Opelousas, LA — The future of Opelousas’ public safety and infrastructure hangs in the balance as the city moves to renew a crucial one percent sales tax set to expire later this month. City leaders and residents gathered Thursday afternoon at City Hall, where the city council voted 5–1 to place the tax renewal on a future ballot.
Joey Richard, a longtime local barber, expressed deep concern about the potential consequences if the tax is not renewed. “If funding for officers is cut, I believe crime rates would spike,” Richard said. “The surveillance services we currently rely on could disappear, which would lead to a decline in safety for our city.”
Richard, who has been a business owner in Opelousas for years, sees the sales tax as vital to maintaining city services. “As a business owner, I fear that the city will continue to decline if this sales tax does not pass,” he said.
Residents echoed Richard’s concerns, emphasizing the need for continued investment in public infrastructure. Jaiden Savoy, an Opelousas native, recounted his struggles with the city’s deteriorating roads. “I’ve been pulled over three times for swerving just to avoid potholes,” Savoy said. “Eventually, I have to raise my family here. I want that money to keep coming in and our city to keep flourishing.”
The city council’s special meeting saw passionate public commentary. Councilwoman Chassity Davis Warren urged the council to support the measure, warning of dire consequences if it failed. “If y’all don’t vote on this tax, it’s like saying you don’t care if your house catches fire or gets broken into… because guess what? These people who work for the police and fire department will lose their jobs,” she said.
However, not all voices were in agreement. Councilwoman Delita Broussard, who cast the lone dissenting vote, expressed skepticism. “I’m not going to be intimidated by someone saying I don’t love my city. I’m very passionate about Opelousas—but we already pay high sales taxes, and there’s been mismanagement of city funds,” Broussard said.
Mayor Julius Alsandor remains optimistic about the city’s trajectory. “Everything is in place. We just need people to go to the polls and vote yes to continue the growth that’s happening in Opelousas,” he said. “We are moving forward—maybe not as fast as everyone wants—but without this tax and the crews in all 17 departments, everything would dwindle.”
According to city attorney Travis Broussard, the sales tax renewal is expected to generate approximately $6 million annually. Funds will be allocated toward infrastructure improvements, city operations, the water system, employee salaries, and other essential services.
If voters approve the measure in the upcoming election, collections would begin on October 1. The final step before the August 16 election is securing approval from the State Bond Commission.
For many residents like Savoy and Richard, the vote represents more than just a tax—it’s a vote for the future of their community. “I’d vote yes, personally, because I want to see better for where I live—and where I have to raise my family,” Savoy said.