One agenda item that came before the State Bond Commission at its Feb. 22 meeting was a 1% sales tax, to be levied in perpetuity, beginning Aug. 2, 2023, (1) net proceeds to be dedicated and budgeted annually to avoid a deficit general fund budget and (2) operation, maintenance and upgrading of public schools.

This 1% sales tax is expected to yield approximately $8,229,000 annually.

The proposed proposition was last presented to the voters at the November 6, 2012 election for which it passed.

The proposition is considered a renewal tax.

The Notice of Election reflects the estimated cost of the election is $64,000.

Pursuant to R.S. 47:338.54 Parishes and School Boards are authorized to levy 5% within the jurisdiction. The combined rate levied within the Parish, excluding the Law Enforcement District is currently 6% which does include the proposed tax. Pursuant to R.S. 47:338.139, any such renewal or continuation of a sales tax is authorized to exceed the limitation set forth in Article VI, Section 29(A) and shall be in addition to any limit set forth in any other statue.

Total sales tax within this jurisdiction is:
Law Enforcement District: 0.50%

School Board: 2.50% (Includes Proposed)
Natchitoches EDD A (Includes City of Natchitoches 2.5% and 1.0% EDD): 3.50%
Total: 6.50%

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