The Madison Parish Port Commission voiced opposition to House Bill 116 during its meeting, raising concerns about its potential impact on local rail operations and port revenue.
House Bill 116 would create the Northeast Louisiana Multimodal District, a regional entity with authority to promote rail service and economic development across multiple parishes. The district would have the power to enter contracts, develop infrastructure, and exercise authority similar to industrial and economic development districts.
During discussion, port officials said Madison Parish already has rail service and questioned the need to be included in the proposed district. The commission stated it did not want to lose its current rail tenant or revenue generated through existing operations. Officials said the bill could allow another entity to take over rail management and shift economic development authority away from the port.
Representatives connected to Delta Southern Railroad and Patriot Rail told the commission they supported the port’s position and opposed efforts tied to the bill. They said they have invested in the rail line and intend to continue operations in the parish. They also stated they did not see value in the proposed district from their standpoint.
Port officials said the bill could lead to the parish contributing funds to the district while providing limited benefit locally. Discussion included concern about a possible $100,000 contribution from Madison Parish to support the district.
The commission also discussed prior actions by the Madison Parish Police Jury, which had issued a letter of support for the effort. During the meeting, officials said they had spoken with police jurors and received verbal agreement to withdraw that support. Port representatives said they plan to work with the police jury to draft a new letter opposing the bill and formally rescinding the earlier position.
Commission members said they intend to coordinate with the police jury and seek formal action at an upcoming meeting. They also discussed requesting that a member of the port commission address the police jury directly regarding the issue.
At the Madison Parish Police Jury meeting, jurors expressed opposition to the proposal and indicated they did not support losing a tenant, employees, or revenue tied to port operations. Discussion included concerns about reports that the parish could be required to contribute funding to the district. Jurors stated they were not in support of participating in the proposed arrangement.
Police jury members also discussed sending communication to state officials stating that Madison Parish is not part of the proposed district and does not support inclusion. One juror said they would not sign onto any measure supporting the proposal.
The issue remains under consideration as local officials prepare further action and communication with state lawmakers regarding House Bill 116.
