By JIM BUTLER

Voters are being asked to approve two Fire District No. 2 “in lieu” tax propositions.

That in essence means the district proposes to renew existing taxes before their expiration, add to them and extend their life.

The April 18 election was called by the Police Jury at its November session, added to the agenda at that meeting by unanimous vote. Juror Parish Giles was absent.

The proposals would take effect with the 2026 tax roll and continue through 2035.

Twenty-five mills is sought for the district’s Service Area No. 1, a specific section of the total district territory, essentially that portion in the Station 1 Ransbottom Drive area overlapping in some areas now annexed into the City of Alexandria.

It is estimated to generate about $1.35 million a year, replacing a 16.31 mills tax now in effect.

Proposed for the district outside that service area is a 20-mill levy, replacing a 15.58-mill tax approved through 2031.

The millage is estimated to raise about $7.67 million annually.

Proceeds of both would be used to acquire, construct, maintain and operate fire protection and emergency services, vehicles and equipment, according to the ballot resolutions.