The Natchitoches City Council introduced multiple ordinances, and held extended discussions on long-running property code enforcement issues during its Jan. 28 meeting.
Following approval of prior agenda items, the council welcomed special guest Carolyn Beaudion, who presented plans for Ambriar Youth Oasis, a home-based stabilization program for boys ages 10-12 in Natchitoches Parish. Boudoin explained that the program was designed to focus on early intervention, trauma stabilization, and prevention at a critical developmental stage. She said the program aimed to reduce youth involvement in the Juvenile Justice system and provide additional placement options for the Department of Children and Family Services.
Beaudion told council members she had more than 20 years of experience working with children and currently works with girls through an existing program in the city. She said the boys’ home would initially serve 8-10 youths for stays of up to six months, depending on need and available space. Council members asked clarifying questions about capacity, location, and program structure before thanking her for the presentation.
The council then adopted a final ordinance authorizing the mayor to award a bid for Christmas lighting supplies in the amount of $9,411, noting the purchase was part of routine maintenance to replace aging decorations used throughout the city.
Several ordinances were taken from the table and reintroduced after previous delays related to administrative issues. The council introduced Ordinance No. 001 of 2026, authorizing the mayor to execute a three-year agricultural lease for city-owned property. The lease, awarded to Russell and Mary Edith Stacy Farms, covered tracts B and D at a rate of $153.31 per acre per year. City officials explained the lease would allow row crop farming, reducing city maintenance responsibilities.
Ordinance No. 002 of 2026 was also taken from the table and introduced, authorizing a separate three-year agricultural lease with Stacy Farms for a 96.82-acre tract near Mill Street and extending toward the airport. Officials said the land would be used for row crops, including soybeans, and would generate approximately $10,595 annually for the city.
A significant portion of the meeting focused on Ordinance No. 004 of 2026, which addressed unsafe structures at 817 Fourth Street and 852 Second Street. City officials explained the properties had previously been granted extensions to come into compliance with building codes but remained in dangerous and unsanitary condition. The ordinance was introduced to begin the process of condemnation.
Planning and zoning staff detailed ongoing issues at 817 Fourth Street, including structural damage from a fallen chimney, lack of approved structural plans, and the presence of a recreational vehicle being used for temporary housing on the property, which violated city code. The property owner and contractor addressed the council, stating they were prepared to begin repairs and outlining plans to meet with the city building inspector to determine required structural documentation.
Council members emphasized that the property owners had been given extensive time to make progress and made clear that visible improvements would be required within the next 30 days to avoid condemnation. Officials explained that if the ordinance were ultimately adopted, an additional 30-day period would follow to demonstrate continued progress, effectively providing a 60-day window.
The council also introduced Ordinance No. 005 of 2026, which proposed revoking the dedication of a portion of Payne Street. After discussion about utility easements, future infrastructure needs, and residential development concerns, the council voted to table the ordinance to allow for further review.
Ordinance No. 006 of 2026 was introduced to rescind a prior condemnation order for the property at 1203 Russell Street. City officials reported the structure, previously deemed unsafe in 2022, had undergone extensive rehabilitation and was now in compliance with applicable building, fire, health, and zoning codes. The renovation included new roofing, electrical systems, plumbing, sewer lines, and air conditioning units across eight residential units. Council members praised the project as an example of successful rehabilitation following condemnation.
The meeting concluded with a financial update from city officials, who reported that the City of Natchitoches had collected approximately $14.8 million in revenues as of the end of December. That figure represents an increase of roughly four percent compared to the same period the previous year.
Officials noted that the growth reflected steady performance across several revenue categories, including sales tax collections and other general fund revenues. City leadership emphasized the importance of maintaining responsible budgeting practices while continuing to address infrastructure needs, code enforcement efforts, and long-term capital projects.
Council members said the financial position places the city in a better position to manage ongoing obligations while planning for future improvements.