Millage renewals pass easily
Published 8:16 am Wednesday, May 6, 2015
All five proposals for tax renewals were overwhelming approved by voters on Saturday.
Probably the most publicized proposal concerned the Washington Parish Library System. Library officials expressed concern in the weeks leading up to the voting that should the 4.6 mills required to maintain the four parish libraries not be approved, the system would ultimately shut down after all surplus funds were exhausted.
Library Director Al Barron had to be pleased with the results as 72 percent, or 1,318 votes approved the renewal. Only 28 percent, or 517, voted against the proposal. The renewal is expected to generate $809,000 annually.
Other parishwide voting saw landslide approval for the 3.11 mills required for the health unit, the 1.03 mills required for the courthouse and public buildings and the 4.13 mills required to maintain bridges and public roads.
In Bogalusa, voters approved the 6.43 mills renewal for the Bogalusa City Schools District. Voters approved the proposal 472, or 69 percent, to 210, or 31 percent.
Renewal for the health unit passed 1,339, or 73 percent, to 507, or 27 percent.
The 3.11 mills are expected to generate $550,000 annually. The health unit offers nutrition education, WIC nutrition services for women, infants and children, family planning services, children’s health services and maintenance of vital records.
The public voted 1,285-551 to maintain the millages for the courthouse and public buildings. The renewal is expected to bring in $182,000 per year.
Regarding the 4.13 mills to maintain public roads and bridges, voters approved the proposal 1,376-456. The renewal is expected to generate $738,000.
Less than 7 percent of all registered voters turned out on Saturday.