ST. MARY PARISH, La. (KLFY) -- The proposed 1% sales tax for the city of Franklin's fire and police departments is projected to bring in around $1.3 million annually.

The tax funds will be split between the departments for them to operate at a higher level and maintain safety in the community.

"That will allow for the replacement of updating equipment raises. Things like that will allow us to serve the community better," said Police Chief Cedric Handy.

Fire Chief Chuck Bourgeois said the tax is needed so the fire department can hire more personnel and purchase new equipment.

"This will go towards an additional five training fire personnel, which all of this in a group will help us on our fire rating. It would help keep it down," Bourgeois said.

"This is a very, very good deal that we're doing to try and push this through because we want qualified police officers and qualified fire personnel to come on board because, said Franklin Mayor Eugene Foulcard. "You could make a career out of those two honorable professions."

The tax will begin on April 1, 2025, if passed.

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