The city of Gonzales is making headlines for all the wrong reasons, and it’s not just a political issue, it could soon affect everyday life for residents.

Mayor Tim Riley recently introduced a $22.3 million general fund budget for the upcoming 2025–2026 fiscal year. But when it came time for the Gonzales City Council to vote, things hit a wall. The budget was voted down twice with a 2–2 tie. Members that voted no on the budget said they wanted an itemized list of the spending.

Because Louisiana law says cities without an approved budget must operate with only half of last year’s funds, Gonzales is now running on about $11 million. That’s a major cut, and it could cause serious problems.

What’s at Risk?

Police and fire departments, along with other essential city services, may run out of money by November—or even sooner if spending isn’t slowed. That means fewer officers, delayed emergency response times, and major slowdowns in city planning and operations.

Mayor Riley isn’t giving up. He recently received approval to bring in the South Central Planning & Development Commission to help manage the planning department. He’s also calling on the council to come back to the table and find a compromise at the upcoming July 28 meeting.

This standoff may sound like politics as usual, but for Gonzales residents, it could soon mean fewer services, less safety, and stalled progress.

If you live in or around Gonzales, Baton Rouge, Prairieville, or anywhere in Ascension Parish, now’s a good time to stay informed and get involved. Local government decisions like this one can directly impact your neighborhood, your family, and your future.

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