Shreveport Leaders Raise Alarm Over Surging Liquor Store Numbers

Concerns Grow in Local Communities

In Shreveport, Louisiana, city leaders have expressed serious concerns regarding the rapid increase in the number of liquor stores compared to grocery stores. Recent observations made by city council members have spotlighted this growing imbalance, particularly in neighborhoods like Queensborough, Allendale, Cedar Grove, and MLK.

Voices from the Community

District A Councilwoman Tabatha Taylor highlighted the alarming situation in her district, noting that within just a five-mile radius, her constituents have access to approximately nine liquor stores, yet they lack a single grocery store. “I should not have nine stores serving liquor in my community,” she stated. “You’re going to tell me that liquor has a higher value than fruit and vegetables and meats and potatoes? I think not.”

Residents Seeking Grocery Options

Local residents have echoed the call for more grocery options, emphasizing the need for accessible stores where families can shop for essentials. An MLK area resident remarked, “We need another store on the Cooper Road like Low Mart was. I ain’t thinking about no liquor store. I would just like to have another grocery store in the neighborhood where the kids can walk to the store.”

Impact on Local Businesses

Business owner Bernie Woods warned that the oversaturation of liquor stores could lead to a detrimental effect on the local economy. “Tell the whole city council and the mayor there’s too many liquor stores in this town,” he exclaimed. “There’s no point in keep putting more in and having some shut down. You’re just going to have vacant buildings again.”

City Planning Commission Response

The city’s Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) has acknowledged the issue, stating that they are open to discuss new ordinances related to the number of liquor stores. Though KSLA has reached out for a comment, no response has been received yet.

A Community in Need

The growing concern over the prevalence of liquor stores is more than just numbers; it reflects the desires and needs of the community for growth and improvement. As discussions continue, residents and leaders alike hope to see a shift toward more balanced, health-focused development in Shreveport.

Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER

The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.