About the Office
What Is an Alderman?
Understanding the role, responsibilities, and powers of an Alderman under Louisiana's Lawrason Act.
The Foundation of Local Government
In Louisiana, most small and mid-sized municipalities — including Abita Springs — are governed under the Lawrason Act (La. R.S. 33:321 et seq.). This law establishes the structure of municipal government and defines the roles of elected officials, including the Mayor and the Board of Aldermen.
The Board of Aldermen serves as the legislative body of the municipality. Together, aldermen set policy, adopt ordinances, approve the budget, and provide oversight of local government operations. Each alderman represents the interests of the community as a whole.
Core Duties of an Alderman
Adopt Ordinances & Resolutions
Aldermen vote on local laws (ordinances) and formal statements of policy (resolutions) that govern everything from zoning and public safety to municipal services and fees.
Approve the Municipal Budget
The Board of Aldermen reviews and adopts the annual budget, authorizing how public funds are collected and spent. This is one of the most consequential powers of the board.
Confirm Appointments
Certain mayoral appointments — such as department heads and municipal employees — require confirmation by the Board of Aldermen, providing a check on executive authority.
Oversight & Accountability
Aldermen provide legislative oversight of municipal operations, ensuring that public funds are spent appropriately and that the administration is acting in the community's best interest.
Set Tax Rates & Fees
The board has authority to establish millage rates, utility rates, and other fees within limits set by state law, directly affecting residents' tax bills and cost of services.
Zoning & Land Use
Aldermen vote on zoning changes, subdivision regulations, and land use decisions that shape the physical character and growth of the community.
The Lawrason Act at a Glance
The Lawrason Act is the primary state law governing municipalities like Abita Springs. Here are key points about how it structures local government:
- The Mayor serves as the chief executive and administrative officer, responsible for day-to-day operations.
- The Board of Aldermen is the legislative branch — it makes the laws and sets policy; the Mayor carries them out.
- Aldermen are elected at-large or by ward, depending on the municipality's charter.
- Regular board meetings must be open to the public under Louisiana's Open Meetings Law.
- The board can override a mayoral veto with a two-thirds vote of its members.
- Aldermen serve four-year terms and may be recalled by voters under state law.
Why It Matters for Abita Springs
Abita Springs is a small, close-knit community where local decisions have an outsized impact on daily life. The alderman who sits on the board helps decide how your tax dollars are spent, what gets built in your neighborhood, and how municipal services are delivered.
That's why Bob Krieger is running — to bring transparency, fiscal responsibility, and a genuine neighbor's perspective to the Board of Aldermen. He believes local government works best when it's accessible, accountable, and rooted in the community it serves.
Ready to Get Involved?
Learn more about Bob's priorities for Abita Springs, or join the campaign today.