Shreveport Leaders Express Concern Over Surging Liquor Stores
SHREVEPORT, La. – The city of Shreveport is facing growing concerns from local leaders regarding the rising number of liquor stores that significantly outnumber grocery stores in the area. This situation has raised questions about community development and access to essential goods.
City Council Discussions
During recent city council meetings, members expressed their unease surrounding the concentration of liquor stores. Councilwoman Tabatha Taylor highlighted the issue within her district, noting a stark contrast between the number of liquor stores and the absence of grocery retailers. “In my district’s five-mile radius, we have around nine liquor stores but no grocery store. Is it really saying that liquor holds more value than nourishing food?” she questioned.
Community Voices
Residents from areas such as MLK are echoing these sentiments. One local remarked, “We need another store on the Cooper Road similar to what Low Mart was. My focus isn’t on liquor; it’s about having a grocery store that kids can walk to.” This sentiment reflects a desire for safe access to groceries, rather than an excess of liquor outlets.
Potential Impact on Local Businesses
Concerns over the saturation of liquor stores also extend to the local economy. Business owner Bernie Woods warned, “There’s no way all these liquor stores can survive. Continuing to add more will only lead to vacant buildings when some inevitably shut down.” He believes that a balanced mix of businesses is essential for a healthy local economy.
City’s Response
The Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) has indicated a willingness to consider new ordinances related to the liquor store proliferation. They are navigating how best to balance community safety and economic development with residents’ needs for grocery access.
Looking Forward
As the conversation continues, Shreveport leaders aim to find solutions that promote growth while ensuring residents have access to essential services. The city is at a crossroads where the focus will determine the direction of its community planning and development strategies.
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.
