Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux has withdrawn his proposal for a temporary 2% surcharge on water and sewer bills that was intended to fund the demolition of large, abandoned apartment complexes and commercial properties across Shreveport.

The decision follows discussions with members of the City Council and feedback from the public.

“I have asked the Chief Administrative Officer to prepare the budget ordinances without the surcharge and without the intended uses of the funds that the surcharge was projected to generate,” said Mayor Arceneaux. “We welcome input from the Council and the community on alternative ways to address large property demolitions.”

The Mayor emphasized that the need to address dangerous, dilapidated structures remains urgent. The City will continue to pursue litigation against negligent property owners, seek state and federal grants, and explore partnerships — including potential assistance from the Louisiana Army National Guard — to help remove unsafe buildings.

“Blight impacts every neighborhood in our city,” Mayor Arceneaux said. “We must continue working together to find realistic and responsible ways to eliminate it without jeopardizing the City’s financial stability.”