Foulcard discusses water plant challenges and funding efforts

Franklin – Several community representatives shared updates during the Franklin City Council meeting held Tuesday, March 17. Miller Engineers & Associates reported on the ongoing Water Plant Improvements Project, noting the successful completion of the filter media project in August 2025 and outlining forthcoming upgrades.
Other updates included:
-Cathy and Brooke Latiolais of the Franklin Main Street Merchants Association promoted upcoming events including Dinner Under the Lampposts and the Bayou Teche Bear Festival. They also highlighted the Bunny Hop event scheduled for March 28.
-Marcus Johnson addressed Crohn’s and IBD awareness, announcing his 4th Annual IBD Awareness Event set for May 23 at Parc Sur La Teche.
-Chez Hope Executive Director Cherise Picard invited residents to participate in their inaugural Do Your Thing with a Wing fundraising cook-off.
In his executive report, Mayor Foulcard discussed the challenges faced during the February 20 water service interruption, attributed to the failure of two raw water intake pumps at the Franklin Water Plant. He commended city personnel and first responders for their dedication, noting that they worked late into the night to restore water service.
Mayor Foulcard emphasized his administration’s commitment to addressing the aging water infrastructure and the efforts being made to secure funding for necessary improvements. He expressed gratitude to Senator Bret Allain and Representative Vincent St. Blanc for their continued support.
In other news, the Council:
-Approved the minutes from the previous meeting
-Introduced Ordinance No. 3478, which sets tax rates for the municipal corporation for 2026.
-Adopted the amended fiscal budget for 2025-2026, including a significant increase in revenue from building permits.
Council members adopted several resolutions to temporarily lift the open alcohol container law for upcoming community events including Dinner Under the Lampposts on April 11, Bayou Teche Bear Festival from April 23-25 and the Do Your Thing with a Wing Cookoff on May 2, all with restrictions against glass containers.
A proclamation was also passed to designate April 2026 as Fair Housing Month.
Public Relations Director Ed “Tiger” Verdin announced a line-up of upcoming events for the community, including:
-Ducks Unlimited banquet
-Laine Hardy concert
-Teen Wellness Day
-Bayou to Main Marketplace
-Dinner Under the Lampposts
-Love the Boot Franklin Citywide Cleanup
-Louisiana Department of Insurance Town Hall & Workshops
-Bayou Teche Bear Festival
-Do Your Thing with a Wing Cookoff.