Public notices for Sept. 2, 2026

PUBLIC NOTICE
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL OF THE
PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA
AUGUST 12, 2026
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
The St. Mary Parish Council met on this date in Regular Session with Chairperson Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo presiding and the following members present: Rev. Craig Mat-hews, J Ina, Rodney Olander, David W. Hill, Leslie Rulf, Jr., Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, Dean Adams, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D.
The Invocation was pronounced by Dr. Rink and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Duhon.
Mr. Olander moved that the reading of the Special Session Meeting, July 29, 2026, be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Adams stated that a discussion was had at the previous Council meeting regarding whether Charter amendments ever went on a ballot. He stated that the proposed Charter amendments to increase the Parish President’s salary and to allow any Council Member to serve as Council Chair were presented to the voters in 2022, but both amendments failed.
Mrs. Hidalgo moved up Parish President, Sam Jones’ report.
President Jones announced that Metal Shark is ex- panding and plans to hire additional employees. He re- ported on the possibility of an oil well being located in Berwick, a prospective business that would transport bagasse from both sugar mills to a separate location, and a prospective tire business that will recapture old tires.
Mrs. Hidalgo re- cognizes the presence of Mayor Eugene Foulcard, City of Franklin in attendance.
Fire Chief Chuck Bourgeois appeared before the Council to discuss the cost for fire protection services provided by Fire District No. 5. He explained that the contract dates back to 1987 and that Franklin is not requesting an increase in rates but rather an update to the contract to reflect the District’s growth. He stated that, although no agreement has been reached, communication has been established and multiple options are being considered. He provided additional information regarding the requested allocation increase, the original agreement between the City and Parish, and a recap of funds provided to the Franklin Fire Department over the past 10 years. He stated that all services in the unincorporated areas of the City of Franklin will cease on December 31, 2026 if an agreement is not reached. He stated that Franklin currently re- ceives approximately $32,523 per year, which covers only the structure portion of the agreement and not the per resident payment. He further stated any additional funding received under an updated agreement would be used for public safety equipment and firefighter salaries, which are necessary to maintain adequate fire protection services.
Several Council Members discussed who should bear the cost of providing fire protection in the District. Discussion included the possibility of a millage, double taxation, a partial tax, whether a dedicated source of revenue is provided by District 5, mutual aid provided by other Fire Districts, effects on fire rating, and per capita payment.
Chief Administrative Officer, Paul J. Governale stated that the budget is due to be presented to the Council by October 28, 2026. He also stated that he emailed the Council Chief Bourgeois’ research on structures, number of calls, funds that were given over the last 10 years, and the partial distribution given in 2024.
William “Bill” McCarty appeared before the Council to request consideration for reappointment to Hospital Service District No. 2 in Morgan City. He also discussed the various boards on which he has served over the years.
Chief Administrative Officer, Paul J. Governale, submitted his report for a two (2) week period, ending June 24, 2026. He expounded on the fire insurance rating and boat landings.
Planning & Zoning Director, Mandi LeBlanc, presented the following items as recommended by the Planning & Zoning Commission at their July 20, 2026, Regular Meeting:
a. Recommend Rezoning
Name: Boeuf Land Company LLC
Address: 2902 Lake Palourde Rd., Amelia, LA
Parcel Id# 3524281102.00 - Lot BD U Blan-chard - F Fryou Jr - S P Glynn – Public Road Acq. 428 339135 & Parcel Id# 3524281103.00 - Lot Blanchard - Bayou Boeuf - S P Glynn - Pub Road Less 12W 120341 and 23F 186369 Acq. 422 338155- Sec 14 T16S R13E
PURPOSE: Heavy Industrial (HI) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District to place a manufactured home on the property.
b. Recommend Rezoning
Name: JLK Trust
Address: 1310, 1318, 1326, 1334, 1342, 1350, 1358, 1362, & 1368, Duhon Blvd., Amelia, LA
Parcel Id# 1310 Duhon Blvd., Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; - Parcel Id# 3494221036.00 - Lot 7 Being 1.79 AC Por Tract Q, Situated in Sec 44 T16S R13E, included in 215.21AC, Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637. -1318 Duhon Blvd., Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221035.00 - Lot 8 Being 1.83 AC Por Tract Q Situated in Sec 44,T16SR13E, included in 215.21, AC Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637.- 1326 Duhon Blvd Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221034.00- Lot 9 Being 1.79 AC Por Tract Q, Situated insect 44 ,T16S R13E, included in 215.21AC, Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637. - 1334 Duhon Blvd Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221033.00 - Lot 10 Being 1.79 Ac Por Tract Q Situated in Sec 44 T16S R13E included in 215.21 Ac Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637. - 1342 Duhon Blvd Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221032.00 - Lot 11 Being 1.81 Ac Por Tract Q Situated in Sec 44 T16S R13E included in 215.21Ac, Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637. - 1350 Duhon Blvd Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221031.00 - Lot 12 Being 1.81 Ac Por Tract Q Situated in Sec. 44 T16S R13E, included in 215.21 Ac, Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637.- 1358 Duhon Blvd Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221030.00 - Lot 13 Being 1.82 Ac Por Tract Q Situated in Sec 44 T16S R13E included in 215.21 Ac Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637.- 1362 Duhon Blvd Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221029.00 - Lot 14 Being 1.85 Ac Por Tract Q Situated in sec 44 T16S R13E included in 215.21 Ac, Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637.- 1368 Duhon Blvd Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221028.00 - Lot 15 Being 1.87 Ac Por Tract Q Situated in Sec. 44 T16S R13E, included in 215.21 AC, Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637
PURPOSE: Existing Neighborhood (EN3) Zoned District to Light Industrial (LI) Zoned District.
Mr. Olander recommends the above Rezoning Approvals. Mr. Duhon seconded the motion, which carried.
c. Recommend Specific Use –
Name: Corry and Amy Giroir
Address: 115 Laura St., Patterson, LA 70392
Parcel Id# 2864401053.00- Lot 5 Green Acres Subd Addn 1 Blk D Acq. 39g 253951- Sec.40 T15S R11E
Currently Zoned: Single Family Residential (SR) Zoned District
Specific Use Purpose: to allow Livestock (chickens) in a Single Family Residential (SR) Zoned District.
Mr. Olander recommends Denial for the above Specific Use Approval. Mr. Davis seconded the motion, which carried by the following 8-3-0-0 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Mathews, Ina, Olander, Rulf, Davis, Adams, Rink, and Hidalgo
NAYS: Hill, He- bert, and Duhon
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
Discussion was had relative to the number of chickens, number of roosters, how long they have been on the property, whether they are kept in a coop, was the resident aware of the restriction(s), and whether restrictions are listed on the deed.
Rev. Mathews moved that the Public Hearing Re- port July 29, 2026 - 5:45 p.m. and Public Hearing Report July 29, 2026 - 5:50 p.m. be accepted. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried.
Rev. Mathews congratulated Fire Chief Clarence Clark, Fire Protection District No. 11, on being awarded the Medal of Valor in recognition of his exceptional courage and bravery for rescuing an individual from a burning home.
Mr. Rulf congratulated Patterson Fire Chief Scott Hutton, his staff, and Volunteer Fire Fighters on successfully lowering the community’s fire rating to a Class 6 rating.
Mr. Duhon introduced the following Ordinances:
ORDINANCE
NO.
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, Chapter 5 Procedures, Division 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearing, Section 5.4.2 Rezonings (Zoning Map Amendments).
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR RE- VIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
EXHIBIT “A”
Name: JLK Trust
Address: 1310, 1318, 1326, 1334, 1342, 1350, 1358, 1362, & 1368, Duhon Blvd., Amelia, LA
Parcel Id# 1310 Duhon Blvd., Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221036.00 - Lot 7 Being 1.79 AC Por Tract Q Situated in Sec 44 T16S R13E included in 215.21 AC Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637. -1318 Duhon Blvd., Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221035.00 - Lot 8 Being 1.83 AC Por Tract Q Situated in Sec 44 T16S R13E included in 215.21 AC Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637.- 1326 Duhon Blvd Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221034.00- Lot 9 Being 1.79 AC Por Tract Q Situated in Sec 44 T16S R13E included in 215.21 AC Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637. - 1334 Duhon Blvd Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221033.00 - Lot 10 Being 1.79 Ac Por Tract Q Situated in Sec 44 T16S R13E included in 215.21 Ac Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637. - 1342 Duhon Blvd Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221032.00 - Lot 11 Being 1.81 Ac Por Tract Q Situated in Sec 44 T16S R13E included in 215.21 Ac Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637. - 1350 Duhon Blvd Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221031.00 - Lot 12 Being 1.81 Ac Por Tract Q Situated in Sec 44 T16S R13E included in 215.21 Ac Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637.- 1358 Duhon Blvd Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221030.00 - Lot 13 Being 1.82 Ac Por Tract Q Situated in Sec 44 T16S R13E included in 215.21 Ac Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637.- 1362 Duhon Blvd Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221029.00 - Lot 14 Being 1.85 Ac Por Tract Q Situated in sec 44 T16S R13E included in 215.21 Ac Tract
“ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637.- 1368 Duhon Blvd Amelia, LA 70340 – Sec 44 T16S R13E; -Parcel Id# 3494221028.00 - Lot 15 Being 1.87 Ac Por Tract Q Situated in sec 44 T16S R13E included in 215.21 AC Tract “ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZAABBCCDDEEFFGGHHA” per map 34X 236649 ACQ. 412 336637.
PURPOSE: Existing Neighborhood (EN3) Zoned District to Light Industrial (LI) Zoned District.
ORDINANCE
NO.
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, Chapter 5 Procedures, Division 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearing, Section 5.4.2 Rezonings (Zoning Map Amendments).
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR RE- VIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
EXHIBIT “A”
Name: Boeuf Land Company LLC
Address: 2902 Lake Palourde Rd., Amelia, LA
Parcel Id# 3524281102.00 - Lot BD U Blan-chard - F Fryou Jr - S P Glynn - Public Road Acq. 428 339135 & Parcel Id# 3524281103.00 - Lot Blanchard - Bayou Boeuf - S P Glynn - Pub Road Less 12W 120341 and 23F 186369 Acq. 422 338155- Sec 14 T16S R13E
PURPOSE: Heavy Industrial (HI) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District to place a manufactured home on the property.
Mr. Davis moved that the following Resolution be adopted. The Council seconded the motion, which carried by the following 11-0-0-0 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Ina, Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hidalgo, and Mathews
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
RESOLUTION OF RESPECT
WHEREAS, the Lord Almighty in His Infinite mercy and goodness has seen fit to remove from our midst, Foster D. Johnson, just shy of his 98th birthday, and
WHEREAS, Mr. Johnson was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and brother, who enjoyed fishing, shrimping, gardening, and working on projects around his home, and
WHEREAS, Mr. Johnson was a de- voted member and usher of Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church and was a man of faith, community, and service whose dedication to helping others was evident throughout his life and in every role he held, and
WHEREAS, Mr. Johnson honorably served in the U. S. Airforce and U. S. Army, including serving during World War II and the Korean War, and
WHEREAS, Mr. Johnson worked in the St. Mary Parish School system, where he served as the first Black Principal for many years at Jacquet Elementary School in Morgan City, until his retirement and also served as a School Board Member for several years, and
WHEREAS, Mr. Johnson also serv-ed on the Board of Directors for St. Mary Community Action Agency, St. Mary Association for Retarded Citizens, St. Mary Manpower Commission, Morgan City Board of Adjustment, Member of Morgan City Auditorium & Tourist Committee, Member of St. Mary Parish Advisory Council-United Way, Morgan City July 4th Committee, Young Memorial Technical Institute Advisory Committee, National Education Association, AARP, Louisiana Retired Teachers Association, and St. Mary Retired Teachers Association, Boy Scout Leader, and also worked as a local automobile salesman, and
WHEREAS, the members of the St. Mary Parish Council wish to acknowledge publicly their sorrow and sympathy to the family of Mr. Johnson with the hope that his family will find comfort in knowing that their grief and sorrow are shared by their friends and community.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the St. Mary Parish Council through the unanimous adoption of this resolution, hereby extend its sincere condolences, sympathy, and understanding during this time of grief.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 12th day of August 2026.
APPROVED:
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
ATTEST:
S/G LISA C. MORGAN
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Mr. Hebert moved that the following Resolution be adopted. Mr. Davis seconded the motion, which carried by the following 11-0-0-0 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hidalgo, Mathews, and Ina
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the St. Mary Parish Council desires to appoint an Advisory Standing Committee of the Citizens, and
WHEREAS, this Advisory Standing Committee of Citizens will be known as the Region 2 Advisory Boat Launch Facility Committee, and
WHEREAS, Ad- visory Committees’ functions will be to investigate and study the feasibility of expanding and improving the Boat Launch facilities in their designated areas, and
WHEREAS, Re- gion 2 shall be designated as all of that territory from the Calumet Cut East to the St. Martin and As- sumption Parish lines.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RE- SOLVED, that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby appoint a five (5) member Advisory Committee for Region 2 and does hereby designate their respective terms:
Region 2
Merlin Price, Jr. – 4-year term
Jeffery Fontenot – 4-year term
Chuck Sheehan – 3-year term
Mario Gross – 2-year term
Sidney Michel – 2-year term
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 12th day of August 2026.
APPROVED:
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
ATTEST:
S/G LISA C. MORGAN
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Mr. Adams re- quested that the members’ telephone numbers be available as point of contact.
Mrs. Hidalgo acknowledged the four (4) citizens in attendance who expressed interest in the boat launch issues and proposed resolution.
OLD BUSINESS:
A. Referred from the Jun 24, 2026, Regular Meeting – Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions (previous appointment, Leslie Skinner did not take the Oath of Office):
Recreation District No. 2 – (Siracusa) – 1 Vacancy
Oscar “Sam” Toups, Marva B. Stewart
Mr. Duhon mov-ed to appoint Marva B. Stewart to Recreation District No. 2. Mr. Davis seconded the motion, which carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. William J. Miller has written – “Please accept this letter as my resignation from the following boards effective, August 5, 2026: Recreation District No. 4, Water & Sewer Commission No. 3, Waterworks District No. 5 and Wax Lake East Drainage District. I wish to thank you for all the assistance you have given me and allowed me to serve for so many years.”
Mr. Miller will be sent a letter thanking him for his service on each board and the vacancies will be advertised.
B. Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Consolidated Gravity Drainage District No. 2A – 2 Vacancies
Dr. Tim Tregle, Darren Gussman
Mr. Davis moved to appoint Dr. Tim Tregle and Darren Gussman to Consolidated Gravity Drainage District No. 2A. Mr. Duhon seconded the mo- tion, which carried.
Hospital Service District No. 2 (Ochsner St. Mary) – 2 Vacancies
Jackie Cheramie – Present Member, William McCarty – Present Member, Andree T. Hebert, Judith Hidalgo
Mr. Hill moved to reappoint Jackie Cheramie and to appoint Andree T. Hebert to Hospital Service District No. 2. Mr. Duhon seconded the motion.
Mr. Hebert mov-ed to amend the motion to reappoint Jackie Cher-amie and William McCarty to Hospital Service District No. 2. Mr. Adams seconded the mo- tion, which Failed by the following 5-5-1-0 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Hebert, Davis, Adams, Hi- dalgo, and Olander
NAYS: Hill, Rulf, Duhon, Mat-hews, and Ina
ABSTAIN: Rink
ABSENT: None
Discussion was had regarding whether Hospital Service District No. 2 currently has representation from the entire service area, in- cluding the Berwick and Bayou Vista areas. Discussion was also had regarding the value and importance of retaining present members based on their experience and knowledge of the District’s operations.
The original motion to reappoint Jackie Cher-amie and to ap- point Andree T. Hebert to Hospital Service District No. 2 Carried by the following 6-4-1-0 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Rulf, Davis, Duhon, Mathews, Ina, and Hill
NAYS: Hebert, Adams, Hidalgo, and Olander
ABSTAIN: Rink
ABSENT: None
Mr. Hebert thanked William “Bill” McCarty for his years of service on Hospital Service District No. 2.
Recreation District No. 3 (Bayou Vista) – 1 Vacancy
Brian L. Head – Present Member
Mr. Hill moved to reappoint Brian L. Head to Recreation District No. 3. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried.
Recreation District No. 4 (Patterson) – 1 Vacancy
Tommy Balom – Present Member
Mr. Rulf moved to reappoint Tommy Balom to Recreation District No. 4. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Ina congratulated Legal Counsel, Morgan Guillory Bodin on being elected without opposition to serve as City Judge City Court, City of Franklin.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried.
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
S/G LISA C.
MORGAN
Lisa C. Morgan,
Clerk
Adv. Sept. 2, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVISORY BUDGET/FINANCE
COMMITTEE REPORT
AUGUST 12, 2026
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
5:00 P.M.
The Advisory Budget/Finance Committee met on this date with Chairman Craig Mathews presiding and the following members present: J Ina, Rodney Olander, David W. Hill, Leslie “Les” Rulf, Jr., Patrick J. Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark A. Du- hon, Dean S. Adams, Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D., and Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo.
Also present were Parish President Sam Jones, Chief Administrative Officer Paul Governale, and Director of Finance Desiree Gros.
The Invocation was pronounced by Mr. Ina and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Hebert.
Almetra Franklin, former Director of Community Action Agency and Community Volunteer, appeared before the Council in support of the allocation request from St. John Baptist Church to assist with rebuilding the church. She stated that the Church was struck by lightning and burned along with the fellowship hall and adjacent building. She emphasized that the church serves not only as a place of worship but also as a community center that provides services to seniors and previously served as a headstart center for children in the area.
David Jones, Sr., Pastor of St. John Baptist Church informed that the church has served the Four Corners community for 164 years. He stated that the church provides various services to the community, including summer food programs for children, commodity and nutrition programs serving over 135 families, serve the homeless, and conduct evening prayer and Bible Study on Wednesday and Thursday evenings with participants from Dallas, Houston, Baton Rouge, and Morgan City. He stated the importance of rebuilding the church and other facilities to continue serving the community. He stated that the church had insurance coverage and that he and his brother, who are contractors, have been assisting with the rebuilding efforts. However, additional funding is still needed to complete the project.
OLD BUSINESS:
A. Review and action relevant to current period financial statements and ap- proved budgets for FY 2025-2026.
Chief Administrative Officer Paul Governale expounded on the Financial Highlights that were submitted, outlining the major funds. He reviewed total revenues and total expenditures for the General Fund, Road Construction & Maintenance Fund, Sanitation, and Solid Waste. He also discussed Bond Payments, stating that the principal and interest payments were never missed and that the total for 2026 amounted to $3,611,460. He further stated that other expenses in- clude $550,000 per month for payroll (including fringe benefits) and $1,300,000 annually for insurance on buildings, vehicles, and liability. He also discussed the revenues and expenses associated with the Jail Operating & Maintenance.
In response to several Council Members’ inquiries, Mr. Governale provided additional information re- garding expenditures associated with the Road Fund and Road Royalty Funds, the Boat Landing Permit Fund, and year to date transactions. He also discussed the costs and funding sources for maintaining the boat landings, any completed Capital Improvements Projects, revenue expenses, and possibly hiring security guards to monitor the landings.
Mr. Duhon stated that St. Mary Parish has more landings than other parishes in the area and that he has personally assisted with cleaning the landings.
Mr. Governale stated that Mayor Lee Dragna has expressed interest in maintaining the J.C. Russo and Michel Boat Landings.
Several Council Members discussed the boat launch fees.
Donovan Garcia, former Advisory Boat Launch Facility Committee member and St. Mary Parish resident, appeared before the Council to express concerns regarding the condition and maintenance of the boat landings, lack of restrooms, trash, and dumpsters. He stated that these landings are a gateway to walking/biking trails and the Atchafalaya Basin that attract tourists and kayakers.
Several Council Members discussed the possibility of making budget amendments more frequently. They also discussed the 2nd amendment to the budget and delays in the submission of audits by other entities and clarified that the delays in re- ceiving the audits were not the result of actions by the Parish. Mr. Duhon requested a list of entities that did not submit their audits on time.
Following discussion regarding the allocation of funds to Water & Sewer Commission No. 5, Mr. Ina recommended that the Council allocate $30,000 from Fund 129, Wards 1,2,3,4,7, & 10 3/10% Sales Tax Fund to Water & Sewer Commission No. 5 to complete facility upgrades to the existing water plant and to complete construction of the office space. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
Discussion was had relative to the requested allocation increase for the Franklin Fire Department for service to residents in the rural areas of Franklin.
Mr. Governale stated that he met with Fire Chief Chuck Bourgeois and Assistant Fire Chief Martin and have reached an agreement to pay out the rest of this year’s budget and ask for a budget increase for next year.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. St. John Baptist Church has submitted their pre-application re- questing funds for the Rebuilding Initiative 2026 – Funding request $20,000.
Following discussion regarding the availability of funds and the legality of allocating public funds to a private entity and proper use of such funds, Mrs. Hidalgo recommends that the Council obtain legal advice in allocating funds to a private entity. Mr. Davis seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Governale informed that funds were cut for several entities and the Parish did assist with the tipping fee costs associated with the demolition of St. John Baptist Church due to the fire.
B. Review proposed 2027 Budget and Five-Year Capital Outlay.
Mr. Governale stated that re- quests have been sent to all departments and stated that now is the time to submit Capital Improvement Projects re- quests.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion, which carried.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED,
S/G CRAIG MATHEWS
CRAIG MATHEWS,
CHAIRMAN
ADVISORY BUDGET/FINANCE COMMITTEE
Adv. Sept. 2, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF SPECIAL ELECTION
Pursuant to the provisions of a resolution adopted by the St. Mary Parish Council, State of Louisiana (the “Governing Auth- ority”), acting as the governing authority of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana (the “Parish”), on May 13, 2026, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a special election will be held within the Parish on TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2026, and that at the said election there will be submitted to all registered voters in the Parish qualified and entitled to vote at the said election under the Constitution and Laws of the State of Louisiana and the Constitution of the United States, the following proposition, to-wit:
CHARTER AMENDMENT PROPOSITION
Shall the St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter be amended and restated to modernize parish governance by reducing the Parish Council from eleven members (eight district and three at-large) to eight single-member districts, eliminating at-large seats; up- dating council and parish-president compensation to reflect current duties, with cost-of-living adjustments every four years; establishing term limits of one-and-one-half consecutive terms for both the council and the parish president; designating the Parish President as chief executive and ad- ministrative officer, eliminating the separate chief administrative officer position; clarifying procedures for vacancies, meetings, and publication of ordinances; and removing obsolete or redundant sections, including outdated ballot and district provisions, all as provided in the re- vised St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter adopted by the Charter Commission?
The said special election will be held at each and every polling place in the Parish, which polls will open at six o’clock (6:00) a.m. and close at eight o’clock (8:00) p.m., in accordance with the provisions of La. R.S. 18:541.
The polling places at the precincts in the Parish are hereby designated as the polling places at which to hold the said election, and the Commissioners-in-Charge and Commissioners, respectively, shall be those persons designated according to law.
The estimated cost of this election as determined by the Secretary of State based upon the provisions of Chapter 8-A of Title 18 and actual costs of similar elections is $14,500.
The said special election will be held in accordance with the applicable provisions of Chapter 5, Chapter 6-A and Chapter 6-B of Title 18 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended, and other constitutional and statutory authority, and the officers appointed to hold the said election, as provided in this Notice of Special Election, or such substitutes therefor as may be selected and designated in accordance with La. R.S. 18:1287, will make due returns thereof to said Governing Authority, and NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the Governing Authority will meet at its regular meeting place, the Parish Council Meeting Room, 500 Main Street, Franklin, Louisiana, on WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2026, at 6:00 P.M., and shall then and there in open and public session proceed to examine and canvass the returns and de- clare the result of the said special election. All registered voters of the Parish are entitled to vote at said special election and voting machines will be used.
Adv. Aug. 19, 26, Sept. 2 and 9, 2026

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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 28, 2026, at 5:15 pm at the Bayou Vista Community Center, Bayou Vista, Louisiana. The purpose of the hearing is to invite public comments in the budget process on the District’s operations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2026.
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

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PUBLIC NOTICE
Advertisement for Sealed Bids for Cash Sale of Im- movable Property
The St. Mary Parish School Board will receive sealed bids for the cash sale of immovable property. Sealed bids will be accepted for the purchase of the following described immovable property:
Property Des- cription:
•Vacant Land Tract: 1.087-acre property located at 497 Highway 317, Centerville, La. 70522
Sealed bids will be accepted at the St. Mary Parish School Board Central Office Complex, in the Evan Medine Meeting Room, Centerville, Louisiana, until 10:00 a.m. on September 22, 2026, at which time the bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.
No pre-bid conference will be held. A bid packet may be obtained from the St. Mary Parish School Board, Purchasing Department, 474 Hwy 317, Centerville, Louisiana 70522; by emailing Mrs. Jackee’ Jackson at jjackson@stmaryk12.net; or online at www.centralauctionhouse.com.
The St. Mary Parish School Board reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any informalities or irregularities in the bidding process, and to accept the bid deemed to be in the best interest of the School Board.
St. Mary Parish School Board em- ployees, board members, and their immediate family members are not eligible to submit bids or participate in the bidding process.
The Central Office Complex will be closed on Monday, September 7, 2026 in observation of the Labor Day Holiday.
Specifications may be obtained from the St. Mary Parish School Board Maintenance or Purchasing Department, by calling (337) 836-9661.
Adv. Aug. 21, Sept. 2 and 18, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY PARISH 9-1-1 COMMUNICATIONS DISTRICT
Regular Board Meeting
1200 David Drive,
Building B
Morgan City, LA 70380
August 27, 2026
1:00 P.M.
Chairman, Mr. Justin Martin opened the August 27, 2026, regular meeting with the roll call. Mr. Justin Martin, Mr. Duval Arthur, III, Mr. Garrett Grogan, Ms. Brandi Leonard were in attendance. Mr. Ross Mire arrived at approximately 1:13 p.m. Mr. Scott Verret and Mr. Matt Mayon did not attend.
Public Comment: none
Guest(s): Mr. Holden Leon of the Police and Fireman’s Insurance Association attended the meeting.
At 1:05 p.m., Mr. Martin called for a motion to Open the Public Hearing regarding Act 947 of the 2026 Regular Session of the Louisiana State Legislature regarding an increase in Wireless Service Charge not to exceed $2.00 per device per month to be levied within the District’s jurisdiction.
Mr. Grogan made a motion to open the Public Hearing. Ms. Leonard seconded the motion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
Mr. Martin called First Call for Public Comment, Second Call, and Third Call. With no one from the public wishing to address the Board, Ms. Leonard made a motion to close the Public Hearing and return to regular session at 1:07 p.m. Mr. Grogan seconded the motion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
Ms. Randle noted that the June 25, 2026, minutes published in the official journal on July 1, 2026, omitted the statement: “A budget vs actual comparison was provided to the board for review.” She informed members that the official document was amended to include the statement.
Ms. Leonard made a motion to dispense with the reading of and to accept the amended minutes from the June 25, 2026, meeting. Mr. Grogan seconded the motion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
The income statement for June 2026 was $73,017.03. Mr. Arthur made a mo- tion to accept the income statement. Mr. Grogan seconded the motion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
The expense statement for June 2026 was $92,922.93. Mr. Grogan made a motion to accept the expense statement. Ms. Leonard seconded the mo- tion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
The income statement for July 2026 was $124,295.02. Mr. Grogan made a motion to accept the income statement. Mr. Arthur seconded the mo- tion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
The expense statement for July 2026 was $90,453.48. Mr. Grogan made a motion to accept the expense statement. Ms. Leonard seconded the mo- tion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
A budget vs actual comparison was provided to the board for review.
Old Business: NONE
New Business:
a) Discussion and action regarding the adoption of proposed Resolution NO. 082726-A to increase the Wireless Surcharge collected within the District from $1.25 to $2.00 pursuant to ACT No. 947 of the 2026 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature. Ms. Leonard made a motion to accept the resolution as written. Mr. Grogan seconded the motion. All members were in favor and the mo- tion carried. The Resolution having been offered on the 27th day of August 2026 was adopted by the following vote: FIVE (5) YEAS: Justin Martin, Duval Arthur, III, Garrett Grogan, Brandi Leonard, and Ross Mire
ZERO (0) NAYS:
TWO (2) AB- SENT AND NOT VOTING: Travis Mayon and Scott Verret
b) Discussion and possible action regarding the adoption of proposed Resolution NO. 082726-B to increase the Fixed Location Wireline and VOIP Tariff Rates for Residential and Business service users being not more than 5% Tariff, but more than the current collection(s) as per the AT&T LA- 26009 General Ex- change Guidebook. Mr. Grogan made a motion to accept the resolution as written. Mr. Duval seconded the mo- tion. All members were in favor and the motion carried. The Resolution having been offer-ed on the 27th day of August 2026 was adopted by the following vote: FIVE (5) YEAS: Justin Martin, Duval Arthur, III, Garrett Grogan, Brandi Leonard, and Ross Mire
ZERO (0) NAYS:
TWO (2) AB- SENT AND NOT VOTING: Travis Mayon and Scott Verret
Director Up- dates:
Ms. Randle re- ported that staffing shortages have required the assistant director to consistently cover open shifts. Consequently, due to circumstances be- yond her control, she has been un- able to use her accrued vacation. With her anniversary approaching, Ms. Randle is seeking a solution such as a rollover or payout, to ensure the earned leave is not forfeited.
Nine (9) fire de- partments have submitted their annual payments per the FA agreement.
General Discussion: A statement of incidents involving multiple ring calls was re- layed to members. Mr. Mire discussed the possibility of auditing service providers to ensure accurate reporting and remittance of 911 service fees.
Adjournment: Mr. Grogan made a motion to ad- journ the meeting. Mr. Leonard seconded the motion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
Approved:
———————
Mr. Justin Martin,
Chairman
Attest:
———————
Martha Randle,
Director
Adv. Sept. 2, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
August 27, 2026
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, September 9, 2026, 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 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). (Boeuf Land Company, LLC)
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, Chapter 5 Procedures, Division 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearing, Section 5.4.2 Re- zonings (Zoning Map Amendments). (JLK Trust)
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. 5050, describing the assistance that is necessary.
Your attendance will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO,
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Adv. Sept. 2, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the following entitled ordinance was introduced at a regular meeting of the St. Mary Parish Council, State of Louisiana (the “Parish Council”), on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, and laid over for publication of notice:
PROPOSED ORDINANCE
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). (Robert Ford)
NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Council will meet on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, 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 ordinance.
/s/ Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
CHAIRPERSON OF THE COUNCIL
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
/s/ Lisa C. Morgan
CLERK OF THE COUNCIL
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL

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