Metropolitan Council approves tax abatement and budget amendments for East Baton Rouge

The Metropolitan Council meeting held on June 25, 2025, commenced with a quorum confirmed and an invocation led by Miss Batiste, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The council proceeded to approve the minutes from previous meetings held on June 11 and June 18, 2025, with a motion from Councilwoman Amarosa and a second from Councilman Gode, which passed without opposition.

The agenda included several key items for discussion and approval:

1. **Property Tax Abatement**: The council introduced a five-year property tax abatement for Mead LLC, estimated at $937 per year, located at 170 Fourth South Street.

2. **Collection Agreement**: A proposal was made to authorize the mayor president to execute a collection agreement with Southern University Economic Development District. This agreement would facilitate the collection and distribution of a 1% sales tax and a 1% occupancy tax, effective July 1, 2025.

3. **Budget Amendment**: The council discussed amending the 2025 annual operating budget to allocate $60,500 from the general fund for the purchase of 12 replacement portable radios for the East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner's office.

4. **Pay Plan Amendment**: An amendment to the 2025 pay plan was proposed, affecting classified and unclassified fire and police employees. This amendment aims to adjust base salary ranges for various positions, including the chief EMS operations officer and deputy chief EMS operations officer, effective July 26, 2025.

5. **Cancer Screening Services**: The council authorized the mayor president to amend a professional services contract with Convenient Care LLC to include cancer screening services for retired and active firefighters and fire service employees, as mandated by Louisiana Act 554, with an annual budget not exceeding $395,000.

The meeting concluded with discussions on condemnation introductions, indicating ongoing efforts to address property issues within the city. Overall, the council's agenda reflected a focus on public safety, fiscal responsibility, and community health initiatives. Further actions and follow-ups are expected in subsequent meetings as these proposals progress.