Public notices for Nov. 19, 2025
Joint Transportation, Highways and Public Works hearing schedule
Click here to download the Oct. 25 Morgan City Council minutes
PUBLIC NOTICE
PROCEEDINGS OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERWICK, STATE OF LOUISIANA TAKEN AT A REGULAR MEETING HELD ON TUESDAY
November 11, 2025
The Mayor and Council of the Town of Berwick, State of Louisiana, met in regular session at their regular meeting place, the Town Hall, Berwick, Louisiana, Tuesday November 11, 2025, at six (6:00) o’clock p.m.
There were present: Council members Colleen As- kew, Kevin Hebert, Lud Henry, Raymond Price, and James Richard.
Absent: None
Pastor Herb Stanley from Cornerstone Ministries led the prayer.
Councilman Raymond Price led the Pledge of Allegiance.
The Mayor and Council of the Town of Berwick, State of Louisiana were duly convened as the governing authority of said Town, led by the Honorable Du- val Arthur Jr, Mayor, who then stated that the Mayor and Council were ready for the transaction of business.
The minutes of the previous meeting were approved without reading upon motion James Richard and seconded by Raymond Price.
The Treasurer’s report, having been reviewed, was ap- proved without reading upon mo- tion by Lud Henry and seconded by Colleen Askew.
The Beacon did not shine on anyone this month.
Guest for the November 2025 meeting was Ms. Beverly Domen-geaux from St. Mary Council on Aging. Ms. Domen-geaux presented the Town of Berwick with the 2025 “From the Heart Award” for all of the support that has been shown to the council on aging. She ex- pressed her joy over the recent Lighthouse Festival Gumbo Cook-off, which raised $1,200, along with an additional $250 from the day’s raffle. This funding will enable her to remove some seniors from the waiting list for services.
Police Chief David Leonard presented the police report for October, 2025. Chief Leonard stated that things within the department are going well. After no further comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, Fire report.
Fire Chief Jody Acosta presented the fire report for October, 2025. Chief Acosta stated that the fire de- partment responded to 9 emergency calls. There were 2 motor vehicle accidents, 4 medical calls, 2 fire alarms, and 1 grass fire. After no further comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, the Public Works re- port.
Public Works Director Rafael Lopez presented the public works report for October, 2025. Mr. Lopez stated that things are running well in the public works department. After no further comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, consulting engineer’s report.
Town Engineer Mr. Reid Miller had nothing to report and was not present. The mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, committee reports.
The Economic Development and Public Safety Committees had nothing to report.
The Historical Committee reported that they recently held a “Night at the Museum” event for the Professional Teachers Organization. They also announced that the next Berwick Town Market will be held Saturday, November 15, 2025.
The Recreation Committee an- nounced that they will be hosting a Christmas movie night at the Berwick Civic Center on December 13, 2025 at 6:00pm. The event will in- clude, pictures with Santa, hot dogs, chips & drinks. They will be showing “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”
The Planning and Zoning Committee presented the October, 2025 report. After no further comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, Resolutions/Proclamations.
Item No. 1 under Resolutions/Proclamations – Resolution No. 05-26 – Request Funds – Sewer Infrastructure. This resolution is a resolution of request for as- sistance on behalf of the St. Mary Parish Wards 5 & 8 Joint Sewer Commission to help with repairs and upgrades to the sewer system. Upon motion by Raymond Price and seconded by James Richard, the resolution was approved by a un- animous roll call vote.
Item No. 1 under New Business – Appointment of Chief of Police – Jonathan Henry. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Colleen Askew, the appointment was approved by a un- animous roll call vote. Official swearing in will take place on November 21, 2025 upon retirement of the current Chief David Leonard, Sr.
Item No. 2 under New Business – Arc of St. Mary Center of Hope – Kristal Hebert – Update. Ms. He- bert reported that they currently have 23 adults with disabilities in their work program, 5 of which are Berwick residents. She ex- pressed gratitude for the police de- partment’s efforts to understand their community and address situations involving individuals with disabilities in a manner that re- quires a different approach.
Item No. 3 under New Business – Approve Change Order #1 for $15,000.00 to In- situform – Sewer Rehabilitation Project – 4th, Texas, Francis, & Utah Streets. Up- on motion by Lud Henry and seconded by Kevin He- bert, the change order was ap- proved by a unanimous roll call vote.
There being no further business to come before the Council, upon motion by Raymond Price and seconded by Colleen Askew the motion to adjourn was approved unanimously.
———————
Duval H. Arthur Jr –
Mayor
———————
Jamie Keith –
Town Clerk
Adv. Nov. 19, 2025
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PUBLIC NOTICE
Resolution
No. 05-26
The following resolution was in- troduced by Raymond Price and seconded by James Richard at council meeting held November 11, 2025.
Resolution for Request for Assistance on behalf of the St. Mary Parish Wards 5 & 8 Joint Sewer Commission
WHEREAS: The mayor and council members of the Town of Berwick recognize that an Intergovernmental Agreement was created in 1983 for the construction, operation, and maintenance of the sanitary sewerage collection and treatment facilities for Wards 5 & 8, located in St. Mary Parish, Town of Berwick, and Town of Patterson;
WHEREAS: The mayor and council members of the Town of Berwick recognize that the Intergovernmental Agreement was made between the Town of Berwick and the Town of Patterson and the Parish of St. Mary;
WHEREAS: The mayor and council members of the Town of Berwick recognizes that a portion of the cost for the operation and maintenance for the sanitary sewerage collection and treatment facilities for Wards 5 & 8 is paid by its citizens;
WHEREAS: The mayor and council members of the Town of Berwick recognize that the cost to its citizens has increased and may increase further in the future;
WHEREAS: The mayor and council members of the Town of Berwick recognize that the facilities and infrastructure of Wards 5 & 8 Joint Sewerage District are in serious need of re- pairs, updates, and upgrades;
WHEREAS: The mayor and council members of Berwick recognize that the State of Louisiana may be able to assist with the necessary repairs, updates, and upgrades to the sanitary sewerage collection and treatment facilities which greatly benefit the public;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED: That the mayor and council members of the Town of Berwick call upon the Honorable Robert Allain, Senator of District 21 and the Honorable Vincent “Vinney” J. St. Blanc, III, member of the Louisiana House of Representatives to seek any assistance possible from the State of Louisiana as far as funds, grants or capital outlay to help improve the infrastructure of the Wards 5 & 8 sewerage district benefiting the Town of Berwick, The Town of Patterson, and the Parish of St. Mary.
A vote on this Resolution was as follows:
Ayes: James Richard, Kevin Hebert, Colleen Askew, Raymond Price, and Lud Henry
Nayes: None
Absent: None
The Resolution was duly approved and adopted at a council meeting held on November 11, 2025. The Clerk of the Council certifies that the above Resolution is true and correct as adopted.
———————
Jamie Keith,
Clerk of Council
Date: ——————
APPROVED:
———————
Duval H. Arthur, Jr.,
Mayor
Date: ——————
Adv. Nov. 19, 2025
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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the following entitled ordinances were introduced at a regular meeting of the St. Mary Parish Council, State of Louisiana (the “Parish Council”), on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, and laid over for publication of notice:
PROPOSED ORDINANCES
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, Chapter 5 Procedures, Division 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearing, Section 5.4.2 Re- zonings (Zoning Map Amendments). (E&F Property Holdings LLC)
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, Chapter 5 Procedures, Division 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearing, Section 5.4.2 Re- zonings (Zoning Map Amendments). (Hope He- bert)
An Ordinance declaring multiple tax adjudicated properties as surplus property and authorize the Parish to proceed with the process for advertising and sale of such adjudicated properties.
NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Council will meet on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at five-fifty (5:50) o’clock p.m. at the Parish Council Room of the Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana, at which time there will be a public hearing on the adoption of the aforesaid ordinances.
/s/ Kristi P. Rink, M.D.
VICE CHAIRPERSON OF THE COUNCIL
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
/s/ Lisa C. Morgan
CLERK OF THE COUNCIL
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Adv. Nov. 19, 2025
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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the St. Mary Parish Council in accordance with law that a vacancy exists on the Board of Commissioners of Communications District E 911. (Emergency Medical Services).
The St. Mary Parish Council will receive applications for the filling of this vacancy from this date until December 11, 2025, at Noon.
Qualifications for submitting of an application will be in compliance with the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, Section 33:9103.
Applications may be mailed or personally submitted Monday- Thursday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. till noon on Friday to Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk of the Council, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana 70538.
The St. Mary Parish Council will meet in regular session on December 17, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana to fill this vacancy.
Adv. Nov. 19 and Dec. 3, 2025
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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the St. Mary Parish Council in accordance with law that a vacancy exists on the Board of Adjustments for the Parish of St. Mary.
The St. Mary Parish Council will receive applications for the filling of this vacancy from this date until December 11, 2025, at Noon.
Qualifications for submitting of an application will be in compliance with Ordinance No. 1738 – Section 5.3 Board of Adjustment – A. Composition and Appointment.
Applications may be mailed or personally submitted Monday- Thursday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. till noon on Friday to Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk of the Council, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana 70538.
The St. Mary Parish Council will meet in regular session on December 17, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana to fill this vacancy.
Adv. Nov. 19 and Dec. 3, 2025
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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the St. Mary Parish Council in accordance with law that a vacancy exists on the Board of Commissioners St. Mary Parish Planning and Zoning Commission.
The St. Mary Parish Council will receive applications for the filling of this vacancy from this date until December 11, 2025, at Noon.
Qualifications for submitting of an application will be in compliance with Ordinance No. 1569.
Applications may be mailed or personally submitted Monday- Thursday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. till noon on Friday to Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk of the Council, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana 70538.
The St. Mary Parish Council will meet in regular session on December 17, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana to fill this vacancy.
Adv. Nov. 19 and Dec. 3, 2025
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PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Sixteenth
Judicial District Court
——
PARISH OF
ST. MARY
——
STATE OF
LOUISIANA
LeBlanc &
Associates, LLC
Vs. No. 139765 Div “G”
Swiftships, LLC
TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of Writ of Fifa issued out of the Honorable 16th Judicial District Court, in and for the Parish of St. Mary, and to me directed, in the above numbered and entitled suit, I have seized the following mentioned and described property, to wit:
Non-exempt movable property: M/V RISEN SUN
United States Coast Guard Official No.: 1255897
Hull Identification No.: 9773105
Vessel Owner: Swiftships, LLC
Hailing Port: Morgan City, LA
Length: 182.9 feet
Breadth: 34 feet
Depth: 14.6 feet
Vessel Location: The Seacraft Shipyard, LLC, 3820 Lake Palourde Road, Amelia, LA 70340
to satisfy the sum of NINE HUNDRED SEVENTY-FOUR THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED TEN AND 97/100 ($974,910.97) DOLLARS, $194,431.73 in service charges of 1.5% per month on the outstanding amount, $50,000 in attorney’s fees and costs, for a total Judgment of $1,219,342.70 in- cluding post judgment interest at the rate of 4.25 percent per annum which will continue to accrue until the full judgment is collected and also, all costs, as well as all sheriff’s costs and commission
All successful bidders must have cash, cashier’s check or a verifiable letter of credit in favor of said bidder from a solvent bank, savings and loan association or other such financial institution authorized to do business in the state of Louisiana and full payment must be made on the date of sale. Letter must state that money is available on the date of sale.
I shall expose the same at public sale, for Cash, according to law WITH appraisement to the last and highest bidder, at the principal front door of the 1st floor lobby area of the Court House in the Parish of St. Mary, Town of Franklin, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 3rd day of December A.D., 2025, between the legal hours commencing at 10 O’Clock A.M.
Sheriff’s Office
Parish of St. Mary, La.
Tuesday, the 21st day of October A.D., 2025
GARY L.
DRISKELL,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
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Cost: $58.50
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE OF PUBLIC
HEARING
AGENCY PLAN AND CAPITAL FUND PLAN
BERWICK HOUSING AUTHORITY
The Berwick Housing Authority will conduct a Public Hearing at 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at the Community Room in the Office of the Housing Authority, 2751 Fifth St, P O Box 231, Berwick LA, 70342. The purpose of the hearing is to obtain citizen input on the following subjects:
* Amendment of the Admissions and Continued Oc- cupancy Policy to include but not limited to the re- vised Flat Rents, Utility Allowances, and other items to comply with HUD requirements.
* The Housing Authority’s Annual Agency Plan for 2026; of which the Housing Authority has formulated in compliance with HUD requirements.
* The Housing Authority’s Capital Fund Program (CFP) Annual Statement for 2026; and the CFP 5-Year Action Plan for 2026-2030, all of which the Housing Authority has formulated in compliance with HUD requirements.
The Agency Plans and Capital Fund Plans are available for re- view at the Housing Authority Of- fice at 2751 Fifth St, Berwick LA, 70342.
Those citizens unable to attend this hearing may submit their views in writing to:
Berwick Housing Authority
2751 Fifth St
P O Box 231
Berwick LA, 70342
Accommodations will be made for disabled and non English speaking individuals needing assistance, provided that the Housing Authority receives a three-day notice by calling the office at 985/385-1546.
———————
Clarence
Robinson,
Exec Director
Adv. Nov. 19, 2026
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PUBLIC NOTICE
OFFICIAL
PROCEEDINGS
CITY OF
MORGAN CITY
OCTOBER 28, 2025
The Mayor and City Council of Morgan City, Louisiana, met at 6:00 pm (local time) in regular session, this date, in the City Court Building, Highway 182 East, Morgan City, Louisiana.
There were present: Council Members Ron Bias, Bonnie Leonard, Tim Hymel, and Thomas Hutchinson, Jr.
Absent: Mayor Lee Dragna, Steve Domangue.
Also present were Mr. Charlie Solar, Jr., Chief Administrative Of- ficer, and Mr. Paul Landry, City Attorney.
The invocation was given by Reverend Brian Larson.
The Positive Im- age recipients for the month of October were Officer Ryan Aucoin, Narcotics Sergeant Brandon Billiot, Detective Sergeant Dustin Fromenthal, Detective Lieutenant Ricky Hartley, Detective Khai Hartley, and Detective Jeremiah Rink. Police Chief Chad Adams said that while traveling home, Officer Aucoin ob- served a vehicle matching the des- cription of suspects in recent national ATM burglaries. As a result of that traffic stop, a large sum of money and other evidence were recovered, and the suspects later confessed. These individuals may also be affiliated with a violent transnational criminal organization from Venezuela. He said Officer Aucoin’s quick actions and coordination with local agencies was a great reflection on himself as well as the entire de- partment. This arrest also led to arrests in Lafayette, Chicago, and Florida. He also recognized Narcotics Sergeant Brandon Billiot, Detective Sergeant Dustin Fromenthal, Detective Lieutenant Ricky Hartley, Detective Khai Hartley, and Detective Jeremiah Rink. He said they worked tirelessly to identify the vehicle, working with our Flock system, and that hopefully these arrests will prevent other people from thinking Morgan City is a soft target for committing crimes.
Mrs. Jenny Bailey addressed the Council regarding the third annual Tri City Weenie Spaghetti Cookoff (copy on file). She requested that the event be held on October 10, 2026, under the US Hwy 90 bridge. She said this event would benefit Hearts of Hope. A motion to approve the event was made by Mr. Hutchinson, seconded by Mr. Hymel, and voted unanimously in favor.
Dr. Kristal He- bert, Executive Director of the ARC of St. Mary, said she would like one of her members, Jordan Lee from Morgan City, to speak on behalf of the program. Jordan said she was diagnosed with autism at the age of four and has struggled with communication because of it. The employees at ARC were easy people to talk to and meant the world to her. She thanked her father and her stepmother for being hardworking, good people. Her principal at Morgan City High School was Mr. Hymel, and he always helped her whenever she en- countered any problems. She said that graduating from High School was the best day of her life. Mrs. He- bert gave the council an informational sheet (copy on file) and thanked them for their time and leadership.
Mr. Kolin Leonard thanked everyone on behalf of himself and the NICS organization for the support of their 1st annual Trunk or Treat. He said over 130 children from Lafayette, Hammond, New Orleans, Centerville, and the Houma area with special needs came out to enjoy the fun. Mr. Leonard requested permission to hold the 4th Annual Mama G’s Bar and Grill Swamp Pop Festival on May 1 & 2, 2026 (copy on file). He said that the festival was the biggest NICS fundraiser of the year, and last year they raised almost $22,000. He said there would be music beginning Friday from 6:00 PM to 9:45 PM, and then on Saturday, the festivities would kick off at 11:00 AM and end at 8:30 PM. The event would in- clude, in addition to music, food trucks from out of town and a live auction. A motion to approve the event was made by Mr. Hymel, seconded by Mr. Hutchinson, and voted unanimously in favor.
Mr. Brooks Rentrop with Da’ Bayou Paddle Co. requested permission to hold the 2nd Annual Pit vs. Pot event on August 8, 2026 (copy on file). He said the event would be held under the US 90 bridge from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the teams and vendors setting up as early as 5:00 AM. This year there were 448 people in attendance and a number of hotel rooms and air bnb bookings because of the event. He was hoping to grow the cookoff each year. There would be a kid fun zone, music and food. A motion to approve the Pit Vs. Pot Cookoff was made by Pastor Bias, seconded by Mr. Hymel, and voted unanimously in favor.
Ms. Lily Escort addressed the Council regarding the 3rd annual feeding of the community under the US Hwy 90 bridge on November 8, 2025, beginning at noon. She said it would take place at the corner of Third and Greenwood Streets and everyone was welcome to attend. A motion to approve the community feeding was made by Pastor Bias, seconded by Mr. Hutchinson, and voted unanimously in favor.
Mrs. Leonard re- minded everyone that the annual Budget Workshop would take place on November 6, 2025, at 3:00 PM at the Recreation Department on Everett Street. Pastor Bias re- minded everyone that October was Breast Cancer Awareness month, and many local organizations were holding fundraisers and awareness events. He felt it was very important for everyone to be screened regularly. Pastor Bias also mentioned that the company doing the blacktop projects around the city was doing a tremendous job. He also advised that the Blue Devil Field at Norman Park would be dedicated as soon as the cement was completed. Mr. Hymel said that the DOTD Representative had spoken at the Council of Governments meeting and mentioned that the Long-Allen Bridge was now projected to open in early summer 2026.
The minutes of the September 23, 2025 meeting were submitted. There being no corrections, additions, or deletions, a motion to approve the minutes was made by Pastor Bias, seconded by Mr.. Hutchinson, and voted unanimously in favor.
Mrs. Deborah Garber, Finance Director, submitted the following financial statement for the period ending September 30, 2025.
MONTHLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DATE: October 28, 2025
TO: Mayor and Council
FROM: Deborah Garber
RE: Comments related to summary of revenues and expenses compared to budget for the period ended September 30, 2025.
Attached is a summary that compares our actual revenues and expenses to our operational budget for our major funds subject to budgetary control for the period ending September 30, 2025. The following comments are related thereto:
General and Ancillary Funds: Actual revenues are just over budget by $55,608. Operating expenses and transfers to other funds are also over budget $84,070. The net deficiency of $3,133,636 is an unfavorable variance of $218,462 as compared to the adopted budget.
Utility Fund: Actual revenues in this fund remain over budget this month by $244,394. The operational expenses are also over budget by $1,132,649. The net excess, after transfers, of $522,770 creates an unfavorable variance again this month as compared to the budget of $721,307.
Sanitation and Sewer Fund: The operating revenues are slightly over budget by $56,051, with total operating expenses under budget by $62,813. The net excess, after transfers, of $361,885 leaves the only favorable variance again this month of $134,789.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/ Deborah Garber
Deborah Garber
Finance Director
A motion to accept the financial statement was made by Mr. Hutchinson, seconded by Mr. Hy- mel, and voted unanimously in favor.
The next matter on the agenda was the substantial completion for the Park Road Sewer Pump Station, whereupon;
Mr. Hymel offer-ed the following Resolution, who moved for its adoption.
RESOLUTION
NO. R: 25-56
WHEREAS, the firm of LA Contracting Enterprise, LLC. has substantially completed the work done under contract No. R:24-32 for the Park Road Sewer Pump Station project, dated August 27, 2024; and
WHEREAS, the contractor has requested that this work be put in the lien period, and
WHEREAS, the engineer for the project has recommended acceptance of said project as substantially complete, to begin the forty-five (45) day lien period with no items remaining to be done, and
WHEREAS, be- fore final payment is made, the engineer will so certify to the City that the project is fully complete and ap- prove the payment of the retainage,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RE- SOLVED, by the City Council, the governing authority of the City of Morgan City, Louisiana that the Mayor be and he is hereby authorized, empowered, and directed to execute the “Certificate of Substantial Completion” and that a copy of this resolution, along with said “Certificate” be filed with the Clerk of Courts of the Parish of St. Mary to initiate the forty-five (45) day lien period for the work done under the above mentioned contract.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED, that the Mayor is authorized to sign a Final Recap Change Order adjusting the final contract quantities and time period as necessary.
Pastor Bias seconded the motion.
The vote thereon was as follows:
AYES: Leonard, Bias, Blanchard, Domangue, Hymel
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
The resolution was therefore de- clared approved and adopted this 28th day of October, 2025.
/s/ Lee Dragna
Lee Dragna
Mayor
ATTEST:
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie Harrington
Clerk
Charlie Solar, CAO, said that the Grant Management Consultant Services were needed for the Lake End Parkway as well as the RAISE grants. Request for Qualifications had been received and he felt the best company was Royal Engineers and Consultants Services; whereupon,
Mr. Hutchinson offered the following Resolution, who moved for its adoption.
RESOLUTION
NO. R: 25-57
WHEREAS, the City requires professional expertise in grants management consulting; and
WHEREAS, re- quests for proposals were received on October 8, 2025; and
WHEREAS, after grading the proposals, Charlie Solar, Jr., CAO, has recommended entering into an agreement with the firms of Royal Engineers and Consultants, LLC for assistance in the Grant Management Consultant Services.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RE- SOLVED, by the City Council, the governing authority of the City of Morgan City, that the Mayor be, and he is hereby authorized, empowered, and directed to execute a contract with Royal Engineers and Consultants, LLC for the Grant Management Consultant Services.
Pastor Bias seconded the motion.
The vote thereon was as follows:
AYES: Hutchinson, Bias, Hymel, Leonard
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Do- mangue
The resolution was therefore de- clared approved and adopted this 28th day of October, 2025.
/s/ Lee Dragna
Lee Dragna
Mayor
ATTEST:
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie Harrington
Clerk
The retention of an attorney to handle our adjudicated properties was the next matter on the agenda; whereupon,
Pastor Bias offered the following Resolution, who moved for its adoption.
RESOLUTION
NO. R:25-58
WHEREAS the City of Morgan City, from time to time, is in need of the services of an attorney-at-law to perform certain designated projects such as interpreting municipal ordinances, ensuring due process, navigating procedural rules, and representing the city in court or ad- ministrative hearings in connection with the adjudication of property and for legal matters pertaining to the City, and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Tessa Seit- zinger, Attorney-at-law, has, in the past, handled such cases and has agreed to assist the city, when needed,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RE- SOLVED by the city council, the governing authority of the City of Morgan City, that it hereby retains Mrs. Tessa Seit- zinger to (a) perform any adjudication work when needed, at an hourly rate plus court costs to be recovered from defendant; (b) to act as curator ad-hoc for service for condemnations at fixed rate; and (c) perform adjudication of property services
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED, etc., that the Mayor be authorized to execute any documents necessary in the employment of Mrs. Seitzinger to perform work as outlined above.
Mr. Hymel seconded the motion.
The vote thereon was as follows:
AYES: Bias, Hymel, Hutchinson, Leonard
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Do- mangue
The resolution was therefore declared approved and adopted this 28th day of October, 2025.
/s/ Lee Dragna
Lee Dragna
Mayor
ATTEST:
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie Harrington
Clerk
Mrs. Leonard said the next resolution was to authorize the Mayor to sign an Intergovernmental Agreement with the St. Mary Levee District in regards to backwater flooding; whereupon,
Mr. Hymel offer-ed the following Resolution, who moved for its adoption.
RESOLUTION
NO. R: 25-59
WHEREAS, THE CITY OF MORGAN CITY, is a municipal corporation of the State of Louisiana, (“CITY”) represented herein by Lee Dragna, its duly authorized Mayor, and
WHEREAS, the ST. MARY LEVEE DISTRICT, (“SMLD”), is a political subdivision of the State of Louisiana, represented by its duly authorized President, William H. “Bill” Hidalgo; and
WHEREAS, Article VII, Section 14 (C) of the Constitution of the State of Louisiana provides that “For a public purpose the state and its political subdivisions or political corporations may engage in cooperative endeavors with each other, with the United States or its agencies, or with any public or private association, corporation, or individual;” and
WHEREAS, the project identified as the St. Mary Back Lakeside Flood Protection (TE-0168) project is being locally performed by the SMLD; and
WHEREAS, TE-0168 includes certain drainage upgrades and im- provements withing the City of Morgan City following Hurricane Francine; and
WHEREAS, the SMLD is using funds supplied by the CPRA under an agreement with the SMPG and the SMPCGDD for the purpose of installation of new pumps and motors and accessories, making repairs and alterations to pumps/motors under the control of the SMPCGDD to improve interior drainage, which is a necessary component of FEMA accredited levee systems for flood protection, and for the greater good of the residents of Morgan City.
WHEREAS, the parties now desire to enter into an agreement for the purpose of facilitating necessary and improved electrical service to certain pumps and pump stations within the City of Morgan City to reduce the threat of harm to citizens and damage to property in St. Mary Parish by reducing the risk of flooding through a coordinated in- ternal drainage and pumping system.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RE- SOLVED, by the City Council, the governing authority of the City of Morgan City, that Lee Dragna, Mayor, be, and he is hereby authorized, empowered, and directed to enter into any agreements and sign any documents necessary in connection with the Intergovernmental Agreement with the St. Mary Levee District.
Mr. Hutchinson seconded the motion.
The vote thereon was as follows:
AYES: Hymel, Hutchinson, Bias, Leonard
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Do- mangue
The resolution was therefore de- clared approved and adopted this 28th day of October, 2025.
/s/ Lee Dragna
Lee Dragna,
Mayor
ATTEST:
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie
Harrington,
Clerk
The next matter on the agenda was authorizing the issuance of tax bonds, which she explained was the line of credit; whereupon,
The following resolution was offered by Mr. Hy- mel and seconded by Pastor Bias:
RESOLUTION
NO. R:25-60
A resolution giving preliminary approval to the issuance of not to exceed Three Million One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($3,100,000) of Limited Tax Bonds of the City of Morgan City, State of Louisiana; and providing for other matters in connection therewith.
WHEREAS, the City of Morgan City, State of Louisiana (the “Issuer”), is now receiving revenues de- rived from the levy and collection of a special tax of 16.07 mills (such rate being subject to adjustment from time to time due to reassessment) which the Issuer is authorized to impose and collect each year (the “Tax”); and
WHEREAS, the Issuer desires to incur debt and issue not to exceed Three Million One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($3,100,000) of its Limited Tax Bonds (the “Bonds”), in the manner authorized and provided by Part II of Chapter 4 of Subtitle II of Title 39 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended, and other constitutional and statutory authority, for the purpose of (i) paying any costs associated with the demolition, rehabilitation, repair, reconstruction, renovation, restoration and im- provement of the Issuer’s properties and facilities resulting from or related to Hurricane Francine, including purchasing any materials, furnishings, fixtures and equipment incidental or necessary in connection therewith, and (ii) paying the costs of issuance of the Bonds; and
WHEREAS, the Issuer has no outstanding bonds or other obligations of any kind or nature payable from or enjoying a lien on the revenues of the Tax; and
WHEREAS, the Issuer desires to make formal application to the Louisiana State Bond Commission for approval of the Bonds;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RE- SOLVED by the Morgan City Council, acting as governing authority of the Issuer, that:
SECTION 1. Preliminary Ap- proval of Bonds. Preliminary ap- proval is given to the issuance of not exceeding Three Million One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($3,100,000) of Limited Tax Bonds (the “Bonds”) of the City of Morgan City, State of Louisiana (the “Issuer”), pursuant to Part II of Chapter 4 of Subtitle II of Title 39 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended, and other constitutional and statutory authority, for the purpose of (i) paying any costs associated with the demolition, rehabilitation, repair, reconstruction, renovation, restoration and im- provement of the Issuer’s properties and facilities resulting from or related to Hurricane Francine, including purchasing any materials, furnishings, fixtures and equipment incidental or necessary in connection therewith (the “Project”), and (ii) paying the costs of issuance of the Bonds.
The Bonds will be secured by and payable from an irrevocable pledge and dedication of the funds to be derived by the Issuer from the levy and collection of an ad valorem tax of 16.07 mills (such rate being subject to adjustment from time to time due to reassessment) which the Issuer is authorized to levy and collect in each year pursuant to Article VI, Section 27 of the Louisiana Constitution of 1974 (the “Tax”). The Bonds will be issued at an interest rate not exceeding 6% per annum and shall mature not later than March 1, 2038. The Bonds shall be issued in fully registered form and shall have such additional terms and provisions as may be determined by this Governing Authority.
SECTION 2. State Bond Commission. Application is hereby made to the State Bond Commission, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, for approval of the issuance and sale of the Bonds and for consent and authority to proceed with the issuance and sale of the Bonds as provided above, and Bond Counsel is directed to make application to the State Bond Commission in accordance with the foregoing on behalf of the Issuer.
By virtue of ap- plicant/issuer’s ap- plication for, ac- ceptance and utilization of the benefits of the Louisiana State Bond Commission’s ap- proval(s) resolved and set forth herein, it resolves that it understands and agrees that such approval(s) are expressly conditioned upon, and it further resolves that it understands, agrees and binds itself, its successors and assigns to, full and continuing compliance with the “State Bond Commission Policy on Approval of Proposed Use of Swaps, or other forms of Derivative Products Hedges, Etc.”, adopted by the Commission on July 20, 2006, as to the borrowing(s) and other matter(s) subject to the approval(s), including subsequent application and approval under said Policy of the implementation or use of any swap(s) or other product(s) or en- hancement(s) covered thereby.
SECTION 3. Employment. This Governing Authority finds and determines that a real necessity exists for the employment of special counsel in connection with the issuance of the Bonds, and accordingly, Foley & Judell, L.L.P., of New Orleans, Louisiana, as Bond Counsel, is hereby employed to do and perform work of a traditional legal nature as bond counsel with respect to the issuance and sale of said Bonds. Said Bond Counsel shall prepare and submit to this Governing Authority for adoption all of the proceedings incidental to the authorization, is- suance, sale and delivery of such Bonds, shall counsel and advise this Governing Authority as to the issuance and sale thereof and shall furnish its opinions covering the legality of the issuance of the Bonds. The fee of Bond Counsel for each series of bonds shall be fixed at a sum not exceeding the fee allowed by the Attorney General’s fee guidelines for such bond counsel work and based on the amount of said Bonds actually issued, sold, delivered and paid for, plus “out-of-pocket” expenses, said fees to be contingent upon the issuance, sale and delivery of said Bonds. The Mayor is hereby authorized and directed to execute, and this Governing Authority hereby agrees to and accepts the terms of the engagement letter of Bond Counsel appended hereto. A certified copy of this resolution shall be submitted to the Attorney General of the State of Louisiana for approval of said employment and of the fees herein designated, and payment for the work herein specified upon completion thereof and under the conditions herein enumerated is hereby ap- proved without further action of this Governing Authority.
SECTION 5. Appointment of Municipal Advisor. The Issuer hereby retains Government Consultants, Inc., of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to act as its Municipal Advisor (“MA”) pursuant to the provisions of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and the rules promulgated thereunder by the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Issuer hereby acknowledges that it is represented by the MA and will rely upon the advice of the MA with respect to the Bonds. The fee to be paid the MA shall be payable solely from the proceeds of the Bonds when and if issued, and the amount thereof shall be subject to the approval of the State Bond Commission. The Mayor is hereby authorized and directed, in his discretion, to execute any contract the MA may request with respect to the engagement.
SECTION 6. Reimbursement. Prior to the delivery of the Bonds, the Issuer presently intends and reasonably expects that it may pay all or a portion of the costs of the Project from legally available funds in its General Fund or Capital Projects Fund. Upon the issuance of the Bonds, the Issuer presently intends and reasonably ex- pects to reimburse any such expenditures for the Project from a portion of the proceeds of the Bonds, provided that such reimbursement shall be in an amount not currently reasonably expected to exceed the maximum principal amount of the Bonds set forth in Section 1 hereof. Any such allocation of proceeds of the Bonds for re- imbursement will be with respect to capital expenditures (as defined in Reg. 1.150-1(b)) and will be made not later than 3 years after the later of (i) the date such expenditure was paid or (ii) the date on which the Project was placed in service or abandoned. This Section is intended to be a declaration of official intent within the meaning of Reg. 1.150-2, and certain terms used in this Section shall have the meaning given in such Regulation. For purposes of this Section, the Project includes various repairs and improvements necessitated by Hurricane Francine, including electrical substation and power line and pole re- pairs, sewer lift station repairs, streetlights and street signs, repair and replacement of city vehicles, canal banks, and improvements to cemeteries and Cypress Park. All of the expenditures covered by this Section were or will be made on and after the date which is 60 days prior to the effective date of this Resolution or as otherwise allowed by Reg. 1.150-2 which includes, among other things, an exception for “preliminary expenditures” as defined therein.
This resolution having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:
YEAS: Hymel, Bias, Leonard, Hutchinson
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Do- mangue
ABSTAINING: None
And the resolution was adopted on this, the 28th day of October, 2025.
/s/ Lee Dragna
Mayor
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Clerk of the Council
The next matter on the agenda was the health insurance renewal. Mrs. Leonard said that there would be no change to the policy for employees as well as the city; whereupon
Pastor Bias offered the following Resolution, who moved for its adoption.
RESOLUTION
NO. R: 25-61
WHEREAS, the City’s health in- surance policy will expire December 31, 2025, and
WHEREAS, the Health Insurance Committee, after reviewing the proposal from A. J. Gallagher made the following recommendation as follows:
1. Continue to provide current benefits with no additional cost to the employees.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RE- SOLVED, by the City Council, the governing authority of the City of Morgan City, that the Mayor be and he is hereby authorized to execute the contract between the City and Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Louisiana, as per the recommendations of the Health Insurance Committee.
Mr. Hutchinson seconded the mo- tion.
The vote thereon was as follows:
AYES: Bias, Hutchinson, Hy- mel, Leonard
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Do- mangue
The resolution was therefore de- clared approved and adopted this 28th day of October, 2025.
/s/ Lee Dragna
Lee Dragna
Mayor
ATTEST:
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie Harrington
Clerk
Mrs. Leonard said that a motion was needed to expand the agenda to discuss the Capital Outlay application that was due November 1. A motion to expand the agenda was made by Pastor Bias, seconded by Mr, Hymel, and voted unanimously in favor; whereupon
Mr. Hutchinson offered the following Resolution, who moved for its adoption.
RESOLUTION
NO. R: 25-62
WHEREAS, the Mayor submitted to the council, the following projects for re-submission to the State re- questing Capital Outlay funding:
Sewer Rehabilitation, $990,000
Water System Improvements, $7,656,000
Morgan City Lake End Parkway Pier Development, $13,110,000
Pavement Preservation Program, $6,160,000
Morgan City Wellness Center, $23,180,550
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RE- SOLVED by the City Council, the governing authority of the City of Morgan City, Louisiana that it hereby supports the Mayor’s request, to the state, for Capital Outlay Funds to complete these projects.
Pastor Bias seconded the motion.
The vote thereon was as follows:
AYES: Hutchinson, Bias, Hymel, Leonard
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Do- mangue
The resolution was therefore de- clared approved and adopted this 28th day of October, 2025.
/s/ Lee Dragna
Lee Dragna
Mayor
ATTEST:
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie Harrington
Clerk
The first reading of the Drug Free Zone ordinance was the next matter on the agenda. This was a first reading, and no definitive action was necessary.
The first reading for the Firearm Free Zone ordinance was the next matter on the agenda. This was a first reading, and no definitive action was necessary.
The first reading for the 2025 Budget Amendment was next. This was a first reading, and no definitive action was necessary.
The public hearing for the 2026 Budget was the next matter on the agenda. Mrs. Leonard said that the Budget Meeting was scheduled for November 6, so the ordinance would be up for adoption at the November meeting.
The public hearing for the Grills and outdoor cooking was opened. No one appeared for or against said ordinance; whereupon,
This ordinance was introduced with a first reading on September 23, 2025. Published by title on September 26, 2025.
Pastor Bias offered the following ordinance, who moved for its adoption.
ORDINANCE
NO. 25-06
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MORGAN CITY, LOUISIANA TO ENACT SECTION 42-6 TO PROVIDE FOR GRILLS AND OUTDOOR COOKING/
HEATING
APPLIANCES
SECTION 1
BE IT ORDAIN-ED by the Mayor and Council, the governing authority of the City of Morgan City, Louisiana, that Article I, In General, Section 42-6, Grills and Outdoor Cooking/ Heating Appliances, be enacted by adding thereto, the following paragraph.
********
Chapter 42 – Fire Prevention and Protection
Article I –
In General
Section 42-6. Grills and Outdoor Cooking/ Heating Appliances
Barbecue grills and other cooking appliances intended for outdoor use shall not be used indoors of any structure within the city limits, whether said ap- pliance is using gas, propane, electricity, or combustibles (wood, charcoal, etc.)
Furthermore, in accordance with NFPA 1, Chapter 10.10.6.1, Cooking Equipment, for other than one and two family dwellings, outdoor cooking appliances, grills, or other similar devices intended for cooking, heating, or any other purpose shall not be used, kindled, or stored in any of the following locations: (1) On any balcony; (2) Under any overhanging portion of a structure; (3) Within 10 feet of any structure.
********
SECTION 2
Should any section, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase be de- clared unconstitutional or repealed for any reason, the remainder of the ordinance shall not be affected hereby. That all laws or parts of laws in conflict with this ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed. This ordinance shall take effect immediately after its passage within the time prescribed by law.
Mr. Hymel seconded the motion.
The vote thereon was as follows:
AYES: Bias, Hy- mel, Hutchinson, Leonard
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Do- mangue
Certified ap- proved and adopted this 28th day of October, 2025.
Delivered to Mayor Dragna at 9:00 am, this 5th day of November, 2025.
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie Harrington
Clerk
Approved this 5th day of November, 2025.
/s/ Lee Dragna
Lee Dragna
Mayor
Received from Mayor at 9:30 am on November 5, 2025.
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie Harrington
Clerk
Published: November 12, 2025
The public hearing for the Meter Deposits for Security Lights was opened. No one appeared for or against said ordinance; whereupon,
This ordinance was introduced with a first reading on September 23, 2025. Published by title on September 26, 2025.
Mr. Hutchinson offered the following ordinance, who moved for its adoption.
ORDINANCE
NO. 25-07
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MORGAN CITY AMENDING AND REENACTING SECTION 110-32, METER DEPOSITS; SECURITY LIGHTS, OF CHAPTER 110, UTILITES, ARTICLE II, ELECTRIC SERVICE, OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF MORGAN CITY.
SECTION 1
BE IT ORDAIN-ED, by the City Council, the governing authority of the City of Morgan City, Louisiana, that Section 110-32 of the code of ordinances be amended and re- enacted as follows:
********
Sec. 110-32. Meter deposits; security lights.
(a) Meter deposits are as follows:
(1) Homeowners, nonhomeowners, mobile homes, apartments, etc., $100.00, with valid US Drivers License, Passport, or other United States issued Picture ID. For anyone not able to produce a valid United States issued Picture ID, the deposit shall be $1,000.00. For existing homeowners, mobile homes, apartments, etc., who are delinquent, the deposit shall be an average of the highest three bills in a 12- month period.
(2) Commercial or industrial, one month’s average utility bill as follows: $200.00 de- posit at time of connect, the balance to equal one month’s utility bill to be adjusted according to average of first three months’ bills. The total deposit in any case shall not be less than $200.00.
For existing commercial or industrial accounts who are delinquent, the deposit shall be an average of the highest three bills in a 12-month period.
The sum so deposited shall be held as security for the payment of bills for electric energy consumed. Each depositor, upon ceasing to be a consumer, shall have the right to withdraw such deposit upon surrendering the receipt and the payment of all bills due to the municipal water, electric light and power plant for electric energy supplied.
(b) Security lights. For customers desiring security lighting, it shall be made available and shall be installed by the city’s electric transmission and distribution de- partment as follows:
(1) An application shall be submitted to the utility office for review and approval by an authorized representative.
(2) The cost of installation shall be paid by the applicant and will be calculated at cost of installation, to include all labor, materials and equipment.
(3) The monthly charges for energy consumed and maintenance of lights shall be as follows:
0 – 50W LED, per month….$3.00
50 – 100W LED, per month…..$5.00
100 – 200W LED, per month…..$7.00
200W LED or greater, per month…….$10.00
********
SECTION 2
Should any section, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase be de- clared unconstitutional or repealed for any reason, the remainder of the ordinance shall not be affected hereby. That all laws or parts of laws in conflict with this ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed. This ordinance shall take effect immediately after its passage within the time prescribed by law.
Pastor Bias seconded the motion.
The vote thereon was as follows:
AYES: Hutchinson, Bias, Hymel, Leonard
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Do- mangue
Certified ap- proved and adopted this 28th day of October, 2025.
Delivered to Mayor Dragna at 9:00 am, this 5th day of November, 2025.
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie
Harrington,
Clerk
Approved this 5th day of November, 2025.
/s/ Lee Dragna
Lee Dragna,
Mayor
Received from Mayor Dragna at 9:00 am, on November, 2025.
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie
Harrington,
Clerk
Published: November 2, 2025
There being no further business, a motion to adjourn was made by Mr. Hymel, seconded by Pastor Bias and voted unanimously in favor.
/s/ Lee Dragna
Lee Dragna
Mayor
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie Harrington
Clerk
Adv. Nov. 19, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
OFFICIAL
PROCEEDINGS
GRAVITY SUB-DRAINAGE DISTRICT
NO. 1 OF
GRAVITY DRAINAGE
DISTRICT NO. 2
REGULAR MEETING
October 14, 2025
6:00 p.m.
BAYOU VISTA, LOUISIANA
The Gravity Sub-Drainage District No. 1 of Gravity Drainage District No. 2 (“GSDD1ofGDD2”) met on this date at 6:00 p.m. with Vice Chairman Wayne Cantrell presiding with Raymond Beadle, DJ Mayon and Paige Voisin
Absent: Chad Ross
Also present: Alvin Lodrigue, District Supervisor, Barry Dufrene, District Accountant and Jules Darden, Miller En- gineering.
Mr. Beadle mov-ed, and Mr. Voisin seconded that the reading of the minutes of the Regular Meeting, September 9, 2025, be dispensed with and that the same be approved. The mo- tion carried.
Mr. Cantrell called for the Fin- ances and Payables Report. Mr. Dufrene presented the reports on the payables due for October 2025. Mr. Beadle moved, and Mr. Voisin seconded a motion, which was carried, to make the necessary transfers, to accept the payables report and pay all invoices.
Mr. Beadle made a motion, which was seconded by Mr. Voisin, to ap- prove the renewal of the insurance packet presented and to make any necessary premium payments as- sociated with the renewal which was carried by the board.
Board approved press release from Board Attorney, Mr. William Bourgeois regarding settlement agreement.
Mr. Cantrell also extended sincere appreciation on behalf of the Board to Mr. Don Lance, Mr. Harris Soileau, Mr. Hilliary Acosta, Ms. Barbara Vining and Mr. Gerald Hotard for their dedication and contributions towards settling the case regarding pump station damages.
With there being no other business, a motion to ad- journ was made by Mr. Beadle and seconded by Mr. Voisin. The motion passed.
Attest:
/s/ Wayne Cantrell,
Vice Chairman
Gravity Sub- Drainage District No. 1 of Gravity Drainage District No. 2
/s/ Rhonda
Patterson,
Secretary
Gravity Sub-Drainage District No. 1 of Gravity Drainage District No. 2
Adv. Nov. 19, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
The following ordinance was offered by Tammie Wilson and seconded by Debra Jones:
ORDINANCE
An ordinance providing for the continued levy within the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana, effective July 1, 2026, of a 0.45% sales and use tax (the “Tax”) upon the sale at retail, the use, the consumption, the distribution, the storage for use or consumption, and the lease or rental of tangible personal property, and the lease or rental of tangible personal property or digital products within the Parish, and upon sales of services in the Parish, and for the assessment, collection, payment thereof and the dedication of the proceeds of said Tax and the purpose for which the proceeds of the Tax may be ex- pended, said Tax having been authorized at a special election held in the Parish on October 11, 2025.
WHEREAS, under the provisions of Article VI, Section 29 of the Constitution of the State of Louisiana of 1974, and other constitutional and statutory authority and an election held on October 11, 2025, the Parish School Board of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana (the “School Board”), is authorized to levy and collect within the Parish, a 0.45% sales and use tax (the “Tax”), upon the sale at retail, the use, the lease or rental, the consumption, and the storage for use or consumption, of tangible personal property and upon the sale of services defined in applicable statutory authority, pursuant to the following proposition (the “Proposition”) which was ap- proved at said election held on October 11, 2025 (the “Election”):
PROPOSITION
(SALES TAX RENEWAL)
Shall the Parish School Board of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana (the “School Board”), be authorized to continue to levy and collect a sales and use tax of 0.45 % (the “Tax”), for a period of 5 years, beginning July 1, 2026, in accordance with Louisiana law (an estimated $5,100,000 reasonably expected at this time to be collected from the levy of the Tax for an entire year), with the proceeds of the Tax (after paying the reasonable and necessary expenses of collecting and administering the Tax) to be dedicated and used to supplement salaries and benefits paid by the School Board for teachers and other personnel employed by the School Board?
WHEREAS, in compliance with the aforesaid constitutional and statutory authority and the Election, it is the desire of this School Board to provide for the levy and collection of the Tax and to provide for distribution of the proceeds thereof and other matters in connection therewith as hereinafter provided in this Ordinance;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT OR- DAINED by the School Board of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana (the “School Board”), that:
SECTION 1. Im- position. Pursuant to the authority of the Election, the Tax is hereby levied and authorized to be collected, from and after the Effective Date (as hereinafter de- fined), upon the sale at retail, the use, the consumption, the distribution, the storage for use or consumption, and the lease or rental of tangible personal property, and the lease or rental of tangible personal property or digital products within the Parish, and upon sales of services in the Parish, as defined by law. The Uniform Local Sales Tax Code, as enacted by Act 73 of the 2003 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature and as it may be amended, shall apply in the as- sessment, collection, administration and enforcement of the Tax, the provisions of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
SECTION 2. De- finitions. This Or- dinance adopts by reference each and every one of the definitions set forth in Louisiana Revised Statute 47:301, as amended, and incorporates those definitions to be used herein for purposes of the interpretation, application and enforcement of the Tax.
SECTION 3. Rate of Tax. The Tax authorized herein and effective from and after the Effective Date shall be levied and imposed as follows:
(i) At the rate of 0.45% of the sales price of each item or article of tangible personal property, when sold at retail in the Parish; the Tax to be computed on the total sales price for the purpose of re- mitting the amount of Tax due to the Parish, and to include each and every retail sale.
(ii) At the rate of 0.45% of the cost price of each item or article of tangible personal property when the same is not sold, but is used, consumed, distributed, or stored for use or consumption in the Parish; provided there shall be no duplication of the Tax.
(iii) At the rate of 0.45% of the gross proceeds de- rived from the lease or rental of tangible personal property where the lease or rental of such property is an established business, or part of an established business, or the same is incidental or germane to the said business.
(iv) At the rate of 0.45% of the monthly lease or rental price paid by lessee or rentee, or contracted or agreed to be paid by lessee or rentee, to the owner of the tangible personal property.
(v) At the rate of 0.45% of the amounts paid or charged for all enumerated taxable sales of services, as defined by law, in the Parish.
(vi) At the rate of 0.45% of the sales price of each digital product, as that term is used and defined in Louisiana Revised Statute 47:301(32)(a), when sold at retail, leased or rented, or licensed in the Parish; the Tax to be computed in the same manner as authorized in the Louisiana Revised Statutes, as amended.
SECTION 4. Effective Date. The Tax shall be effective on July 1, 2026 (the “Effective Date”).
SECTION 5. Term. The Tax shall remain in effect for five (5) years (July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2031).
SECTION 6. Purposes. The proceeds of the Tax shall be used for the purposes set forth in the Proposition approved by the voters in the Election authorizing the Tax, which Proposition is set forth in the preamble hereto.
SECTION 7. Vendor’s Compensation. There shall be no vendor’s compensation allocated to the dealer for accounting for and remitting the Tax.
SECTION 8. Ex- clusions and Ex- emptions. The School Board adopts none of the optional exclusions or exemptions allowed by State sales and use tax law, nor does this School Board adopt any exclusions or exemptions authorized by legislation en- acted under Article VI, Section 29 (D)(1) of the Constitution of the State of Louisiana of 1974. Included within the base of the Tax is every transaction, whether sales, use, lease or rental, consumption, storage or enumerated service, and digital products with no exclusions or exemptions except for those mandated upon every political subdivision by the Constitution or statutes of the State of Louisiana.
SECTION 9. In- terest on Unpaid Amount of Tax Due. If the amount of Tax due by the dealer is not paid or remitted on or before the twentieth (20th) day of the month next following the month for which the Tax is due, there shall be collected with said Tax interest upon said unpaid or unremitted amount, at the maximum allowable rate permitted by La. R.S. 47:337.69 and any subsequent amendments that may be made thereto. Such interest shall be computed from the due date until tax is paid. The interest obligation shall be an obligation to be collected and accounted for in the same manner as if it were a part of the Tax due and can be enforced in a separate action or in the same action for the collection of the Tax and shall not be waived or remitted.
SECTION 10. Delinquency Penalty. In addition to any interest that may be due for Taxes not paid or remitted on or be- fore the twentieth (20th) day of the month next following the month for which the Tax is due, there shall also be collected a penalty equivalent to five percent (5%) for each thirty days, or fraction thereof, of delinquency, not to exceed twenty-five percent (25%) in the aggregate, of the Tax due as provided in La. R.S. 47:337.70 and any subsequent amendments that may be made thereto.
SECTION 11. Penalty for False, Fraudulent or Grossly Incorrect Return. In addition to any other penalties authorized herein, there is hereby imposed a penalty as authorized by La. R.S. 47:337.72, which shall be fifty percent (50%) of the amount of the Tax found to be due.
SECTION 12. Negligence Penalty. In addition to any other penalties authorized herein, there is hereby imposed a penalty as authorized by La. R.S. 47:337.73, which shall be five percent (5%) of the unpaid amount of the Tax found to be due, or ten dollars ($10.00), whichever is greater.
SECTION 13. Penalty for Insufficient Funds Check. In addition to any other penalties authorized herein, there is hereby imposed a penalty as authorized by La. R.S. 47:337.74 which shall be an amount of twenty dollars ($20.00).
SECTION 14. Attorney Fees. The Collector (as hereinafter defined) is authorized to em- ploy private counsel to assist in the collection of any taxes, penalties or interest due under this Ordinance, or to represent the Collector in any proceeding arising from the interpretation, application or enforcement of this Ordinance. If any taxes, penalties or interest due under this Ordinance are referred to an attorney for collection, an additional charge of attorney fees shall be paid by the dealer tax debtor, in accordance with La. R.S. 47:337.13.1 and any subsequent amendments that may be made thereto.
SECTION 15. Penalty for Costs Incurred. As provided by R.S. 47:337.75, and under the circumstances set forth therein, a penalty shall be added to the amount of Tax due in an amount as itemized by the Collector to compensate for all costs incurred in making an examination of books, records or documents, or an audit thereof, or in the holding of hearings or the subpoenaing and compensating of witnesses.
SECTION 16. Distraint Penalty. The penalty as provided by R.S. 47:337.76 in cases where the distraint procedure is used in the collection of the Tax shall be ten dollars ($10.00).
SECTION 17. Limits on Interest, Penalty and Attorney Fees. Should the interest, penalties or attorney fees herein, or the combined interest, penalties and at- torney fees be de- clared to be in excess of limits provided the Louisiana Revised Statutes or by other law, including the relevant and controlling jurisprudence, then the maximum interest, penalties and attorney fees allowed by such other laws, Louisiana Revised Statutes, and/or relevant and controlling jurisprudence shall apply and be imposed herein.
SECTION 18. Collector. The Tax levied by this Ordinance is authorized to be collected by a “Collector” which term shall mean the St. Mary Parish Sales and Use Tax Department.
SECTION 19. Powers of Collector. The Collector is hereby authorized, empowered and directed to carry into effect the provisions of this Ordinance, to appoint and hire deputies, assistants or agents, or private contractors to assist it in the performance of its duties, and in pursuance thereof to make and enforce such rules as it may deem necessary. The Collector may, in its discretion, waive all or any portion of any fees and penalties set forth herein, to the extent allowed by applicable law.
SECTION 20. Agreement to Collect Tax on Vehicles. With regard to the collection of the Tax on any motor vehicle, automobile, truck, truck-trailer, trailer, semi-trailer, motor bus, home trailer, or any other vehicle subject to the vehicle registration license tax, the School Board, acting through its President and/or Secretary, is authorized to enter into an agreement or agreements on behalf of the School Board with the Vehicle Commissioner, Department of Public Safety and Corrections, for the collection of the Tax on such vehicles, as provided by R.S.47:303(B).
SECTION 21. Revenues of Tax. All taxes, revenues, funds, assessments, moneys, penalties, fees or other income which may be collected or come into the possession of the Collector under any provision or provisions of this ordinance relating to the Tax shall be promptly deposited by the Collector for the account of the School Board in the special fund established and maintained for the deposit of such proceeds, which fund may be a separate bank account established and maintained with the regularly designated fiscal agent of the School Board; provided, however, any amount which is paid under protest or which is subject to litigation may be transferred to a separate account established by the Collector with said fiscal agent pending the final determination of the protest or litigation.
In compliance with the Election authorizing the Tax, after all reasonable and necessary costs and ex- penses of collecting and administration of the Tax have been paid as provided for above, the remaining balance in said special fund shall be available for ap- propriation and expenditure by the School Board solely for the purposes designated in the Proposition authorizing the levy of the Tax.
SECTION 22. Severability. If any one or more of the provisions of this Ordinance shall for any reason be held to be illegal or invalid, such illegality or invalidity shall not affect any other provision of this ordinance, but this ordinance shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal or invalid provisions had not been contained herein. Any constitutional or statutory provision enacted after the date of this ordinance which validates or makes legal any provision of this ordinance which would not otherwise be valid or legal, shall be deemed to apply to and be incorporated into this Ordinance.
SECTION 23. Uniform Sales Tax Controlling. If any provision of this Ordinance shall be in conflict with the provisions of the Uniform Local Sales Tax Code, the provisions of the Uniform Local Sales Tax Code shall be controlling.
SECTION 24. Effective Date of Ordinance. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect immediately upon its adoption, being an ordinance affecting the public peace, health and safety.
SECTION 25. Publication and Recordation. This Ordinance shall be published in one issue of the official journal of this School Board as soon as is reasonably possible. A certified copy of this ordinance shall be recorded in the mortgage records of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana. A certified copy of this Ordinance shall also be provided to the Collector to be maintained as part of its official records in connection with its duties to collect, administer and enforce the Tax.
The final adoption of the foregoing ordinance having been duly moved and seconded, the roll was called and the following vote was taken and recorded:
YEAS: Guienzy Brent, Lindsey An- slem, Tammie Wilson, Debra Jones, Marilyn LaSalle, Alaina Black, Andrew Mancuso, Rhonda Dennis, and Lawrence Guillory
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Ginger Griffin and Chad Paradee
And the resolution was declared adopted on this, the 13th day of November, 2025.
/s/ Alaina L. Black
President
/s/ Dr. Rachel Sanders
Acting Secretary
STATE OF LOUISIANA
PARISH OF ST. MARY
I, the undersigned Acting Secretary of the Parish School Board of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana (the “Governing Authority”), acting as the governing authority of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana, for school purposes (the “Parish”), do hereby certify that the foregoing pages constitute a true and correct copy of an ordinance adopted by the Governing Authority on November 13, 2025, providing for the continued levy within the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana, effective July 1, 2026, of a 0.45% sales and use tax (the “Tax”) upon the sale at retail, the use, the consumption, the distribution, the storage for use or consumption, and the lease or rental of tangible personal property, and the lease or rental of tangible personal property or digital products within the Parish, and upon sales of services in the Parish, and for the assessment, collection, payment thereof and the dedication of the proceeds of said Tax and the purpose for which the proceeds of the Tax may be ex- pended, said Tax having been authorized at a special election held in the Parish on October 11, 2025.
IN FAITH WHEREOF, witness my official signature at Centerville, Louisiana, on this, the 13th day of November, 2025.
/s/ Dr. Rachael Sanders
Acting Secretary
Adv. Nov. 19, 2025
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PUBLIC NOTICE
RECREATION DISTRICT #2 ST MARY PARISH
1110 GRACE ST
MORGAN CITY, LA. 70380
POSTED: NOV. 10, 2025, 9:00 A.M.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC
MEETING
DATE: NOVEMBER 13, 2025
TIME: 6:00 P.M.
PLACE:
SIRACUSA
RECREATION BUILDING
1110 GRACE ST. MORGAN CITY, LA. 70380
AGENDA:
Call to order
Invocation
Roll Call
Guest
Approval of minutes ( Oct. 9, 2025)
Financial report (review financial statement)
Director report
Old Business:
A/C repair Completed
Halloween Activity
New Business:
Check mail log for review.
Approval of Audit engagements Questionnaire
Inventory
Christmas Dinner
Bill submitted for review and payment
Adjourned
In accordance with the America Disabilities Act, If you need special assistance please contact Leroy Trim at 985-385-4224 describing the assistance that is necessary,
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RECREATION DISTRICT #2 ST MARY PARISH
1110 GRACE ST
MORGAN CITY, LA. 70380
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
RECREATION DISTRICT #2
1110 GRACE ST. MORGAN CITY, LA. 70380
6:00 P.M.
OCT 9, 2025
Meeting of The Board of Commissioners of Recreation District #2 was call to order by Chairman Ann Poole. Invocation by Norma Skinner followed by roll call those present Ann Poole, Norma Skinner, Nelda Dural, David Mc- Quire and Tracy Wilson, via telephone. Other present were Director Leroy Trim.
Guest, None
Minutes from the October 11, 2025 meeting was reviewed by Board after which it was motion by Nelda Dural and second by David McQuire that the minutes be received and adopted with a vote of (4) yea and (0) nay minutes were approved.
Mrs. Poole then call for the financial report that was given by Mr. Trim. Mr. Trim proceeded to present to the Board copies of bank reconciliation for (3) months May, June and July 2025. Mrs. Dural motion and Miss Wilson second that the reconciliation be table until they were review.
Under old business Mr. Trim stated that the gate had been repair and complete. Re- pair were structure related. On the air condition unit Ms.. Dural stated that she was under the ex- pression that the unit were going to be replace., but Mr. trim stated that a new compressor were being installed in the existing unit and work was still in process.
On Ethic and Harassment, Mrs. Poole reinarated that it was important that both training be completed. Mrs. Skinner stated that she had completed both. Mrs. Poole complete completed both and Ms. Tracy Wilson completed both. Mr. McQuire and Mrs. Dural have only completed Ethic’s. and is working on complete harassment. Halloween Activities is still schedule for October 31, 2025 6 P.M.-8 P.M.
NEW BUSINESS:
Mr. Trim report that the 2024-2025 budget amendment was in order. Board stated that they would revisit hiring an assistant for Mr. Trim. Resolution finalizing grant payment was table. Mrs. Poole was authorize to sign when date was clarify so second payment could be release.
The bills were submitted by Ms. Trim for review and payment Mrs. Dural stated that she wanted to re- view bills and compare them against budget. Bill were then approved by all.
with nothing further to discuss a motion to ad- journ meeting by David McQuire and second by Nelda Dural with all in favor.
(S) Ann Poole
Ann Poole,
Chairperson
Adv. Nov. 19, 2025
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