On June 27, 2026, Ouachita Parish voters will be asked to consider two tax renewals supporting the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office and the operation of the Ouachita Correctional Center. Early voting begins June 12.
Following their respective governmental advocacy review processes, the Boards of Directors of both Chambers voted to support the renewal of the sales tax and property tax measures appearing on the upcoming ballot.
As part of the review process, Chamber representatives met with Sheriff Marc Mashaw and members of the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office leadership team to review the proposed renewals, discuss operational priorities, and ask questions regarding the use of funds, fiscal responsibility, staffing needs, training, equipment, and long-term public safety planning.
The Chambers recognize that these renewals have a critical impact on the operational effectiveness of the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office and the continued operation of the Ouachita Correctional Center, which serves a vital role in the parish’s broader public safety system.
The sales tax renewal helps support key public safety priorities, including:
- School Resource Officers serving local schools
- Competitive wages to help attract and retain deputies
- Special Crimes Apprehension Team efforts in high-crime areas
- Construction and operation of the Law Enforcement Training Facility
- Body-worn cameras and related public safety technology
- Operation of the public range, including gun safety and public training programs
Staffing, training, and equipment remain central priorities for the Sheriff’s Office, and the Chambers believe these resources are essential to maintaining effective law enforcement services across Ouachita Parish.
The property tax renewal supports the operation of the Ouachita Correctional Center, a critical facility used not only by the Sheriff’s Office but also by multiple law enforcement agencies throughout the parish and region. Continued support for the facility is important to public safety, law enforcement coordination, and the responsible operation of the parish correctional system.
During the review process, the Sheriff’s Office provided supporting documentation and responded to questions from Chamber leadership with transparency and professionalism. The Chambers also reviewed information related to financial audits, revenue trends, operational needs, and the strategic importance of the renewals.
“The Monroe Chamber of Commerce recognizes the importance of strong public safety institutions and responsible financial stewardship,” said Mike Downhour, President & CEO of the Monroe Chamber of Commerce. “After a thorough review process and open dialogue with Sheriff’s Office leadership, the Chamber’s Board of Directors supports renewal of these taxes and remains committed to the long-term success of the Sheriff’s Office and the safety and economic vitality of our region.”
“The West Monroe West Ouachita Chamber of Commerce believes public safety is directly connected to economic development, workforce stability, school safety, and quality of life,” said Kristopher Kelley, Executive Director of the West Monroe West Ouachita Chamber of Commerce. “After reviewing the proposed renewals and their impact on staffing, training, equipment, School Resource Officers, specialized enforcement, and the Ouachita Correctional Center, our Board voted to support both measures. These are renewals of existing funding sources that help maintain essential law enforcement services throughout Ouachita Parish.”