By Shannon Wright
The Village of Doyline Council held its regular monthly meeting Monday, October 5, at Town Hall, with the council approving the village’s new fiscal year budget and an increase in compensation for the mayor and aldermen.
The council approved and adopted Budget Ordinance No. 2026-01 for the fiscal year running from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. The proposed budget was presented during a public meeting held September 16.
Village Clerk Myra Kilburn explained that the primary change from the previous year’s budget is the addition of contingency funds to each account.
“The only thing that is different [from the previous year’s budget] is that all of the accounts now have contingencies so that we are staying in compliance as the CPA recommended,” Kilburn said.
The council also approved Ordinance No. 2026-02, which increases the monthly compensation for the mayor and aldermen.
According to the ordinance, the Mayor and Board of Aldermen for the Village of Doyline have not received an increase in compensation for their services in more than 20 years.
“The increase is in line with other comparable municipalities in Webster Parish,” Alderman Steven Bridwell said.
Beginning January 1, 2027, the mayor’s monthly compensation will increase from $300 to $1,000, while aldermen will see their monthly compensation increase from $250 to $350.
In other business, Mayor Christie Carter Gates reminded the council that Doyline’s National Night Out is scheduled for November 6 this year. The event is typically held toward the end of October, but this year’s celebration will take place a couple of weeks later than usual.
Gates encouraged council members to spread the word about the event, which will coincide with Doyline High School’s Meet the Panthers and bonfire.
Maintenance operator Tammy Tyler reported that the street signs near the granite shop keep getting run over, but the signs have now been repaired.
The council discussed the possibility of leasing the old library building, as well as the remaining work needed to complete the maintenance barn. Both matters will be discussed further at the council’s next meeting.
Sewer operator Mike Dunaway reported that the lift station that had been out of service has been repaired. He also said repairs to the aerator plant should be completed soon.
“We are still fighting a battle with the aerator plant … but the parts are on order and should be delivered soon,” Dunaway said.
Police Chief Robby Hayden was absent from the meeting. It was reported, however, that the department has hired a new officer, Anthony Eli Hay, who will provide night and weekend patrol.
The Doyline Town Council meets on the first Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at Doyline Town Hall.
Residents are encouraged and welcome to attend meetings to stay informed about local projects and decisions affecting the village.