After more than four decades serving as a cultural cornerstone in the community, the Bossier Arts Council announced Thursday, Feb. 12, that it may soon lose its longtime home in the Old Municipal Building at 630 Barksdale Blvd.
In a statement posted to its Facebook page, the council informed supporters that the Bossier City Council has proposed an ordinance to terminate its cooperative agreement with the organization and evict it from the historic downtown building it has occupied for 45 years.
“This evening we have had some terrible news brought before us,” the post began, explaining that the proposal comes at a time when the council’s limited staff has been working to maintain operations while searching for a new executive director.
The announcement follows recent findings by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor that the arts council was noncompliant with financial reporting requirements for the third consecutive year. According to the organization, its current staff of three was unaware of the reporting issues when they assumed their roles but has since begun addressing the matter with the assistance of a new accountant and board leadership.
“We understand the concerns of the City,” the council stated in its message, “but truly feel we can come to an agreement that leaves us here, in the Heart of Bossier City, making an artistic impact on our Community.”
The Bossier Arts Council has long played a central role in fostering arts and culture throughout the parish. Founded more than four decades ago, the nonprofit has hosted art exhibitions, educational programming, community events and outreach initiatives designed to make the arts accessible to residents of all ages. Its gallery and event space inside the Old Municipal Building have served as a gathering place for artists, students and families alike.
Supporters say the organization’s presence downtown has helped cultivate creativity and economic activity, drawing visitors to the area for exhibitions, performances and public events.
The proposed ordinance is scheduled for review by the Bossier City Council on Tuesday, Feb. 17, at 3 p.m. at Bossier City Hall, 620 Benton Road. In its public appeal, the arts council urged supporters, friends and community members to attend the meeting and voice their support.
“We are asking all of you … to come out and attend the City Council meeting next Tuesday and let the council members hear your voice,” the post read. “Let them know that the BAC is for the community and that we can do our best work where we have been for the last 45 years.”
As the council prepares for the upcoming review, the future of one of Bossier City’s longest-standing cultural institutions remains uncertain. For now, staff and board members say their focus is on resolving compliance issues and preserving the organization’s place in the heart of the city it has served for generations.