Senate Bill No. 78, introduced by Senator Jenkins, amends the governing structure of the Shreveport Downtown Development District by modifying the composition and residency requirements of its board of commissioners. The bill specifies that one member of the authority must have expertise in fields such as urban planning, commercial real estate development, or architecture. Additionally, while all other members are required to reside in the district or have a principal place of business or own property there, the newly designated member with the specified background is exempt from these residency requirements.

The bill also establishes that the terms for board members will remain three years, with the possibility of reappointment. It outlines a procedure for filling vacancies that arise, ensuring that nominations come from the same group that appointed the outgoing member. Importantly, the provisions of this bill will only apply prospectively, affecting vacancies that occur after its effective date of August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB78 Original: 33:38(C)(2)
SB78 Engrossed: 33:38(C)(2)
SB78 Reengrossed: 33:38(C)(2)