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Natchitoches council adopts party-boat franchise, economic inclusion policy and authorizes bids for new fire station
Summary
At its Oct. 13 meeting, the Natchitoches City Council approved an amended franchise for Powell's Party Boat to add a vessel, adopted an economic access and opportunity policy tied to a $15,000 grant and potential $60,000 implementation award, and authorized bids for a new Fire Station No. 3; multiple routine resolutions also passed unanimously.
The Natchitoches City Council on Oct. 13 adopted a package of measures including an amended franchise for Powell's Party Boat, an economic access and opportunity policy and authorizations to solicit bids for a new fire station and Christmas lighting supplies.
Councilman P.T. moved to adopt Ordinance No. 033 to amend and confirm a franchise allowing Powell's Party Boat to operate a tour-boat business within city limits; the owner, Mr. Paul, was present and confirmed he will add one boat. The motion passed on a roll-call vote with all members present voting yes.
The council also adopted Resolution No. 085, a framework the city called the Economic Access and Opportunity policy. Councilwoman Smith Kirkendall read the resolution and Mayor Ronnie Williams Jr. said the city previously received a $15,000 grant through the National League of Cities' Southern Cities Economic Inclusion Initiative. Nicole Graham, the city's community outreach and grants manager, said the policy "will be included as a part of the business plan that will help us get to the implementation phase where we can apply for 60,000 more dollars to implement the program." The council approved the resolution unanimously.
On public-safety capital planning, the council adopted Resolution No. 086 authorizing the mayor to advertise and accept sealed and electronic bids for Fire Station No. 3 (Bid No. 0678). The solicitation will accept proposals until 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, and a review committee was named to evaluate submissions. The mayor and council described the project as a long-term goal that will improve coverage as the city grows.
The council also approved Resolution No. 087 to solicit bids for annual Christmas lighting supplies, setting a bid deadline of Nov. 12, 2025, and approved routine minutes and other procedural items.
The meeting concluded with no further public comment and a unanimous motion to adjourn. Future meetings and community events were announced before adjournment.
