Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana – The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury convened for its regular meeting on January 9, where members elected Judd Bares as the president and Mike Smith as the vice president for the year 2025. This election marks a significant moment for the local governing body, as it prepares to tackle various issues affecting the parish in the upcoming year.
Judd Bares, representing District 12, is no stranger to the role of president, having previously served in 2018. Bares is currently in his third term as a juror and brings a wealth of experience to the position. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from McNeese State University and has an extensive background as an award-winning television producer spanning over two decades. Currently, he is employed in sales and marketing at Mike Willis Ford. In his acceptance speech, Bares expressed his commitment to serve the residents of Calcasieu Parish diligently. “I’m honored to have the opportunity to represent my fellow jurors as the 2025 Police Jury President and I will work tirelessly for the residents of Calcasieu Parish,” he stated.
Mike Smith, serving his second term as a juror for District 2, has a background as the owner and agent of Big Mike Bail Bonds and Consulting in Lake Charles. A graduate of Washington-Marion High School and the University of Southwestern Louisiana, now known as the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (ULL), Smith brings a diverse perspective to the vice presidency. His experience in the local business community will be invaluable as the Police Jury addresses the needs of its constituents.
As the newly elected leadership takes office, the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury will focus on various matters, including infrastructure improvement, community safety, and economic development. The collaboration between Bares and Smith is expected to foster a productive environment for addressing these challenges.
With these new appointments, Calcasieu Parish is poised for a year of active governance under the direction of its capable leaders.