(The Center Square) – Bossier City Councilman Joel Girouard believes the city is in a strong financial standing, with sales tax trending up over the last three years.
Bossier receives 50% of its revenue from sales tax, 25% from property tax and 25% from rates, fees, water bills and other items in this area, according to the Bossier finance committee. Historically, sales tax has been trending up in the city by 4%-5% over the past three years.
“Bossier City’s financial position is strong,” said Girouard. “If you’re ready to find a city that’s ready to grow, this is the place to be.”
While sales tax is increasing, so is city spending. Girouard said expenses have gone up 4%-5% over the last three years.
Girouard proposed a solution that would potentially save Bossier taxpayers $4.9 million in interest over the next 15 years, which involves taking the $11.5 million in LCDA money and paying off a $13 million bond Bossier has.
The council, if this route is taken, would take the remaining $1.5 million from the general fund.
This solution is still under consideration and is not set in motion at this time.
The Center Square previously reported on a multi-million dollar increase found in Bossier City spending over the last five years. Findings showed the city’s general fund expense budget has increased by $17 million over the last five years, with spending across all funds increasing by nearly $100 million.
Girouard spoke heavily to an increase he noticed in various budgets of about 5-6% year to year, ultimately recommending a 2-3% decrease in these specific budgets that he did not list specifically.
As the City Council continues to discuss the proposed 2026 budgets, adjustments have been made and continue to be recommended.
Public comment was held during the finance committee meeting, allowing residents and even city council members to speak to the budget, topics discussed and recommendations.
