Shreveport, La. – Mayor Tom Arceneaux formally delivered his administration’s proposed fiscal plan for fiscal year 2027 to the City Council, meeting the statutory deadline for budget submission. The $679.9 million proposal aims to keep city services at current levels, reward frontline workers, and protect the city’s financial health.
Key figures and priorities
The budget maintains the city’s operating reserve at more than $24.7 million, underscoring the administration’s commitment to fiscal prudence. The General Fund, which finances core departments such as Police, Fire, SPAR and Public Works, is set at $337.6 million – an increase of roughly 1.8 % over the 2026 budget, with the bulk of the growth earmarked for police and fire compensation.
Public safety receives a prominent boost. Police officers and firefighters are slated for a 6 % salary increase effective Dec. 1, 2026, on top of the standard 2 % annual raise. Mayor Arceneaux emphasized that these raises recognize the essential service provided by city employees and help retain qualified personnel.
Operating budget breakdown
- Water and Sewer: $145.9 million
- Airports: $26.2 million
- Solid Waste: $23 million
- SporTran (public transit): $21 million
These allocations reflect the city’s ongoing commitment to essential utilities and transit services that support daily life for Shreveport residents.
Capital improvements and new projects
Shreveport’s capital improvements budget continues to address a backlog of infrastructure work. More than $1.2 billion in previously funded projects remain in various stages of planning, design, and construction. The 2027 proposal adds $46 million for new capital initiatives, primarily targeting upgrades to the city’s airports, enhancements to municipal golf courses, and expansions of the SporTran system.
Mayor’s remarks and council timeline
“Our responsibility is to provide the services our citizens expect while being good stewards of their tax dollars,” Mayor Arceneaux said. “This budget is balanced, fiscally sound, supports the employees who serve this city every day and allows us to continue moving Shreveport forward.” He added that he looks forward to collaborating with council members as they review the plan over the next two months.
The City Council is required by law to adopt the 2027 budget by Dec. 15, 2026. Council members will hold public hearings and deliberations before casting a final vote.
What this means for residents
For Shreveport families and businesses, the proposed budget signals stability: essential services will continue uninterrupted, frontline public‑safety personnel will receive meaningful compensation, and critical infrastructure projects will move forward. By preserving a robust reserve, the city aims to cushion against unforeseen economic shifts while still investing in growth.
Stakeholders are encouraged to attend upcoming council meetings to voice support or concerns, ensuring the budgeting process remains transparent and community‑focused.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
