Questions Over Repaving Parking Lots for Private Businesses
A tense investigation is underway in Bossier City after revelations that two private business parking lots on Benton Road were repaved at the city’s expense, reportedly costing taxpayers around $280,000. The repaving was completed without competitive bids and without Bossier City Council approval, raising concerns about possible violations of Louisiana’s public bid laws.
Origins of the Dispute
The controversy began after construction on the Walter O. Bigby Carriageway allegedly damaged parking lots for the two businesses, Scot’s Audio & Trim Design, and Bossier Power Equipment.
Some say access to the lots was cut off; others claim the pavement itself was damaged. Additional business owners have now stepped forward claiming similar damage and are considering legal action.
City Council members questioned why bids were never sought and who authorized the project. Under Louisiana law, public projects typically require a bidding process unless an emergency is declared. So far, no official emergency declaration has been produced.
Emails, Servers, and a Clarification from the Assistant City Attorney
The dispute escalated during a Friday investigative committee meeting chaired by Councilman Brian Hammons. Assistant City Attorney Richard Ray drew attention when he said he deletes emails after 30 days, sparking speculation about missing records.
Download the KEEL Mobile App Now
Ray has since clarified in an email statement that he does not delete emails from the city’s server. Instead, his computer is set to store only 30 days’ worth locally due to space limitations, while all messages remain on the city’s email server for retrieval.“I have never deleted a single email and… there has never been a violation of any records retention schedule,” Ray wrote, adding that he has already provided all documents he believes are relevant to the parking lot investigation.
Louisiana Public Bid Law Requirements Breakdown
Under Louisiana’s Public Bid Law (which applies to local government entities like Bossier City), the minimum dollar amount for a project to be required to go out for bid depends on the nature of the project:
- Public Works Projects (including construction): The contract limit is $250,000 per project. However, this amount is subject to annual adjustments by the office of facility planning and control based on the Consumer Price Index.
- Purchases of Materials and Supplies: The limit is $60,000.
- Purchases of $30,000 to $60,000 for materials and supplies require obtaining at least three quotes by telephone, facsimile, email, or other printable electronic form.
These thresholds apply to local governmental entities unless they choose to follow the Louisiana Procurement Code or purchase goods off of state contracts.
When a public works project is estimated to be less than the contract limit ($250,000), the public entity should still competitively negotiate with contractors and obtain quotes to ensure a fair and reasonable price.
Bossier City Assistant City Attorney Richard Ray Full Statement…