Lafayette, LA – As the March 29 election approaches, voters across Acadiana will head to the polls to cast their ballots for various local offices, propositions, and state constitutional amendments. Early voting for the election starts this Saturday, March 15, and runs through March 22, excluding Sunday, March 16. Voting will be available from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at designated early voting locations.
Important Dates to Remember
- Early Voting: March 15-22 (excluding Sunday, March 16) from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Absentee Ballot Request Deadline: March 25 by 4:30 p.m.
- Absentee Ballot Return Deadline: March 28 by 4:30 p.m.
- Election Day: March 29 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Voters can request absentee ballots online or in writing, with military and overseas voters having special provisions for later submission. In-person voting will take place on election day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., when voters can make their voices heard on a variety of important local issues.
Local Propositions and Tax Measures
Several parishes across Acadiana will see critical propositions on the ballot, with key tax renewals and new levies being proposed. These measures will have direct impacts on local infrastructure, emergency services, and public services.
Acadia Parish
One of the key items on the ballot in Acadia Parish is a proposition to continue a 1% sales tax in Sales Tax District No. 2. The tax, estimated to generate $3.8 million annually, would fund the repair, construction, and maintenance of roads and bridges in unincorporated areas of the parish. The proposed tax renewal is set to last 15 years, beginning in 2027.
Iberia Parish
Voters in Iberia Parish will decide on several propositions affecting public services. In the City of New Iberia, a 0.25% sales tax is proposed to fund fire department salaries and benefits, starting in 2025. The measure is expected to generate $2 million annually.
Additionally, Fire Protection District No. 1 in Iberia Parish is seeking voter approval for a 3.50 mills tax renewal to support fire protection facilities and services. The tax would be levied for 10 years, starting in 2025, and is expected to raise $1.4 million annually.
Iberia Parish residents will also vote on continuing a 4.50 mills tax to fund the operation and maintenance of public libraries for another 10 years, beginning in 2025.
Jeff Davis Parish
In Jeff Davis Parish, multiple positions in the City of Jennings are up for election. The mayoral race features Melvin J. Adams, Christopher “Chris” Carrier, and Henry Guinn vying for the top position in the city. The city council will also see several contested races in Districts A, B, C, and D.
Additionally, voters will weigh in on the Gravity Drainage District No. 6 Proposition, which proposes a 5.73 mills tax renewal for 10 years. The tax is aimed at funding the construction, improvement, and maintenance of drainage works in the district.
Lafayette Parish
Lafayette Parish voters will decide on two important millage propositions. The first, a 4.47 mills tax continuation, would fund road and bridge construction and maintenance for the next 10 years, beginning in 2027. The second, a 3.81 mills tax continuation, would support drainage, fire protection, public health, and mosquito control programs in the parish.
St. Landry Parish
In St. Landry Parish, Fire Protection District No. 3 is seeking a renewal of a 10.36 mills tax for fire protection services. The tax renewal would last for 10 years, beginning in 2026, and is expected to generate $2.4 million annually.
St. Mary Parish
Voters in St. Mary Parish will choose between two candidates for the School Board District 7 seat. The candidates are Lawrence Guillory, a Republican, and Carla B. Pellerin, an Independent.
State Constitutional Amendments
All Acadiana voters will also have the opportunity to vote on four proposed amendments to the Louisiana State Constitution. These amendments address various issues impacting state governance and policy.
A Crucial Election for Local Communities
With critical propositions and elections affecting the daily lives of Acadiana residents, this election provides an opportunity for voters to make decisions that will shape the future of their communities. Early voting allows residents to have their say in local governance and the future of essential public services.
Voters are encouraged to take advantage of the early voting period or head to the polls on election day, March 29, to ensure their voices are heard in these vital elections.
For more information about the election, including how to request an absentee ballot or find polling locations, voters are encouraged to visit the Louisiana Secretary of State’s website.