Only 10.1% of West Feliciana Parish’s voters went to the polls Saturday, but 75% of those who did gave new life to a critical source of funds for the Sheriff’s Office.
Voters approved a five-year extension of a 5.77-mill property tax sought by Sheriff Brian Spillman by a vote of 588 to 199, according to complete, but unofficial returns.
The tax renewal proposition was the only item on the ballot.
The current tax expires Dec. 31, 2025, but Saturday’s vote will extend it through 2030.
According to the proposition, the tax is expected to generate $2.5 million per year for the Sheriff’s Office.
In addition to the 5.77-mill tax levied through a special parishwide Law Enforcement District, the sheriff also levies an 8.43-mill tax that is not subject to the voters’ periodic approval.