Shreveport city officials continued the procedural work surrounding the Downtown Development District (DDD) property tax after the City Council postponed its vote on Tuesday. Council members said they needed to wait until the election results were officially certified before taking formal action.
Clerk of Court Confirms Certification
Caddo Parish Clerk of Court Mike Spence told The Center Square on Friday that his office completed the certification of the DDD tax election on Nov. 6. He explained that the results could not become official until the deadline for filing any legal challenges had passed. No lawsuits were filed, so the results are now certified and ready for the council’s next step.
Voter Approval and Tax Details
Shreveport voters approved the downtown tax measure on Nov. 3, with 52% voting in favor. The tax is a 9.04‑mill property levy that will be in effect for 25 years, providing a dedicated revenue stream for improvements and projects throughout downtown Shreveport.
Council’s Next Move
With certification now confirmed, the council’s agenda will include formally recognizing the election results. That recognition will allow the tax revenue to be allocated to planned downtown initiatives, such as streetscape upgrades, public‑space enhancements, and other development projects aimed at revitalizing the city’s core.
Why the Delay Matters
Delaying the vote underscores the council’s commitment to following proper legal procedures. By waiting for the certification, council members ensure that the tax’s implementation rests on a solid, uncontested foundation, protecting both taxpayers and the city’s long‑term development goals.
The DDD tax represents a community‑focused effort to boost Shreveport’s economic vitality while preserving the character of its historic downtown. Residents can look forward to tangible improvements funded by the newly approved levy once the council completes its recognition process.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.