Franklin council discusses growth, housing and Mardi Gras

Franklin Mayor Eugene Foulcard and the City Council met Tuesday, January 20, at City Hall, where officials introduced a new subdivision ordinance aimed at preparing the city for future growth and approved a series of resolutions affecting city finances, community programs, and upcoming events.
Mayor Eugene P. Foulcard opened the meeting by highlighting recent national recognition received for the Historic Downtown Franklin Pocket Park, which was named one of just 20 transformative spaces in the country by the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions.
“The recognition highlights Franklin’s vision in turning an underused space into a vibrant community asset,” Foulcard said, noting the project’s impact on economic growth, tourism and quality of life.
Foulcard also spoke about long-term housing challenges and the need for updated development regulations. He told the council the city has not seen construction of a new subdivision since the late 1960s, despite major shifts in the housing market and ongoing efforts to remove blighted properties. More than 60 structures have been demolished, with 25 more awaiting demolition.
In response, council members formally introduced Ordinance 3473, which would create new chapters in the city’s code of ordinances related to subdivisions. The mayor said the ordinance will not be considered for adoption until February, allowing time for review and public engagement.
In other business, the council unanimously adopted Ordinance 3472, which corrects a clerical error in a previously adopted ordinance.
Council members also approved a number of resolutions, including authorizing the opening of a “Protested Taxes Escrow” account at First National Bank of Jeanerette and allowing the mayor to enter into a cooperative endeavor agreement with St. Mary Parish Water and Sewer Commission 4.
The council approved a resolution temporarily lifting the city’s open container law along the Mardi Gras parade route on Mardi Gras Day, February 17, from one hour before the parade until one hour after. Glass containers will still be prohibited.
Support for youth programs was also addressed, with the council authorizing the Franklin Youth Organization to use facilities at Caffery Park for youth baseball and softball from February 1 through August 1.
Several resolutions were adopted updating required plans connected to the Louisiana Community Development Block Grant Program, including the city’s Citizen Participation Plan, grievance procedure, residential anti-displacement plan, language access plan and a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf plan.
During departmental reports, financial statements for November 2025 were presented. Councilman Lester Levine also raised concerns about the use of e-bikes and scooters on city streets. Police Chief Handy was asked to review how neighboring communities regulate such vehicles, with the possibility of a future ordinance to address safety and property protection.
Before adjourning, Mayor Foulcard announced that the St. Mary Council on Aging and St. Mary AARP Chapter 4435 will host “Mardi Gras on the Bayou” on January 24 in Morgan City.