MINUTES OF THE WORK SESSION OF THE CADDO PARISH COMMISSION HELD ON THE 20TH DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2018

The Caddo Parish Commission met in a Work Session, on the above date, at 3:30 p.m., in the Government Chambers, with Mr. Doug Dominick, President, presiding, and the following members in attendance, constituting a quorum: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (12). ABSENT: None (0).

The invocation was given by Mrs. Stormy Gage-Watts, and the Pledge of Allegiances was led by Mr. John Atkins.

AGENDA ADDITIONS

It was moved by Mr. Chavez, seconded by Mr. Cawthorne, to expand the agenda and add authorization for Ms. Kamesha West, United Way 211 Program, and Ms. Lauren Vizza, Miss USA, as visitors for Thursday under New Business.

There was no one to speak in favor or against expanding the agenda. Mr. Dominick closed the public hearing.

At this time, Mr. Chavez’s motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (12). NAYS: None (0). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

CITIZENS COMMENTS

Mr. Rich Lamb, Chairman, SciPort Board, gave an update of the events taking place at Sci-Port Discovery Center. He stated that Sci-Port was excessively overstaffed over several years, which resulted in a financial jam. Mr. Lamb also said that board members and other private donors pledged money to ensure that Sci-Port could continue to pay key essential employees, i.e. IMAX operators, planetarium operators, etc.

He also said that the attendance for Sci-Port’s POP exhibit exceeded expectations. Most of the attendees were non-member paying visitors; only 15% were Sci-Port members.

Mr. Lamb also stated that the board did not discover the full depth of Sci-Port’s financial difficulties until after the museum was closed in September. Excessive payroll was an issue, along with other problems such as a five-year copier lease that cost $75,000. They plan to open the facility back up in increments, he said.

Mr. Atkins thanked Mr. Lamb for coming to the meeting and updating the Commission on the events taking place at Sci-Port.

Mr. Linn asked if there was an intent to deceive in the financial records. Mr. Lamb stated that they found decision making that were not great, but “nobody was buying jet skis”.

Answering another question from Mr. Linn regarding monies owed to the IRS, Mr. Lamb stated that no monies are owed to the IRS.

Mrs. Gage-Watts asked Mr. Lamb to expound on the incremental openings. Mr. Lamb stated that there are a few plans to open different sections of Sci-Port. He also pointed out that there is not currently an executive director to manage the day-to-day operations, so the board is volunteering their time to do so.

Mr. Jackson asked if there was any monies owed to the directors who donated funds for payroll. Mr. Lamb stated that there is one debt to a former director who loaned $100,000 to Sci-Port, but the other donations were strictly donations. Mr. Jackson then asked if they were operating month-to- month. Mr. Lamb stated that would be safe to say.

Mr. Jackson also wanted to know if there was a specific ask of Caddo Parish. Mr. Lamb stated that they are not asking for any funding currently. He also said that he is using the Commission and City Council as a public forum to answer questions.

Mr. Jackson also asked if Sci-Port was compliant with their current funding they receive from the Parish. Mr. Lamb stated that he is not sure if they are. Answering another question from Mr. Jackson regarding Mr. Lamb’s tenure on the Sci-Port Board of Directors, Mr. Lamb stated that he has been on the board since January 2015. Mr. Jackson asked if Sci-Port was private or public. Mr. Lamb stated that Sci-Port was created through a cooperative endeavor agreement between the City of Shreveport, Sci-Port Discovery Center, and the State of Louisiana. Mr. Jackson who owned the Sci-Port facility. Mr. Lamb stated that the City of Shreveport owns it and everything in it.

Mr. Lamb also said that there are email addresses for different request or concerns regarding Sci-Port. [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected] are the email addresses citizens could use for any concerns or regards.

Mr. Dominick stated that this was simply an update of the ongoings at Sci-Port, not a financial ask. Mr. Atkins agreed and stated that Mr. Lamb requested some time on the agenda to update the Commission on Sci-Port.

Mr. Jackson thanked Mr. Lamb for updating the Commission.

NEW BUSINESS

It was moved by Mr. Atkins, seconded by Mr. Middleton, that Zoning Case P-2-18, in regards to Ordinance No. 5757 of 2018, amending the zoning of property located on the east side of Linwood Avenue, 260 feet north of Buckley Boulevard, Caddo Parish, LA, from R-1-7, Single Family Residential District to C-1 Planned Unit Development (PUD), Neighborhood Commercial District with planned unit development be moved to Thursday’s agenda for introduction.

Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson asked for clarification on this zoning case. Mr. Sweeney stated that this property was an industrial facility for many years and pre-dated the old code. It was never zoned appropriately and operated for a long period of time, then it closed down. Once it closed, it lost its non- conforming status. The property was purchased who wanted to re-establish it as a viable business. The property is surrounded by residential zoning, so the MPC suggested to zone it as a C-1 Planned Unit Development, which is compatible with residential neighborhoods.

Answering a question from Mr. Dominick regarding any kickback from the neighbors, Mr. Sweeney stated that there was none.

At this time, Mr. Atkins’ motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (12). NAYS: None (0). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

It was moved by Mr. Chavez, seconded by Mr. Bowman, that Zoning Case P-5-18, in regards to Ordinance No. 5758 of 2018, amending the zoning of property located on the south side of E. Flournoy Lucas Road, 850 feet east of First Street, Caddo Parish, LA, from R-1-7, Single Family Residential District to C-1, Neighborhood Commercial District be moved to Thursday’s agenda for introduction.

Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson asked for more information regarding this case. Mr. Sweeney stated that this property is surrounded by residential zoning also. The developer would like to do a dental office and restaurant with outdoor seating area. Mr. Sweeney informed him that he would need to obtain a special use permit. Since he did not have a tenant leasing the property yet, they suggested that the property be zoned at C-1. If a tenant decides to lease the property and would like outdoor seating, then they would need to go through the special use permit process.

Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson wanted to know if the UDC was a hindrance to people who want to open new businesses. Mr. Sweeney stated it is helping them out because they have “pathways” to allow the safety and protection of the neighborhoods and the developer to develop their property.

Mr. Linn wanted to know if the Commission could amend the ordinance to allow outside dining up to a certain amount of square footage. Attorney Frazier stated that the Commission has done so in the past.

At this time, Mr. Chavez’s motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (12). NAYS: None (0). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

It was moved by Mr. Jackson, seconded by Mr. Linn, that Ordinance No. 5759 of 2018, amending Article III of Chapter 19 of the Code of Ordinances relative to the E. Edward Jones Housing Trust Fund, to establish the fund and provide therefore, to provide for application and consideration for funding thereunder, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto be moved to Thursday’s agenda for introduction. Motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, and Smith (9). NAYS: Commissioners Atkins, Dominick, and Middleton (3). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

It was moved by Mrs. Gage-Watts, seconded by Mr. Bowman, that Ordinance No. 5760 of 2018, an ordinance amending the Budget of Estimated Revenues & Expenditures for the General Fund and the Economic Development Fund to provide an appropriation of $50,000 for the Miss USA Pageant, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto be moved to Thursday’s agenda for introduction.

Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson asked that Ms. Stacy Brown come forward to elaborate on the event. Ms. Stacy Brown, Shreveport-Bossier Convention & Tourist Bureau, came before the Commission to discuss the Miss USA and Miss Teen USA Pageants. Shreveport-Bossier will be the host for the Miss Teen USA and Miss USA Pageants. She also said that this is the first time both pageants will be held concurrently, and they will be in town for approximately two weeks. She also said that this will be televised in over 70 countries around the world, as well as being put on social media. Ms. Brown also explained that while in Baton Rouge in 2015, the economic impact was $4.3M for the Miss USA Pageant. They are expecting a $4.5-$5M direct spend from the pageant itself. This does not include the friends and family that will be traveling in for the pageant. They also hire local people to put on the pageant.

Ms. Brown also said there will be five ticketed events: the preliminary Miss Teen USA (Horseshoe Riverdome), finals Miss Teen USA (Hirsch Coliseum), preliminary Miss USA (Hirsch Coliseum), rehearsals Miss USA (Hirsch Coliseum), and finals Miss USA (Hirsch Coliseum).

Ms. Brown stated that they will start coming in town May 10th, but the Miss USA Pageant is scheduled for May 21st.

Mr. Dominick thanked Ms. Gage-Watts for “taking the lead on this”. Mrs. Gage-Watts congratulated everyone involved for helping this event come to Shreveport-Bossier.

Ms. Brown pointed out that this is the 20th anniversary of the pageant being hosted in Caddo Parish. She also announced that Mr. Nick Lachey and Vanessa Lachey will be mc-ing the event.

Mr. Chavez also pointed out that Ms. Lauren Vizza, USA, will be competing in her own hometown.

At this time, Mrs. Gage-Watts’ motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (12). NAYS: None (0). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

It was moved by Mr. Chavez, seconded by Mr. Bowman, that Ordinance No. 5761 of 2018, to close and abandon Golf Ridge Drive located in Los Robles Subdivision in the Parish of Caddo be moved to Thursday’s agenda for introduction.

Substitute motion by Mr. Jackson, seconded by Mr. Linn, to englobo and move the following items to Thursday’s agenda:

 Ordinance No. 5761 of 2018, to close and abandon Golf Ridge Drive located in Los Robles Subdivision in the Parish of Caddo

 Ordinance No. 5762 of 2018, to close and abandon a road dedication located in Simpson Acres Unit 2, in the Parish of Caddo

 Ordinance No. 5763 of 2018, an ordinance to accept the streets in Southern Loop Circle into the Parish of Caddo Road System, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto

 Ordinance No. 5764 of 2018, an ordinance to deem property surplus and authorize the sale of surplus property owned by the Parish of Caddo, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto

Mrs. Gage-Watts wanted more clarification on Ordinance No. 5761 of 2018. Mr. Robert Glass, Public Works, explained that Golf Ridge was built on an old dedication, and the Parish does not maintain it. This would undedicated the road, and it will be returned back to the landowners.

Mr. Dominick asked about Southern Loop Circle. Mr. Glass explained that the road was built to Parish standards, and this would accept the road into the road system. At this time, Mr. Jackson’s motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (12). NAYS: None (0). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

It was moved by Mr. Dominick, seconded by Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson, that Resolution No. 13 of 2018, ordering and calling a special election to be held in Caddo Parish, Louisiana, to authorize the renewal of a special tax herein; making application to the State Bond Commission in connection therewith; and providing for other matters in connection therewith be moved to Thursday’s agenda.

Mr. Atkins pointed out that this will not be a special election; it will be on the same ballot as the City of Shreveport Mayor and City Councilman.

Mr. Jackson wanted to know the deadline to submit to the Bond Commission to be put on the ballot. He asked that Administration to research it.

At this time, Mr. Dominick’s motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, and Smith (10). NAYS: Commissioners Linn and Middleton (2). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

It was moved by Mr. Dominick, seconded by Mr. Middleton, that Resolution No. 14 of 2018, submitting to Governor John Bel Edwards a name for appointment for membership on the Red River Waterway Commission be moved to Thursday’s agenda.

Mr. Dominick announced that Mr. Mickey Prestridge passed away, and Mrs. Prator would like to fill his vacancy.

At this time, Mr. Dominick’s motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (12). NAYS: None (0). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

It was moved by Mr. Jackson, seconded by Mr. Atkins, that Resolution No. 15 of 2018, urging and requesting Governor John Bel Edwards and the Louisiana Department of Economic Development to include certain Caddo Parish census tracts for submission of opportunity zones incentives established under the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act of 2017 be moved to Thursday’s agenda.

Mr. Jackson explained that this was a provision in the Tax Cut & Jobs Act. He also explained that this will miss the deadline, but it will still be considered. He also said that this will allow individuals and corporations to double their capital gains deductions. Mr. Jackson stated that this is an incentive to draw long-term investments to areas that continue to struggle with high poverty and low job and business growth.

Mr. Cawthorne asked for more explanation regarding this resolution. Mr. Jackson stated that he went to the public comment period as a citizen. He submitted as a citizen what he felt would be the opportunity zones. He also pointed out that the vast majority of Caddo Parish is eligible.

Mr. Middleton requested that a map be provided for Thursday’s meeting.

Dr. Wilson stated that they had NLEP look at this, and it is specific. He explained “either you qualify or you don’t”. Ms. Zazell Dudley, NLEP, stated that they submitted two sites, Ward II Industrial Park, Shirley Francis Industrial Park, and the site by I-20 and Greenwood. Both sites are certified. Mr. Jackson suggested that they be added to the list. Ms. Dudley also pointed out that the former GM Plant is not in the zone and the Port did not qualify.

Attorney Frazier advised that this resolution needs to be moved forward, and the amendments be made on Thursday.

Mr. Linn suggested that Mr. Middleton google “census tract 234 Caddo Parish”, and the map will be available. He commended Mr. Jackson on bringing this resolution forward.

Mr. Atkins pointed out that administration has also been working on a list as well.

At this time, Mr. Jackson’s motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (12). NAYS: None (0). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0). It was moved by Mr. Bowman, seconded by Mrs. Gage-Watts, that Resolution No. 16 of 2018, to recognize and support Americorps and Senior Corps participants National Service Day on April 3, 2018 be moved to Thursday’s agenda. Motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (12). NAYS: None (0). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

It was moved by Mr. Chavez, seconded by Mr. Linn, that Resolution No. 17 of 2018, to amend the Caddo Parish Commission By-Laws regarding board appointments be moved to Thursday’s agenda.

Mr. Chavez would like a resume and two letters of recommendation from an individual that wants to be appointed to a board.

Substitute motion by Mr. Dominick, seconded by Mrs. Gage-Watts, that Resolution No. 17 of 2018, to amend the Caddo Parish Commission By-Laws regarding board appointments be remanded to the Personnel Policy & Procedures Committee.

At this time, Mr. Dominick’s substitute motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, and Smith (9). NAYS: Commissioner Linn (1). ABSENT: Commissioners Jackson and Middleton (2). ABSTAIN: None (0).

It was moved by Mr. Chavez, seconded by Mr. Atkins, that Resolution No. 18 of 2018, to require each NGO receiving funds from the Caddo Parish Commission to adopt one mile of Caddo Parish Road.

Mr. Chavez said that this Parish is filthy, and this would be one way to clean it up.

Mrs. Gage-Watts agreed that the Parish needs to be cleaned up. She also pointed out that the NGOs receive different amounts of funding. She would like to see this be vetted in committee

Substitute motion by Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Dominick, that Resolution No. 18 of 2018, to require each NGO receiving funds from the Caddo Parish Commission to adopt one mile of Caddo Parish Road be remanded to the NGO Committee.

Mr. Dominick agreed that this should be remanded to committee for further discussion.

Mr. Jackson talked about the Neighborhood Improvement Program with the City of Shreveport where it is a requirement to do a physical improvement funding requirement. He suggested to research the program for some guidance.

Mr. Middleton agreed that the Parish needs to be cleaned up.

Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson pointed out that some of the NGOs have already signed their CEA. He also stated that some of the organizations are inside the city limits, so they would need to travel outside the city limits to clean up parish roads.

At this time, Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson’s motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (12). NAYS: None (0). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

It was moved by Lyndon B. Johnson, seconded by Mrs. Gage-Watts, that Resolution No. 19 of 2018, opposing pre-filed HB 190, and otherwise providing with respect thereto be moved to Thursday’s agenda.

Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson explained that the District Attorney has a diversion program for non-violent offenders, so he would like to oppose HB 190. He also pointed out that this bill could increase the expenses to fund the cost of the District Attorney’s Office.

Attorney Frazier explained that the proposed law, in Caddo and Bossier Parishes, that the fees be disbursed in various percentages to the Criminal Court Fund, Public Defender’s Office, District Attorney’s Office, Criminalistics Lab, Sheriff’s General Fund, Juror & Witness Fee Fund, Clerk of Court, Juvenile Detention Fund, Judicial Expense Fund, and the Traumatic Head & Spinal Cord Injury Fund.

Mr. Chavez wanted to know why is this bill singling out Caddo and Bossier Parishes. Attorney Frazier stated that someone requested Carmody to push this bill. Mr. Chavez also wanted to know if this will cost the taxpayers any additional money. Attorney Frazier stated that it could. Friendly amendment by Mr. Jackson to send a copy of the resolution to the Chair of House Judiciary Committee. Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson agreed.

Mr. Jackson then asked if a person would go to jail if the diversion program was no longer. Attorney Frazier stated that those individuals would have to be adjudicated. They could either go to jail or be convicted and pay fines.

At this time, Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson’s motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (12). NAYS: None (0). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

It was moved by Mr. Chavez, seconded by Mr. Dominick, that Resolution No. 20 of 2018, a resolution authorizing the Parish Administrator to retain special legal counsel and otherwise providing with respect thereto be moved to Thursday’s agenda.

Mr. Chavez pointed out that one of the groups pulled out. Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson stated that the group that pulled out is now representing the State.

Mr. Atkins agreed that there is an epidemic on opioid addiction. He would like more information regarding this litigation. Attorney Frazier explained that there are allegations that the manufacturers withheld information that would have helped the prescribers make better decisions on who to prescribe opioids to. Mr. Dominick also stated that no local doctors nor local manufacturers will be sued.

Mr. Atkins stated that there is an opportunity for the Parish to receive financial gain to perhaps help offset the costs of incarceration due to opioids, but he has some concerns regarding the “drivers of this national opioid litigation”. He cautioned that “we think about both sides”.

Mr. Louis Johnson asked Legal’s opinion on this matter. Attorney Frazier stated that it will not cost the Parish any money. She also explained that the group will have forensics experts to come in and look at the cost to decide what the Parish can recover. She stated that she does not see a downside.

Call for the question by Mrs. Gage-Watts, seconded by Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson. Motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez. Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (11). NAYS: Commissioner Atkins (1). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

At this time, Mr. Chavez’s motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (12). NAYS: None (0). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

It was moved by Mr. Chavez, seconded by Mr. Linn, to authorize the Clerk of the Commission to expend funds for Parliamentary Procedure Training from the Commission Clerk’s Office Fund to be moved to Thursday for approval.

Mr. Chavez believes the Commission should take this training to run a more effective meeting.

Substitute motion by Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson, seconded by Mrs. Gage-Watts, to utilize Caddo Parish’s in-house attorneys to provide training for parliamentary procedures.

Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson believes the in-house attorneys are perfectly capable of conducting this training.

Mr. Linn stated that the Commissioners and the attorneys could learn from this training. Mr. Dominick agreed.

Answering a question from Mr. Jackson regarding the cost of training, the Deputy Clerk stated that it would cost approximately $900, which would include the Commissioners, Commission Clerk’s Office, and Administration. Mr. Jackson then asked if this was personal benefit or a professional benefit. Attorney Frazier stated that it is a professional benefit because it is used in this “arena”.

Mr. Chavez believes that this training would be beneficial to all those who take the class. Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson pointed out that the PJAL also does this type of training. At this time, Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson’s substitute motion failed, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Bowman, Cawthorne, Gage-Watts, Jackson, and Lyndon B. Johnson (5). NAYS: Commissioners Atkins, Chavez, Dominick, Louis Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (7). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

At this time, Mr. Chavez’s motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (11). NAYS: Commissioner Lyndon B. Johnson (1). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

It was moved by Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson, seconded by Mr. Dominick, to englobo and move the following items to Thursday’s agenda:

 Appoint Mr. Lawrence Anderson to Lakeview Water District to replace Maxine Smith who has resigned. Term to expire March 18, 2019

Appoint Ms. Mary Tallant to Lakeview Water District. Term to expire March 17, 2022

 Appoint Mr. Homer Norris to the Pine Hill Waterworks District board to replace Ms. Evenlyn Thomas, who has moved out of the district. Appointment will fill unexpired term to expire May 1, 2020

 Appoint Mr. Craig Watson to Sewerage District No. 2 to replace Mr. Gerald Adams, who is deceased. Term to expire September 18, 2018

 Appoint Ms. Sarrah Walton as Humane Society representative for the Caddo Animal Services Board. Term to expire January 1, 2021.

 Appoint Mr. Mark Evans to the Banking & Development Taskforce representing the National Banking Section

 Appoint Ms. Tracey Graham to the Banking & Development Taskforce representing the Community Banking Section

Substitute motion by Mr. Jackson, seconded by Mr. Linn, to englobo and move the following items to Thursday’s agenda:

 Appoint Mr. Lawrence Anderson to Lakeview Water District to replace Maxine Smith who has resigned. Term to expire March 18, 2019

Appoint Ms. Mary Tallant to Lakeview Water District. Term to expire March 17, 2022

 Appoint Mr. Homer Norris to the Pine Hill Waterworks District board to replace Ms. Evenlyn Thomas, who has moved out of the district. Appointment will fill unexpired term to expire May 1, 2020

 Appoint Mr. Craig Watson to Sewerage District No. 2 to replace Mr. Gerald Adams, who is deceased. Term to expire September 18, 2018

 Appoint Ms. Sarrah Walton as Humane Society representative for the Caddo Animal Services Board. Term to expire January 1, 2021.

 Appoint Mr. Mark Evans to the Banking & Development Taskforce representing the National Banking Section

 Appoint Ms. Tracey Graham to the Banking & Development Taskforce representing the Community Banking Section

 Authorize Juvenile Judge Paul Young as Visitor for Regular Session

 Authorize Special Resolution of Recognition to Woody’s Home for Veterans

 Authorize Special Resolution of Recognition & Appreciation to Caddo Coffee & Supplies Mr. Chavez would like to add a friendly amendment to add Jason Segal on the Banking & Development Taskforce. He then withdrew his friendly amendment.

At this time, Mr. Jackson’s substitute motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (12). NAYS: None (0). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

It was moved by Mrs. Gage-Watts, seconded by Mr. Chavez, to authorize Ms. Kamesha West, United Way 211 Program, and Ms. Lauren Vizza, Miss Louisiana USA, as visitors for Thursday’s agenda. Motion carried, as shown by the following roll call votes: AYES: Commissioners Atkins, Bowman, Cawthorne, Chavez, Dominick, Gage-Watts, Jackson, Louis Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson, Linn, Middleton, and Smith (12). NAYS: None (0). ABSENT: None (0). ABSTAIN: None (0).

ADMINISTRATOR REPORT

 Operations Update of the Shreveport-Caddo Metropolitan Planning Commission Mr. Mark Sweeney, Executive Director Shreveport-Caddo Metropolitan Planning Commission

Mr. Mark Sweeney gave an update on the operations of the MPC. He stated that there is now a “Report a Concern” button on the website that a citizen can report a concern or complaint regarding the MPC. He also stated that they would like to do an educational outreach to all the citizens of Caddo Parish and developers to explain the process of the UDC as well as allow for questions regarding the UDC. That initiative will start in the next month, he said.

He then talked about “My Government Online” which will allow an individual to chart the progress of their permit or their application with the MPC, as well as everything related to property standards.

Lastly, Mr. Sweeney pointed out that the City of Shreveport approved seventy-nine amendments and Caddo Parish’s attorneys are now reviewing those amendments.

Mr. Jackson commended Mr. Sweeney for the improvements the MPC is making, especially with the Report a Concern button on the website. He also encouraged Mr. Sweeney to show people pathways to get their dreams going. He also applauded Mr. Sweeney for all of his hard work.

Mr. Atkins also commended Mr. Sweeney on all of his work with the MPC. He also encouraged Mr. Sweeney to make Caddo Parish more business friendly. He suggested instead of saying no, think of ways to get the developer to yes.

Mr. Chavez thanked Mr. Sweeney for coming down and giving an update on the operations at the MPC. He also asked if Mr. Sweeney would be willing to have a conversation with Tim Magner at a Long Range Planning Committee. Mr. Sweeney stated that he is always willing to improve.

Mr. Linn asked if there was a log of everyone that has come into the office or reached out to the MPC. Mr. Sweeney stated that there is. Mr. Linn suggested that the MPC make contact with those individuals that come into the office who do not follow through with their business plan. Mr. Sweeney stated that is a good idea and a great opportunity to build a bridge of communication.

 Award Recognition—Caddo Parish Parks & Recreation Department “Fairy Houses & Gnome Homes Event” “Recipient of the Outstanding Event for 2017” by the South Central Region of the National Association for Interpretation (NAI) Mr. Henri Wesley, Director Ms. Stacy Gray, Education Coordinator

Ms. Gray conducted a PowerPoint Presentation on the Fair Houses & Gnome Homes Event. They have done this event for about three years now. Visitors are invited to build structures from natural materials that they have gathered out of the forest. Parks & Recreation were recently honored by the National Association for Interpretation with the “2017 Outstanding Special Event”. She also said that the attendance went from 40 visitors to 500 in the past three years. She invited all of the Commissioners to attend the next Fairy Houses & Gnome Homes event which is scheduled for April 7, 2018 from 11 AM until 4 PM.

Mr. Dominick stated this award needs to be put on Facebook and the parks need to be promoted on social media. Mr. Dominick also requested that Parks & Recreation bring in the American Eagles. COMMUNIQUES/COMMITTEE REPORTS

 NOTE: Notice will be given at the Thursday, March 22, 2018, Regular Session, of the Caddo Parish Commission’s intent to consider adopting a resolution ordering and calling an election to be held in Caddo Parish to authorize the rededication of a sales and use tax in Sales Tax District Number One of the Parish.

CONSENT AGENDA

 Ordinance No. 5754 of 2018, in regards to Zoning Case P-1-18, to amend Volume II of the Code of Ordinances of the Parish of Caddo, as amended, the Caddo Parish Uniform Development Code, by amending the zoning of property located 1,118 feet south of Pine Hill Road, Caddo Parish, LA, from R-MHP, Residential Manufactured Home Park District to R-1-5, Single Family Residential District, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto

 Ordinance No. 5755 of 2018, in regards to Zoning Case P-3-28 to amend Volume II of the Code of Ordinances of the Parish of Caddo, as amended, the Caddo Parish Uniform Development Code, by amending the zoning of property located on the north side of Market Street, northwest of Devereaux Road intersection, Caddo Parish, LA, from R-1-7 Single Family Residential District to C-1, Neighborhood Commercial District, and to otherwise provide with respect thereto

 Ordinance No. 5756 of 2018, an ordinance declaring certain adjudicated properties to be surplus and to authorize the Parish Administrator, or a designee, to sell the Parish of Caddo’s tax interest in certain surplus adjudicated properties

There being no further business to come before the Commission, the Work Session adjourned at 5:50 p.m.

/s/ Todd A. Hopkins Todd A. Hopkins Commission Clerk