This bill amends and reenacts several provisions of R.S. 33:2740.8 related to the Downtown Development District of Baton Rouge, focusing on the governance structure and operational framework. The governing board will now consist of seven members who are qualified voters of East Baton Rouge Parish, appointed by the mayor-president with metro council approval from various community sources, including property owners and residents. The terms for board members are standardized to three years, with a limit of two consecutive terms, and the process for filling vacancies has been clarified. Additionally, the bill introduces a requirement for the metro council to appoint an executive director recommended by the board, who will oversee staff appointments, and modifies the compensation structure to allow for travel allowances under specific conditions.

The legislation also addresses the provision of services and capital improvements within the district, allowing these to be provided by either the district or the city-parish through its established entities. It updates the language regarding the acquisition and construction of capital improvements, indicating that these may be carried out by the city-parish as well. The bill facilitates inter-governmental contracts, enabling the district to enter agreements with the city-parish for services, with funding for these services coming from a special tax on real property, bond proceeds, or directly from the city-parish. Current board members will continue to serve until their terms expire, with successors serving three-year terms. Overall, the bill aims to enhance governance and accountability within the Downtown Development District.

Statutes affected:
HB213 Original: 33:8(D)(1), 33:8(N)
HB213 Engrossed: 33:8(D)(1)
HB213 Reengrossed: 33:8(D)
HB213 Enrolled: 33:8(D)
HB213 Act 789: 33:8(D)