Meeting

Lafayette Library Meeting Sparks Controversy Over Free Speech Rights as Proposed Settlement Advances

by

LAFAYETTE, La. — Tensions surrounding free speech rights in local government took center stage during a special meeting at the Lafayette Public Library on Monday. This gathering focused on a proposed settlement related to a federal lawsuit triggered by an incident at a library board meeting earlier this year. The lawsuit was initiated by Melanie Brevis and Lynette Mejía, who co-founded Lafayette Citizens Against Censorship after Brevis was forcibly removed from a meeting while delivering a prepared statement. They argue that this incident infringed upon Brevis’ First Amendment rights and violated Louisiana’s Open Meetings Law. … Read more

Open Meeting Law Dispute Closely Watched: School Board Trustees Indemnified Amid Controversy over Private Legal Consultations

by

CARSON VALLEY, Nev. — A recent decision by the Nevada Attorney General’s Office concluded that three school board members did not violate Open Meeting Laws during a private consultation with legal counsel on April 9. Trustee Yvonne Wagstaff and former trustees Carey Kangas and Linda Gilkerson faced scrutiny when residents Virginia Starrett and David Seat filed an Open Meeting Law complaint against them. The complaint arose while the trustees were discussing a potential settlement to a lawsuit alleging records violations against four other board members. The Attorney General ruled on May 23 that the trio … Read more

Trump Urges South Africa’s Ramaphosa to Reevaluate Racial Equity Legislation in High-Stakes Meeting

by

Pretoria, South Africa — As global leaders gather to address pressing international issues, former U.S. President Donald Trump plans to meet with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa this week to discuss the nation’s racial equity laws. With a focus on investment opportunities, Trump is expected to urge Ramaphosa to reconsider several policies that promote racial equity in the country. Trump’s interest in these discussions comes in the backdrop of his ongoing efforts to revive his political career while amplifying his economic agenda. The former president has expressed concerns that such laws could deter foreign investment … Read more

Bossier Parish Set to Discuss Property Tax Rates in Upcoming Public Meeting

by

Benton, LA – In a recent development unfolding in Bossier Parish, the local Police Jury has announced a meeting set for May 21, during which they plan to discuss the levying of 2025 ad valorem property tax millages. This has sparked interest and some concern among residents about the potential for increased property taxes through a process known as a “tax roll forward.” Local governments periodically reassess property values which can lead to adjustments in tax rates. When assessments yield higher property values, millage rates can be rolled back to avoid collecting extra revenue, thereby … Read more