By Bonnie Culverhouse

A millage on the December 7 ballot will help the Webster Parish Council on Aging continue to offer services to those who need them.

According to Executive Director Johnny Johnson, from 2020 until 2024, the state raised the COA’s budget from $600,000 a year to around $800,000.

“It was because of COVID, and the price of groceries and fuel – everything rose,” he said.

Beginning in 2025, COA’s budget will be cut back to $660,000, but the cost of these items will likely remain high.

A 1.75 mills tax would bring in more than $550,000 per year in taxes.

“It is a new tax and would be for 10 years,” said Webster Parish Assessor Denise Edwards. “They would have to renew it in 2034.”

The funds would allow WPCOA to construct, improve, maintain and operate while supporting the facilities and programs for the elderly in Webster Parish.