Lincoln Parish School Board approves sales-tax consolidation plan, calls special election

The Lincoln Parish School Board voted March 3 to adopt a sales-tax consolidation plan that would combine five previously voter-approved half-cent sales taxes into one 2.5% consolidated levy and approved a resolution to send the question to voters in a special election on June 27.

Board officials and finance staff told members the consolidation would create a single pool of funds that the board could allocate as needs arise, including emergency repairs and capital projects. "What this is determining is, is you're going to have 1 big bucket or you're going to have a bunch of little ones," said Lucius, the administration presenter, explaining that consolidation increases the board's flexibility while preserving the board's authority to set salary schedules and other spending priorities.

Supporters said consolidation could improve the district's bond rating and lower borrowing costs. "It is a credit positive for Standard and Poor's," Lucius said, adding that maintaining a strong fund balance and streamlining multiple propositions could reduce interest expenses on future capital borrowing.

Opponents and several public commenters warned consolidation could undermine the intent of earlier votes that dedicated funds to specific purposes. "These funds were dedicated and dedicated for a reason... I don't think it's right," said Donna Doss, who spoke during the discussion, arguing that consolidation could allow the board to shift money away from the original priorities approved by voters.

Finance committee members and other speakers responded that the ballot language could preserve specific dedicate options if the board chose to write them into the proposition, but that the default plan under consideration would give the board maximum flexibility. Lucius said the district could still draft language to dedicate a portion of the revenue if the board and voters preferred that approach.

Votes at a glance: The board approved the sales-tax consolidation plan by voice vote; the board then approved a resolution to call a special election to place the consolidated 2.5% sales-tax proposition before voters on June 27. The meeting record shows the board passed the consolidation plan after a voice vote in which two members said "no," and the chair declared the motion passed.

Other business: The board also approved a slate of routine and administrative items, including declaring several district buses surplus and authorizing disposal through competitive bid; approving authorization to post an RFP to replace approximately 2,500 student Chromebooks that will reach end-of-life in summer 2027; authorizing bids for kitchen supplies and equipment for the 2026–27 school year; accepting three construction substantial-completion documents (Ruston Junior High parking/security, Ruston High gym renovations, Ruston High roof replacement); and approving the use of the CMAR project-delivery method for the Lincoln Parish Early Childhood Center project.

Superintendent and staff reports noted personnel actions (retirements and resignations) and a February sales-tax collections report showing an atypical month due to statewide reporting changes; the finance presenter said some collections were delayed but should normalize in future reports.

What happens next: The board adopted the resolution to place the consolidated-sales-tax proposition on the ballot; the district will next finalize the proposition language and election logistics for the June 27 special election. Several board members and commenters said any specific dedication of funds could be written into the question for voters to decide.