Ben Harris said improving existing infrastructure, pursuing grants, and expanding access to city services would be priorities if he is elected mayor of Denham Springs.
The city’s water department superintendent outlined what he calls a “smart growth plan” during an interview with publisher and Executive Director of the Louisiana Press Association, McHugh David, on The Livingston Parish News’ weekly podcast. Harris said the city should address traffic and other infrastructure needs before expanding.
A central proposal is widening Hatchell Lane to three lanes, including a center turn lane. Harris said the change would help drivers enter and leave subdivisions and churches and move through school traffic on the city’s north side.
He said he has discussed the idea with engineers and would begin pursuing it on his first day in office.
Harris also supported the proposed DEMCO Drive connection, saying it would be needed to accommodate a hotel, civic center, and other businesses. He said he wants planned interchange improvements near Interstate 12 modeled before construction to determine whether they would provide the expected traffic relief.
Harris also supported the proposed DEMCO Drive connection, saying it would be needed to accommodate the new hotel, civic center, and other businesses coming to the TIF development at the corner of Rushing Road and Pete's Highway.
Harris said road improvements should include sidewalks and bicycle paths to improve safety for residents who walk or ride. He emphasized seeking state and federal grants to pay for infrastructure rather than relying on additional city tax dollars.
He described opportunities for road studies and funding through regional planning organizations, including an arrangement in which the state pays 80% and the city pays 20%. Harris said the city should identify roads for consideration and pursue the available funding.
Drawing on his water department experience, Harris cited $3.7 million in grant funding for a new well. He said older wells had been rebuilt after the flood, but aging casings prompted him to pursue a replacement for the oldest one.
Harris said he also seeks funding for valves that allow crews to isolate water mains. He praised the city’s grant writer and said relationships developed during 25 years of city employment would help him pursue funding as mayor.
“I will stay on top of getting grant money,” Harris said.
On development, Harris said he favors commercial growth once infrastructure can support it. He linked that position to the success of planned interchange improvements and said existing traffic and safety needs should come first.
He opposed placing another subdivision near existing subdivisions if it would direct more water onto neighboring properties. Commercial growth, he said, could bring spending and tax revenue into the city from outside residents.
Harris proposed overhauling the city website and making city hall a place where residents could obtain help with a broader range of needs.
“We need to open ourselves up to the community more,” he said.
His proposal includes iPads or laptops in the city hall lobby so people without computers could submit reports, request assistance, or locate services. Staff would be available to help residents navigate the process, he said.
Harris said the website should connect residents with help for drug or mental health problems, utility concerns, and business needs. He said residents should be able to find directions to immediate assistance online.
For people starting small businesses, Harris said city employees should explain permitting requirements and remain involved throughout the process. He also proposed directing business owners to the DEMCO Business Development Center.
On public safety, Harris said both the police and fire departments need another person on each shift. He cited his experience as a reserve police officer and his water department’s work with firefighters.
Harris praised both departments’ performance and said additional staffing, equipment, and other resources could help them do more. He again pointed to grants as a potential source of support.
Asked about hotel and motel tax revenue, Harris supported a conservative approach to pay increases while the city evaluates collections and its ability to sustain higher salaries. He said a new hotel could generate additional revenue.
Downtown, Harris described the Antique District as the city’s heart and an important gathering place. He said he is open to different types of businesses, with property owners deciding how to use their buildings while following historic rules and regulations.
Harris said his 25 years working for the city under three administrations have prepared him to become mayor without a transition period. He said he already understands daily operations and wants to use that experience to improve infrastructure and residents’ quality of life.
He also emphasized explaining the city’s responsibilities to residents. Harris said questions about yard drainage, tree limbs, and other neighborhood concerns sometimes reflect confusion about which duties belong to the city and which belong to property owners.
When a problem falls outside city responsibilities, he said, employees should help residents find the appropriate source of assistance rather than simply turning them away.
Harris said his work has developed into a commitment to public service.
“I want to serve the people of this community,” he said.
