Understanding What a 7-Square-Mile City Can and Cannot Do for You.
Breaking down the capabilities and limitations of a city with a 7-square-mile area provides insight into what residents can reasonably expect in terms of services, infrastructure, and governance.
By Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA), published on 3-19-2025 updated on 3-19-2025.
Welcome to Denham Springs
Nestled in Livingston Parish, Denham Springs, Louisiana incorporated in 1903, spans 7 square miles and is home to a population of 10,132 (2023 Census). Surrounded by natural beauty, Denham Springs shares Livingston Parish's expansive area of 703 square miles, which includes 55 square miles of water and a total population of 142,282 (2020 Census). To the east, neighboring East Baton Rouge Parish enhances the region's diversity, encompassing 470 square miles of land and 15 square miles of water.
Government Profile
Denham Springs operates under the mayor-board of aldermen (city council) form of government, a structure it has upheld since its incorporation in 1903. The five-member governing council oversees policy-making, legislative duties, and administrative activities, including passing ordinances, adopting budgets, and appointing committees. The mayor, elected at large alongside the council, is tasked with implementing the council's policies, managing day-to-day operations, and appointing department heads with council approval. Both the mayor and council members serve four-year terms, ensuring stable and consistent governance.
The city holds the authority to levy property taxes on real and personal properties within its boundaries, contributing to its ability to provide comprehensive public services.
Services and Amenities
Denham Springs prides itself on offering a wide range of services to residents and visitors alike. These include:
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Public Safety: Police and fire protection.
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Infrastructure Maintenance: Streets, drainage, and landscape beautification.
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Community Services: Animal control, cemetery management, recreation, health services, and tourism initiatives.
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Utilities and Waste Management: Gas, water, and sewer services, as well as recycling and solid waste disposal.
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Planning and Development: Building inspections, zoning regulations, and the Main Street Program to promote local business and tourism.
With its dedication to providing efficient and diverse services, Denham Springs continues to be a thriving hub for family-friendly living and economic activity.
Leadership Team
- Mayor: Gerard Landry
- City Council Members:
- Poole, Robert
- Lamm-Williams, Lori
- Dugas, Amber
- Gilbert, Jim
- Wesley, Jeff
- Planning and Zoning Commission
- Banks, Fred (Chairman)
- Lawson, Bill (Vice-Chairman)
- Ballard, Denver (Commissioner)
- Cavalier, John (Commissioner)
- McLavy, Gayle (Commissioner)
- Riley, Ray (Commissioner)
- Whitmire, Chris (Commissioner)
- Department Heads:
- Animal Control: Boutwell, Rachel
- Business License: Cook, Ira
- City Attorney: Hulett, Stephanie
- City Clerk: Anderson, Buffy
- Building Official: Foster, Rick
- Engineers:
- Financial: Hood, Michelle
- Fire Dept. Chief: Stafford, Richard
- Gas Dept.: Dugas, Darrell
- Grants: Jennings, Donna
- Treasurer: Hood, Michelle
- Planning and Zoning: Banks, Fred
- Police Chief: Walker, Rodney
- Purchasing: Harris, Dana
- Street Dept.: Lathers, George
- Wastewater: Clark, B.J.
- Water Dept.: Harris, Ben
- Misc.