Committee backs bill to create Real Timbers crime-prevention district in Arley's Parish

Senate Bill 380, presented March 11, 2026 to the Committee on Local Municipal Affairs by Senator Carter, would establish the Real Timbers Crime Prevention and Security District in Arley's Parish and authorize a voter-approved parcel fee to fund crime-reduction measures.

Senator Carter said he worked with neighborhood residents and staff during the interim and described typical district tools such as cameras and neighborhood patrols. "These security districts have been really [helpful] in actually reducing crime in neighborhoods," Carter said, while acknowledging he did not bring specific studies to the committee.

Committee members asked about fiscal controls and oversight. Senator Jay Morris and others asked whether the association would be audited and what guardrails exist for the parcel fee; staff answered that the district shall be subject to audit by the legislative auditor, language the committee located in the statute.

Senators discussed whether neighboring districts could coordinate patrols and agreed there was no apparent legal barrier to cooperative arrangements. Senator Carter said he encouraged coordination where practical.

Senator Boudreaux moved that the committee report SB 380 favorably. With no recorded opposition, the measure was reported favorably.

What's next: SB 380 was reported favorably by the committee and will proceed toward further legislative consideration.