By Tiffany Flournoy

HOMER, La. — Residents in unincorporated Claiborne Parish could lose parish-funded garbage pickup if voters reject a November 2026 renewal of a 2% sales tax.

Without voter approval, the parish would no longer fund residential garbage collection, dumpsters, or roll-off containers, that have historically been provided through sales tax for residents outside the unincorporated areas of the parish, Claiborne Parish Police jurors said during their regular meeting on  Feb. 4. 

The tax currently provides these services at no extra cost to households outside municipal limits, making its renewal critical for residents.

Financial updates presented at meeting showed December 2025 net sales tax collections totaled $68,983 — up 13.16% from November but down 2.47% compared with December 2024. The parish’s cash position stood at $12.17 million as of Jan. 31, reflecting an increase of more than $1 million from the previous month.

The jury also approved a request from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to issue the parish’s assurance letter to the agency’s Right of Way Section. Members also voted to discontinue Sparklight phone and internet service at the parish road barn on Highway 2 due to unreliable connectivity. The facility will continue using Starlink internet

At the meeting, parish  officials celebrated Haynesville High School’s football team, unanimously declaring Feb. 4 “Golden Tornado Day.” The team finished a perfect 14-0 season with a 39-37 win over Mangham, claiming its 18th state championship.

Other business included approval of minutes from the Jan. 7 meeting, payment of January bills, and a request from the Village of Athens for assistance with Mill Street repairs under its ad valorem tax credit program.

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