Natchitoches, Louisiana Development News
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Natchitoches City Council Meeting July 13,, 2026
Published: Jul 13, 2026
Police Officer Retention Crisis Detailed; Proposed Pay Increase Aims to Stabilize Staffing
The introduction of Ordinance 25 of 2026, aimed at increasing the base hourly pay for police officers, was accompanied by detailed information from Chief Collins regarding the critical staffing situation. He reported the loss of eight post-certified officers since December 29th, with many recruited by local agencies due to Nacatish's uncompetitive salary, which is approximately $5,600 lower than comparable departments. The proposed raise from $16 to $18 per hour is intended to make the department more competitive, improve retention of current officers, and attract new talent, thereby ensuring adequate staffing levels and enhancing public safety.
Councilman Questions Legality of City Donation for NSU Project, Cites AG Opinion
During the discussion of Ordinance 026 of 2026, Councilman Jordan expressed strong reservations about the legality of the city donating public funds for the NSU dream home giveaway project. Citing Attorney General Opinion 150095, he cautioned against gratuitous donations, particularly to private entities like the builder, Roads Properties. Jordan argued that the projected economic benefits were speculative and did not provide equivalent value, potentially making council members liable. The council agreed to further investigate the cooperative endeavor agreement (CEA) and explore legal options.
Debate Over Mandated Utility Rate Increases Under New CPI-Linked Ordinance
Ordinance 024 of 2026, concerning utility rate adjustments, was debated regarding its language. Council members discussed whether the ordinance mandates annual rate increases by tying them to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). While the intent was to provide flexibility, allowing the city to adjust rates based on financial need without necessarily reaching the maximum CPI increase, some members felt the wording, particularly the use of 'shall,' still implied a mandatory annual adjustment. Concerns were raised about the potential for rates to increase even if not financially necessary or affordable for residents. The council and city attorney clarified that the ordinance grants flexibility and that final decisions on rate adjustments rest with the council, aiming to balance city finances with resident affordability.
Police Chief Details Officer Shortage, Cites Competitive Pay as Key to Retention
During the discussion of Ordinance 25 of 2026, regarding the proposed increase in police officer pay, Chief Collins provided detailed facts about the department's staffing challenges. Since December 29th, the department has lost eight post-certified officers, with five going to one local agency and another to a different local agency. One officer left law enforcement entirely. The department attempted to hire two individuals; one completed the academy but was not post-certified, and the other decided against law enforcement. The average salary is approximately $5,600 less than comparable agencies, making recruitment and retention difficult. The Chief noted that officers are trained, only to be hired away by other departments. He tragically mentioned an officer lost their life in Alexandria recently, underscoring the risks involved. The proposed increase from $16 to $18 per hour aims to make the department more competitive and retain existing officers, preventing them from leaving for better-paying agencies.
Change Order Approved for New Fire Station Number Three Construction
Resolution number 47 of 2026 was discussed, authorizing the mayor to execute Change Order Number Two to the contract with Pat Williams Construction LLC for the new Fire Station Number Three on University Parkway. The original contract amount was $3,253,000, increased to $3,340,438.86 by Change Order Number One. Change Order Number Two will increase the contract sum by an unspecified amount, revising the total contract amount. The city engineer has reviewed the change order and recommended approval. The discussion revealed that the project broke ground in May and has experienced some weather delays. The change order addresses three main items: extending a new driveway to tie into the travel way of University Parkway to ensure adequate pavement structure for fire trucks, constructing a concrete curb in the parking lot between the main and storage buildings to intercept water flow and prevent it from entering the storage building, and adjusting parking lot grades to improve construction and drainage. The city engineer stated these changes are in line with normal costs and address issues that became apparent during construction, preventing future problems.
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The Natchitoches News archive
NPSB Board Meeting, 7/14/26
NPSB Committee Meeting, 7/7/26
Natchitoches Planning and Zoning Meeting Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Natchitoches Historic District Commission Meeting July 6, 2026
NPSB Special Called Meeting
NPSB Special Called Meeting, 6/23/26
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