The Bossier Parish Police Jury recognized local youth, approved several parish projects and received an update on population growth during its Oct. 7 regular meeting.
The meeting included a celebration of National 4-H Week, with Erica Derma, Bossier Parish 4-H parish chair, highlighting the work of local 4-H members.
Derma introduced Christian Willis, a Haughton High School sophomore who serves as the 2026-2027 state secretary for Louisiana 4-H.
Willis spoke about the opportunities available through 4-H, including leadership, livestock, agriculture, shooting sports, cooking and food challenges. She also highlighted achievements by 4-H members across the state.
Bossier Parish was recognized as having the largest 4-H enrollment in the northwest region.
The Police Jury also recognized Brooks Beatty and Caleb Coburn for winning the 2026 TBF World Championship Junior title at Lake Dardanelle in Arkansas.
Beatty and Coburn finished the three-day tournament with a total weight of 37 pounds and had multiple tournament victories. The pair competed against teams representing 27 states, as well as Ontario, Canada.
The Police Jury appointed District 9 Juror Pam Glorioso to the Shreveport-Bossier Film and Entertainment Commission Advisory Board.
Her appointment will run through Dec. 31, 2029.
The Police Jury approved several projects involving drainage, roads and recreation.
The jury awarded the Lucky Estates drainage improvements project, including the base bid and alternate one, for approximately $1.44 million.
The Bayou Bend neighborhood road panel repair project was awarded for approximately $65,608.
The jury also accepted an $80,600 proposal for Kingston Park Phase 2. The project includes improvements to a walking trail, bathroom and playground.
During the parish administrator’s report, Dr. Ken Ward provided an update on population growth in Bossier Parish.
According to the report, the parish’s population increased by 33% from 2000 to 2024, reaching 131,102 residents.
“Bossier is definitely one of the fastest-growing parishes in Louisiana,” Ward said.
The population growth continues to be a consideration as the parish works on roads, drainage, utilities, recreation and other infrastructure projects to serve residents.
The meeting addressed a range of parish business, from recognizing local 4-H and youth achievements to approving projects and discussing the continued growth of Bossier Parish.