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ALEX MORASKI

SPECIAL TO THE DAILY NEWS 

 

The City of Bogalusa is resisting the State of Louisiana’s attempt to install a fiscal administrator, contending that the move is politically motivated rather than a necessary financial intervention.

In a statement issued Saturday, city officials rejected claims that Bogalusa has mismanaged funds, citing documentation demonstrating progress in addressing outstanding debts. The state has alleged that the city owes hundreds of thousands of dollars to vendors and has failed to fulfill its financial responsibilities.

“The proposed fiscal administrator, Bob Neilsen, was terminated by the current administration due to multiple conflicts of interest,” the city’s statement read. “This is a coordinated political takeover, not a financial oversight issue.”

Neilsen responded, stating that the mayor does not have the authority or power to fire him.

City officials pointed to an October 2024 Risk Management Inc. (RMI) email confirming that Bogalusa had settled more than $800,000 in outstanding insurance payments. The latest statement from RMI, dated Feb. 18, 2025, indicates that the city’s remaining balance with the company is fully resolved, with all past-due amounts cleared.

The state’s intervention also raises legal concerns, with questions about Mayor Tyrin Truong’s authority to represent the city in legal matters. The mayor has sought court approval to hire legal representation, as the city council has opposed his dispute handling.

“The state threatens not only the autonomy of the City of Bogalusa, but it also raises serious concerns about the rights of majority-African American communities to govern themselves,” the city’s statement read. “This is not just a matter of fiscal management—it is a matter of civil rights and justice for all.”

A special city council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 24, at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the matter further. A court hearing is also set for Friday, Feb. 28, in Franklinton before Judge Alan Zaunbrecher.

“The state threatens not only the autonomy of the City of Bogalusa, but it also raises serious concerns about the rights of majority-African American communities to govern themselves,” the city’s statement read. “This is not just a matter of fiscal management—it is a matter of civil rights and justice for all.”

A special city council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 24, at 5:30 p.m. to discuss the matter further. A court hearing is also set for Friday, Feb. 28, in Franklinton before Judge Alan Zaunbrecher.