Caddo Sheriff’s Office reopens transitional work program
By The Ark-La-Tex Gazette Staff
February 8, 2026 | SHREVEPORT, LA
The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office announced Sunday it has reopened its transitional work program after a six-year hiatus, providing job training and supervised employment opportunities for individuals reentering the community from the criminal justice system.
The program, suspended in 2020, is designed to help participants gain work experience, vocational skills, and support services that promote successful reintegration. Sheriff’s Office officials said the relaunch reflects renewed investment in public safety and rehabilitation initiatives that benefit participants and local employers.
According to early reports, the program connects participants with supervised assignments in areas such as facility maintenance, grounds work, and community service projects. Support services may include job readiness training, mentoring, and assistance with employment documentation, including Uniform Commercial Code references. Officials said the initiative aims to reduce recidivism by providing structured work environments, skill development, and connections to potential employers.
Program administrators collaborated with local workforce development agencies and nonprofit partners to ensure comprehensive training. Community stakeholders noted that the program aligns with broader efforts to address workforce shortages and expand economic opportunity in the Ark-La-Tex region.
Caddo Parish operated the transitional work program for several years before budget constraints and policy changes led to its closure. Advocates for reentry services have long emphasized that access to employment is critical for reducing recidivism. Research from the Bureau of Justice Statistics shows that individuals who secure employment after incarceration are significantly less likely to return to criminal activity.
Local employers expressed interest in hosting work placements, viewing the initiative as a way to tap into an underutilized labor pool while supporting community stability. Sheriff’s Office officials said additional information on eligibility, application procedures, and partner organizations will be released in the coming weeks. The reopening of the program marks a renewed focus on workforce development and reintegration support in Caddo Parish.
Louisiana AG to sue New York and California over abortion pills
By The Ark-La-Tex Gazette Staff
February 8, 2026 | BATON ROUGE, LA
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill announced plans to file lawsuits against New York and California after both states refused to extradite doctors charged in Louisiana for allegedly sending abortion pills into the state, intensifying a legal clash over conflicting abortion laws.
Murrill’s office has indicted physicians in both states on felony charges, alleging they mailed medication used to induce abortions into Louisiana, where abortion is nearly fully banned. Officials said New York and California denied extradition requests, citing state laws that protect medical providers from out-of-state prosecution related to abortion care.
The cases involve accusations that doctors prescribed or shipped abortion drugs, including mifepristone and misoprostol, across state lines to Louisiana residents. California physician Remy Coeytaux has been indicted, while a separate warrant targets a New York doctor. Both remain in their home states, where legal protections shield providers prescribing abortion medication legally under state law.
Murrill’s planned lawsuits are expected to seek court enforcement of Louisiana’s extradition requests and challenge the shield laws in New York and California that blocked cooperation. Officials cited constitutional provisions on extradition and full faith and credit, though experts note such clauses traditionally apply to court judgments, not enforcement of differing state criminal statutes.
The dispute underscores growing tensions between states with restrictive abortion policies and those with protective laws for reproductive health providers. New York’s shield laws and California’s legal framework have been central to their refusal to comply with Louisiana’s requests.
Legal scholars say the outcome could affect future interstate enforcement actions involving states with divergent abortion policies. Details are still emerging regarding the specific filings and courts where the lawsuits will be lodged. Murrill’s office said additional information will be released as cases proceed, and advocacy groups on both sides are preparing responses, suggesting a protracted legal battle ahead.
Marshall approves $56M water system upgrade
By The Ark-La-Tex Gazette Staff
February 8, 2026 | MARSHALL, TX
City officials announced plans to invest $56 million over six years to overhaul Marshall’s water and wastewater systems, aiming to replace aging infrastructure and improve reliability for residents and businesses.
City leaders said the funding will support projects to modernize water distribution lines, treatment facilities, and related infrastructure that in some cases dates back to the 1950s. Early assessments identified numerous system components nearing the end of their service life, prompting a comprehensive upgrade plan.
The initiative covers both drinking water and wastewater systems, with engineers focusing on enhancing water quality, reducing service disruptions, and preparing for future growth. Improvements will include replacing undersized or deteriorated mains and reinforcing treatment capacities to maintain daily operations.
Officials said the plan follows a September 2025 review of water and wastewater operations that highlighted critical deficiencies and prioritized projects requiring immediate attention. Funding is expected to come from municipal bonds and possible state and federal assistance, though final financing details are still emerging.
Marshall’s water supply draws from Big Cypress Bayou and is managed under state permits by the city’s Water Distribution Division, which oversees more than 180 miles of piping and conducts routine system testing, hydrant maintenance, and repairs to ensure safe delivery to customers.
Residents may see utility rate impacts as work progresses, though officials stressed that phased upgrades are necessary to prevent more costly emergency repairs and potential service interruptions. The project is scheduled to continue through 2032, with construction and rehabilitation phased incrementally.
City leaders noted that the effort aligns with broader statewide investments in water infrastructure, including funding programs administered by the Texas Water Development Board. Officials plan to release detailed project schedules, construction updates, and public engagement information in the coming weeks.
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Trump backs Blake Miguez in Louisiana House race
By The Ark-La-Tex Gazette Staff
February 8, 2026 | SHREVEPORT, LA
President Donald Trump has endorsed Louisiana State Senator Blake Miguez in his campaign for the state’s 5th Congressional District, a high-profile backing that could shape the outcome of the competitive Republican primary this spring.
Trump announced the endorsement on his social media platform, highlighting Miguez as a supporter of conservative priorities including energy production, border security, and support for law enforcement and veterans. The endorsement came a day after Miguez announced he would shift from a U.S. Senate bid to pursue the open House seat being vacated by Rep. Julia Letlow, who is seeking election to the Senate.
Miguez, a Republican from New Iberia and former Senate candidate, faces a crowded field of contenders aiming to represent the largely rural and conservative 5th District, which stretches across northeastern and central Louisiana. Confirmed candidates include State Sen. Stewart Cathey Jr., State Sen. Rick Edmonds, State Rep. Dixon McMakin, and Misti Cordell, chair of the Louisiana Board of Regents.
Political analysts said Trump’s early support could provide Miguez a fundraising and visibility advantage in the May 16 primary, particularly with conservative voters who dominate the district’s Republican electorate. GOP rivals have said they will continue campaigning vigorously, signaling a competitive race ahead.
The seat opened when Letlow announced her Senate run, triggering a scramble among Republican candidates. If no candidate receives a majority in the primary, a runoff is expected later in the spring, with qualifying for the primary set to close February 13.
Observers noted that the 5th District contest is unfolding amid broader political realignments in Louisiana, where congressional and statewide races are drawing heightened attention during the 2026 election cycle. Miguez’s campaign continues to engage constituents and outline policy priorities, with additional endorsements and developments expected as the primary approaches.
Caddo Commission reviews water concerns in Oil City, Blanchard
By The Ark-La-Tex Gazette Staff
February 8, 2026 | SHREVEPORT, LA
The Caddo Parish Commission met Sunday to address ongoing water issues affecting residents in Oil City and Blanchard, focusing on infrastructure improvements and service reliability. The discussion aimed to identify solutions for aging pipelines and pressure inconsistencies reported by local communities.
Commissioners reviewed reports detailing water line capacity, maintenance requirements, and areas prone to service interruptions. Officials noted that some sections of the distribution system have reached the end of their operational lifespan, creating challenges for consistent water delivery and emergency response.
Residents in both Oil City and Blanchard have experienced reduced water pressure, occasional discoloration, and intermittent outages over the past year. The parish’s water management team presented proposed upgrades, including pipeline replacements and enhanced monitoring systems designed to improve flow and prevent service disruptions.
Funding considerations were also discussed, with officials exploring options to finance infrastructure projects through state grants, parish allocations, and potential federal assistance. The commission emphasized that timely investment is critical to maintaining safe, reliable water access for affected communities.
Caddo Parish officials plan to conduct follow-up assessments and prioritize projects based on urgency and cost-effectiveness. Community members are expected to receive updates on project timelines and planned improvements in the coming months, ensuring transparency and engagement throughout the process.
Gov. Landry pushes for overhaul of Louisiana workforce system
By The Ark-La-Tex Gazette Staff
February 8, 2026 | BATON ROUGE, LA
Governor Jeff Landry unveiled plans Sunday to reform Louisiana’s workforce system, seeking to modernize job training programs and better align employment opportunities with state economic needs. The initiative focuses on improving access to vocational education, workforce development resources, and career placement services.
State officials noted that Louisiana faces ongoing challenges with workforce readiness, including skills gaps in high-demand industries such as technology, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. The proposed reforms aim to streamline program administration, enhance public-private partnerships, and provide targeted support for job seekers and employers alike.
Under the proposal, funding priorities would shift toward programs with measurable outcomes, including certifications, apprenticeships, and training programs that lead directly to employment. Officials emphasized that modernized tracking systems would allow the state to monitor workforce program effectiveness and adjust strategies to meet evolving labor market demands.
The governor also highlighted the need for collaboration with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations to expand opportunities for Louisiana residents. By connecting job seekers with in-demand skills and employers with qualified candidates, the reforms aim to strengthen economic growth and reduce unemployment across the state.
Lawmakers are expected to review the proposal in the coming weeks, with discussions anticipated on funding mechanisms, program oversight, and implementation timelines. Advocates say successful adoption could position Louisiana as a leader in workforce innovation and enhance long-term economic stability for communities statewide.
State rep meets with DOTD to review Shreveport road projects
By The Ark-La-Tex Gazette Staff
February 8, 2026 | SHREVEPORT, LA
State Representative Tammy Phelps held a follow-up meeting with Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development officials Sunday to review ongoing and upcoming road projects in Shreveport, emphasizing progress, safety, and project timelines. The session provided a forum for city and state officials to discuss traffic flow, construction schedules, and funding allocations.
DOTD representatives presented updates on several major projects, including roadway resurfacing, bridge repairs, and traffic signal improvements. Officials confirmed that work on the Interstate 20 corridor and key arterial roads in northwest Shreveport remains on schedule, with anticipated completion dates spanning the next 12 to 18 months.
The meeting also addressed concerns about neighborhood-level streets and drainage issues, highlighting the need for coordinated planning between state and local agencies. Funding for certain projects has been secured through state transportation budgets, while others remain under review pending final approvals.
City planners and DOTD officials agreed to increase communication with residents regarding road closures, detours, and expected impacts on daily travel. They noted that proactive updates would help minimize disruptions and improve public safety during construction phases.
Officials said additional meetings will be scheduled throughout the year to monitor progress, adjust timelines as needed, and ensure that Shreveport’s transportation network meets the growing demands of the community. Future sessions are expected to include more detailed project breakdowns and updates on federal and state funding commitments.
Shreveport Mayoral Race Raises Questions About Unity and Party Loyalty
By Dr. Carla Buntyn
February 8, 2026 | SHREVEPORT, LA
The upcoming Shreveport mayoral race between two African American Democratic public officials has sparked discussion about unity within the community and confidence in the Democratic Party.
African Americans have historically made up approximately 80–85 percent of Democratic Party support. Following the Civil Rights era of the 1950s and 1960s, the Democratic Party became associated with civil rights laws, voting rights protections, and desegregation. Many Black voters developed political loyalty during that period because of policy alignment.
In recent years, some Black voters have begun moving away from party identification, not toward the Republican Party but toward “no party.” The shift is not rooted in rejection of the Civil Rights era or racial identity, but in concerns about division within both the community and the Democratic Party.
Residents have expressed concern that a lack of unified leadership weakens political influence, lowers voter turnout, and contributes to distrust and loss of confidence in the party.
The local mayoral race reflects those concerns. Commissioner Stormy Gage-Watts officially announced her candidacy on November 11, 2025. State Representative Tammy Phelps later is considering entering the race, prompting questions from some community members about why another Democratic candidate was needed when both candidates represent similar constituencies.
Some residents believe unity once strengthened political campaigns during the civil rights movement and worry that visible division now could weaken collective political influence.
The race has become part of a broader conversation about togetherness, political engagement, and confidence in leadership within the African American community.
Caddo Parish Commission Shows Transparency in Leadership
By The Ark-La-Tex Gazette Staff
February 8, 2026 | SHREVEPORT, LA
The Caddo Parish Commission is making it easier for the public to know who is in charge of different areas of local government. Commissioner Gregory Young, elected as President, has appointed chairpersons for each committee. The list is now public, so residents know who is responsible for each area and who to contact with questions or concerns.
The new structure is designed because all commissioners are leaders in their districts and were elected by the people who live there. This setup allows leadership to grow across the whole commission, showing shared governance. Each commissioner now leads a committee that focuses on a specific issue affecting the parish.
New committees were also created to fill gaps in community needs. This ensures that important areas of the parish are being properly looked after.
The committee chairpersons are:
• Appropriations Committee (Budget Oversight): Commissioner Victor Thomas
• Property Standards Committee: Commissioner Chris Kracman
• Juvenile Justice and Related Services Committee: Commissioner John Paul Young
• Economic Development Committee: Commissioner Stormy Gage-Watts
• Audit/Finance Committee: Commissioner John Atkins
• Special Projects Committee: Commissioner Steffon Jones
• Natural Resources Committee: Commissioner Grace Anne Blake
• Rural Development Committee: Commissioner Ed Lazarus
• Personnel Policies & Procedures Committee: Commissioner Roy Burrell
• Veterans Affairs & Services Committee: Commissioner Ken Epperson
• Public Safety Committee: Commissioner Ron Cothran
By sharing this information, the commission is being more transparent with the public and demonstrating how responsibilities are distributed among all commissioners. Residents now know who is responsible for areas such as public safety, economic growth, budgeting, and community services.
The commission will use this new structure in upcoming meetings and decisions to better serve the parish.