Creates the Park Forest East Crime Prevention and Improvement District in East Baton Rouge Parish
The bill directly addresses law enforcement and local governance by allowing the district to impose a parcel fee on residential properties within its boundaries, with the fee set not to exceed $250 per year. This revenue is intended to fund crime prevention efforts and improvements in the district. The district will be governed by a board that includes representatives from the Park Forest East Civic Association and local elected officials, ensuring that community interests are represented in decision-making.
House Bill 683 establishes the Park Forest East Crime Prevention and Improvement District within East Baton Rouge Parish. The primary purpose of this new district is to enhance security and safety for residents while funding beautification efforts to improve the overall living environment. This bill provides a framework for the governance of the district, outlines its boundaries, and assigns various powers and duties to a board of commissioners responsible for managing the district's activities and funds.
The sentiment around HB 683 appears supportive, as it seeks to give local residents more control over their safety and neighborhood conditions. Advocates argue that it will provide necessary resources to combat crime and support community improvements. However, concerns have been raised regarding the governance structure and the imposition of new fees on residents, which could lead to financial strain for some households.
One notable point of contention involves the boundaries and scope of the district. Some residents may feel excluded if their properties fall just outside the defined area, thereby missing out on benefits funded by the parcel fee. Additionally, the bill outlines that funds collected will expire in ten years unless renewed, which raises questions about long-term sustainability and the commitment to ongoing neighborhood improvements.