In a heartfelt presentation held during the March 19 Regular Agenda Meeting, the Bossier Parish Police Jury adopted a resolution to honor Mr. Charles Varnell for his remarkable 23 years of service on the Bossier Parish Communications District No. 1 Board. Mr. Varnell has been a pivotal figure in the development and success of Bossier Parish 911.
Mr. Varnell’s tenure on the board began over two decades ago, during which he served as Vice-Chairman from February 2006 until November 2017, and as Chairman from November 2017 until February 2025. His leadership and vision were instrumental in numerous significant projects, including the expansion and upgrade of the Bossier Parish 911 center, the implementation of a backup center, the introduction of a digital radio service for the Fire and Emergency Management System, and the establishment of a text system for 911 calls.
Beyond his technical contributions, Mr. Varnell was also a key player in adapting the Geographic Information System (GIS) and creating the Bossier Parish 911 GIS Consortium, further enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency services in the parish.
Mr. Varnell’s dedication extended beyond his professional responsibilities. He was actively involved in the Bossier Parish School’s Junior ROTC program and a committed member of his church communities at First United Methodist Church of Bossier and Benton Methodist Church.
Standing next to Mr. Varnell the Jury President Glenn Benton (L) and Parish Attorney Patrick Jackson (R). Jackson said he was proud to take the photo with Mr. Varnell and drew a huge laugh from the audience when he stated that Mr. Varnell was the only adult other than his parents to spank him while he attended elementary school.
Mr. Varnell leaves a legacy that will benefit the community, and his contributions will be cherished for years to come.
Broadband Projects in Bossier Parish
Mr. Veneeth Iyengar, Executive Director of ConnectLA, updated the police jury on the Gumbo Funds Grants allocated for broadband upgrades in the parish.
Mr. Iyengar stated that there are about 6,500 locations in Bossier Parish without internet service. He mentioned that these projects have already allocated funds from the state’s Gumbo 2.0 Infrastructure Bill and are currently waiting for federal funding to complete them.
Jury President Glenn Benton said he is happy that they are working to provide internet service to the whole state, but he’s particularly excited for Bossier Parish. “I’m excited that we are in the final chapter where everyone in the parish can finally have high-speed internet,” Benton said.
GUMBO is Louisiana’s competitive grant program for multi-phase broadband infrastructure. GUMBO funds broadband infrastructure projects in areas that currently lack access to internet at speeds of 25/3 Mbps.
Stepping Down and Stepping Up
During his report to the jury, “Coach” Warren Saucier announced his decision to step down as Director of Parks & Recreation for Bossier Parish.
After successfully serving for 10 years, Coach Saucier announced that he will be stepping down as the full-time director of the Parks & Recreation Department on March 31. Under his leadership, Coach Saucier’s service greatly contributed to the growth and enhancement of the Parks & Recreation Department which improved facilities, programs, and events in the parish’s parks.
“I am proud of the work you’ve done with Tall Timbers,” said Jury President Glenn Benton. “Every time I pass by the park it is full of activity, and that’s a good sign that the residents appreciate the work you’ve done.”
Beginning April 1, he will transition to a part-time role, while “Coach” Allen Wood will take over as the new full-time director of the department.