Coach Sid, Council, Library Agree on Plan

A compromise has been reached on the Library tax controversy. Mayor-President Sid Edwards, the Metro Council, and the Library Board have agreed on the proposed library millage rededication. The result is Thrive! Baton Rouge, a plan that secures long-term, dedicated funding for libraries while allowing the City-Parish to invest in essential services and financial stability for the future.

1. Dedicated Library Funding

• Parish libraries will maintain a dedicated millage rate of 8.3 mills, resulting in a $48.14M annual budget.

• A one-time rededication of $52.4 million from the existing library fund balance will be used to pay down debt, freeing up $9.4 million in recurring revenue.

• The library system will retain one year of operating revenue.

• 2.8 mills will be rededicated to “Parishwide General Purposes.”

2. Mosquito Abatement

• A portion of Mosquito Abatement’s secondary millage will be renewed at .35 mills. The remaining .65 mills will be renewed and rededicated to “Parishwide General Purposes”.

• It will continue operations with its primary millage of 1.41 mills, amounting to $8.17 million a year.

• A one-time rededication of $13.25 million from its fund balance will go to budget stabilization.

• It will retain one year of operating revenue in its fund balance.

3. Parish General Alimony Millage

• The Parish General Alimony Millage will be renewed at 4 mills, securing a stable general fund.

4. Council on Aging

• The Council on Aging will renew and rededicate .25 mill.

New General Fund Revenue: $36.89 Million (No Tax Increases)

The Thrive! Baton Rouge plan provides significant financial benefits without increasing voter-approved millage rates.

 A Plan for the Future

Thrive! Baton Rouge represents a sustainable path forward, addressing both immediate needs and long-term financial stability. By maintaining dedicated funding for critical services, this initiative ensures a stronger and more resilient Baton Rouge, the Mayor’s office said.

  “This is about making smart, sustainable investments in our future,” Coach Sid said. “Thrive! Baton Rouge sets us on a path to long-term fiscal health and protects our essential services. This is how we build a Baton Rouge that works.”

  Metro Councilwoman Jenn Racca said, “I want to thank everyone who showed up to the table committed to finding this long-term solution for fiscal stability without additional millages, particularly my Metro Council colleagues, Mayor-President Edwards, and his team. I couldn’t be prouder to serve alongside this group of servant leaders.”

For inquiries, contact Falon Brown at (225) 406-3470.