Posted: Sep 19, 2025, 1:59 PM
Community Organizations Present Funding Requests and Project Updates to Bossier Parish Committees
Red River Research Station Unveils Renovation Vision
Dr. Ronald Strahan, representing the Red River Research Station, presented plans for the renovation and expansion of the 572-acre agricultural research facility located in South Bossier Parish.
During the Finance Committee meeting, representatives from several nonprofit and community organizations presented funding requests and program updates aimed at improving services for youth, seniors, families, and animals across Bossier Parish.
Shonda Houston Dotie presented on behalf of Volunteers for Youth Justice, a nonprofit serving multiple parishes through juvenile diversion programs.
Alexis Svehla spoke on behalf of Robinson’s Rescue, a nonprofit dedicated to reducing pet overpopulation through accessible spay and neuter services.
Tamara Crane provided updates from the Bossier Council on Aging, which delivers essential services to senior residents throughout the parish.
Jeri Bowen submitted the first-ever funding request on behalf of the Northwest Family Justice Center, which provides comprehensive support for adult victims of domestic violence.
SWEPCO Updates Bossier Parish on Utility Projects and Customer Support Initiatives
During the Regular Agenda Meeting, Michael Corbin, External Affairs representative for SWEPCO, presented updates on utility infrastructure projects and customer support programs impacting Bossier Parish residents.
Corbin outlined several ongoing and upcoming projects, including pole replacements, substation upgrades, and major transmission line rebuilds. He also noted the pending approval of the Brownlee Road substation and expansion plans for the Halton substation.
A key highlight of his presentation was the launch of SWEPCO’s new “Pay as You Go” billing program, introduced on September 1st. Designed to assist contract workers, individuals on fixed incomes, and customers with past-due balances, the program requires no deposit or credit check.
Commission for Women Visit
The Bossier Chapter of the Commission for Women, a mentoring program, visited the Bossier Parish Police Jury's regular meeting.
The mentoring program gives approximately 12 senior girls, two from each high school in the parish, the opportunity to cultivate leadership and life skills. The girls got the opportunity to introduce themselves and what school they attend to the jurors. Jurors Pam Glorioso, District 9, Juliana Parks, District 5, and Parish Treasurer Stacie Fernandez serve as mentors on the Commission.
Jurors View Project Recap Videos Highlighting Parish Progress
During the meeting, Bossier Parish Police Jurors were presented with two recap videos showcasing recent engineering and parks projects across the parish.
The Engineering Department highlighted the completion of several key infrastructure projects, including:
The Parks & Recreation Department concluded with a video featuring the walking trail and recent cross-country events held at South Bossier Park, emphasizing the park’s growing role in community recreation and youth athletics.