Bogalusa Finance Committee Reviews 2025 Budget, Finalizes 2022 Audit

BOGALUSA, Louisiana - The Bogalusa City Council’s Finance Committee convened Wednesday morning to address two critical financial matters: finalizing the 2022 audit and reviewing the proposed 2025 city budget.

The session included a detailed, line-by-line review of departmental allocations, revenue projections, and funding priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. Officials examined each fund’s anticipated performance and discussed strategies for strengthening the city’s financial health in 2025.

A key goal discussed was the city’s commitment to avoiding any arrears in federal or state tax obligations. City officials confirmed that a payment plan has been established with the IRS to resolve existing liabilities. However, they acknowledged that late fees will continue to accrue under the current agreement.

In addition to budget discussions, the committee also reviewed the closeout process for the long-delayed 2022 municipal audit. The audit is now in its final stages and is being submitted to the IRS for review. As mandated by the city charter, the audit must be completed annually by an independent firm, presented to the council, and made available to the public to ensure transparency and accountability.

This latest meeting follows a prior Finance Committee session held on June 3, 2025, where the same topics—financial reporting, budget planning, and audit updates—were also discussed. The recurring focus on these issues highlights ongoing deliberations and potential adjustments to both the budget and audit documentation.

Wednesday’s session marks a significant step forward in Bogalusa’s fiscal planning process. The Finance Committee is expected to forward its recommendations to the full City Council for further review, possible amendments, and eventual adoption.