Veterans ask for ad valorem tax for Houma museum

The museum opened its doors to the public in February 2008, and according to Veteran Memorial District Chairman Ken Royston, the Houma Regional Military Museum has been drawing a crowd ever since. But now, it’s in need of a few upgrades.

“The museum has been manned exclusively by volunteers, and some of them are World War II volunteers who are beginning to feel their years,” Royston said. “The collection of artifacts has grown by leaps and bounds and at this time a building about this size is desperately needed. Likewise, a professional staff is needed to manage the museum.”

In order to fund these needs to keep the museum effectively up and running, Royston and other members of the Veteran’s Memorial District asked Terrebonne Parish Council to put a half-mill ad valorem tax on the Nov. 2 general election ballot.

“We ask that you let the voters of Terrebonne Parish voice their wishes in this matter,” Royston said.

The tax would cost, on average, $3.75 per year for a $150,000 household with the $75,000 homestead exemption, and $8.75 per year for a $250,000 household with the same homestead exemption. The tax would bring in an annual sum of $360,000, according to Jamie Elfert, chief finance officer for Terrebonne Parish.

The council agreed to move forward with the measure. Pending a review by attorneys, the tax proposal will be voted on once again at the parish council’s Aug. 25 meeting. If approved, the tax proposal would go to the public on the Nov. 2 ballot, which also includes the U.S. Senate and 3rd District Congressional District races and several state amendments.

“We are not tonight authorizing this millage to be accepted. All we’re doing is putting it on the ballot so the people in the parish can make the decision,” Councilman Johnny Pizzolatto said.

“I would hope people in the parish would support this millage,” he said. “For the people who haven’t been to the museum, you need to go visit it if you really want to see what history is all about. It is wonderful place to visit.”

The rest of council also supported this measure, noting war veterans’ importance – not just to Louisiana, but also to the entire country.

“I think it’s a fantastic endeavor and I want to see it successful, I’m going to go ahead and support this because it takes it to the next level,” Councilman Kevin Voisin said, who had reservations about adding a new tax while locals are still faced with the drilling moratorium, but said he would see how the proposal develops.

“We really need to remember that we wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the veterans. They have done such a good job for us from the beginning of time. They kept us free and kept us with this form of government and we always need to honor them,” Pizzolatto said.

Councilman Alvin Tillman said even his two sons, ages 1 and 10, are fans of the museum.

“I think this millage, if it should pass, will be a symbol of how Terrebonne Parish respects, loves and supports our veterans,” Pizzolatto added.