By Shannon Wright
The Sibley Town Council held its regular monthly meeting on Monday, July 14, where town officials discussed a range of ongoing issues and upcoming improvements including tax rates, abandoned properties, infrastructure funding and fire department updates.
One of the key items on the agenda was the adoption of Resolution No. 10-2025, which confirms that millage rates will remain the same as last year. This decision ensures no additional tax burden will be placed on property owners in the upcoming fiscal year.
Mayor Robert Smart addressed dilapidated, overgrown and abandoned properties, which is a growing concern in the community.
“I’m not going to lie to you, it’s not an easy process,” said Smart. “I wish it was as easy as picking up the phone and asking residents to clean up their property.” But it’s not.
Town officials are currently reviewing existing ordinances to determine what legal steps can be taken to address these neglected properties. The mayor acknowledged that numerous complaints have been received and that while action is being taken, progress may be slower than some residents would prefer.
In other news, Sibley has been awarded funding to help with the sewer system, parks and recreation and to help repair the town’s main water tank.
“There are good things happening in Sibley, but it’s a struggle. You’ve got to beg daily,” Smart said, referencing the ongoing effort to obtain grants and financial support for small town municipal projects.
In addition, road projects are currently in the final planning stage and are expected to begin as soon as bonding is completed, and the Saltworks water project is set to begin on July 17, the mayor confirmed.
The council shared positive news regarding the town’s fire department. After the most recent election, Sibley maintained a Class 3 fire rating within town limits and a Class 5 rating for areas outside the town limits. These ratings are especially important, as they help keep homeowner insurance premiums low.
“We are very proud of our fire department,” Smart said. “That’s a big plus for a volunteer fire department to keep a 5 outside rating.”
The funding for Fire District 2, which is outside the town limits, passed, though by a slim margin.
“In other areas it failed,” said Steve Ramsey with the Webster Parish Police Jury, emphasizing the importance of local voter engagement.
Looking ahead to September, Sibley will host the Small Town Mayor’s Alliance for the northern region of the state. Mayor Smart proposed this initiative to help small-town leaders avoid the cost of traveling to south Louisiana for conferences and instead gather locally. The mayor hopes to have representatives there to share ideas for funding opportunities.
Community participation plays a vital role in the ongoing progress of Sibley, and residents are always welcome to voice their concerns, share ideas, and stay informed about what’s happening in their town.
Mayor Smart and the council encourage residents to attend the monthly meetings, held on the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Sibley Town Hall.