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Residents split over Woodlake South golf-cart designation; police jury tables request
Summary
A lengthy June 17 public hearing on designating Woodlake South a golf-cart community produced split testimony. Supporters said permits and safety measures would formalize frequent neighborhood use; opponents cited underage operators, missing signage and lack of HOA approval. Juror Doug Rimmer moved to table the matter indefinitely until the HOA requests designation; the motion carried unanimously.
A public hearing on June 17 drew dozens of Woodlake South residents to the Bossier Parish Police Jury meeting as the jury considered a petition to designate the subdivision a golf-cart community (which would allow permitted, insured golf carts on most subdivision roads, excluding Old Palmetto Road).
Scott Lawson, a homeowner who requested the designation, said the measure would legalize the common use of golf carts and require permit stickers, headlights, turn signals, mirrors and liability insurance. "This request is not for approval of children riding electronic bicycles, four wheelers, or side-by-side ATVs, but is strictly for golf carts operated by licensed drivers," Lawson said. Supporters, including Jacob Wyatt and Laura Simpson, said the designation fosters neighborly travel and can limit on-street parking.
Opponents raised safety concerns. Nancy Burton said golf carts belong on a golf course and warned of conflicts with delivery vehicles and trash trucks. Jack Battles and David Fulco urged denial, citing children operating carts unsafely, missing ‘no off-road vehicles’ signage, and a recent tragic off-road vehicle incident that prompted increased enforcement. Battles presented photographs of obstructed sightlines and said he had reported the missing sign to the Highway Department and Public Works Director Kevin Gay. Parish Attorney Patrick Jackson said the code permits such designations but warned that safety concerns — and illegal operations by unpermitted or underage drivers — remain illegal regardless of designation.
Jurors discussed HOA involvement and signage costs; several jurors, including Glenn Benton and Jimmy Cochran, said the HOA should consider the request and provide a quorum-backed recommendation. Vice President Julianna Parks noted the parish had mailed notices at significant cost and allowed residents to record comments. After extended public comment, Mr. Doug Rimmer moved to table the request indefinitely until the Woodlake South HOA requests designation; the motion, seconded by Mr. Cochran, carried unanimously.
