(The Center Square) – After previous adjustment from the city council and discussion by the finance committee, the Bossier City Council introduced and adjusted several budget-related ordinances during Tuesday’s council meeting.
There were 28 new business items concerning the 2026 budget on the agenda that the city council considered, along with several final readings on non-budget-related items.
The council chose to combine ordinances 10 through 37 on the budget to vote for them all at once.
Multiple amendments to the budget were proposed, including a 2% pay increase for part-time employees by Councilwoman Debra Ross and the removal of $50,000 from the budget by Councilman Brian Hammons. The Center Square was unable to the city clerk on Wednesday for clarification about the cut.
Ultimately, the city council unanimously approved the amended budget.
After the public hearing and vote on final readings, the council passed a $100,000 appropriation from the Hotel Motel Tax Fund for professional marketing services. The council also passed an ordinance to transfer $13.3 million from the 2018 LCDA Bond Fund to other capital funds, along with the projects from the bond.
The 2025 Streets and Drainage Fund was increased by $300,000 for unplanned projects after a final vote, along with amending the 2025 Water Operating, Sewer Operating and Water Capital Fund budgets.
None of these ordinances were met with disapproval or citizen comment during the public hearing section.
A first reading on several ordinances was also considered and passed, including authorizing the sale of property to Delta Airline Drive LLC for $295,000 to use for a retail business location and create more jobs for Bossier residents.
However, there is a two-week period until the second reading, allowing other interested buyers to put forth bids. Councilmember Chris Smith voted against this item.
The next council meeting is on Nov. 4.
