Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards issued an emergency proclamation on March 16 which included authorization of attendance at essential governmental meetings via teleconference or video conference.
This Stay-at-Home Order has been extended through May 15.
Since March 16, the Shreveport City Council, the Caddo Commission, the Shreveport Caddo Metropolitan Planning Commission and the Bossier Police Jury have conducted meetings by teleconference. Although not as convenient and certainly not as interactive as open meetings, the wheels of government have been able to continue to roll in this fashion.
It is not known how the Stay-at-Home order will be modified in what is an anticipated further extension through the end of the month. Governmental bodies in both Caddo and Bossier Parishes are making tentative plans to re-open governmental buildings where the council, police jury, MPC and commission meet
on Mon. May 18.
No doubt there will be a considerable transition period with employees and citizens returning to these buildings whenever allowed by the next proclamation. Allowing the governmental bodies discretion to decide when to meet in person versus teleconference is the best course of action at this time.
Open meetings are important and should be resumed when all appropriate safeguards came be implemented in a practical fashion. Another short delay is prudent and not detrimental to the governmental process.
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.