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Council approves Thrive BR millage propositions, adds clarifying language for library measure
Summary
The Metropolitan Council voted to place four Thrive BR millage propositions on the Nov. 15 ballot, including an amended library rededication that adds explicit language about collections, software, furniture and equipment. Council and stakeholders said the plan fills budget gaps and finances one-time debt reduction and recurring operating needs.
The Metropolitan Council of the City of Baton Rouge and Parish of East Baton Rouge voted to place four millage proposals tied to the Thrive BR plan on the Nov. 15, 2025 ballot, approving an amendment that clarifies how a portion of library millage proceeds may be used.
The council approved a resolution (item 86, as amended) to extend an 11.1 mills ad valorem tax for an additional 10 years beginning with 2026 and to rededicate $52,400,000 of proceeds. The amendment, requested by library representatives and read into the record by Councilman Dwight Hudson, adds the words “collections, software, furniture, and equipment” to the list of allowable library operations expenditures. Council members voted to approve the companion propositions for mosquito abatement (item 87), a millage restoration (item 88 was deleted by the administration), and the Council on Aging (item 89).
Why it matters: Council and administration leaders described the package as a compromise to address an estimated recurring $21 million budget shortfall, pay down one-time debt, and preserve key services including libraries, mosquito abatement and elder services. Stakeholders who spoke at the public hearing — including library and Council on Aging officials — urged voters to support the measures and asked for transparency and commitments that dedications and program priorities will be maintained.
Council members and the mayor emphasized the effort required to reach the compromise. Mayor President Sid Edwards described the effort as a collaborative process among the council, administration and community stakeholders and said the one-time $52.4 million would be used largely to retire debt; recurring revenue would help stabilize the operating budget. Councilman Godey likened the parish budget to a household that must make adjustments to balance priorities; Councilwoman Rock credited a months-long, cross-office effort. Several council members stressed the need for voter education ahead of November.
Public testimony: Katrina Stokes identified herself for the record and thanked the council; Mary Stein of the East Baton Rouge Parish Library said the library supports the compromise and sought clear public messaging about what each component of the Thrive plan will deliver. Tasha Clark of the East Baton Rouge Council on Aging said her organization will “support the Thrive BR plan” and noted the Council on Aging’s pledge to help stabilize the budget by retaining the full levy amount requested for its services. Other speakers urged caution about shifting funding that had been previously dedicated to the library.
Council action and next steps: Councilman Hudson moved to approve item 86 with the library-supplied clarifying language; the motion passed. Item 87 (mosquito abatement) passed on motion and second; item 88 was deleted at the administration's request; item 89 (Council on Aging levy) passed. The measures will appear on the Nov. 15, 2025 ballot if the mayor president follows through on required administrative steps. Council members said they will participate in voter education and outreach in the coming months.
The council record shows at least one emailed comment in opposition to each of items 86–89. Several council members repeatedly urged public outreach to combat misinformation and to explain how proceeds will be spent if voters approve the measures.
