UTILITY RATE INCREASES, EQUIPMENT PURCHASES APPROVED BY LOUISIANA CITY COUNCIL

LOUISIANA — The Louisiana City Council approved a series of measures during its March 23 meeting, including utility rate increases, equipment purchases, and updates to city operations.

Among the most notable actions, the council passed a water rate increase that will take effect June 1. The new base rate will rise from $21.55 to $21.90, along with a usage rate of $0.0618412 per cubic foot. A separate wastewater rate increase was also approved, raising the base rate from $37.11 to $37.89, with a new usage rate of $0.047628152 per cubic foot.

Council members also approved an ordinance updating the city’s fire department code, repealing the existing chapter and replacing it with a revised version outlining structure and operations.

In addition, the council adopted multiple resolutions, including approval of a contract with Milsoft Utility Solutions to provide municipal finance software services at a cost of $775 per month over five years. The council also adopted the Pike County Multi-Jurisdiction Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and authorized the purchase of a Schwarze street sweeper for $245,000.

During the meeting, the police chief reported that automated license plate reader cameras continue to be a valuable tool for public safety, with additional units expected to be installed. The department also reported 35 traffic stops, resulting in 26 citations, along with a total of 201 service calls.