The Natchitoches City Council addressed a wide range of infrastructure, public safety, airport, and utility matters during its Jan. 12 meeting, including updates on federal transportation funding, approval of a new fire station bid, multiple lease agreements, and several resolutions tied to water system improvements and law enforcement equipment.
Mayor Ronnie Williams Jr. opened the meeting with an update on the city’s participation in the federal Safe Streets for All (SS4A) program, a $5 billion initiative created through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to reduce traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries. The city previously received a $270,000 planning grant in 2022, which funded the development of a Safe Streets Action Plan adopted in January 2023.
In fall 2024, the city was awarded $870,000 in demonstration implementation funds, requiring a 20 percent match, which will be covered through state assistance. Williams also announced that on Dec. 24, the city received a $5.7 million SS4A implementation grant, making Natchitoches one of only two Louisiana communities selected in that funding round.
Planned projects include pedestrian-activated signals along Keyser Avenue, refuge islands at high-traffic locations, improved lighting and striping, a pedestrian bridge adjacent to the South Drive Bridge, and the extension of Jefferson Street to the bypass near Northwestern State University to ease congestion during major events.
The council later adopted a resolution proclaiming Jan. 19, 2026, as Martin Luther King Jr. Day in the City of Natchitoches and approved a zoning ordinance allowing a property to be reclassified for use as a short-term rental.
Several ordinances related to city-owned land leases were approved. The council authorized three separate hay operation leases at the Natchitoches Regional Airport and the industrial park, allowing farmers to cut and bale hay on city property. City officials explained that the agreements generate revenue while reducing maintenance costs and wear on city equipment.
Another ordinance approved the renewal of a land lease at the airport for Norwest Inc., which owns hangars situated on city-owned property.
The council also approved Ordinance No. 043 of 2025, awarding the construction bid for Fire Station No. 3 on University Parkway. The project, which has been a long-standing city goal, will relocate the existing station from Martin Luther King Drive. The low bid of approximately $3.25 million was submitted by Pat Williams Construction, one of six bidders. The city has secured $1.8 million in state capital outlay funding to offset the cost, with the remaining balance covered through city fire department funds. Construction is expected to begin in the spring following contract approval and required state clearances.
Two proposed agricultural lease ordinances involving Russell and Mary Edith Stacy Farms were tabled due to delinquent payments on existing agreements. Council members agreed the items would return for consideration once accounts are brought current.
The council introduced, but did not vote on, an ordinance authorizing the mayor to award a bid for Christmas lighting supplies. City officials reported that the bid committee recommended awarding the contract to Dean Nader and Associates as the lowest responsible bidder. The ordinance will be considered for final adoption at a future meeting.
Several resolutions were adopted related to street and utility infrastructure. The council approved a change order for the 2025 Street Rehabilitation Program, resulting in a net cost decrease of more than $105,000 due to quantity adjustments. Officials said the savings could be applied toward additional street projects, including work on St. Maurice Lane.
The council also authorized the city to advertise bids for Phase II improvements at the water treatment facility. The project will rehabilitate components of Plant 2, allowing Plant 3 to be taken offline for a full overhaul while maintaining sufficient capacity to meet daily water demand. City officials said the improvements are part of a broader effort to increase reliability and long-term capacity across the system.
A resolution was approved certifying substantial completion of Phase II of the Breda Town water distribution improvements. Officials reported improved water pressure, clarity, and taste in the area, with warranty and retention periods still in place.
The council’s final action of the night approved a master services and purchasing agreement to allow the Natchitoches Police Department to purchase tasers. Police officials noted that the department previously had only seven tasers available for a force of more than 50 officers. The agreement will allow each officer to be equipped with the less-lethal device to support de-escalation efforts and reduce the risk of injury to both officers and the public.
The council’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Jan. 26.
