Early voting in Caddo Parish continues as two local ballot propositions draw organized opposition. The Libertarian Party of Caddo Parish has taken a stand against a $60 million bond to fund a multi‑sports complex, while the Shreveport Police Officers Association (SPOA) is urging voters to reject the renewal of the downtown development property tax.
Libertarian concerns over the sports‑complex bond
In a post on the party’s Facebook page, Libertarians warned that the proposed bond could saddle taxpayers with more than $65 million in interest, extending the financial burden well past 2050. They questioned whether the parish could keep its current property‑tax rate after the first year of the bond’s repayment schedule. The party argued that parish officials should focus limited resources on core priorities such as public safety, water‑system upgrades and essential infrastructure improvements rather than a costly recreational project.
Police association challenges both measures
The Shreveport Police Officers Association echoed the fiscal caution, adding that the sports‑complex proposal diverts taxpayer money from more urgent needs. “Most of all, public safety should be the focus of all government entities at this point in history,” the association said in a statement.
Beyond the sports complex, SPOA President Michael E. Carter criticized the renewal of the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) tax, a 9.04‑mill property tax set to run for 25 years beginning in 2028. Carter noted that, despite years of collections, the promised downtown revitalization has not materialized. “We have not seen the progress long promised since this additional tax was placed on the business owners downtown,” he said, urging private investors to assume a larger role in revitalizing vacant and deteriorating properties.
The DDA tax would apply to properties within the Downtown Development District and is projected to generate $714,179 annually for operations, development projects and other expenses.
Official perspective on the proposals
Parish officials have promoted the sports‑complex bond as an economic catalyst, arguing it could attract tournaments and visitors without raising the 1.50‑mill bond tax in the first year. They contend the facility would provide a venue for youth sports, regional competitions and community events, potentially boosting local businesses.
Both measures will appear on the November 3 ballot, giving Caddo Parish voters the final say on whether to move forward with the bond and the downtown tax renewal.
What voters need to know
- Bond measure: Authorizes up to $60 million in bonds for a multi‑sports complex; opponents warn of high long‑term interest costs.
- Downtown tax renewal: Extends a 9.04‑mill property tax for 25 years to fund the Downtown Development Authority; critics say promised improvements have not materialized.
- Key arguments: Libertarians and SPOA stress fiscal responsibility, transparency and the need to prioritize public safety and essential infrastructure.
- Supporters’ view: Officials claim the projects will spur economic growth and provide community amenities.
Voters are encouraged to review the full ballot language and consider the financial implications before casting their votes.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
