A parks tax is up for renewal in West Baton Rouge next month. Here's what it means.

Kids play flag football in a league operated by the West Baton Rouge Parks & Recreation Department on Oct. 27, 2024 at the Port Allen Soccer Complex. Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save West Baton Rouge residents will vote Dec.

7 on renewing the 5-mill property tax that funds the parish Parks and Recreation Department . The tax, which is up for a 10-year renewal, comes out to $125 a year for a house valued at $250,000. The tax funds the entirety of the department's operating budget, Parks and Recreation Director Anatole Vincent said.



"If you enjoy our facilities, if you can go out to your family members and friends — and let them know how important this is,” Vincent said at a town meeting Nov. 11 in Brusly. The same recreation tax has been in place in West Baton Rouge Parish since 2005.

The renewal is not an increase, Vincent said, but a continuation that allows the department to maintain recreation programs, sports leagues, senior activities and community events, as well as make necessary facility upgrades. “(The tax renewal) is vital for us to be able to continue,” he said. The department runs more than 60 programs and leagues, including flag football, youth summer camps and pickleball.

Vincent said he and the staff have emphasized providing activities for all ages. One program the department operates is Senior Spirit, which invites residents 50 and older to participate in fitness classes, social gatherings and monthly dances. "We’ve tried to reach all parts of our community and give something for everybody to do,” Vincent said.

Residents did not offer thoughts on the renewal during public comment at the Brusly meeting. Mayor Scot Rhodes reiterated that the recreation tax will not increase. “The key word in all of this is renewal,” Rhodes said.

“You’re paying it today.” In terms of the vote outcome, Vincent said he never wants to assume which way it will go. “Our hope is that the community sees,” Vincent said, “and the proof is in the pudding.

” Early voting for the open general/congressional election in West Baton Rouge starts Nov. 22 and ends Nov. 30.

Election day is Saturday, Dec. 7..