Public notices for April 2, 2025
PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS - REVISED
EMERGENCY POWER AND FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS AT THE EXISTING ST MARY PARISH HOMELAND SECURITY EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS WAREHOUSE BUILDING, FRANKLIN LA FOR ST MARY PARISH GOVERNMENT
Sealed Bids for the construction of EMERGENCY POWER AND FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS AT THE EXISTING ST MARY PARISH HOMELAND SECURITY EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS WAREHOUSE BUILDING, FRANKLIN LA – For St Mary Parish Government – Franklin La; will be received until 10:30 AM, local time, on April 18, 2025, in the meeting room of the St. Mary Parish Government, Fifth Floor – Courthouse Building, Franklin, Louisiana, at which time and place all bids will be publicly read aloud. Bids may also be submitted electronically, and Contractors can obtain bid related materials and post their electronic bids at www.centralbidding.com. Bids received after the above- mentioned time will not be considered.
This project consists of the construction of Emergency Power and Facility Im- provements at the existing St Mary Parish Homeland Security Emergency Preparedness Warehouse Building, Franklin La. The work will include, but not limited to, replacement of in- terior electrical panel, electrical work, hard surface service drive, re- place damaged overhead door, and in the Administrative area repair rest room flooring, walls, and ceiling, replace damaged suspended ceiling tile and lighting, repaint interior walls and doors, and install air conditioning. The project will be bid with a Base Bid and two Deductive Alternate Bids as shown in drawings and specifications.
General Contractors desiring to bid on this project as a prime bidder shall obtain a paper copy of the plans and specifications from the Architect to facilitate dissemination of Addenda and other pertinent in- formation to bidders. Copies of the plans and specifications and related contract documents are on file in the office of the purchasing agent, St. Mary Parish Gov’t, Fifth Floor, Parish Courthouse in Franklin, LA. They are also available electronically at www.centralbidding.com, and at the office of Firmin Architects, Ltd, 530 Third Street, P.O. Box 972, Morgan City, Louisiana, (985/384-3094), jimfirmin@firminarchitects.com. Contractors may obtain a paper copy of plans and specifications from the Architect by making a deposit of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) for each set issued. The full amount of the deposit on the first two sets is fully refunded to each prime Bidder who submits a bona fide bid, upon return of such documents in good condition after re- ceipt of bids. Fifty percent of the deposit on all other sets of documents will be refunded upon return of documents as stated above.
All bids must be accompanied by bid security equal to five percent (5%) of the sum of the Base Bid, made payable without condition to the Owner as a guarantee that the bidder, if awarded the contract, will promptly execute the contract documents. Bid Guarantee must be in the form of a certified check, cashier’s check or Bid Bond by a surety company licensed to do business in Louisiana, signed by the surety’s agency or attorney-in-fact.
The successful Bidder shall be required to furnish a Performance and Payment Bond written by a company licensed to do business in Louisiana, in an amount equal to 100% of the Contract amount. Surety must be listed currently on the U. S. Department of Treasury Financial Management Service List (Treasury List) as approved for an amount equal to or greater than the contract amount or must be an insurance company domiciled in Louisiana or owned by Louisiana residents. The Bond shall be signed by the surety’s agent or attorney-in-fact.
A MANDATORY PRE-BID
MEETING WILL BE HELD
At 10:30 AM on April 8, 2025
At the St Mary Parish Homeland Security (Old Armory) Building, Cynthia St at
Haifleigh St, Franklin LA
Bids shall be accepted from Contractors who are licensed under LA. R.S. 37:2150-2192 for the classification of Building Construction. Bidder is required to comply with provisions and re- quirements of LA R.S. 38:2212(B)(5). No bid may be withdrawn for a period of forty-five (45) days after receipt of bids, except under the provisions of LA. R.S. 38:2214. Any contractor and/or sub-contractor whose bid exceeds $50,000.00 shall be licensed in accordance with current statutes of Louisiana Law.
The Owner re- serves the right to reject any and all bids for just cause. In accordance with La. R.S. 38:2212(B)(1), the provisions and requirements of this Section; and those stated in the bidding documents shall not be waived by any entity.
Sam Jones,
President
St. Mary Parish Gov’t
Adv. March 21, 28 and April 2, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
St. Mary Parish Consolidated Gravity Drainage District No. 2A
Regular Monthly Meeting
Tuesday,
March 11th, 2025
Call to order 6:02 P. M.
Pledge of Allegiance by Mr. Walters
Roll Call: Don Hicks, Charlie Solar Jr.(absent), Chuck Walters, Tim Matthews, Oscar Toups.
Motion to accept the minutes from the February 12, 2025 meeting was made by Mr. Hicks and seconded by Mr. Matthews. All were in favor. Motion carried.
Public Comment: None
A budget comparison was given by Mr. John Armato. Motion to ac- cept the Treasurer’s Report for DD6, DD2, and DD2A was made by Mr. Matthews. Second by Mr. Toups. All were in favor. Motion carried.
Guests: No guests, but Mr. Mark Duhon addressed the Board regarding cleaning out lateral ditches in Amelia.
Sid Moffett gave station reports for the Amelia area.
New Business: A motion was made by Mr. Hicks to accept a proposal from Cleveland J. Billiot III General Contracting to do limestone work on Brashear Ave. Second by Mr. Matthews. All were in favor. Motion carried.
Old Business: Mr. Walters updated the Board on the right-of-ways for Amelia and said a Station 9 report would be coming soon.
Motion to Ad- journ was made by Mr. Matthews. Second by Mr. Toups. All were in favor. Motion carried. Meeting ended at 6:42 pm.
Adv. April 2, 2025
mmm
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, March 26, 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). (Randy Tisdale)
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). (Randy Tisdale)
NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Council will meet on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at five-forty-five (5:45) 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/ Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
CHAIRPERSON OF THE COUNCIL
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
/s/ Lisa C. Morgan
CLERK OF THE COUNCIL
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Adv. April 2, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Sixteenth
Judicial District Court
——
PARISH OF
ST. MARY
——
STATE OF
LOUISIANA
UMB Bank, National Association, Not In Its Individual Capacity, But Solely As Legal Title Trustee For PRL Title Trust II
Vs. No. 138521 Div “A”
Frankie Wilson Smith A/K/A Frankie W. Smith A/K/A Frankie Smith
TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of Order of Seizure and Sale 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:
The following described property, to-wit: That certain tract or parcel of land lying and being located in the Town of Patterson, Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana and be- ing more fully described as follows: On its front or south measuring and containing sixty-five (65) feet running in an easterly or westerly manner being bounded on its east line or border by Plum Street running in a vertical line measuring one hundred sixty-one (161) feet and being bounded by property be- longing to B. Watson on the rear or north boundary running in a slightly diversion line to Plum Street bounded by property belonging to Louise Wilson et al measuring an containing sixty-one point eight (61.8) feet on its west line or border running in a slightly diverging vertical line measuring one hundred fifty (150) feet being bounded by what is known as Hecter Street.
to satisfy the sum of SIXTEEN THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED TWENTY FOUR AND 29/100 ($16,224.29) DOLLARS, balance due of principal of note, interest from October 14, 2022, until paid, at 9.816% per annum, reasonable attorney’s fees to be computed and all costs of this proceedings, 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, ac- cording to law WITHOUT ap- praisement 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 9th day of April A.D., 2025, be- tween the legal hours commencing at 10 O’Clock A.M.
Sheriff’s Office
Parish of St. Mary, La.
Tuesday, the 18th day of February A.D., 2025
GARY L.
DRISKELL,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
Adv. March 7 and April 2, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public Notice – Annual Stockholders’ Meeting
The annual meeting of the stockholders of MC Bancshares, Inc. for the purpose of electing directors for the ensuing year and for all other matters which may properly come be- fore said meeting will be held at the Main Office of M C Bank & Trust Company, 1201 Brashear Avenue, Morgan City, LA 70380 on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at 10:00 AM.
Kenneth Nelkin,
Chairman of the Board
Adv. March 12, 19, 26, April 2 and 9, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
SPECIAL NOTICE OF THE ANNUAL REPORT OF PRIVATE
FOUNDATIONS
The Annual Re- port of The Felterman Foundation is available for in- spection during regular business hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. by any citizen upon request made within 180 days of this notice. The principal office of the Foundation is 115 Landry Street, Patterson, Louisiana and the principal manager is Danny C. Felterman.
Adv. April 2, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
TOWN OF
BERWICK
PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
Date: Wednesday April 2, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Place: Council Meeting Room
Berwick Town Hall
3225 Third St
A•G•E•N•D•A
Public Hearing(s);
Case #1; Application for Minor Subdivision by Carline Land In- vestments LLC to subdivide 36.53 acres into two parcels, first is 5.337 acres (listed as Tract “A”) To Be Sold to Lajaunie Property (Mr /Mrs Steve Lajaunie) and used as R-1 Residential; and second is 31.412 acres to remain with current property owner and remain as R-1 Residential use.
Carline Land Investments & Lajaunie Property- Applicants; Greg Plaisance Engineer.
Property address is 540 Patti Dr, Parcel #3074364007.00, Section 24; Township 15; Range 12.
Persons requiring reasonable ac- commodation to attend the public hearing and meeting are requested to contact the Office of Director of Planning at (985) 384-8858 prior to the meeting to discuss their particular needs.
Adv. March 26, 28 and April 2, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY
PARISH 911 COMMUNICATIONS
DISTRICT
1200 David Drive,
Building B
Morgan City, LA 70380
March 27, 2025
1:00 P.M.
The March 27, 2025 regular monthly 911 board meeting was not held due to the lack of a quorum.
Adv. April 2, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
OF PUBLIC HEARING
SECTION 8 HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHER
PROGRAM AGENCY PLAN
ST MARY
PARISH
GOVERNMENT
The St Mary Parish Government will conduct a Public Hearing at 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, in the Parish Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor, St Mary Parish Courthouse, Franklin, LA. The purpose of the hearing is to ob- tain citizen input on the following subjects.
* The St Mary Parish HUD Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program’s 5-Year Agency Plan for 2025 - 2029; of which the Agency has formulated in compliance with HUD requirements.
* Amendments to the Admissions and Continued Occupancy Policy to include revisions to comply with HUD requirements.
The Program’s 5-Year Agency Plan for 2025 - 2029 and Revisions to the Admissions and Continued Occupancy Policy is available for review in the St Mary Parish Housing Office located in Room 106, St Mary Parish Courthouse, and at the Office of Community De- sign Group, 530 Third St, Morgan City LA. The plan is available for inspection during regular office hours.
Those citizens unable to attend this hearing may submit their views in writing to:
St Mary Parish Section 8 Housing Program
Fifth Floor – Parish Courthouse
Franklin LA, 70538
Or:
St Mary Parish Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
C/o Community Design Group
530 Third St
P O Box 972
Morgan City LA, 70381
Accommodations will be made for disabled and non English speaking individuals needing assistance, provided that the agency receives a three-day notice by calling the office at 337/828-3986 or 985/384-3094.
James L Firmin,
Program Administrator
Adv. April 2, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Notice is hereby given that the St. Mary Parish Government is soliciting proposals from qualified consultants to conduct an Employee Classification and Compensation Study, as described in the Request for Proposals (RFP) document.
The RFP document can be obtained by submitting a written or emailed request to: Jenny Darce, Grants Administrator, St. Mary Parish Government, 500 Main Street, Fifth Floor, Franklin, LA 70538 or jdarce@stmaryparishla.gov
Proposals will be received by St. Mary Parish Government until 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at the St. Mary Parish Government office, 500 Main Street, Fifth Floor - Courthouse, Franklin, LA 70538. Proposals received after this time will not be accepted and will be returned unopened. Proposals will not be opened publicly.
St. Mary Parish Government reserves the right to reject any and all Proposals for just cause and to award the agreement in the best interest of the Parish.
THUS DONE AND SIGNED on this the 27th day of March, 2025.
/s/ Sam Jones
Sam Jones,
President
St. Mary Parish
Adv. April 2 and 9, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
March 28, 2025
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Council will hold a Public Hearing at 5:45 p.m. and will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, in the Parish Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana.
The purpose of the Public Meeting will be to receive written and/or oral comments and to adopt the following ordinances:
An Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2278 setting the salary of the Clerk of the Council of St. Mary Parish, Louisiana.
An Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2318 - designating procedures and deadlines relative to the St. Mary Parish Council Meeting Agendas.
In accordance with Act 393 of 2023 and the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk of the Council at 337-828-4100, Ext. 505, describing the assistance that is necessary.
Your attendance will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO,
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Adv. April 2, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
OFFICIAL
PROCEEDINGS OF THE ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL OF THE PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA
MARCH 12, 2025
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
The St. Mary Parish Council met on this date in Regular Session with Vice Chairperson Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. presiding and the following members present: Rev. Craig Mathews, J Ina, Rodney Olander, David W. Hill, Leslie “Les” Rulf, Jr., Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, and Dean Adams. Absent was Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo.
The Invocation was pronounced by Rev. Mathews and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Adams.
Mr. Olander moved that the reading of February 26, 2025 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Rulf requested that the Postmaster for this area attend the next Council Meeting to discuss delivery/mail issues in St. Mary Parish.
Ella Lee Darce appeared before the Council to inform that she has been having issues with outgoing and incoming mail as well.
Dr. Rink inform-ed of a “Coffee & Conversation” public forum event hosted by Chez Hope, Inc. that will be held on March 25, 2025 at the West St. Mary Civic Center from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Guest Speakers include law enforcement, judges, court personnel, elected officials, clergy, healthcare professionals, and community partners.
Mr. Hill inform-ed of the Basin Brew Fest to be held on April 5, 2025, downtown Morgan City, to help with renovations at Lawrence Park.
Parish President, Sam Jones informed that he signed a contract with Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA) for repairs to pumps in Morgan City and Siracusaville. He stated that he was told that Charenton and Bayou Vista have sunk over the years but he needs verification. He also in- formed that when the Mississippi River overflows, 30% of the water is redirected to the Atchafalaya River in Morgan City, Wax Lake Outlet, and Bayou Teche in Franklin. He stated that water is not directed to any other parish, other than St. Mary Parish. He also expounded on inaccurate culvert size in the Middle Road ditch in Bayou Vista that are causing drainage issues.
President Jones stated that he has been approached by St. Martin Parish President, Pete Delcambre regarding lower St. Martin Parish possibly becoming a part of St. Mary Parish. He stated that there are approximately 1,200-1,500 residents that will be affected and explained that a two thirds vote from residents of St. Martin and St. Mary is needed to pass this proposition. He also stated that meetings need to be held to obtain public input to see if they support this and to discuss the effects of public utilities and the school system. He further stated that President Delcambre informed that it takes 90 minutes for someone from their Parish to travel to lower St. Martin, indicating that perhaps citizens there need better representation. He also stated that while talking to President Delcambre, Iberia Parish President, Larry Richard, asked if he would be interested in incorporating a two to three mile stretch in Iberia Parish where nearly 10 families live.
In response to Mr. Duhon’s inquiry relative to a timeline on the pump station in Morgan City, President Jones stated that they are working as fast as they can. Mr. Duhon stated that a lot of the pumps were out of order during Hurricane Francine and he and President Jones helped to obtain a $14 million grant to repair the pumps. He informed that he and President Jones met with Gordy Dove and visited the pump stations in Morgan City and Siracusaville and also had conversations with engineer, O’Neil Marlboro. President Jones stated that this is an entire restructuring to repair what has deteriorated.
Dr. Rink reported on Gravity Sub-Drainage District No. 1 Of Gravity Drainage District No. 2 meeting that she attended and that citizens requested to see how the funds from CPRA will be used. President Jones stated that he can get information in the near future but informed that the pump station near Marquis Manor will be repaired first. Mr. Adams stated that Tim Matte, Levee District, assured him that as soon as he obtains the plans, they will be available for the Council to see. Mr. Duhon stated that he gave preliminary plans to the Council and to two (2) residents.
Chief Administrative Officer, Paul J. Governale, submitted his re- port for a two (2) week period, ending March 12, 2025. He informed that Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) has written to advise that applications for the DOTD Transportation Alternatives Program will be accepted be- tween April 1, 2025 and May 15, 2025. The goal of this Federally funded program is to work toward building a more balanced transportation system that includes pedestrians and bicyclists as well as the motoring public. You can contact Josh Manning at South Central Planning & Development Commission if you are interested in applying for this funding. josh@scpdc.org, 985-851-2900. He also explained that Item 12A, resolution for adoption, is to approve and authorize the Parish President to execute Change Order No. 1 with Barriere Construction Co., LLC relative to the Phase I Project at Harry P. Williams Memorial Airport Runway and Taxiway Overlay and Striping in order to amend the quantities of certain bid items due to the change in asphalt leveling and surface course quantities to comply with the 2” asphalt paving overlay requirement. The change order is for an increase of $189,039.00; making the new contract price with all approved change orders $3,000,756.00 and to add 39 working days to the contract time due to supply delays and weather conditions, which is zero cost to the Parish. Discussion was had relative to dredging of Chou-pique Canal and Kelly Canal.
Mr. Duhon in- formed that he visited South Central Planning & Development Commission today. He stated that he is reapplying for the Transportation Alternative Program (TAP) Grant. He thanked the Parish for cleaning the ditches in Siracusaville.
Rev. Mathews recognized Ebony Bailey, South Central Planning & Development Commission, that re- cently met with elected officials, Mayors, and at- tended Recreation District No. 5 meeting to present available grant opportunities. She expounded on the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development program and grants opportunities through Delta Regional Authority, Economic Development Grant, and others.
In response to Dr. Rink’s inquiry relative to a list of available grants, Ms. Bailey stated that she will email the list to Clerk of the Council, Lisa Morgan. She said that she will follow up on the TAP Grant requirements.
In response to Mr. Ina’s inquiry relative to the funding status for the employee Compensation Study and Organizational Review, Mr. Governale stated that the State’s approval is needed before bids can be acquired.
Mr. Hebert mov-ed that the Public Hearing Report, February 26, 2025 – 5:45 p.m. be adopted. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Davis and Mr. Hebert reported on the recent NACo Conference that they attended with Rev. Mathews and Mr. Hill. Mr. Hebert submitted a video showing the Changing of the Guard and St. Mary Parish and Iberia Parish placing a wreath at the Tomb of the Un- known Soldier. He also provided pictures showing their visit to the graves of Bayou Vista native, Michael Bordelon and Patterson native, Bradley Pierce at Arlington National Cemetery.
Mr. Olander introduced the following ordinances:
ORDINANCE
NO.
An Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2278 setting the salary of the Clerk of the Council of St. Mary Parish, Louisiana.
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OF- FICE
ORDINANCE
NO.
An Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2318 - designating procedures and deadlines relative to the St. Mary Parish Council Meeting Agendas.
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
Mr. Hebert mov-ed that the following Resolution be adopted. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion, which carried by the following 10-0-0-1 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Mathews, Ina, Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, and Rink
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Hidalgo
RESOLUTION
A resolution ap- proving and authorizing the Parish President to execute Change Order No. 1 with Barriere Construction Co., LLC relative to the Harry P. Williams Memorial Airport Runway & Taxiway Overlay Project Phase 1.
WHEREAS, a certain contract has been entered into between the St. Mary Parish Council and Barriere Construction, Co., LLC, 808 Woodland Drive – 2nd Floor, LaPlace, Louisiana 70068, relative to the Harry P. Williams Memorial Airport Runway & Taxiway Overlay Project Phase 1, and
WHEREAS, the items as shown on Change Order No. 1 will result in an increase of $189,039.00 in the contract price and an increase of 39 calendar days in the contract time.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby approve the issuance of Change Order No. 1 covering an increase of $189,039.00 in the contract price and an increase of 39 calendar days in the contract time for the Harry P. Williams Memorial Airport Runway & Taxiway Overlay Project Phase 1.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED, that the President of St. Mary Parish, Sam Jones, be and he is hereby authorized to execute Change Order No. 1 on behalf of the St. Mary Parish Council.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 12th day of March 2025.
APPROVED:
S/G KRISTI P. RINK, M.D.
KRISTI P. RINK, M.D.,
VICE-
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
ATTEST:
S/G LISA C. MORGAN
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
NEW BUSINESS:
A. Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Personnel Board for the Parish of St. Mary – 5 Vacancies
Donna M. Bogan – Present Member, Latarsha M. Charles, Leslie Luquette, Edward B. Guienze, Candace Lodrigue Dinger, Everette Wayne Logeman, Jackie Roberson, Sr., Whitney J. Bourque, Jr.
Lisa Morgan also informed that Latarsha M. Charles wishes to remain on the boards which she currently serves on and requested that her application for the Personnel Board be withdrawn.
Mr. Ina moved to reappoint Donna M. Bogan and to appoint Everette Wayne Logeman and Jackie Roberson, Sr. to the Personnel Board for the Parish of St. Mary. Rev. Mathews seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Adams mov-ed to appoint Candace Lodrigue Dinger to the Personnel Board for the Parish of St. Mary. Mr. Duhon seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Olander moved to appoint Leslie Luquette to the Personnel Board for the Parish of St. Mary. Rev. Mathews seconded the motion, which carried.
B. Carla A. Davis, MBA has written – “Concerning my ap- pointment to the Personnel Board, I am declining the appointment be- cause I wish to remain on the boards that I have already been ap- pointed to.”
Lisa Morgan informed that Mrs. Davis never officially took the oath of office and declined the ap- pointment.
C. Javon Charles has written to resign from the St. Mary Parish Recreation District No. 3 and the Industrial Development Board effective March 4, 2025.
Mr. Charles will be sent a letter thanking him for his service and the vacancy will be advertised.
D. Robbie Squires, Director, Government Affairs, Cox Communication Central Region has written Cox is required to obtain permission from local broadcast stations and cable networks to provide their signals on our channel lineup. We’re in discussions to re- new agreements with the following programmers and broadcasters:
Station/Network, Channel(s)
Univision, 99/290
Univision Tlnovelas, 293
Galavision, 109/283
UniMas, 110/285
FOROtv, 386
Zona Futbol, 714
De Pelicula, 451
De Pelicula Clasico, 452
Bandamax, 450
We will keep you updated with any new information. Please feel free to contact me at (405)286-5061 or Robbie.Squires@cox.com.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Mr. Hill seconded the motion, which carried.
S/G KRISTI P. RINK, M.D.
Kristi P. Rink, M.D.,
Vice- Chairperson
S/G LISA C. MORGAN
Lisa C. Morgan
Clerk
Adv. April 2, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
OFFICIAL
PROCEEDINGS OF THE ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL OF THE PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA
MARCH 12, 2025
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
5:00 P.M.
The St. Mary Parish Council met on this date in Special Session with Vice Chairperson Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. presiding and the following members present: Rev. Craig Mathews, J Ina, Rodney Olander, David W. Hill, Leslie “Les” Rulf, Jr., Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, and Dean Adams. Absent was and Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
The Invocation was pronounced by Mr. Davis and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Adams.
OLD BUSINESS:
Review lists re- ceived from Boards and Commissions regarding training.
Clerk of the Council, Lisa Morgan, informed the Council that, as per their request, the packet in front of them was submitted by several boards and commissions relative to training suggestions, status report suggestions, and completed certifications.
Several Council Members discussed documenting required information, new member orientation, the importance of a long term strategic plan, mandated items, conducting a mini management budgeting workshops, and creating a more detailed Parish Budget to help citizens and Council Members better understand the process.
Mr. Duhon stated that he received an engineering report from Consolidated Drainage District 2A that shows they do not have the pumping capacity they had years ago. He also stated that he was in Siracusaville in the storm for Hurricane Francine and ¾ of the pumps were not operating. He in- formed that GIS Engineering Firm addressed the drainage issues and has a plan to fix them. He also stated that the Levee Board is involved and Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA) has approved $12 million.
In response to Dr. Rink’s inquiry relative to whether the Parish provides training for their finance de- partment employees regarding the budget, Chief Administrative Officer, Paul Governale stated that they are usually trained by an existing employee. He also informed that he, Lisa Morgan, Legal Counsel Eric Duplantis, and Finance Director Desiree Gros provide some training for new boards and commissions at their first meeting regarding Robert’s Rules of Order, how to do agendas and minutes, and answer any questions. He also stated that The Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s website offers online information for boards and commissions regarding Best Practices, example documents & templets, etc. He stated that budgets are different for each entity.
After lengthy discussion, it was suggested that Robert’s Rules of Order training/how to conduct meetings, financial/budget training, that the Council create individual Bylaws, general management of business training, and special meeting guidelines be added to the ordinance.
Mr. Duhon stated that the Council adopted an ordinance requiring boards and commissions to submit their Bylaws.
Leroy Trim, Recreation District No. 2 Board Member, stated that all board members have completed their ethics and sexual harassment training and that the budget is in the process of being amended.
Lionel “Butch” Metz, newly ap- pointed Water & Sewer Commission No. 5 Board Member stated that they are in the process of updating their policy and procedure manual.
In response to several Council Members’ inquiries, Mr. Metz stated that his opinion is that consolidation of Water & Sewer Commission No. 4 and Water & Sewer Commission No. 5 will not work as it currently is and that Water & Sewer Commission No. 4 is a bigger district. He stated that both districts should function the same if they are following the LDH requirements and training.
Discussion and action related to consolidation of Boards and Commissions.
Several Council Members had lengthy discussions regarding boards and commissions that cannot or should not be consolidated. They discussed tax calls and possible tax issues that consolidation would create.
Mr. Olander stated that Mosquito Control District No. 1 is the only mosquito board in the Parish and is contracted through Cajun Mosquito and has a millage. He also stated that the Fire Boards should not be consolidated.
Dr. Rink inform-ed that the Home Rule Charter states that the Parish should have a Parks and Recreation Director. Her opinion is to consolidate all recreation districts and have one director for the entire Parish in order to coordinate and offer better services to citizens. However, the O&M will not be affected. Mr. Adams stated that his opinion is that consolidation will not save money.
Several Council Members had lengthy discussions regarding boat launch fees.
Glen Swain, Morgan City resident, appeared before the Council to discuss boat launch fees and maintenance of Parish boat landings. He also stated that you cannot even launch at some landings due to the water lily’s blocking it and that dumpsters are overflowing with trash on the outside of them. He stated that most vehicles are not paying to launch their boat, most are not residents of St. Mary Parish, and violation tickets are not being issued. Mr. Duhon stated that recently the dumpsters in Amelia are overflowing but the items are not coming from the fisherman, it is the citizens that are dumping various items.
After lengthy discussion, Mr. Hill and Mr. Adams stated that they do not want to consolidate Recreation Boards and Commissions.
There being no further business, Mr. Adams moved for adjournment. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
s/g Kristi P. Rink, M.D.
Kristi P. Rink, M.D.,
Vice- Chairperson
s/g Lisa C.
Morgan
Lisa C. Morgan
Clerk
Adv. April 2, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY
PARISH
HOME RULE CHARTER
REVISION
COMMISSION
MEETING
MINUTES
JANUARY 16, 2025
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
The St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter Revision Commission met on this date with the following members present: Mayor Clarence Vappie, Dr. Gary Wiltz, John Higdon, Jeremy Ches-teen, John Armato, Edward M. Leonard, Jr., Norbert Wanous, Betty Hicks, John Trevino, Sr., and Barry Dufrene. Absent was Kenneth Perry, Jr.
Mayor Vappie asked for a moment of silence in memory of President Jimmy Carter and also the victims of the New Orleans terrorist attack on New Years Day.
The Invocation was pronounced by St. Mary Parish Clerk of the Council, Lisa Morgan and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Wanous.
Mr. Armato moved that the reading of the Regular Meeting, December 19, 2024 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Judge Leonard seconded the motion, which carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. Discussion and Action relative to Article V. Financial Procedures, Section 5-01 through 5-09 of the current SMP Home Rule Charter.
Mr. Dufrene stated that he and Mr. Armato compared Iberia Parish, St. Charles Parish, and La- fourche Parish Home Rule Charters to St. Mary Parish’s Home Rule Charter re- garding the financial procedures. He stated that Iberia Parish and St. Mary Parish are similar.
Several Commission Members discussed the following sections and recommended that no changes be taken on Article V Section 5.01 – Fiscal Year, Financial Procedures, Section 5-02 – Operating Budget Preparation and Adoption; Section 5-03 – The Operating Budget Document; Section 5-04 – Amendments to Operating Budget; Section 5-05 – Capital Improvement Budget; Section 5-06 – Administration of Operating and Capital Budgets; Section 5-07 – Lapse of Appropriations; Section 5-08 – Bonded Debt; and Section 5-09 – Facsimile Signatures.
St. Mary Parish Government Chief Administrative Officer, Paul Governale expounded on Section 5-03 – The Operating Budget Document, Part II (4) stated that this information is provided by the Sheriff’s De- partment annually.
Mr. Armato ex- plained beginning fund balances and deficits.
In response to Dr. Wiltz’s inquiry, Mr. Governale explained the budget process of the parish, supplemental appropriations, and budget amendments.
In response to Dr. Wiltz’s inquiry, Legal Counsel, Morgan Guillory Bodin stated that the commission needs to decide whether they need to include an expressed provision in the Charter and not leave it as an interpretation.
Per Mr. Du- frene’s inquiry relative to Section 5-04 (E) – Transfer of Appropriations, Mr. Governale expounded on uses and limitations of funds.
In response to several Commission Members’ inquiries, Mr. Governale expounded on the 3/10% Sales Tax Fund, cash shortage, expenses, and appropriate uses.
Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D., At Large District No. 9 Parish Councilperson, also ex- pounded on the 3/10% Sales Tax Fund, allocations, appropriate uses, and recording of uses.
Mr. Governale expounded on Section 5-08 Bonded Debt, available revenues, road funding, financial advisor, bond at- torney, state bond commission, bond payments, bond capacity, and voter approval.
Per Mr. Du- frene’s inquiry relative to the 2018 Home Rule Charter Committee’s recommendation of Section 5-05 (E) to remove the time frame of one (1) year, Mr. Chesteen stated that he was on that committee and would have to review his notes.
In response to Dr. Wiltz’s inquiry relative to Rainy Day Funds, Mr. Governale stated that the Parish is required to have sinking and re- serve funds for bonds and also have investments.
Per Mr. Armato’s inquiry, Mr. Governale ex- pounded on Article II, Section 2-13 (C) (D)– Submission of Ordinances to the President relative to what the Parish President can veto. Several Commission Members discussed the Parish President’s ability to do a line item veto and audit process.
Parish President, Sam Jones expounded on the 3/10% Sales Tax Fund and line item veto.
Several Commission Members had lengthy discussion relative to Section 2-13 (B) & (C) – Submission of Ordinances to the President.
After discussion, Mr. Armato moved to approve Article V – Financial Procedures of the Home Rule Charter and requested that legal counsel research verbiage regarding changes to line item veto in Section 2. Mr. Du- frene seconded the motion, which carried.
Dr. Wiltz and Mr. Higdon will begin reviewing Article II Parish Council – Sections 2-01 – 2-18 to discuss at the next meeting.
There being no further business, Judge Leonard moved for adjournment. Mr. Ches-teen seconded the motion, which carried.
s/g Betty Hicks
Betty Hicks,
Chairperson
s/g Norbert Wanous
Norbert Wanous,
Acting Secretary
Adv. April 2, 2025
mmm
PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY
PARISH
HOME RULE CHARTER
REVISION
COMMISSION
MEETING
MINUTES
FEBRUARY 20, 2025
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
The St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter Revision Commission met on this date with the following members present: Mayor Clarence Vappie, Dr. Gary Wiltz, John Higdon, Jeremy Ches-teen, John Armato, Edward M. Leonard, Jr., Norbert Wanous, and Betty Hicks. Absent were Kenneth Perry, Jr., John Trevino, Sr., and Barry Dufrene.
The Invocation was pronounced by Mr. Wanous and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Vappie.
Dr. Wiltz moved that the reading of the Regular Meeting, January 16, 2025 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Mayor Vappie seconded the motion, which carried.
J Ina, St. Mary Parish Councilman, District No. 2, thanked the members for volunteering their time and efforts for being on the Home Rule Charter Revision Commission. He ex- pounded on the 2020 Census, the percentage of black population, and the two (2) districts that represent the black population. He stated that equity is im- portant in representation and suggested creating 11 Single Member Districts to create an additional majority minority district. He stated that if it remains the same you would have to live in the boundary of that district, creating a “Live Where You Vote” confine. He also asked the Commission to consider increasing the Council Members’ salaries by taking an average of the municipalities’ salaries. He further asked the Commission to review the Council Chairmanship to allow all members to have the opportunity to serve as Chairperson.
Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D., St. Mary Parish At Large Council Member, District No. 9, suggested dividing the At Large Districts into four (4) instead of three (3) to create an additional majority minority district or add one (1) single district and one (1) At Large seat, creating a 13 member Council. She also stated that the verbiage in the Charter relating to boards and commissions oversite and appointments need to be addressed and discussed.
Patrick Hebert, St. Mary Parish Councilman, District No. 6, stated that money can be saved by creating all single member districts. He also expounded on Council Chairmanship.
Rodney Olander, St. Mary Parish Councilman, District No. 3, said if nine (9) single member districts are created, you will need to change how term limits will be determined. He also expounded on a third minority district.
In response to Mr. Wanous’ inquiry, several Council Members discussed term limits, how At Large Districts work, and that At Large Districts represent everyone in the Parish.
Leslie “Les’ Rulf, Jr., St. Mary Parish Councilman, District No.5, stated that if the eight (8) Single Member Districts and three (3) At Large Districts have been working all these years, why change it. He also suggested that there be term limits on Chairmanship.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. Discussion and action relative to Article II. Parish Council, Section 2-01 through 2-18 of the current SMP Home Rule Charter.
Several Commission Members discussed Article II, Section 2-02 – Reapportionment. Mr. Ina and Dr. Rink informed that South Central Planning & Development Commission has all of St. Mary Parish’s statistics in their system and is willing to help.
After discussion, Mr. Armato moved to utilize South Central Planning & Development Commission for assistance with discussion regarding redistricting and invited them to attend their next meeting to answer questions. Mr. Higdon seconded the motion, which carried.
After discussion relative to Section 2-01 (B), (C), & (D) - Compensation, Qualifications, and Election, Judge Leonard moved that the age limit remains at 18 and that a one (1) year residency requirement be established. Dr. Wiltz seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Hebert stated that the Council recently made several Charter recommendations and suggested Clerk of the Council, Lisa Morgan, forward those recommendations to the Commission.
Lisa Morgan informed that a motion was made by Dr. Wiltz and seconded by Mr. Dufrene at their December 19, 2024 meeting that states the full time Parish President’s salary be an average of the Sheriff, the Assessor, and the Clerk of Court’s salary, no salary amount was discussed.
Discussion was had relative to Section 2-05 – Compensation. Mr. Olander suggested creating a flat rate per diem for conferences instead of having to pay in advance and getting reimbursed to save time.
Discussion was had relative to Section 2-03 – Forfeiture of Office and Section 2-04 – Vacancies. They also discussed Section 3-09(C) – President’s Disability regarding the six (6) month limit.
After discussion, Mr. Armato moved that the same criteria that is used for the president in Section 3-09 (B) & (C) be used for Council Members relative to Section 2-04 - Vacancies. Judge Leonard seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Hebert read the recommendation that the Council proposed on August 7, 2024 regarding Section 2-05 (B) – Compensation and also expounded on the current reimbursement policy and procedure.
After several Commission Members discussed Section 2-05 – Compensation, Dr. Wiltz requested to receive a spreadsheet with salaries of municipalities.
Mr. Armato moved to implement the language from that proposal on August 7, 2024 into Section 2-05(B) - Compensation.
After discussion, Mr. Armato withdrew his motion and requested Legal Counsel, Morgan Guillory Bodin, to research federal guidelines regarding per diem.
In response to Dr. Wiltz’s inquiry relative to Section 2-10 – Clerk of the Council, Dr. Rink stated that this section was not discussed by the Home Rule Charter Committee.
B. Request that legal counsel begin to propose a re-draft of the charter provisions we have already voted to change.
There being no further business, Mr. Higdon moved for adjournment. Judge Leonard seconded the motion, which carried.
s/g Betty Hicks
Betty Hicks,
Chairperson
s/g Norbert Wanous
Norbert Wanous,
Acting Secretary
Adv. April 2, 2025
mmm