The Bossier City Council held a regular meeting on December 17, 2024, where a significant ordinance was adopted, authorizing Mayor Thomas H. Chandler to enter into an amended local services agreement with Bossier Parish. This agreement encompasses a list of 149 projects aimed at fostering collaboration between the city and the parish.

During the meeting, audience member Alice Boyer expressed strong concerns regarding the council's handling of public participation and the implications of the agreement. Boyer criticized the council for allegedly using intimidation tactics to silence citizens, particularly regarding their ability to speak on matters that directly affect their neighborhoods. She emphasized that the projects outlined in the agreement are relevant to her community and called for an apology from the council for excluding residents based on their addresses.

In response to the public's concerns, council members sought clarification on the nature of the projects included in the agreement. A city representative explained that the list serves as a "wish list" for potential projects that may require joint funding and cooperation between the city and parish. However, the representative acknowledged that not all projects would necessarily come to fruition.

Another audience member, Ruth Pope Johnston, raised additional concerns about the transparency of the agenda. She noted that while the agenda presented a single item, it actually contained multiple projects, some dating back to 2019. Johnston also questioned the authority granted to city attorneys under the agreement, expressing worries about the potential for eminent domain and the financial implications for taxpayers, especially given the city's existing debt.

The discussions highlighted ongoing tensions between the council and community members regarding transparency, public engagement, and fiscal responsibility. As the council moves forward with the agreement, the implications for local governance and community relations remain a critical focus for residents of Bossier City.