Natchitoches council OKs bids for city pool rebuild, pulls utility revenue ordinance

The Natchitoches City Council took a first step Monday, Oct. 26, toward rebuilding the city's leaking public swimming pool, and set aside a utility money question for more study, the Natchitoches Parish Journal reported.

Swimming pool

The council approved advertising for bids on phase one of the pool project, mostly demolition of the old pool house, site preparation and dirt work. The city has budgeted about $1.4 million for that phase, though the real cost won't be known until bids come in. The full project was estimated at about $4 million when it was designed in 2022, and officials said costs have gone up. Councilman Dale Nielsen voted no after questioning the budget and scope.

Bids will be advertised Nov. 5, 12 and 19 and are due by 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1, at the city Purchasing Office, 1400 Sabine St. The bids come back to the council, with final action expected in January 2027. Officials talked about using part of Northwestern State University's pool for city swim lessons during construction, but no agreement is final. The city's lessons now cost $20 for two weeks.

Utility money

The council pulled an ordinance that would have expressly allowed electric utility revenue to support the water and sewer systems and the general fund. One council member cited a water rate study recommending a 10% water rate increase in fiscal year 2027, then 2.8% increases after that. Members said they want to meet with the firm that did the study, possibly in a public presentation.

Other business

• Approved an ordinance declaring certain buildings unsafe and setting steps for repair or demolition. Officials said condemnation doesn't automatically mean demolition.
• Introduced an ordinance on excessive accumulations of vehicles, appliances, debris and other materials that create hazards. It was not up for a final vote.
• Introduced an ordinance recognizing the existing law enforcement authority of the Ward One City Marshal's Office.

Class 1 fire rating

Fire Chief John Wynn told the council the department scored 90.99 points in its latest review by the Property Insurance Association of Louisiana, earning a Class 1 rating for the first time. Homeowners and businesses may see lower fire insurance premiums, depending on their insurer. Wynn urged residents to call their insurance company, and said the fire department can help with documentation of the new rating.