The Natchitoches City Council held its regular meeting on July 28, addressing a range of topics from youth sports recognition and animal welfare funding to important infrastructure updates and small business development on the Cane River.
A standout moment came with the special recognition of the local AAU basketball team “Natural Talent,” who recently completed an undefeated season with a 29–0 record. The team, comprised of student-athletes from area schools including Natchitoches Central and St. Mary’s, traveled across Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, and Alabama.
The team captain addressed the council, thanking God, the team’s supporters, and coach for their hard work and unity. The council presented the team with a plaque recognizing their status as the 2025 Super 64 National Champions.
The council adopted Ordinance No. 026 of 2025, awarding a bid for a 1,500 KVA 3-phase mount transformer to Arkansas Electric in the amount of $77,670. This transformer will serve as a spare for city operations and not tied to any school-specific project.
An additional ordinance, No. 027 of 2025, was introduced to authorize a bid award for equipment to replace Sludge Thickener No. 1 at the city’s wastewater treatment plant. The sole bid of $987,000 was submitted by Ennis Brothers Construction. The equipment, which failed in late 2023, is crucial to maintaining redundancy and compliance with DEQ regulations. Delivery and installation are expected to take about a year.
Resolution No. 062 of 2025 was unanimously adopted, authorizing a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement between the City of Natchitoches and FAUNA (Friends All United for Natchitoches Animals). The agreement provides $7,500 in city funding to support community spay and neuter services. FAUNA emphasized the funds will be used specifically for spay/neuter vouchers for residents’ pets—not animals taken in by FAUNA.
After a unanimous vote to amend the agenda, the council passed Resolution No. 063 of 2025, formally establishing a Grievance Committee. The city charter requires this committee to be in place to hear employment-related complaints.
Paul Lohr, owner of the Cane River Queen, addressed the council to present plans for a new smaller boat and paddle equipment rentals. The new six-passenger vessel, built by Lohr himself, will allow for more flexible operations during the week and smaller-scale river cruises. He also announced plans to offer paddleboats, kayaks, and refreshments from the small building on the north end of the riverfront.
Lord emphasized the family business’s ongoing community contributions, including free or discounted cruises for local charities, schools, and senior groups.