On October 11, voters across Washington Parish will be asked to renew four existing millages that support core public services: the Washington Parish Library, the Health Units, Parish Roads, and the maintenance of Courthouse and other public buildings. These are not new taxes, but renewals of long-standing millages that help keep our parish connected, healthy, and running smoothly.
•Washington Parish Library - 4.6 Mills
Our public libraries serve more than 62,000 visitors each year and offer far more than books. In our parish, where home internet may not always be available to all, the library is often the only place residents can access free computers, high-speed Wi-Fi, and essential resources like job search tools and resume help.
Franklinton's library branch, along with those in Bogalusa, Enon, and Thomas, also lends laptops, mobile hotspots, and even state park passes. From children's story times to technology assistance and genealogy research, our libraries support lifelong learning and preserve the unique heritage of Washington Parish.
•Health Units - 3.11 Mills
The parish health units provide affordable care to residents of all ages. No one is turned away. Services include immunizations, WIC and high-risk nutrition clinics, women's health services, children's special health services, and other preventive care.
These health units do more than provide clinical care - they also help protect public health by inspecting food establishments, water systems, and sewage systems parish-wide. With a 25% increase in patient visits last year alone, it's clear that these services remain vital to families in our community.
•Parish Roads - 4.13 Mills
Washington Parish is responsible for maintaining nearly 1,000 miles of rural roads. This millage funds the materials, equipment, and work crews needed to repair and improve them. Over the past decade, nearly 300 miles have been resurfaced - a major investment in infrastructure.
Our roads serve as lifelines for residents, businesses, school buses, and emergency services. Continued maintenance is essential to keeping them safe and passable.
•Courthouse and Public Building Maintenance - 1.03 Mills
Public buildings like the Courthouse in Franklinton, the Sheriff's Office, and the jail require ongoing upkeep to remain functional and safe. This millage supports crucial repairs to plumbing, electrical systems, HVAC units, and other infrastructure - ensuring public services can continue without disruption.
These four millage renewals support services that many of us depend on daily, often without even realizing it. Whether it's accessing healthcare, reliable roads, free internet at the library, or well-maintained public facilities - these investments quietly keep Washington Parish moving forward.
While each renewal addresses a different need, all share a common goal: strengthening the quality of life for residents across our parish.
We encourage all voters to learn more about what these millages support and to make informed decisions on October 11 or during early voting. Early voting continue through Saturday, October 4. Early voting hours are 8:30 am until 6:00 pm. Early voting takes place at the courthouse in Franklinton and at Northshore Technical College in Bogalusa.
For the actual October 11 election, if you are unsure of your polling location you can check with the Clerk of Court’s office or the Registrar of Voters office at the courthouse. Or simply click here: https://voterportal.sos.la.gov/Home/VoterLogin
