ADDRESSING CONCERNS - Yesterday afternoon Bossier Parish leaders held a news conference to reassure citizens on matters relating to COVID-19 and to address some rumors floating about. Bossier Parish Sheriff Julian Whittington said he has received several inquiries about massive lockdowns and other concerns.
"There are no plans for massive lockdowns," Whittington said. "No closing of interstates, no martial law, no none of that."
While Bossier Parish Schools remain closed, students who rely on breakfast and lunch programs can still receive food at any of the 14 school feeding sites. School Superintendent Mitch Downey explained how many meals have been served recently.
"Served over 4100 meals today with our sites at those 14 different schools," explained Downey. "So we are able to continue that service."
Downey also said unused protective gear that was in storage for school chemistry and science labs was given to local hospitals. Bossier Mayor Lo Walker said the city’s administrative offices are still open.
"We've encouraged people to use our drop-box to pay their utility bills or to pay on-wire or to do those sorts of things or work with us on the telephone wherever it's feasible,"explained Walker. "Bt know that city hall is open."
Those who do visit Bossier City Hall in person will be required to maintain a safe distance apart from others while conducting business.
Bossier Parish officials urged people to be prepared see an increase of local positive cases of COVID-19 as more testing is done. Currently there are three testing sites in NW Louisiana, one in Bossier Parish and two in Caddo but a doctor’s order is required for a person to get tested. Of the 64 Louisiana parishes, 26 have reported Covid-19 cases. So far Caddo Parish has 10 confirmed cases, Bossier Parish has 4. Webster has 1. The total number of Covid-19 cases in Louisiana has 392 with 10 deaths reported.
