By Bonnie Culverhouse

Fountain of Praise United Worship Center on Constable Street has been vacant and damaged for more than one year. The abandoned structure burned in April, 2023, and the following February, three Jackson, Miss. persons were arrested in connection with the fire on charges of arson with intent to defraud and criminal conspiracy. One of three had an additional charge of simple burglary.

The building has been an eyesore and neighborhood residents requested a demolition.

The Minden City Council voted Monday to appoint a curator to contact the owner of the building. If they are not successful, the council will determine a date for demolition.

“Unfortunately, it’s going to cost the city between 35 and 40,000 to tear it down,” Minden Mayor Nick Cox told the council during a pre-meeting workshop.

Minden Police Lieutenant Keith King Jr. received a promotion during the meeting. An officer since 2001, he will now be known as Captain King with a unanimous thumbs up from the council.

Other agenda items include:

• Adopt a resolution regarding a lease/purchase agreement for the purpose of financing a dump truck;

• Authority for Mayor Nick Cox to enter into a maintenance agreement with Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development that includes mowing and litter pickup;

• Authority for Mayor to enter into a cooperative endeavor agreement with Cotton Valley Police Department for the donation of 2 Chevrolet Tahoes; and,

• Reports from Finance, Fire and Police departments.

Minden City Council meets at 6 p.m. the first Monday of every month in Council Chambers at Minden City Hall.