (with the start time later adjusted to 9:30 a.m. for future meetings). The board addressed routine personnel actions, a complex provisional appointment renewal, proposed classification changes, and the 2026 meeting calendar. All votes were unanimous, and no public comments were offered. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda without amendment. - Approved minutes from the October 27, 2025 meeting. - Approved personal action forms for both the Fire and Police Departments. - Called for examinations in the Police Department for Police Criminal Information Specialist One and Police Cadet. - Accepted applications in the Police Department for Police Communications Supervisor. - Accepted applications in the Fire Department for Assistant Chief Fire Communications Officer, Chief Training Officer, Assistant Chief Training Officer, Training Officer, Chief Fire Investigator, Chief Fire Communications Officer, and Chief of Special Services. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Discussion Items - Provisional appointment renewal for Takaya Beard (Agenda Item 8): The board discussed a letter from Chief Morse regarding an expired provisional appointment. The original 90-day appointment expired on September 15, 2025, unnoticed. The board considered options to address the gap and provide a new provisional appointment without violating the 90-day limit. After debate, they approved a retroactive appointment covering September 15–November 24, 2025, and a new 90-day appointment starting November 24, 2025. Deputy Chief Sharon Douglas, representing Chief Morse, expressed no issue with this approach. - Proposed classification changes (Agenda Item 9): The Fire Chief explained proposed changes to classification plans for Firefighter, Fire Equipment Operator, and Fire Captain. Changes include removing outdated dates related to EMT certification and adding national certification requirements. The board asked clarifying questions and voted to conduct a public hearing on these changes. - 2026 meeting calendar (Agenda Item 10): The board discussed rescheduling dates due to conflicts at the Metro Council and a board member's (Mr. Sterling) ongoing Monday conflict. Initially, the chair proposed moving meetings to Thursdays. However, Mr. Ricks expressed concern about changing the entire schedule for one person, and others noted travel conflicts. Ultimately, the board voted to keep the fourth Monday of each month but adjusted the start time to 9:30 a.m. to avoid traffic for members traveling in. The earlier start time of 9:00 a.m. was rejected due to bridge traffic concerns. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar motions passed unanimously. - Approved two motions for Takaya Beard's provisional appointment: one retroactive (September 15–November 24, 2025) and one new 90-day appointment starting November 24, 2025. - Approved a motion to conduct a public hearing on classification changes for Firefighter, Fire Equipment Operator, and Fire Captain. - Established the 2026 meeting calendar as the fourth Monday of each month at 9:30 a.m. The previous motion to move to Thursdays was withdrawn, and a motion to set the time at 9:00 a.m. died without a second. - The meeting adjourned after these actions.

The Metro Council held its second budget hearing for the 2026 fiscal year on November 20, 2025, starting at 3 p.m. with a hard stop at 4:45 p.m. The finance department and parish attorney’s office presented their proposed budgets and answered council questions. No votes were taken; the hearing was informational. Finance Department Presentation - Finance Director Angie Savoir presented a high-level overview of the city-parish budget. The total proposed budget is $1.1 billion; only 28% is undedicated general fund. Enterprise funds include airport, sewer, solid waste, river center, stormwater, and parking garage; capital improvement funds include Move BR, libraries, and EMS; special revenue funds include EMS, library, mosquito control, Council on Aging, TIFs, fire fund, and fire districts. - Personnel allotments have decreased by 422 positions over four years. The 2026 budget recommends deleting 234 positions, 213 of which have been frozen since 2025. - The general fund is $332 million, supported 86% by sales tax. Over the past two years, revenues have declined by over $49 million. The 2026 budget assumes a $10 million increase in city sales tax offset by a $19 million decrease in parish sales tax, a net decrease of $9.3 million. - The legislative auditor recommends two months of operating cash in reserves. For the general fund, that would require roughly $52 million; current reserves are about $36 million, slightly over one month. - Salary and benefits account for 71% of expenditures, driving the need for workforce reductions. - The finance department budget is $9.5 million, an 11% reduction from 2025. The department plans to delete 15 positions and reduce its workforce by 23 positions (35%). Services will decrease: vendor checks may drop from three times a week to one or two, and taxpayer assistance wait times may increase. - Savoir cited workload statistics: over 4,000 W-2s, over 1,300 W-9s, over 1,600 journal entries per month, over 7,000 bank transactions reconciled monthly, over 2,000 cash receipts, over 1,000 jury/witness checks, over 2,000 workers’ compensation checks, and over 500 people at the cashier window monthly. Monthly invoices exceed 10,000, with payment turnaround currently 10–14 days. Council Discussion on Finance - Council members thanked Savoir for her work. Concerns included reduced public transparency (the award-winning budget book may lose supplementary information) and service levels. - Savoir said the revenue auditing division has been outsourced under a contract that performs regional audits; it equates to roughly two to three staff positions. A contract for December 10 consideration was noted. - On layoffs, Savoir said she has collaborated with BREC and other agencies because of shared retirement systems, and some employees may transition; civil service rules constrain options. - Positive budget factors cited: energy franchise fee originally estimated at $3.5 million annually now expected to generate $4.6 million; reassessment growth added $1.9 million; avoided health insurance inflation saved about $8 million; online retail sales tax increased, though not quantified. - St. George transition: starting July 1, 2025, the city receives 100% of the 2% municipal sales tax collected in its boundaries, approximately $50–54 million annually, remitted monthly. The parish provided services through October and recently invoiced St. George; no reimbursement check has been received. There is no agreement for St. George to pay for constitutional offices. Savoir said withholding sales tax distributions would likely be illegal. The parish will stop providing services as of November 1, except animal control, which will be covered by a new agreement on December 10. - Franchise fee funds: the council allocated $3.2 million in a 2025 budget supplement to council districts, constitutional offices, public safety, and other priorities; unallocated surplus will offset overages, including fire workers’ compensation. Savoir said these dollars supported the whole budget. - Community center overspending: Savoir disclosed about $70,000 in overage, largely attributed to a homeless feeding program at Councilman Hearst’s district community center. She said excess revenues would cover it. Council members expressed frustration and demanded accountability. Councilman Hearst defended the program, noting it feeds 100 people three days a week, provides laundry and showers, and that he stopped spending and obtained third-party funding (XR Mobile) for the rest of the year. Christelle from the mayor’s office clarified opioid funds are not controlled by finance and that a $2,500 contract with Tyra Bank would provide finance training to community center staff. Councilwoman Coleman confirmed her community center did not overspend. Parish Attorney’s Office Presentation - Parish Attorney Greg Rome introduced his team and said the office is cutting its budget like all departments. He said he expects to cut at least eight lawyers, potentially up to 16 as suggested in the budget book. - Staff are underpaid and could earn $200,000–$250,000 elsewhere. They work after hours and weekends. - Key financial contributions: city prosecutor Brandy projected $1,842,000 in traffic fines for 2025, none of which goes to the office. Litigation chief Michael reported that the office has saved the city over $165 million in the last 10 years on fewer than 50 cases, out of roughly 1,000 cases. - Kim Brooks collected $2.1 million (2024), $2.5 million (2023), $2.4 million (2022), and $2.6 million (2021) in subrogation. - The outside counsel budget is $150,000 and is expected to be exhausted by June or July 2026. The settlement fund for 2026 is budgeted at $1.8 million for settlements only, and Rome said he is developing options to present to council members in small groups. - Rome discussed opioid settlement money, which his office helped secure; Brandy qualifies for opioid funding, and Michael may. He noted Purdue Pharma’s $7.4 billion settlement might lead to more funds, but he could not comment specifically. Council Discussion on Parish Attorney - Council members expressed strong support for the parish attorney’s staff, citing their institutional knowledge, availability, and underpayment. Councilwoman Rocka noted many staff still pay student loans. - Councilman Dunn clarified that the parish attorney is hired by the council, not the mayor, and suggested exploring funding for satellite attorneys: Michael Fruge at the airport is funded by the airport, while Bailey Moore at BRPD is funded by the office. Rome said he met with Chief LaDuff about BRPD funding. - Councilman Hudson asked about the outside counsel budget and settlement fund; Rome said he is being proactive with small-group discussions. - Councilman Kennedy asked if staff jobs are at risk; Rome said he would rather lose his own position than any staff member. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the hearing was informational. - The next budget hearing is scheduled for Monday, November 24, 2025, at 5 p.m., featuring the Department of Public Works (drainage, transportation, maintenance, environmental services, building and grounds, development) and the Big Buddy program. - The council will continue deliberations during the upcoming budget hearings.

Metro Council Budget Hearing for Fiscal Year 2026 – November 19, 2025\n\nThe Metro Council held its first budget hearing for the upcoming fiscal year on November 19, 2025, receiving presentations from the 19th Judicial District Court, the District Attorney's Office, Family Court, Juvenile Court, Baton Rouge City Court, and the Office of the Public Defender. Each agency detailed severe funding shortfalls, proposed cuts, and the potential impact on public safety, justice, and constitutional obligations. Legislators present noted ongoing efforts to address inequitable cost-sharing across the parish's municipalities.\n\n Discussion Items\n- 19th Judicial District Court: Ms. Gibbons and Judge Tovell Smith presented. The court faces an 11% cut ($1 million reduction) from the prior year, which would primarily affect salaries and benefits. The court handles an average of 5,500 criminal and 17,500 civil filings annually. State cases constitute 30–40% of the docket, but the state does not pay filing fees, resulting in an estimated $750,000 to $1 million per year in unpaid fees. Council members noted that the city-parish effectively subsidizes the entire state's court system because all state-agency cases are filed in Baton Rouge. The court relies on temporary outside funding for programs like drug court and veterans court, which have graduated over 50 participants since March 2023, saving the parish jail costs of $120 per person per day.\n- District Attorney's Office: Hiller Moore and John Daly presented. The office requested $22.6 million for 2026; the current budget is approximately $16 million, with the mayor's proposal reducing city-parish funding from $8.7 million to $7.36 million. Compared to Jefferson and Orleans parishes, East Baton Rouge is underfunded by 64% and 79% per capita. Staffing has declined from 150–160 to 125 because of attrition and inability to offer competitive salaries. Unfunded mandates from the state and erosion of the local tax base due to the incorporation of St. George were cited. The office warned that if the proposed cut stands, it would need to lay off 15–25 employees, including assistant district attorneys, reducing capacity to handle cases.\n- Family Court: Chief Judge Erica Green presented with Judge Pam Baker and judicial administrator Rachel Schultz. The family court is the only constitutionally mandated family court in Louisiana. Its budget is $1.7 million, and the proposed cut of 11% would reduce funding for supplies and contractual services. The court serves the entire parish, including all municipalities, and handled 16,000 docketed events in 2024. State cases (child support) account for 33% of its workload, but the court cannot increase filing fees without state legislation. Council members asked about a statutory limit on fees, which was raised in 2022.\n- Juvenile Court: Judges Adam Haney and Gail Grover, and judicial administrator Lynn Mulloy presented. The court is one of four juvenile courts in Louisiana. The mayor's proposed budget is $1.56 million, a 14.6% reduction from current funding. The court operates on a shoestring budget, tracking even vending machine revenue ($1,400 annually). The cut would force elimination of the truancy mentoring program ($44,000 per year) and the gun intervention program (CHANCES). Both programs have shown success in reducing delinquent behavior. Councilman Moak suggested seeking funding from other municipalities and school districts.\n- Baton Rouge City Court: Judge Alexander presented. The proposed budget would eliminate 21 positions. Staff are paid $15–$17 per hour, making hiring extremely difficult. The court handles civil, criminal, and traffic matters within Baton Rouge city limits. It has the capacity to provide drug testing services for the parish but cannot hire a drug technician at the current salary. Councilman Dunn requested a list of frozen positions and suggested combining vacancies to reclassify roles.\n- Office of the Public Defender: The Public Defender (Carla Romanash) presented. The proposed cut is 38% ($482,370) from the prior year's total funding, leaving a city-parish contribution of $855,380. The office's total budget (including state and self-generated funds) would be $5.15 million, compared to the DA's approximately $15 million. The office represents 85–88% of all criminal defendants and has already laid off seven staff (investigators and social worker) to cover part of the shortfall. Without additional funding, the office cannot staff all courtrooms, potentially leading to constitutional violations and litigation. The Public Defender noted that starting salary is $52,000, employees pay $1,800 per month for family health insurance, and they do not participate in Social Security.\n- Legislative Comments: Senator Regina Barrow and other legislators present highlighted three resolutions: a SWOT analysis for the parish, a resolution to ensure every parish pays its fair share for state cases filed in East Baton Rouge, and a resolution on blight. Councilman Hearst noted that if all municipalities paid proportionally, an additional $11.2 million would be available for the general fund. Councilman Hudson cautioned that a deeper analysis of fund structure is needed before assigning blame for the deficit.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- No votes were taken; the hearing was informational.\n- The Council requested that City Court provide a list of frozen positions for further review.\n- Council members encouraged continued collaboration with state legislators to pursue equitable cost-sharing across all municipalities, including Central, Zachary, Baker, and St. George.\n- The Public Defender warned that without increased funding, the office may be forced to limit court coverage, leading to constitutional rights violations and potential lawsuits.\n- The Council acknowledged the recurring theme that the City of Baton Rouge and unincorporated parish subsidize services for the entire parish, and discussions on restructuring funding will continue.

The Metropolitan Council held a zoning meeting on November 19, 2025, with a quorum present. The council introduced multiple zoning cases and voted on six rezoning and land use applications. All votes were unanimous (6-0) unless otherwise noted. Introductions and Administrative Actions - The council moved to introduce items 1–12 with a motion to delete items 6 and 9 (originally moved to delete 6 and 7, then corrected to 6 and 9). The motion carried. - Deleted items: Case 43-25 (2401 Florida Street) and Case 44-25 (4760 Perkins Road) were removed from the introduction list. Discussion Items and Votes - Case 34-25 (4914 Government Street, rezoning from light commercial to CAB1): Approved 6-0. - Case 36-25 (10910 and 10920 South Haven Park Court, heavy commercial to CAB1): Approved 6-0. - Case 37-25 (1927 South River Road, PUD to Heavy Commercial 2): Approved 6-0. - Case 38-25 (1857 Government Street, CAB1 to CAB2): Approved 6-0. Councilman Moak expressed concerns about the location, but the motion carried. - Case 39-25 (7477 Burbank Drive, small PUD to light commercial 2 and CAB2 portion): Approved 6-0. - Case 40-25 (5825–5875 Airline Highway, heavy commercial/C2/TAB1 to General Residential A4): Approved 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public spoke on any items; each item had no speakers. Key Outcomes - All six cases presented for final approval were approved unanimously (6-0). - The meeting adjourned after the final vote.

The Baton Rouge Planning and Zoning Commission met on November 17, 2025, to consider several rezoning requests, a text amendment, final development plans, and a major subdivision. The meeting began with a special recognition for Commissioner Laura Brownell's 32 years of city service and 1.5 years on the commission, followed by approval of consent items, a public hearing on a church rezoning, a contested bar/lounge rezoning, a controversial yoga studio rezoning, an uncontested warehouse rezoning, two PUD final development plans, and a major subdivision proposal. Several items were deferred or denied after public testimony and commission deliberation. Consent Calendar - Items 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 13, 18 were approved en bloc with no objections. (Approved) - Items 17 and 19 were deferred by the Planning Director to December 15, 2025. - Items 14 (PUD 323), 15 (PUD 124), and 16 (S325 Stillwater) were pulled from consent to be heard in regular agenda order. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2/3 (8644 Greenwell Springs Rd – Church Rezoning): Pastor Timothy Dunn (applicant) expressed support, describing plans for a 10,000 sq ft church with mentorship and food pantry programs. Adjacent resident Carol Bell voiced concern about traffic congestion near the entrance and requested a sound barrier. She expressed overall support. No opposition cards were filed. - Item 7 (2401 Florida St – Bar/Lounge Rezoning): Chris Maxwell (property owner) and a letter from applicant Tammy Prater described a proposed “Serenity Escape Bar and Lounge” for ages 35+, with security, parking, and noise controls. Opponents Michael Wicker and Tara Wicker (neighbors of 29+ years) spoke against the rezoning, citing historical oversaturation of liquor outlets, past nuisances (street closures, loud music, homeless issues), and opposition from Sacred Heart Church and School. They urged denial. - Item 8 (4760 Perkins Rd – Yoga Studio Rezoning): Applicant Stephanie Johnson and family member Doreen Johnson spoke in favor, emphasizing a low-impact meditation/yoga studio with 1–4 person classes, 8 p.m. closing, ample parking, and no major exterior changes. Opponents (Dr. William Gladney, Chris Kisling, Camille Lindsay, Carol Brown, Kelsey Short, Sal Christina) opposed, citing the South Side Civic Association’s 40-year effort to keep the south side of Perkins residential, the risk of domino commercial conversions, inconsistency with the comprehensive plan, and potential for future undesirable uses. Staff reported 40 support messages and 143 opposition messages, plus formal opposition from the South Side Civic Association and Councilwoman Rocca. - Item 9 (10781 Corsey Blvd – Warehouse Rezoning): Applicant Brandon Harper sought a rezoning to align with existing business use. No opposition speakers. - Items 14/15 (PUD 323 & PUD 124 – Nicholson Drive): Applicant Andre Rodrigue presented final development plans for 72 residential units (east side) and 282 multifamily units plus 96,290 sq ft commercial (west side). One opponent (Man Win) voiced concerns about traffic and drainage. Applicant rebutted that capacities were accounted for. Councilwoman Coleman requested quality materials and clear communication to residents. - Item 16 (Stillwater Subdivision – 167 lots): Applicant Lance Rubishow described a 75-ft lot width, 40% open space, and prior rezoning from A2.7 to A1 after community feedback. Opponents Kimberly Leaf, Angela Creel, Will Campbell, and George Moore Jr. raised concerns about flooding, traffic on Comeet Drive, strain on volunteer fire department and utilities, past unpermitted dirt pit excavation, the pond storage reliability, and compatibility with existing rural character. Applicant rebutted that the borrow pit currently provides no stormwater storage and that new designs would meet engineering standards. Discussion Items - Item 2/3 – PA 625 & Zoning Case 4625 (8644 Greenwell Springs Rd): The commission approved a plan use amendment and rezoning to allow a church. Staff certified consistency and compatibility. Commissioner Coleman noted no opposition after community canvassing. - Item 4 – TA 225 (Text Amendment to Chapter 18 – Landscape and Trees): Staff presented revisions to buffer yards, street yard planting, parking lot landscaping, dumpster screening, and tree preservation. After review by civic groups and landscape architects, the commission approved the amendment with no objections. - Item 7 – Case 4325 (2401 Florida St): Commissioner Coleman motioned to deny, citing neighborhood opposition and historical oversaturation. The motion carried. - Item 8 – Case 4425 (4760 Perkins Rd): Commissioner Grout motioned to deny, noting the mid-block location and staff recommendation of inconsistency with the comprehensive plan. The motion carried. Commissioner Scrogs suggested the South Side Civic Association proactively plan for future land use changes on Perkins. - Item 9 – Case 4925 (10781 Corsey Blvd): The commission approved the rezoning to commercial warehouse 3 (CW3) to match existing use. - Items 14/15 – PUD 323 & PUD 124 (Nicholson Drive): The commission approved both final development plans, with a motion by Commissioner Scrogs and second by Commissioner Boyd, after discussion on quality and drainage. - Item 16 – S325 Stillwater Subdivision: Commissioner Coleman motioned to approve, noting the developer’s prior agreement to downzone to A1 per community request. The motion carried over continued public opposition. Key Outcomes - Approvals: Consent calendar (items 5,6,9,10,11,13,18); Items 2/3 (church rezoning); Item 4 (text amendment); Item 9 (warehouse rezoning); Items 14/15 (PUDs); Item 16 (Stillwater subdivision). - Denials: Item 7 (2401 Florida St – bar/lounge rezoning) – motion by Commissioner Coleman, second by Vice Chairman Grout; Item 8 (4760 Perkins Rd – yoga studio rezoning) – motion by Vice Chairman Grout, second by Commissioner Fowler. - Deferrals: Items 17 and 19 (deferred by Planning Director to December 15, 2025). - Public Hearing Rules: Vice Chairman Grout read the rules for speaker time limits (15 minutes total applicant, 3 minutes per speaker, 5 minutes rebuttal). - Staff Comments: Director Holcomb noted the office will be closed Nov 27-28 for Thanksgiving. The next meeting is December 15, 2025. - Commissioner Comments: Recognition of employee of the month Jeremy Grimion; moment of silence for former Planning Director Troy Bunch (deceased).

The Metropolitan Council of Baton Rouge and East Baton Rouge Parish met on November 12, 2025, to conduct regular business, including recognition of veterans, approval of multiple contracts and budgets, and a lengthy debate on the creation of a new Economic Development District for the Plank Road corridor. Presentation & Recognition - Veterans Month Proclamation: Elena Branzera, Chair of the Mayor's Advisory Council on Veteran Affairs, thanked the council for recognizing veterans and their families. She presented the proclamation declaring November as Veterans Month, signed by 12 council members. - Individual Veteran Recognitions: Council members from various districts called up veterans and read certificates honoring their service. Notably, Councilman Hearst recognized District 5 veterans; Councilwoman Adams recognized eight veterans including Lt. Col. Evita Mascueta and Major Lucas Culver; and Chief of Staff Lon Vickner was honored by the entire council. The council also recognized Leslie Nicholson for preserving the USS Kidd. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved minutes of October 22 and November 5 meetings. - Condemnations: Introductions of condemnation items 2-17 passed. For recommendations (items 40-63), the council voted to proceed with 41-44, 49-50, 53-55, 57-58, 60-62, with 30-day delays on 45, 48, 52, 62; 60-day on 49; 90-day on 46, 47, 51, 59; and deletions of 40, 56, 63. - Approvals Without Debate: Items 65, 66, 68, 70, 71, 72, 73, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 104-110 (change orders), 111-113 (final acceptances), 114 (low bid), 116-118 (low bids) were all approved by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 64 (Sewer bond refunding): Penny May Landry requested deferral until after the 2026 budget adoption. The item was deferred. - Item 74 (Airport jet bridge maintenance): Penny May Landry spoke against supplemental contracts, arguing they reward underbidding. Councilman Dunn questioned staff; the item was approved. - Item 87 (Delmont EDD): Over 20 speakers commented. Supporters included Kai McFoling (Southern University student), Tyra Banks, Chief TJ Morris (BRPD), District Attorney Hiller Moore (via Kyla Romanack), Christopher Richard, Tanya Jones, Jarvis Lewis (LA Chamber of Commerce), Dietrich Moore, Journey Taylor (Capitol High student), Wade Evans, Brendan Bennett, Martha Davis, Lori Malassa (BR Economic Partnership), Chris Meyer (Baton Rouge Area Foundation), Shoshone Stewart (School Board President), Ricky McKenzie, Mayor Sid Edwards, and others. They argued the EDD would reduce crime, attract businesses, and provide jobs. Speaker Gary Chambers opposed, suggesting the existing North Baton Rouge EDD should be strengthened instead. Another speaker raised concerns about the lack of an economic driver and potential displacement of low-income residents. - Item 120 (Concert tax rebate): Jill Kidder (Visit Baton Rouge) presented the economic impact (estimated $30 million per concert) and explained the 2% rebate mechanism. No public opposition; council approved. Discussion Items - Item 67 (2026 Budget): No action taken; recessed to December 9, 2025. - Item 69 (Custom Metal Works ITEP): Council discussed three options: defer to Board of Commerce and Industry, recommend action, or negotiate settlement. Councilman Dunn noted the company made capital investment but did not create jobs due to COVID. Motion passed to defer to the board. - Item 74 (Airport jet bridge): Discussed need for maintenance contract; approved. - Item 86 (Violence Prevention Research Evaluator): Dr. Juan Bartholomew's contract for $75,000 was approved. Councilman Moak requested quarterly performance reports. - Item 87 (Delmont EDD): Presentation by Diedra Deculus Robert (Build EBR) detailed how EDDs work and proposed a 2% sales tax for the Plank Road corridor (estimated $18.3 million over 10 years). Council heard concerns about board structure (unelected board levying taxes) and lack of a major economic driver. Councilman Hearst emphasized community support and potential for small business growth. Councilman Moak moved to defer to allow restructuring under council guidance; motion carried unanimously. - Item 120 (Concert Tax Rebate): Emergency resolution approved to rebate 2% of sales tax on tickets, concessions, and parking for two major concerts at Tiger Stadium in 2026. Councilwoman Rocka confirmed no financial risk if concerts cancel. Appointments & Administrative Matters - Film Commission: Reappointed Laurie Adams and Brandon Noel. - Volunteer Fire Department: Reappointed Donald Weatherspoon (District 3) and Pierre Rezan/Wesley Tucker (District 8). - BREC Commission: Appointed Michael Polito (City of Baton Rouge), Marshall Ortego (City of Baton Rouge), Dr. Murrell Harrison (unincorporated area), and Collis Temple III (at-large). - Downtown Development District: Reappointed Philip Jordan. - Adjudicated Property: Items A and B introduced after waiving rules. Key Outcomes - Deferred: Items 64 (sewer bonds), 67 (budget), 87 (Delmont EDD) to November 25, 2025. - Sent to State Board: Item 69 (Custom Metal Works ITEP) deferred to Board of Commerce and Industry. - Approved: All consent items, change orders, final acceptances, low bids, appointments, and the concert tax rebate (Item 120). - Statistics highlighted: Plank Road area has 40.7% poverty rate, median household income $26,301, and 62,000 residents within 3 miles. The EDD could generate $1.8 million annually. The two concerts are expected to bring over $60 million in total visitor spending. Adjournment The meeting was extended by motion and adjourned after completing all business.