A.  The board of commissioners may, when necessary, levy annually an ad valorem tax not to exceed five mills on the dollar of assessed valuation of all property, provided that the amount, term, and purpose of said tax, as set out in a proposition submitted to a vote in accordance with the Louisiana Election Code, shall be approved by the approval of two-thirds of the parish council and a majority of the qualified electors voting in a special election held for that purpose.  

B.  All funds derived under this Section may be used for any expenses or purposes of the district.  The board of commissioners shall establish and maintain, in addition to all necessary and normal accounts, the following special accounts:

(1)  An economic development operational fund, for the development and attraction of industries to accomplish the following:

(a)  The operational fund shall be used for operating expenses necessary in creation of industrial and commercial development, in hiring sufficient staff to accomplish the purposes set out in this Chapter, and other related expenses.  

(b)  The operational fund may also be utilized in contracting for services as may be required by the district including but not limited to planning assistance, surveys, land use studies, technical services, and other services necessary to effectuate a unified industrial development plan.  

(2)  An account for the maintenance and operation of a governmental procurement center to provide necessary information to companies and individuals engaged in providing services and goods to accomplish the following:

(a)  Pinpoint and identify potential buying centers and aid in placing the company on a bidder’s list for these centers and assist companies in obtaining specifications for their products or services.  

(b)  Provide trained counselors to assist in acquiring solicitation and bid packages and conduct seminars designed to disseminate other information needed by the target companies and individuals.  

Acts 1990, No. 710, §1.