Baton Rouge DA Proposes New Millage in Upcoming Election

While the country is focusing on President Trump’s 100th day in office, people in Baton Rouge are faced with another local election. The East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney’s Office is seeking a new millage that would increase property taxes if passed.

The ballot measure is requesting a vote for or against a new millage of four mills for 20 years. The millage is estimated to generate $24.4 million each year.  These funds will go directly to the District Attorney for East Baton Rouge Parish.

The Click visited a local polling station to speak to residents about the proposed millage.

“I voted no on new taxes, period,” said resident and voter William Turner. “Because we’re already taxed enough.”

According to a live crime analysis provided by the Baton Rouge Police Department, there have been 12 homicides in April as of April 30.

While some residents believe Baton Rouge is taxed enough, others have different concerns. Resident and voter Kaneesha, who did not share her last name, questioned how the city is going to combat the crime.

“My thing is, I know we need to prosecute it and everything, but what are we going to do to combat it? We need to combat the crime. We are prosecuting these people, but what are we going to do so they don’t reoffend?” Kaneesha said.

If the tax passes, it would increase property taxes on taxable property in the area for the next 20 years. Residents can view the current EBR millage rates here.

“And just always remember this,  you can’t vote your way out of crime at the voting booth,” said Turner. “It starts way before that.”

Voting takes place May 3 for East Baton Rouge Parish.