By KELLY P. KISSEL | Metro editor East Baton Rouge Parish's court system has a specialized court that offers hope for redemption and not just punishment. We talked those behind the 19th Judicial District's drug court, and some of the people who have gone through it. A pair of key tax votes are coming up. In East Baton Rouge Parish, those in the area covered by the St. George Fire Department are already considering a 4-mill property tax increase to pay for operations and personnel in a growing region. Early voting is underway. And next year, Livingston Parish voters will look at a possible 1-cent sales tax increase that would be directed toward higher pay for personnel. Livingston has had a hard time filling some positions. And be sure to keep an eye on the weather this afternoon and tonight. We've already seen tornado warnings for a system of storms that moved from Mamou to areas north of St. Francisville. More bad weather is expected into tomorrow morning. |