Two property tax renewals critical to the ongoing operations of Teche-Vermilion Fresh Water District and the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office got the thumbs up from voters during a light turnout Saturday.

Both received overwhelming support from the approximate 20,000 people who turned out for the special election, according to complete but unofficial results.

One tax totaling 1.5 mills was approved by 76% and is referred to as a maintenance tax for the purpose of constructing, establishing, extending, maintaining, operating and protecting a fresh water supply and abating pollution in Bayou Teche and the Vermilion River within Lafayette Parish. 

“The Teche Vermilion Freshwater District flooding control and, as well as, fresh water is very important, to keep the river flowing. and that has happened with that Teche Vermilion implementation.,” said Louis Perret with the Lafayette Parish Clerk of Court. 

Total yes voters was 7, 652 votes and 2,476 no votes. 

The second one totaling 8.76 mills, was approved by 67% and covers mostly salaries and benefits for employees of the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office.

“Sheriff’s office provides many services throughout Lafayette Parish along with maintainig a very expensive jail,” said Perret. 

Together, the taxes, which were first approved 10 years ago, generate around $25.6 million annually,