Natchitoches City Council appoints Ronnie Williams Jr. to local ITEP committee

Natchitoches City Council made significant strides in local governance during their meeting on April 14, 2025, with the approval of a key resolution aimed at enhancing the city’s representation in economic development initiatives. The council unanimously adopted Resolution 32 of 2025, appointing Mayor Ronnie Williams Jr. as the city’s representative to the local Industrial Tax Exemption Program (ITEP) committee.

This resolution is crucial as it aligns with Louisiana's administrative code, which mandates the establishment of local ITEP committees to oversee the industrial tax exemption program. The ITEP is designed to encourage economic growth by providing tax incentives to businesses that invest in the state. By appointing Mayor Williams, the council aims to ensure that Natchitoches has a direct voice in decisions that could significantly impact local economic development.

In addition to this pivotal appointment, the council addressed a change order related to a project that was not functioning properly. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD) will cover the costs associated with this change, amounting to approximately $1,500, ensuring that there will be no financial burden on the department.

The meeting concluded with a roll call vote, where all council members expressed their support for the resolutions discussed, highlighting a collaborative effort to enhance the city’s governance and economic prospects. As Natchitoches moves forward, the implications of these decisions are expected to foster a more robust economic environment for the community.