Public notices for Aug. 21, 2024
PROCEEDINGS OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE MORGAN CITY HARBOR AND TERMINAL
DISTRICT
July 8, 2024
The Board of Commissioners (“Board”) of the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District (“District”) met in regular session at the District’s office at 7327 Highway 182, Morgan City, Louisiana on July 8, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. Peter Orlando, President, convened the meeting with Commissioners Ben Adams, Deborah Garber, Joseph Cain, Steven Cornes, Matthew Glover, Troy Lombardo and Matthew Tycer in attendance. Adam Mayon was absent. Also present in the meeting were Raymond Wade, Executive Director; Tori Henry, Office Manager; Cindy Cutrera, Economic Development Manager; Michael Knobloch, Special Projects Manager; Gerard Bourgeois, Board Attorney; Commander Mary Gilday, Lieutenant Commander Stephanie Alvarez and Lieutenant Jenelle Piche, United States Coast Guard (“USCG”); Robert Karam, T. Baker Smith; Bill Blan-chard, GIS Engineering; Councilman Louis Tamporello, City of Morgan City; and members of the general public.
The meeting was called to order and the presence of a quorum was noted. Raymond Wade led the invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
It was moved by Mr. Lombardo and seconded by Mr. Tycer that the minutes of the regular meeting of June 10, 2024 be approved and adopted, with said motion carrying unanimously.
It was moved by Mr. Glover that the report of re- ceipts and disbursements for the month of June, 2024 be received and accepted and that all invoices presented to the Board for the month of June, 2024 be paid. Mr. Tycer seconded that motion, which carried unanimously.
Ms. Garber presented the 2024/2025 budget that had been previously emailed, faxed or otherwise delivered to the Board. It was moved by Mr. Adams and seconded by Mr. Glover that the 2024/2025 budget be adopted, the expenditures of the funds therein for 2024/2025 be authorized and the following resolution be adopted, which was unanimously approved.
RESOLUTION
A resolution providing for the adoption of the 2024/2025 budget for the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District (“District”).
WHEREAS, this Board of Commissioners (“Board”) deems it necessary and proper to prepare and adopt a budget with de- fined goals on revenues and expenses for the fiscal year beginning July 1st, 2024 through June 30, 2025;
BE IT RESOLV-ED, that the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District does hereby approve the budget presented and adopts it as an Operating Budget of Revenues and Expenditures for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024, and ending June 30, 2025;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board that the detailed estimate of Revenues and Expenditures for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024, and ending June 30, 2025 presented this evening, be and the same is hereby adopted to serve as an Operating Budget for the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District, during the same period.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board that the detailed estimate of Revenues and Expenditures for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2024, and ending June 30, 2025 presented this evening, be and the same is hereby declared to operate as an appropriation of the amount therein set forth within the terms of the budget classification.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board that any deviations of budgetary amendments require the approval of the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District Board.
Lieutenant Piche reported: (i) 1,987 total transits in June through the VTS zone; and (ii) the high water MSIB in Berwick Harbor has been cancelled. Mr. Wade commended VTS for their excellent coordination with Dredge Jadwin during the current dredging project.
Raymond Wade reported on behalf of Tim Connell: (i) Dredge Jadwin completed Stouts Pass and is currently dredging Berwick Harbor. Because the dredge is unable to get under the bridges, another dredge will be brought in to complete Tidewater Point, 20 Grande and Wax Lake Outlet; (ii) Brice continues to work the Bar Channel; and (iii) the new contract for Bayou Chene will be awarded later this fall as the largest contract ever for the Port.
Michael Knobloch reported that: (i) we are ready to advertise the Maintenance and Operations of Meteorological Stations project, funded through FY23 Community Project funding. Mr. Tycer moved to advertise said project, which was seconded by Mr. Lombardo and carried unanimously; and (ii) we will be requesting funding from US Department of Transportation’s (USDOT’s) “FY 2024 US Marine Highways Program” (USMHP) Grant Program, with application due on July 12th. It was moved by Mr. Tycer and seconded by Ms. Garber that the following resolution be submitted for $385,000 for equipment and be matched by $77,000 local funds, which resolution was unanimously adopted.
RESOLUTION
BE IT RESOLV-ED, that the Board of Commissioners of the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District does hereby authorize and support the submission of its proposed funding request entitled “Promoting the Maritime Transportation System as a Climate- friendly Alternative with the use of Electric Forklifts and Electronic Axle Scales to Re- lieve Landside Congestion” to the US Department of Transportation’s (USDOT’s) “FY 2024 US Marine Highways Program” (USMHP) Grant Program. In addition, since the project totals $385,000, the MCHTD requests $308,000 from the FY 2024 USMHP program and agrees to provide a local, non-federal match of $77,000. If fully-awarded, the project will complete Phase 6 of the port District’s informal “Port of Morgan City Terminal Facility Infrastructure Improvement Master Plan.”
Charles Brittingham reported that he is hoping the House Energy and Water Appropriations, which includes $16.5 million already in the President’s budget, will get off the floor by the end of July.
Robert Karam reported that: (i) after final submission of the O&M manual to DOTD, the East dock project is completed; (ii) they have revised the West dock layout to match the guidance provided from the Corps and St. Mary Levee District, but also taking into consideration Geotech; and (iii) they have addressed the NEPA comments received and don’t anticipate any other comments prior to them issuing the permit.
Bill Blanchard reported that: (i) plans and specs are being updated to match the FP&C format requested and should be completed in time for Mr. Wade to hand- deliver on Friday; and (ii) they have applied for the permit for Disposal Area 1.
Cindy Cutrera reported that: (i) we will be sending out two (2) links to videos outlining our strategic location, intermodal facility, local in- dustry and our importance to the nation; (ii) the Mississippi River Commission reception will be on August 22nd and public meeting August 23rd at the Port dock; and (iii) during the Lower Mississippi River Comprehensive Management Study quarterly virtual session they summarized comments re- ceived, but will release a public scoping report in July including all of the comments made.
Gerard Bourgeois presented: (i) a Resolution supporting the adoption of a sister port agreement be- tween the District and Cuban Marine Administration due to the new shipping line and related interest. It was moved by Mr. Tycer and seconded by Mr. Cornes that Mr. Orlando execute said agreement, which motion carried un- animously.
RESOLUTION
A resolution providing for the adoption of a sister port agreement between the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District (“District”) United States of America, and the Cuban Marine Administration (“Administración Maritima de Cuba”), Havana, Cuba
WHEREAS, the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District was created in 1952 by Act 530 of the Louisiana Legislature as a political subdivision of the State of Louisiana, has all of the rights, powers, privileges, and immunities granted to political subdivisions of the state for industrial, commercial, research, and economic development purposes, has the authority to regulate the commerce and traffic of said harbor and terminal district in such manner as may in its judgment be best for the public interest; has all the rights, privileges, and immunities granted to corporations in Louisiana; and has all the others powers invested to it by Louisiana Re- vised Statutes 34:323 et cet;
WHEREAS, the Cuban Maritime Administration (“Administración Maritima de Cuba”), which is the national representative of all Cuban ports, created through Resolution No. 144 dated March 15, 2017, by the Minister of the Ministry of Economy and Planning, and, coordinates and integrates all matters of maritime and river transportation, maritime civil navigation, port activity and infrastructure, the naval industry and other auxiliary and re- lated services, and reconciles and proposes Cuban national interests before the International Maritime Organization and controls compliance with international maritime conventions of which the country is a signatory, as well as promotes and attends to the conclusion of intergovernmental agreements and treaties on maritime transportation and port development; and,
WHEREAS, Article VII. Section 14 of the 1974 Louisiana Constitution provides that governmental agencies may enter into cooperative en- deavor agreements with other public agencies to achieve a public purpose; and,
WHEREAS, there is a spirit of community and friendship between the Cuban Maritime Administration and the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District; and,
WHEREAS, the Cuban Maritime Administration and the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District believe that this spirit of community and friendship will permit the establishment of exchanges in trade, personnel, and information on port operations, management organization, and technology; and,
WHEREAS, the Cuban Maritime Administration and Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District desire to create a sister port relationship between them is in order to establish programs of cooperation and ex- change of mutual understanding and friendship.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District does herby approve the Sister Port Agreement with the Cuban Marine Administration (“Administración Maritima de Cuba”), Havana, Cuba;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Peter J. Orlando, President, be authorized and directed to execute on behalf of the District said Sister Port Agreement and is further authorized and empowered on be- half of the District and to do all things necessary in the premises.
(ii) a Right of Entry (ROE) authorization to support request from the Corps of Engineers for disposal easements in Bayou Black Area, Bayou Chene and Avoca areas and Resolution to ex- propriate the right to dispose on the sites from landowner(s) who do not sign disposal agreements re- quired by the Corps. It was moved by Mr. Adams and seconded by Mr. Cornes that Mr. Orlando be authorized to execute said ROE and related landowner agreements, which motion carried un- animously.
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District (“District”), is the local sponsoring agency for the United States Corps of Engineers (“Corps”) Atchafalaya River and Bayous Chene, Boeuf and Black, Assumption, St. Mary & Terrebonne Parishes, Louisiana Navigation Project, and in order to promote the maintenance and operation of the Atchafalaya River and Bayous Chene, Boeuf and Black within Assumption, St. Mary & Terrebonne Parishes, by the United States of the said waterways and to promptly facilitate and protect the transport of materials and supplies necessary for the commerce and de- fense of the nation, is required to provide all easements and rights-of-way required for the construction and subsequent maintenance of the Atchafalaya River and Bayous Chene, Boeuf and Black federal navigation project in St. Mary, Assumption and Terrebonne Parishes, Louisiana (as authorized by the Act of Congress approved August 13, 1968), upon the request of the Corps of Engineers, including providing suitable areas determined by the Corps for disposal of spoil, and also necessary retaining dikes and embankments or retaining works;
WHEREAS, the District has been requested by the Corps to secure for disposal of dredged materials those sites identified by Corps Drawings dated: March, 2024, and identified under File No.: H-16-48328; and File Name: 48328_R, which sites are identified therein as: Bayou Black, Disposal Area 1, Disposal Area 1A, Disposal Area 2, Disposal Areas 3A & 3B, Disposal Area Penchant East and West, and Disposal Area Lake Gascha (collectively “Disposal Areas”);
WHEREAS, be- cause some owners’ will fail to respond and other owners’ are not able to respond to the District’s re- quest for the servitude/easements will result in the inability of the District to amicably acquire said easements, it is necessary and useful that the District expropriate said easements which are necessary for navigation purposes including, but not limited to, maintenance dredging purposes;
WHEREAS, in accordance with La. R.S. 38:329.3, the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District’s Board of Commissioners is vested with the management and control of the District, including the authority to establish, construct, operate and maintain flood control works as they relate to hurricane protection, tidewater flooding, saltwater intrusion and conservation;
WHEREAS, pursuant to state laws, including but not limited to La LSA-R.S. 34:326 District is authorized to acquire by purchase, donation, expropriation, or otherwise, including expropriation in accordance with R.S. 19:141 prior to judgment, any lands in the district needed for railways, wharves, sheds, buildings, canals, channels, and other facilities required for the operation of the board and to be owned and operated by the board for fair market value;
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners has determined that the facts and circumstances relative to property in the vicinity of the Atchafalaya River and Bayous Chene, Boeuf and Black, Navigation Project, including but not limited to the inability of the District to amicably acquire a servitude or other ownership in the expedient manner required herein, makes it necessary and useful that the District expropriate the right to use as disposal sites those Disposal Areas which are necessary for maintenance dredging of the Atchafalaya River and Bayous Chene, Boeuf and Black, Assumption, St. Mary & Terrebonne Parishes, Louisiana Navigation Project;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners of the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District finds and determines as follows:
The public interest, convenience and necessity re- quire the acquisition of a servitude and easement for the purpose of constructing, maintaining, repairing, operating and using, as the District may see fit, the Disposal Area for use as disposal sites. The public improvement is generally maintenance and dredging of the Atchafalaya River and Bayous Chene, Boeuf and Black within Assumption, St. Mary & Terrebonne Parishes, by the United States to facilitate and protect the transport of materials and supplies necessary for the commerce and defense of the nation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District does hereby exercise its right of expropriation and will proceed to legally expropriate, prior to judgment, the herein described servitudes/easements in accordance with the law; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED, Peter J. Orlando, President, be authorized and directed to do any and all act and things necessary, proper, or that may be required to carry out and accomplish the transactions contemplated with regards to the above mentioned tracts.
The use to which the real property is to be applied is for the public improvement referred to as above; such use is a public use authorized by law;
The interest subsequently set forth in the real property is necessary to and for the public use, and the taking of the interest in the real property is necessary to secure and to enforce such public use;
The public im- provement is planned and located in a manner which will be most compatible with the greatest public good and the least private injury;
It is further resolved that Bourgeois Law, LLC, counsel for this District, is authorized and directed to commence and maintain any action(s) or proceeding(s) in eminent domain in the 16th Judicial District Court of Louisiana, in and for St. Mary Parish, the 23rd Judicial District in and for Assumption Parish, and/or the 32nd Judicial District Court in and for Terrebonne Parish, against any and all necessary and proper parties for the purpose of expropriating and acquiring the interest in the real property des-cribed above, for the uses and purposes stated above, and to take all steps necessary for such acquisitions and/or expropriation in the name of the District. To the extent that any landowner transfers the requisite real property described above prior to filing for expropriation, Peter J. Orlando, President, be and is authorized and directed to execute on behalf of the District all corresponding agreements with landowners concerning the above des-cribed properties.
It is further re- solved that, in any action or proceeding, petition(s) may be made through such court in the manner provided by law for an order authorizing and permitting the District to take immediate possession of and to use the interest in real property for the public improvements, uses and purposes.
It is further resolved that the District deposit in the court in connection with such proceedings on such application for immediate possession, out of any funds or funds under the control of the board available for such uses or purposes, such amounts of money as the court may direct and determine to be reasonably adequate to secure the owner or owners of such interest in real property and pre- mises so sought to be taken, just compensation and damages for the taking and as otherwise provided by law in such actions and proceedings.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED, Peter J. Orlando, President, be authorized and directed to do any and all acts and things necessary, proper, or that may be required to carry out and accomplish the transactions contemplated in regard to the above mentioned project, including all necessary actions to expropriate the required servitudes, easements and rights of ways.
With there being no further business to come before the Board, it was moved by Mr. Adams and seconded by Mr. Glover that the meeting was adjourned.
Attest:
———————
Steven W. Cornes,
Secretary
Adv. Aug. 21, 2024
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PUBLIC NOTICE
Advertisement for sale of surplus bus
The St. Mary Parish School Board Maintenance Department will hold a Silent Auction for Surplus Bus on August 28, 2024, at 10:00 am. The bus to be sold “AS IS”. The bus can be seen in the parking lot at the Jaquet Building located at 600 Fig Street, Morgan City, La. 70380. Viewing of surplus bus will be available to the public on June 31, 2024, through August 28, 2024. Viewing hours are between 7:00 am and 3:00 pm Monday through Friday during normal operation hours.
The Silent Auction, bid information and bid sheets will be located at the St. Mary Parish School Board Maintenance Office located at 474 Highway 317 Centerville La. 70522. Closing of the Silent Auction will be at 10:00 am on Wednesday August 28, 2024, in the St. Mary Parish School Board Maintenance Office. Sales or subject to Board approval on Thursday, September 12, 2023, at 5:300 pm.
Adv. July 31, Aug. 7 and 21, 2024
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PUBLIC NOTICE
PROCEEDINGS OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERWICK, STATE OF LOUISIANA TAKEN AT A REGULAR MEETING HELD ON TUESDAY
August 13, 2024
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 August 13, 2024, at six (6:00) o’clock p.m.
There were present: Council members Colleen As- kew, Kevin Hebert, Raymond Price, James Richard, and Lud Henry.
Absent: None
Pastor Matthew Ledet from Lighthouse Community Church 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 Duval 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 Kevin Hebert.
The Treasurer’s report, having been reviewed, was ap- proved without reading upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Lud Henry.
The Beacon did not shine on anyone this month.
There were many guests for the August 2024 meeting.
Police Chief David Leonard presented the police report for July, 2024. Chief Leonard stated that the department is running smoothly. After no comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, Fire report.
Fire Chief Jody Acosta presented the fire report for July, 2024. Chief Acosta stated that the fire department responded to 14 emergency calls. There were 5 motor vehicle accidents, 2 smoke scare, 3 mutual aids, 1 power line arcing, and 3 medical alerts. After no further comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, the Public Works report.
Public Works Director Rafael Lopez presented the public works report for July, 2024. Mr. Lopez stated town crews have been working on cleaning out ditches, along with their other regular maintenance throughout town.
Town Engineer Mr. Reid Miller was not present, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, committee reports.
The Historical Committee, Recreation Committee, and Economic Development Committee had nothing to report.
The Planning and Zoning Committee reported that they held their first public hearing on an application filed by Long River Properties LLC, regarding amending the Town’s zoning map. The property is located on the corner of Ehrlich and Francis Street. The Zoning Commission is asking the Mayor and Council to approve the map amendment to allow the change from B-1 local shopping district to R-2 multi-family residential. Upon mo- tion by Lud Henry and seconded by Raymond Price, the council called for a public hearing to be held by a unanimous roll call vote. After no further comments, the mayor moved on to Amendment No. 1 under Ordinances on the agenda.
Item No. 1 under Ordinances – Amendment No. 1 to introduce Ordinance No. 750 – Feeding Stray Cats and Dogs. 10-124 - No person shall feed or allow the feeding of any stray cat or dog at any residential property within the municipal limits of the Town of Berwick unless they are the owner of record of the property on which the feeding takes place.
No person shall feed or allow the feeding of any stray cat or dog on any public property, business, or commercial area within the municipal limits of the Town of Berwick. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Raymond Price, the amendment was approved by a unanimous roll call vote. After no further comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, Public Hearings.
The Public hearing was called to order at 6:15pm.
Item No. 1 under Public Hearing – Adopt Ordinance No. 749 - Consider levying additional or increased millage rates without further voter ap- proval or adopting the adjusted millage rates after reassessment and rolling forward to rates not to exceed the prior year’s maximum. After some discussion among the council and no comments from the audience, Mayor Arthur closed the public hearing.
Item No. 2 under Public Hearing – Adopt Ordinance No. 750 – Feeding Stray Cats and Dogs.
Everyone is aware that there is a big problem with cats within the town that needs to be addressed. This ordinance is addressing the feeding of cats and dogs on public property and property that is not owned by the individual feeding the animals. After much discussion among the council and audience, Mayor Arthur closed the public hearing.
Item No. 1 under Ordinances – Amendment No. 1 to introduce Ordinance No. 750 – Feeding Stray Cats and Dogs. This was done before the public hearings.
Item No. 2 under Ordinances – Adopt Ordinance No. 749 –- Consider levying additional or increased millage rates without further voter approval or adopting the adjusted millage rates after reassessment and rolling forward to rates not to exceed the prior year’s maximum. Upon motion by Raymond Price and seconded by Colleen Askew, the ordinance was adopted by a unanimous roll call vote.
Item No. 3 under Ordinances – Adopt Ordinance No. 750 – Feeding Stray Cats and Dogs. Upon motion by Kevin Hebert and seconded by Raymond Price, the ordinance was adopted by a unanimous roll call vote.
Item No. 4 under Ordinances – Introduce Ordinance No. 752 – Amend 2023-24 Consolidated Budget. Upon motion by Raymond Price and seconded by James Richard, the ordinance was introduced by a unanimous roll call vote.
Item No. 5 under Ordinances – Introduce Ordinance No. 753 – 2024-25 Consolidated Budget. Up- on motion by James Richard and seconded by Lud Henry, the ordinance was introduced by a unanimous roll call vote.
Item No. 6 under Ordinances – In- troduce Ordinance No. 754 – Big Bend Land Company – Property Donation. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Colleen Askew, the ordinance was in- troduced by a un- animous roll call vote.
Item No. 1 under Resolutions/Proclamations – Resolution No. 09-24 – Amend Garbage Pick-Up Rate. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Colleen Askew, the resolution was approved by a 4 to 1 roll call vote. Lud Henry voted no.
Item No. 1 under New Business – Deborah Price – BEARS – August 17-18, 2024. Ms. Price requested permission to use the Berwick riverfront to host their annual BEARS Weekend. Upon motion by Raymond Price and seconded by Colleen Askew, the request was ap- proved unanimously.
Item No. 2 under New Business – Approve Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire - Upon motion by Lud Henry and seconded by Raymond Price, the questionnaire was approved unanimously.
Item No. 3 under New Business – Alyssa Muse and Tiffany Ordoyne – Animal Control Ordinance. Ms. Muse would like to create and manage a cat colony to de- crease the cat population. Feral and free-roaming cat colonies are a significant challenge facing many communities. Un- checked, these cat populations can grow rapidly, leading to an abundance of homeless and suffering animals as well as potential public health and environmental concerns. However, with a humane and proactive ap- proach, it is possible to effectively manage cat colonies and decrease their overall numbers over time. They are in need of a large piece of land that someone may be willing to donate or allow access to, in order to construct a colony.
Item No. 4 under New Business – Roots & Ribbons – Christy Theriot – October 5, 2024. The organization will be having a 5K Race & two-mile walk to promote breast cancer awareness, support, and survivorship on October 5, 2024 at 4:00pm in Morey Park in Patterson, LA. Everyone is invited to attend.
Item No. 5 under New Business – Appoint Brandon Monceaux to St. Mary Parish Consolidated Sewer District Board – Wards 5 & 8. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Raymond Price, the appointment was approved unanimously.
Item No. 6 under New Business – Approve Payment Request No. 5 Project No. 14398 to Miller Engineers & Associates, Inc. for $57,142.50 for Drainage Improvements along Hogan, Palmer, Hebert, Jones & Snead Street. Up- on motion by Colleen Askew and seconded by Raymond Price, the payment was approved by a unanimous roll call vote.
Item No. 7 under New Business – Appoint Kim Macaluso to the Berwick Development District Board. Upon mo- tion by Colleen Askew and seconded by Lud Henry, the appointment was approved un- animously. Kevin Hebert recused due to a conflict of interest.
Item No. 8 under New Business – Jeff Russo – Cat Problem & Ditch Maintenance. Mr. Russo addressed his cat problems in the public hearing. He also stated that the drainage ditch behind his home has not been maintained for the last several months and the grass has been very tall. After some discussion, the town will work towards having the grass cut more frequently in the future.
Item No. 9 under New Business – Declare Surplus Property:
2007 Ford F150 Pick-Up - VIN# 1FTRF12267NA46844
2010 Ford F150 - VIN# 1FTMF1CW2AKA37921
Upon motion by Lud Henry and seconded by James Richard, the items were declared surplus unanimously.
The mayor and council recognized local resident, Vernon Norwood for capturing 1silver and 1 gold medal for Team USA in the 2024 Olympics. Congratulations on your outstanding achievement. Your hard work, dedication, and talent have paid off in the most impressive way.
There being no further business to come before the Council, upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Colleen Askew the motion to adjourn was approved unanimously.
———————
Duval H. Arthur Jr –
Mayor
———————
Jamie Keith –
Town Clerk
Adv. Aug. 21, 2024
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PUBLIC NOTICE
Resolution
No. 9-24
The following resolution was in- troduced by James Richard and seconded by Colleen Askew at council meeting held August 13, 2024.
Resolution to Increase Service Fee For Collection and Disposal of Garbage and Trash
WHEREAS: Town of Berwick’s Code of Ordinances, Chapter 10 Health and Sanitation, Article 11. Garbage, Trash and Refuse, Section 10-32 Service Fee for Collection and Disposal of Garbage and Trash. authorizes establishment of service fee amounts for garbage collection and disposal by resolution adopted by the council and approved by the mayor;
WHEREAS: As of July 11, 2023, the service charge for garbage collection and disposal was twenty-two dollars and 50/100 ($22.50) per unit;
WHEREAS: The Town of Berwick, through the St. Mary Parish Government, has a non-exclusive franchise agreement with Pelican Waste & Debris, LLC for the collection and disposal of residential solid waste;
WHEREAS: Sometime in 2024, Pelican Waste & Debris, LLC, in- creased their fee per unit by One dollar and 50/100 ($1.50);
WHEREAS: At this time there exists no other viable options for the collection and disposal of garbage; and,
WHEREAS: The mayor and council members of the Town of Berwick do not decide the garbage collection and disposal service charge, nor can they control increases.
THEREFORE, be it resolved that, starting September 1, 2024, the service charge for collection and disposal of garbage will be Twenty-Four Dollars and 50/100 ($24.50) per unit.
This service charge shall be assessed against the owner or occupant of each dwelling unit and against each business or commercial unit as provided in Town of Berwick Ordinances, Chapter 10 Health and Sanitation, Article 11. Garbage, Trash and Refuse, Section 10-32 Service Fee for Collection and Disposal of Garbage and Trash.
A vote on this Resolution was as follows:
Ayes: James Richard, Kevin Hebert, Raymond Price, and Colleen Askew
Nays: Lud Henry
Absent: None
The Resolution was duly approved and adopted at a council meeting held on August 13, 2024. The Clerk of the Council certifies that the above Resolution is true and correct as adopted.
———————
Jamie Keith –
Town Clerk
Date: ——————
APPROVED:
———————
Duval H. Arthur, Jr –
Mayor
Date: ——————
Adv. Aug. 21, 2024
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PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Sealed bids will be received on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, by the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District (MCHTD), at the District’s 7327 Highway 182 1st Floor Media Room, in Morgan City, Louisiana until 12:00 P.M, and MCHTD shall at that time and place publically open the bids and read them aloud.
ANY PERSON REQUIRING SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS SHALL NOTIFY FACILITY PLANNING AND CONTROL OF THE TYPE(S) OF ACCOMMODATION RE- QUIRED NOT LESS THAN SEVEN (7) DAYS BEFORE THE BID OPENING.
FOR: Dock Ex- pansion – Bulkheading, State Drydock Repairs & Related Dredging
Mr. Brett Drydock Repair at Bollinger Morgan City
PROJECT NUMBER: 36-P15-23-01
Complete Bid Documents may be obtained from:
GIS Engineering LLC
197 Elysian Dr., Houma, Louisiana, 70363
985-219-1000
Ann Schouest
bidquestions@gisy.com
upon deposit of $125.00 for each set of documents. Deposit on the first set is fully refundable to all Prime Bidders upon return of the documents, in good condition, no later than ten (10) days after receipt of bids. Fifty percent of the deposit of all other sets of documents will be refunded upon re- turn of documents as stated above.
All bids shall be accompanied by bid security in an amount of five percent (5.0%) of the sum of the base bid and all alternates. The form of this security shall be as stated in the In- structions to Bidders included in the Bid Documents for this project.
The successful Bidder shall be required to furnish a Performance and Payment Bond written as des-cribed in the In- structions to Bidders included in the Bid Documents for this project.
A PRE-BID CONFERENCE WILL BE HELD
at 10:00 AM on Friday, August 16, 2024 at the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District (MCHTD), at the District’s 7327 Highway 182 1st Floor Media Room, in
Morgan City,
Louisiana.
Bids shall be accepted from Contractors who are licensed under LA. R.S. 37:2150-2192 for the classification of Painting, Coating, and Blasting. Bidder is required to comply with provisions and requirements 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.
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.
Bid documents are posted on http://www.centralauctionhouse.com. To view these, download, and receive bid notices by e-mail, you must register with Central Auction House (CAH). Vendors/Contractors have the option to submit their bids electronically or by paper copy. For information about the electronic submittal process, contact Ted Fleming with Central Auction House at 1-866-570-9620.
Each bid shall be either hand delivered by the bidder or his agent, or such bid shall be sent by United States Postal Service registered or certified mail with a return receipt requested, or shall be submitted electronically with Central Auction House (CAH). Bids shall not be accepted or taken, including receiving any hand de- livered bids, on days which are recognized as holidays by the United States Postal Service.
The mailing address for bids is:
Port of Morgan City Admin Office
7327 Highway 182
Morgan City, Louisiana 70381
No bid received after the scheduled time for opening will be considered. Failure of the U.S. Mail to deliver the bids timely shall not be considered due cause for the scheduled time of the bid opening to be ex- tended.
Bids must be submitted on the Louisiana Uniform Public Works Bid Form furnished with the Bidding Documents. A single set of Bidding Documents shall be issued at the cost of reproduction to contractors who are licensed by the Licensing Board of Contractors.
Adv. Aug. 7, 14 and 21, 2024
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PUBLIC NOTICE
In accordance with Act 186 of 1984, the public is hereby notified that the proposed budget of Wax Lake East Drainage District, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025 is available for inspection at 300 Everett Street, Morgan City, Louisiana, between hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Also, the public is hereby notified that a public hearing will be held on September 3, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at the Patterson Civic Center located at 116 Cotten Road, Patterson, Louisiana 70392. The purpose of this public hearing is to allow citizens to provide comments and opinions on the proposed budget of Wax Lake East Drainage District, for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2024 and ending September 30, 2025.
Additionally, proposed amendments to the budget of Wax Lake East Drainage District, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024, may be considered at the public hearing to be held on September 3, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at the Patterson Civic Center located at 116 Cotten Road, Patterson, Louisiana 70392. This proposed amended budget is shown as the estimated 2024 amounts on the September 30, 2025 budget documents.
Proposed
Budget
General Fund and Debt
Service Fund
October 1, 2024 to
September 30, 2025
Projected
Beginning
Fund Balance, October 1, 2024
$3,574,441
Projected
Revenues
$1,075,000
Projected
Expenses
$3,989,380
Projected Ending Fund
Balance, September 30, 2025
$660,061
(S) Jeff Lagrange
Chairman
(S) Rhonda
Patterson
Secretary
Adv. Aug. 21, 2024
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PUBLIC NOTICE
Recreation District No. 3 of the Parish of St. Mary will conduct a proposed budget hearing on Monday, September 23, 2024 at 5:15 pm at the Bayou Vista Community Center, Bayou Vista, Louisiana. The purpose of the hearing is to invite public comment in the budget process on the District’s operations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024.
The proposed budget is available for public inspection in the District’s offices at the Bayou Vista Community Center, 1333 Belleview Street Morgan City, LA 70380. Interested persons may examine the budget documents during regular office hours, Monday through Friday (8:00 am – 4:00 pm).
Brian Head,
President
Recreation District No. 3 of the Parish of St. Mary
Adv. Aug. 16, 21, 23, 28, 30, Sept. 4, 6, 11, 13 and 18, 2024
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PUBLIC NOTICE
August 12, 2024
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing has been ordered and called and will be held on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at 6:00 pm, in the City Court Building, 7261 Highway 182 E, Morgan City, Louisiana for the following purposes.
1. Discuss Ongoing Issues at Table 5 - Liquor License Review
2. Guests:
This will be an important meeting and you are urged to attend.
This meeting will be open to the public as required by law.
/s/ Lee Dragna
Lee Dragna
Mayor
LD/ggb
Adv. Aug. 21, 2024
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ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
The St. Mary Parish Government, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, acting through its President, Sam Jones, will receive sealed bids for the Louisiana Recreational Trails Grant – Amelia Trail, Federal Award #H.015209 project, at the St. Mary Parish Courthouse Council Meeting Room. Fifth Floor, Franklin, Louisiana 70538, until September 19, 2024, at 10:00 A.M., local time, at which time and place, they will be publicly opened and read aloud. Bids received after the time set forth above for opening of bids will not be considered and will be returned unopened.
The Contract Documents (Plans, Information for Bidders, Bid Form, Specifications and other pertinent documents) may be examined at the following locations:
•Miller Engineers & Associates, Inc. – 601 Main Street; Franklin, Louisiana 70538
•St. Mary Parish Purchasing Agent’s Office – Fifth Floor, Courthouse Building; Franklin, Louisiana 70538
Copies of the bidding documents may be obtained from the office of Miller Engineers and Associates, Inc. upon receipt of $120.00 for each set during normal business hours (7:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. Monday – Thursday and 7:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Friday). Checks for Bidding Documents shall be made payable to “Miller Engineers & Associates, Inc.”. In accordance with La. R.S. 38:2212 A (1) (e), deposits on the first set of documents furnished bona fide prime bidders will be fully refunded upon return of the documents and deposits on any additional sets will be refunded less the actual cost of reproduction. Refunds will be made upon return of the documents unmarked and in good condition if within ten days after receipt of bids.
Official bid documents can be downloaded from Central Bidding at www.centralbidding.com. Electronic bids can be submitted at www.centralbidding.com. For any questions relating to the electronic bidding process, please call Central Bidding at (225) 810-4814.
There will be no pre-bid conference for this project. Bidders are responsible for making site visitations in preparation of their bids.
To qualify to bid, each bidder shall be a properly licensed Contractor in accordance with La. R.S. 37:2150 – 2163 for the classification of HIGHWAY, STREET & BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION or related classification.
The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all bids in accordance with Title 38 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes.
Each bidder must deposit with his/her bid, security in the amount, form and subject to the conditions provided in the Information for Bidders. Sureties used for obtaining bonds must appear as acceptable on the U.S. Department of Treasury Circular 570.
A bidder may withdraw their bid within forty-eight (48) hours of the bid opening, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays as governed by La. R.S. 38:2214 (C).
Any questions or clarifications shall be submitted to the Project Engineer, Jules M. Darden, in writing a minimum of five (5) days prior to the bid opening date. Addenda will be issued to all prospective bidders a minimum of 72 hours prior to the bid opening date. Only information provided within written addenda issued by the Project Engineer shall be considered binding.
Any person with disabilities requiring special accommodations must contact the St. Mary Parish Government no later than seven (7) days prior to the bid opening.
/s/ Sam Jones
Sam Jones,
President
St. Mary Parish Government
Adv. Aug. 21, 28 and Sept. 4, 2024
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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Notice is hereby given that sealed bid will be received by the St. Mary Parish Government Purchasing Department until, Thursday, September 5, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. on the Fifth Floor Courthouse, 500 Main St. Franklin, LA 70538 for the following:
“MOSQUITO CONTROL CHEMICALS CONTRACT”
Then and their bids will be opened and read aloud. Bids received after the specified time and date will not be opened or recognized. Specifications and contract documents for the above can be obtained upon request from the St. Mary Parish Purchasing Department on the Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, LA 70538 and can be downloaded from Central Bidding at www.centralbidding.com Bids may be submitted electronically at Central Bidding or mailed to the office of St. Mary Parish Government Purchasing Department.
ENVELOPES MUST BE MARKED AS FOLLOWS:
“BIDS FOR MOSQUITO CONTROL CHEMICALS”
ST. MARY PARISH GOVERNMENT PURCHASING DEPARTMENT
500 MAIN ST. FIFTH FLOOR COURTHOUSE
FRANKLIN, LA 70538
St. Mary Parish Government reserves the right to reject any and/or all bids to wave informalities in any/or all bids, and to award the contract in the best interest of St. Mary Parish.
Thus Done and signed at Franklin, Parish of St. Mary, Louisiana on this 21st day of August, 2024
(S) Sam Jones
Sam Jones
Parish President
St. Mary Parish Government
Adv. Aug. 21, 23, 28 and 30, 2024
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PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY
PARISH
WATER & SEWER
COMMISSION NO. 5
PRESS RELEASE
Notice is hereby given pursuant to Article 7, Section 23(C) of the Louisiana Constitution and R.S. 47:1705(B) that a public hearing of the St. Mary Parish Water and Sewer Commission No. 5 will be held at the West St. Mary Civic Center, 1498 Highway 318, Jeanerette, Louisiana, on Monday, September 9, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. to consider levying additional or increased millage rates without further voter ap- proval or adopting the adjusted millage rates after reassessment and rolling forward to rates not to exceed the prior year’s maximum. The estimated amount of tax revenues to be collected in the next tax year from the increased millage is $473,834 and the amount of increase in taxes attributable to the millage increase is $479.
Adv. Aug. 21, 2024
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PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY
PARISH FIRE
PROTECTION DISTRICT NO. 7
PRESS RELEASE
Notice is hereby given pursuant to Article 7, Section 23(C) of the Louisiana Constitution and R.S. 47:1705(B) that a public hearing of the St. Mary Parish Fire Protection District No. 7 will be held at the Central Station, 1519 Highway 182 East, Bayou Vista, Louisiana, on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. to consider levying additional or increased millage rates without further voter approval or adopting the adjusted millage rates after reassessment and rolling forward to rates not to exceed the prior year’s maximum. The estimated amount of tax revenues to be collected in the next tax year from the increased millage is $380,969 and the amount of increase in taxes attributable to the millage increase is $2,304.
Adv. Aug. 21, 2024
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PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC
HEARING AND AVAILABILITY OF BUDGET FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION
A Public Hearing will be held at 5:15 P.M., prior to the regular scheduled meeting of the St. Mary Parish School Board, on Thursday, September 12, 2024 at the Central Office Complex in Centerville, Louisiana for the purpose of review and input from the general public on the Consolidated Budget for the Year Ending June 30, 2025. (General Fund, Special Revenue Funds and all other Funds of the St. Mary Parish School Board).
This Consolidated Budget is available for public inspection at the Central Office Complex located at 474 Hwy 317, Centerville, LA
Alaina L. Black
President
Buffy S. Fegenbush, Ed. D.
Superintendent
Adv. Aug. Aug. 21, 2024
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PUBLIC NOTICE
August 14, 2024
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, August 28, 2024, 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 proposing an amendment to Section 7-08(A) of the Home Rule Charter for St. Mary Parish.
An ordinance proposing an amendment to Section 2-01(B) of the Home Rule Charter for St. Mary Parish.
An ordinance proposing an amendment to Section 2-03 of the Home Rule Charter for St. Mary Parish.
An ordinance proposing an amendment to Section 2-04(B) & (C) of the Home Rule Charter for St. Mary Parish.
An ordinance proposing an amendment to Section 2-05(B) of the Home Rule Charter for St. Mary Parish.
An ordinance proposing an amendment to Section 2-07(C) of the Home Rule Charter for St. Mary Parish.
An ordinance proposing an amendment to Section 2-12(B) of the Home Rule Charter for St. Mary Parish.
An ordinance proposing an amendment to Section 3-05 of the Home Rule Charter for St. Mary Parish.
An ordinance proposing an amendment to Section 3-06(B) & (C) of the Home Rule Charter for St. Mary Parish.
An ordinance proposing an amendment to Section 3-10(A) of the Home Rule Charter for St. Mary Parish.
An ordinance proposing an amendment to Section 5-05(E) of the Home Rule Charter for St. Mary Parish.
Your attendance will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO,
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Adv. Aug. 21, 2024
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PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice To The Public
Notice is hereby given that the Parish Council of St. Mary Parish will meet on the 11th day of September, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. for the purpose of receiving protests and hearing complaints on values of property for as- sessment purposes in the parish fixed by the Assessor of St. Mary Parish. All taxpayers de- siring to protest values fixed by the St. Mary Parish Assessor must file their protest in writing or verbally with the Clerk of the Council seven (7) days before the date of the said meeting. PLEASE NOTE: You must submit all information concerning the value of your property to your assessor before the deadline for filing an appeal with the Board of Review. The failure to submit such information may prevent you from relying on that information should you protest your value.
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Adv. Aug. 21 and 23, 2024
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