LSU Leadership Questions Spending of Economic Development District Tax Funds

University leadership questioned the appropriate use of tax dollars collected by the LSU Economic Development District, which had gathered nearly a million dollars in about a year. Emails show conversations between LSU President Wade Rousse and Chris Meyer, who was the president of the Baton Rouge Area Foundation. In February 2026, Chris Meyer had requested contributions of up to $400,000 from the district to support concerts, one of which did not take place.

The controversy centers on whether tax-district funds are being used appropriately, as CFO Brandi Roberts stated that taxes collected for the district should be directed toward property acquisitions and improvements. Legal commentary noted that sales tax collection requires voter approval and that attempts to bypass voters are considered taxation without representation.