By Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune/Staff Report
During its July 23 regular agenda meeting, the Bossier Parish Police Jury recognized community service, celebrated a dedicated employee’s retirement, and approved critical infrastructure improvements aimed at flood protection.
In a formal resolution, Police Jury President Glenn Benton honored Open Roads Fellowship Church for its exceptional contributions to the 2025 KTBS Freedom Fest held at South Bossier Park on July 4.
Benton commended the church’s volunteers, led by Pastor Raymond Wilkerson, for their outstanding community spirit and hard work during the event.
“Freedom Fest was a tremendous success this year, and much of that is thanks to the selfless efforts of Open Roads Fellowship Church,” Benton said. “Their commitment to serving our community is a shining example of what makes Bossier Parish special.”
The resolution highlighted the church’s wide-ranging support:
The Open Roads Fellowship Praise Band provided live entertainment throughout the celebration.
Volunteers distributed bottled water and maintained hydration stations for attendees.
Church members supervised inflatable attractions, ensuring a safe play area for children.
Additional assistance included traffic control and parking support for eventgoers.
The resolution was unanimously adopted by the Jury, expressing gratitude to Pastor Wilkerson and his congregation for their dedication to the community.
Also during the meeting, the Police Jury honored Mrs. Renee McKinney upon her retirement after more than three decades of service as the parish’s Accounts Payable Specialist.
McKinney began her career with the Police Jury on January 30, 1995, following 13 years of experience with the Wallace and Southerland Law Firm. Her meticulous approach to fiscal management earned her a reputation as a trusted steward of the parish’s finances.
Her retirement is set to take effect August 1.
“Renee’s professionalism and dedication have been invaluable to our operations,” said Benton. “We thank her for her years of loyal service and wish her all the best in her next chapter.”
In a move aimed at improving flood resilience, the Police Jury authorized the advertisement for bids on Project No. 2025-134: Lucky Estates Drainage Improvements.
The project stems from a 2011 drainage study that identified serious vulnerabilities in the Lucky Estates neighborhood’s stormwater system. Approximately 130 homes in south Bossier Parish have been affected by persistent flooding during heavy rainfall.
The drainage project has received $1.1 million in federal support from the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
Key upgrades will include:
Summer Lake Outfall at Red Chute Bayou – Enhancing the outfall system to improve water flow and reduce backflow during high-water events.
Lucky Lane and Flat River Road Area – Upgrading culverts and improving drainage channels to better manage stormwater runoff.
The improvements are expected to significantly reduce flooding risks and increase the neighborhood’s overall resilience to extreme weather.
With the approval to advertise for bids, the next step will involve selecting a contractor to begin the long-anticipated work.