During a recent meeting of the Infrastructure Planning and GIS Committee, city officials discussed several pressing issues, including updates on drinking water, neighborhood lighting, and road repairs, as well as the complexities surrounding water service to areas outside city limits.

The meeting commenced with the approval of previous minutes before diving into the topic of annexation and water service rates. Councilman Butcher highlighted that many residents outside the city are currently tapping into city water, raising concerns about the implications of this practice. He noted that while these residents pay higher rates for water, they do not contribute to sewer or garbage services, which complicates the financial dynamics for the city.

The discussion revealed that several areas, particularly in West and Southeast Shreveport, have been receiving city water since the 1980s without formal annexation. Council members expressed the need for a strategic plan to address these situations, especially as requests for additional connections to city water continue to arise. The committee acknowledged the legal complexities involved, including the validity of annexation agreements signed by previous property owners and the financial responsibilities that would accompany annexation.

Council members also raised concerns about the maintenance of city infrastructure for these outlying areas, particularly regarding roadways and drainage systems. The committee agreed that a comprehensive approach is necessary to manage these issues effectively, including potential collaboration with the parish to explore solutions for water access in underserved areas.

As the meeting concluded, there was a consensus on the urgency of developing a clear strategy to address the growing demand for city water and the implications of annexation, with plans to engage legal counsel and the parish in future discussions. The committee aims to present a legislative proposal by the first meeting in October to address these challenges.