By: Prentiss Smith • Contributing Columnist

In a surprising turn of events, Mayor Tom Arceneaux of Shreveport has recently displayed a newfound sense of determination and strength by coming up with an agreement with the powerful Mardi Gras krewes that have long held sway in the city.

Previous mayors have seemed to defer to those organizations because of their well-documented financial benefit to the city. So, it is understandable that a chief executive might want to consider what their concerns are before he or she makes any rash decisions. Mayor Arceneaux made it clear that he wanted to see some changes with respect to the safety concerns of citizens.

The Mardi Gras celebrations undoubtedly bring a significant influx of revenue to Shreveport, but Mayor Arceneaux has made it clear that ensuring public safety remains his top priority. The millions of dollars that are spent during this time add to the city’s coffers and allow citizens to engage in good, wholesome entertainment.

Mayor Arceneaux has been criticized for his silence and perceived timidity when it came to addressing critical issues, particularly in his dealings with an intractable city council. The criticisms are unfair to the mayor, who has been trying to stay above the fray and not be confrontational, but that ship has sailed.

The mayor has the right demeanor and temperament to make meaningful changes in how the city engages with vendors and others who want to do business in the city. Over the last several months, the city council has been embroiled in petty political disputes and squabbles over job appointments and other issues that leave citizens scratching their heads.

The council has shown an inability to deal with pressing issues that affect citizens. There is a lack of confidence in these council members, and by association, the mayor. Recent events have shown that the mayor is looking to change that narrative.

It says to me and others that the mayor is not only willing to take astand but is also willing to challenge those who have wielded considerable influence in Shreveport in the past. And that is a good thing for the city going forward. His actions today will allow him to build coalitions, which could serve as a template for moving the city forward.

In another move to show leadership, the mayor decided to veto the recently passed noise ordinance by the council, which many believe was the right thing to do. Mayor Arceneaux's newfound resolve is a good thing going forward and shows that he is not going to just go along to get along. He is not going to rubber stamp legislation that he sees as detrimental to the city.

The noise ordinance failed to provide adequate protection for downtown residents and was widely criticized for not addressing the concerns of those living near downtown clubs. The passed ordinance would have allowed excessive noise levels to persist, potentially disrupting the lives of residents. Mayor Arceneaux's veto sent a clear message that he is committed to safeguarding the well-being and peace of mind of all his constituents.

As was said earlier, the mayor's actions in confronting the Mardi Gras krewes and vetoing the noise ordinance demonstrate that he is willing to take on entities that have historically enjoyed a free hand in the city. While the economic benefits of Mardi Gras celebrations are undeniable, Mayor Arceneaux refuses to compromise on the safety and comfort of the citizens who line the streets to celebrate the festivities. It was the right move.

Mayor Tom Arceneaux's recent actions showcase a promising shift toward a more accountable and responsive city government, where the safety and well-being of the public come first. Many citizens had begun to wonder when the mayor was going to stand up and make it clear that there are certainly compromises to be made, but he would not compromise on the safety of the people he works for.

In a city where tradition and celebration are deeply ingrained in its culture, Mayor Tom Arceneaux's recent display of fortitude and patience has resonated with many Shreveport citizens. His unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of Mardi Gras revelers and downtown residents alike sends a powerful message – that he is ready to take on influential entities and make the tough decisions necessary for the betterment of Shreveport.

As the city moves forward, it is clear that Mayor Arceneaux's convictions will continue to guide him in his efforts to create a safer and more prosperous Shreveport for all. He has demonstrated an ability to move past the barriers that are just the nature of running a city the size of Shreveport. His actions with the krewes and the noise ordinance should set him up for future successes. And that’s the way I see it. smithprern@aol.com