By Marilyn Miller

The Dixie Inn Board of Aldermen unanimously accepted the resignation of Police Chief Alan Davis during a special session Thursday afternoon.

“He submitted a letter of resignation, but I’m not going to read it at this time,” said Mayor Donna Hoffoss,” following the vote. However, copies of the letter were made available to the press and public.

“I hereby announce my resignation as the Chief of Police of the Village of Dixie Inn Police Department effective 05/31/24,” Davis wrote. “Throughout my time at the Dixie Inn Police Department I have been grateful that in 2014, the aldermen at the time voted to hire me through the chief of police recommendation at the time. Despite not being POST certified at the outset, I am thankful for their trust and confidence in me. Subsequently, through the support of the department, I attended the Bossier Training Academy and obtained POST certification in 2015.”

“I have spent better than nine and a half years at this department. Over the years, I have witnessed both positive and challenging changes within the department and community. However, after much consideration, I have decided to pursue other opportunities.”

“As I step down from my role, I urge the board to continue making decisions that prioritize the legal and ethical well-being of the Village and its residents. Dixie Inn holds a special place in the hearts of those who live there and those who pass through. It is vital that you maintain a safe and secure environment for all. Thank you for your attention to this matter.”

Davis was hired by the Village of Dixie Inn in August of 2023.

In other business, the aldermen:

• Unanimously agreed to introduce the 2024-25 General Fund budget and Utility Fund budget for the village seven days prior to the board’s meeting on June 11, 2024; and to have it open for public inspection at City Hall until that time;
• Tabled discussion regarding health insurance for employees until the next meeting. Mayor Hoffoss reminded the aldermen that “we still have to have two employees in order to offer insurance. We really need to know what direction we are going with the police department.” Alderman Judy McKenzie added that being able to provide insurance would make a difference on the applicants attracted;
• Unanimously approved spending $15,000 from village funds for the LLOP Grant for the construction of restrooms at the village park. The grant to the village was for $125,000, while the cost of the project came in at $140,000. The project includes the bathrooms, which are enabled with wireless locks, as well as parking space and handicapped ramps;
• Approved a motion to NOT take part in a vehicle lease program. Regarding the use of village vehicles, alderman Nell Finlay suggested that “we adopt a set of rules for these cars. They are leaving our area and getting torn up. I suggest we put something together for that;
• Voted to amend the 2023-24 General Fund budget.