Shreveport, La. – Voters in Public Service Commission District 5 received a direct look at the priorities of the two leading candidates when John Atkins and James Green faced each other at a community forum hosted by the Broadmoor Neighborhood Association on Tuesday night. The event, held in the heart of Shreveport, gave residents a chance to hear how each candidate plans to address the region’s evolving utility landscape.
Candidate perspectives on the district’s utility challenges
John Atkins, a veteran of the Caddo Parish Commission, emphasized the importance of economic development tied to reliable utility services. “People are interested in data centers … they have access to that public service commissioner,” Atkins said, noting that the growth of data‑center facilities in the region hinges on stable power and broadband infrastructure. He argued that a forward‑looking commissioner can help attract high‑tech jobs while safeguarding affordable rates for families.
James Green, a Shreveport City Council member, focused on the need for responsive representation. Having traveled across the 24 parishes that make up District 5, Green said the most common feedback he received was a desire for a commissioner who truly listens. “They want somebody that’s going to listen to them,” Green told the audience, pledging to keep an open line of communication between the PSC and everyday consumers.
Why the race matters for local families
The Public Service Commission oversees electricity, natural gas, water and telecommunications services that affect every household and business in the district. Decisions made by the commission influence rates, service reliability, and the approval of new infrastructure projects. For families seeking stable utility costs and for businesses looking to expand, the commissioner’s stance on regulation and investment can be decisive.
Both candidates highlighted the need for balancing growth with consumer protection. Atkins pointed to the potential for new data‑center projects to bring jobs, while cautioning that unchecked expansion could strain the grid. Green, meanwhile, stressed the importance of ensuring that any new development does not compromise the affordability of essential services for low‑income households.
Community engagement and next steps
The Broadmoor forum underscored the value of local engagement in the electoral process. Attendees asked questions about rate increases, renewable energy options, and the commission’s role in emergency response. Both candidates responded with commitments to transparency and regular updates to constituents.
As the campaign enters its final stretch, voters will have additional opportunities to hear directly from the candidates at town halls, church gatherings, and local civic events. The election for District 5’s Public Service Commissioner is scheduled for November 2026, and the outcome will shape the region’s utility policy for years to come.
How to stay informed
Residents can follow the candidates’ platforms on their official websites, attend upcoming forums, and review the Louisiana Public Service Commission’s public records for insight into current utility projects. Engaged citizens are encouraged to register to vote, verify their polling location, and consider the long‑term impact of utility decisions on family budgets and community growth.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
