The Ark-La-Tex Gazette


By Carla Buntyn, Ph.D.
March 2, 2026 | SHREVEPORT, LA
Many homeowners in Caddo Parish are paying close attention to their property tax bills as local rates remain above the national average. The median property tax rate in the parish is about 1.59%, compared with the national average of 1.02%. While Louisiana overall has some of the lowest property taxes in the country, rising assessments have surprised some residents.
Louisiana homes are taxed based on 10% of their market value, and the homestead exemption can reduce taxable value by up to $75,000. A home valued at $60,000, for example, may owe no parish property tax after the exemption is applied. Even so, assessed values can rise over time due to market trends and comparable sales, even if no upgrades are made to the property.
Some homeowners have been shocked by higher bills, but many have successfully appealed their assessments, showing that their homes were overvalued. Officials recommend that homeowners request their property record card from the assessor, check details like square footage, condition, and nearby home sales, and file an appeal if necessary. Evidence such as inspection reports, repair estimates, or recent sales can help support a case.
Understanding how taxable values are calculated can help homeowners ensure they are paying a fair amount and take advantage of exemptions and appeal opportunities when needed.

Caddo-Bossier, Louisiana
State and local leaders are celebrating a historic economic development announcement as Amazon revealed plans to invest $12 billion in a new data center project in the Caddo-Bossier region, the largest economic development project in northwest Louisiana’s history.
Governor Jeff Landry called the investment a transformative milestone for the state.
“This $12 billion investment by Amazon marks the largest economic development project our region has ever seen,” Landry said. “It sends a clear message that Louisiana is competing, and winning, when it comes to attracting major, long-term investments that create opportunity for our people.”
Justyn Dixon, President and CEO of the North Louisiana Economic Partnership, emphasized that the project’s significance extends beyond financial impact.
“It represents more than a significant economic win,” Dixon said. “This project signals generational change for our region. It will strengthen infrastructure, create high-quality jobs, and position north Louisiana as a competitive hub for advanced technology and innovation.”
Local officials also expressed strong support for the development. President Commissioner Gregory Young spoke on behalf of area leadership, highlighting the excitement throughout northwest Louisiana. “This investment brings new opportunities for employment and meaningful progress for our communities,” Young said. “We are ready to work alongside Amazon to ensure this project benefits our residents and drives positive change for years to come.”
Construction timelines and workforce development initiatives are expected to be announced in the coming months. Leaders anticipate the project will generate substantial direct and indirect job opportunities while boosting the regional economy.
Sign up to get each issue delivered straight to your inbox.

About Us
Welcome to The Ark-La-Tex Gazette, a non-partisan online publication dedicated to delivering accurate, insightful, and engaging news across Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas. Our mission is simple: to inform, inspire, and connect the communities we serve by providing fact-based reporting, in-depth analysis, and compelling stories that matter.
Why Choose Us?
The Ark-La-Tex Gazette is dedicated to bridging gaps within our communities by recognizing and uplifting those working for change. The Ark-La-Tex region is rich with unrecognized African American leaders and inspiring changemakers and we are committed to sharing their stories. As a nonpartisan publication, we welcome all who believe in unity, progress, and community empowerment.
Unlike many news outlets, The Ark-La-Tex Gazette remains free from political bias and corporate influence. We prioritize factual reporting over sensationalism, offering clear, well-researched journalism that respects the intelligence of our readers.
Let us know what you think. Email us at editor@thearklatexgazette.com
Copyright © 2026 The Ark-La-Tex Gazette - All Rights Reserved.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.