Property Tax Revenues Would Help Fund Storm Museum

LAKE CHARLES, LA (AP) — The Calcasieu Parish Public Trust Authority is asking the Calcasieu Police Jury to call an election next year for voters to consider a 10-year parish-wide property tax to partially fund the National Hurricane Museum and Science Center and maintain seven other museums within the parish.

         The American Press reports police jurors heard about the proposal Thursday. The panel will take action on the request at its Jan. 7 meeting. If approved, the election would be set for April 9.

         Tim Castle, the trust authority's chairman, said the authority made the request because it has the ability to do financial assistance for cultural facilities.

         Mark McMurry, secretary treasurer for the museum's board of directors, said $42 million has already been raised, but that a $15 million gap remains. The museum's estimated price tag is $57 million.