Mayor Rick Allen presided over his final meeting of the Leesville City Council today, concluding his twelve years of dedicated service as he retires from office. The room was filled with a quiet sense of gratitude as colleagues, staff, and community members gathered to honor his years of steadfast leadership.
The meeting opened with an invocation from Brother Mark Christian of First United Pentecostal Church, who offered heartfelt words about Mayor Allen’s commitment to his community and the faith that has guided him throughout his tenure. His remarks set a warm and reflective tone for the afternoon.
A particularly meaningful moment came when Mayor Keith Lewing of Anacoco presented Mayor Allen with a commemorative plaque, honoring the respect, trust, and partnership that have shaped their years of working together. Lewing highlighted Mayor Allen’s steady leadership in Leesville and his broader impact across Louisiana, including his leadership of the Louisiana Municipal Association, where he played a key role in bringing that organization to a balanced budget and worked tirelessly to support smaller communities across the state.
Mayor Allen then issued his final proclamation for the City of Leesville — one he described as a personal honor — recognizing the late T. Barrett Porter, Louisiana’s first professional rodeo cowboy and a local legend. Presenting the proclamation to Porter’s family, he shared personal memories of “T. Berry” and spoke about how deeply he will be missed in the community.
This meeting also marked the final council meeting for Delain Prewitt, Council Member for District 4, who also chose not to seek re‑election and is retiring from office. Before her election to the council, Prewitt served the City of Leesville for many years as City Administrator. Her long record of dedication and public service was recognized with warm appreciation from her colleagues.
As Mayor Allen’s service concludes on July 1, the City of Leesville prepares to select its next mayor in the June 27 run‑off election between LaFonda Stelly and Jim Shapkoff, Jr. Two council seats will also be on the ballot. Residents are encouraged to participate and make their voices heard by casting their vote. For official election information, residents should refer to trusted state and parish election resources.