West Baton Rouge voters will decide Saturday, March 29, whether to renew the 7.2-mill drainage tax that funds drainage projects, employee salaries and equipment for the next 10 years.
"We maintain over 700 miles of canals and ditches throughout our parish," West Baton Rouge Parish President Jason Manola said.Â
If renewed, the property tax would cost approximately $180 per year for a home valued at $250,000.
The tax is expected to generate $5.9 million a year. The 10-year tax, if approved, would begin in 2026.
The parish does not always collect as high as the rate of 7.2 mills, Manola said.Â
"We look at our fund balance in the drainage department, and if there's opportunities, roll back millages," Manola said.
Polls are open Saturday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.