House Bill No. 184, introduced by Representative Ventrella, seeks to create the Central Recreation District in East Baton Rouge Parish, which will function as a political subdivision with boundaries that align with the city of Central. The bill establishes a governance structure for the district, managed by a board of commissioners, and grants it various powers, including the ability to acquire property, levy taxes, and issue bonds for park and recreational facilities. Notably, the existing Recreation and Park Commission for East Baton Rouge Parish will lose its authority to levy taxes within the district's boundaries starting July 1, 2025, marking a significant shift in local governance over recreational services.

Key provisions of the bill include the transition of authority from the Recreation and Park Commission to the Central Recreation District, which will take full control of park and recreational properties within its jurisdiction by the specified date. The bill allows the new district to impose ad valorem taxes, contingent upon voter approval, to fund its activities. It also mandates cooperation between the commission and the district to ensure a smooth transfer of assets and records, while prohibiting the commission from interfering with this process. The bill is set to take effect upon the governor's signature or after the designated time for gubernatorial action.

Statutes affected:
HB649 Original: 33:4(B)
HB649 Engrossed: 33:4(B)