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By BETHANY BLANKLEY
The Center Square
The U.S. Department of Energy has authorized an emergency exchange from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve with ExxonMobil Corp. to address “logistical challenges” impacting crude oil deliveries at its Baton Rouge refinery.
The DOE SPR emergency exchange is the latest of several in the last few decades where SPR reserves played a vital role in response to natural disasters or other incidents.
The DOE authorized up to 1 million barrels of crude oil to be released from the SPR to support ExxonMobil’s restoration of refinery operations that were reduced because of “an offshore supply disruption,” it said.
ExxonMobil will return the borrowed crude, as well as additional barrels of crude oil, to the SPR at no cost to the taxpayer, the DOE said.
ExxonMobile requested the exchange because of quality issues with Mars crude from its offshore rigs, including contaminated crude with high levels of zinc, Bloomberg News reported.
Because high levels of zinc can damage refinery equipment, the refinery couldn’t use it and was attempting to resell it in the spot market, Bloomberg reported. ExxonMobile hasn’t released a statement on the exchange request, according to its website.
“An oil supply disruption has led to reduced operations at the Baton Rouge refinery, limiting production of transportation fuels,” DOE said. “The exchange is intended to ensure the maximum supply of refined fuel products in the Gulf Coast region while ExxonMobil resolves logistical challenges.”
One of the largest refining and petrochemical complexes in the world, Exxon Mobile’s Baton Rouge refinery processes roughly 520,000 barrels a day and manufactures roughly 300 products, including “motor gasoline, diesel, aviation gasoline, lubricating oils, waxes, petroleum coke, liquefied petroleum gas and chemical feedstock,” according to its website.
Under federal law, the secretary of energy is authorized to allow for emergency SPR exchanges in response to supply disruptions. Emergency SPR exchanges have helped avert refinery shutdowns and played a critical role to ensure crude production and distribution continued, especially during a natural disaster and ship channel closures, the DOE explains.
In June 2000, for example, the DOE authorized an SPR emergency exchange with CITGO and Conoco with each receiving 500 million barrels in response to the Calcasieu Ship Channel being blocked from a submerged barge, preventing incoming crude oil shipments to their refineries.
In June 2006, an exchange of 750 Mbbl of sour crude was made with ConocoPhillips and Citgo in response to the channel being closed for several days due to storm water and oil that was released.
In October 2002, an SPR exchange of 98 Mbbl was authorized with Shell Pipeline Company to secure Capline storage tanks in advance of Hurricane Lili.
In September 2004, an SPR exchange of 5.4 MMbbl of sweet crude due was authorized to offset disruptions in the Gulf caused by Hurricane Ivan.
In September 2005, the DOE approved six requests for emergency SPR exchanges of crude oil to address supply shortages caused by oil production and distribution facilities shut down ahead of Hurricane Katrina. Katrina caused more than $160 billion worth of damage, wiping out 25 percent of New Orleans’ population, killing 1,392. The Category 3 hurricane caused massive destruction due to failed levees that collapsed.
After a January 2006 barge accident in the Sabine Neches Ship Channel caused the channel to be closed to deep-draft vessels, the DOE exchanged 767 Mbbl of sour crude with Total Petrochemicals USA to ensure its refinery wouldn’t be shutdown.
In September 2008, after hurricanes Gustav and Ike decimated Gulf communities, the DOE authorized an SPR exchange of nearly 5.4 MMbbl to Marathon, Placid, ConocoPhillips, Citgo and Alon USA after their supplies were cut off. The companies repaid the SPR with a premium of 93.35 Mbbl, DOE said.
In August 2012, in response to Hurricane Isaac, Marathon Petroleum Company received an emergency exchange of one MMbbl.
In September 2017, after Hurricane Harvey hit, more than 5.2 MMbbl from the SPR was exchanged to Phillips 66, Marathon, Placid, and Valero “to cover supply shortfalls due to conditions in the Gulf of Mexico and Houston region. All barrels, including premium barrels, were returned by February 2018,” DOE said. Harvey, the Category 4 hurricane that primarily impacted the Houston area, caused $125 billion worth of damage and 68 direct deaths and 35 indirect deaths in Texas.

Click on the link below to download a .pdf version of the agenda.

Michael "Mike" Haik qualified without opposition to become the next district attorney for the 16th Judicial District. Haik, a Republican from New Iberia who has served as assistant DA, qualified during the July 9-11 qualifying period. Haik will succeed M. Bofill Duhè, who died March 15 after serving 10 years as DA for the district that includes St. Mary, Iberia and St. Martin parishes. Had Haik been opposed, the election would have been Oct. 11. No other St. Mary races appear on the ballot.

Submitted photo

PUBLIC NOTICE
PROCEEDINGS OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERWICK, STATE OF LOUISIANA TAKEN AT A REGULAR MEETING HELD ON TUESDAY
July 8, 2025
The Mayor and Council of the Town of Berwick, State of Louisiana, met in regular session at their regular meeting place, the Town Hall, Berwick, Louisiana, Tuesday July 8, 2025, at six (6:00) o’clock p.m.
There were present: Council members Colleen As- kew, Kevin Hebert, and James Richard.
Absent: Lud Henry and Raymond Price
Brother Keith Tayloe from Bethel Pentecostal Fellowship led the prayer.
Councilwoman Colleen Askew 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 mo- tion by Kevin Hebert and seconded by Colleen Askew.
The Beacon did not shine on anyone this month.
Guest for the July 2025 meeting was Ms. Beverly Domengeaux from St. Mary Council on Aging.
Police Chief David Leonard presented the police report for June, 2025. Chief Leonard stated that things are running well within the department. After no comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, Fire re- port.
Fire Chief Jody Acosta presented the fire report for June, 2025. Chief Acosta stated that the fire department responded to 8 emergency calls. There were 1 motor vehicle accident, 2 medical calls, 3 fire alarms, and 1 gas leak, and 1 structure fire. After no further comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, the Public Works re- port.
Public Works Director Rafael Lopez presented the public works report for June, 2025. Mr. Lopez stated that town crews have been busy repairing streets, repairing water leaks, re- pairing drainage issues, and cutting grass on the highways. After no further comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, consulting engineer’s report.
Town Engineer Mr. Reid Miller stated that the Country Club Estates Drainage still has a few things to complete on their punch list, but has reached substantial completion with the project cost coming in $207,918.64 under budget. Construction on the 6th Street road project has begun. The Water Meter Replacement - Project no. 14985 is ongoing with the replacement of meters throughout town. After no further comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, committee reports.
The Recreation Committee, Historical Committee, Economic Development, and Public Safety Committees had nothing to report.
The Lighthouse Festival Committee has been meeting on a monthly basis and has been busy planning for the Berwick Lighthouse Festival which will take place November 7 – 9, 2025. They are accepting vendor applications at this time along with Gumbo Cook Off applications. Contact Town Hall for applications. The 2nd Berwick Lighthouse Festival Queen’s Pageant was held on June 28, 2025 and there was great attendance. The following queens will travel the state of Louisiana to promote the Berwick Lighthouse Festival: Miss Berwick Lighthouse Festival Queen Ashley Alleman, Teen Miss Berwick Lighthouse Festival Queen Allie Keith, Jr Miss Berwick Lighthouse Festival Queen Kloey Adams, Deb Miss Berwick Lighthouse Festival Queen Kaileigh Richard, and Ms Berwick Lighthouse Festival Queen Jada Aloisio.
The Planning and Zoning stated that they are currently working on several nuisance properties. They have also been working on several other properties that are in various stages of construction. After no further comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, New Business.
Item No. 1 under New Business – Roots & Ribbons – 5K Run – Debbie Torline. Ms. Torline was not present.
Item No. 2 under New Business – Historical Committee – Directional Signs – Jacki Ackel. Mrs. Ackel addressed the mayor and council about creating a Wayfinding Committee to work on custom wayfinding signs for Town of Berwick attractions. The signs would be positioned within the town to help direct visitors to locations such as Town Hall, the cemetery, the museum, the library, etc. They stated that they would like Lud Henry to be ap- pointed as the committee chairman. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Colleen Askew the committee was approved unanimously with Lud Henry appointed as the Chairman.
Item No. 3 under New Business – Approve Change Order No. 1 for State Project No. H.014709 – Country Club Estates Drainage Improvements. The change order decreases the original contract price by $207,918.64
. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Colleen Askew, the change order was approved by a unanimous roll call vote.
Item No. 4 under New Business – Certificate of Substantial Completion - State Project No. H.014709 – Country Club Estates Drainage Improvements. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Kevin Hebert, the certificate of substantial completion was accepted by a unanimous roll call vote.
Item No. 5 under New Business – Approve Payment 14871 No. 1 to Byron E. Talbot Contractor, Inc. for $195,768.16 - Sixth Street Paving Project. Upon motion by Kevin Hebert and seconded by James Richard, the payment was approved by a unanimous roll call vote.
Item No. 6 under New Business – Approve Payment 14871 No. 5 to Miller Engineers for $8,301.00 - Sixth Street Paving Project. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Colleen Askew, the payment was approved by a unanimous roll call vote.
Item No. 7 under New Business – Approve Payment 14985 No. 2 to Core & Main, LP for $63,288.77 - Water Meter Re- placement Project. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Colleen Askew, the payment was ap- proved by a unanimous roll call vote.
There being no further business to come before the Council, upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Kevin Hebert the motion to adjourn was approved unanimously.
———————
Duval H. Arthur Jr –
Mayor
———————
Jamie Keith –
Town Clerk
Adv. July 16, 2025
Cost: $162.00
PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS AND CONSTRUCTION FOR
ST. MARY
PARISH
RECREATION
DISTRICT #3
: BAYOU VISTA COMMUNITY CENTER: REROOFING
Bayou Vista, Louisiana
Sealed bids will be received by St. Mary Parish Recreation District No. 3, 1333 Belleview Street, Bayou Vista, Louisiana for CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS AND CONSTRUCTION FOR RECREATION DISTRICT #3, St. Mary Parish Recreation District #3: Bayou Vista Community Center: Reroofing, Bayou Vista, Louisiana until 2:00 PM, local time on Monday, July 28, 2025 at the office of St. Mary Parish Recreation District No. 3, 1333 Belleview Street, Bayou Vista, Louisiana 70380, at which time and place said proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud. Electronic bids at www.centralbidding.com as allowed by Act 590 amended Title 38:2212 are acceptable. Any bids received after the above-mentioned time will be re- turned unopened.
Each bid shall be enclosed in a sealed envelope bearing the title of the work, the name of the Bidder, the address, date and hour of the bid opening, and the State Contractor’s License Number. The bid shall be addressed as follows:
BID: CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS AND CONSTRUCTION FOR
ST. MARY PARISH RECREATION DISTRICT #3
CAPITAL IM- PROVEMENTS AND CONSTRUCTION FOR
ST. MARY PARISH RECREATION DISTRICT #3
: BAYOU VISTA COMMUNITY CENTER: RE- ROOFING
Bayou Vista, Louisiana
To: St. Mary Parish Recreation District No. 3, 1333 Belleview Street, Bayou Vista, Louisiana 70538
LICENSE NO. ————
Failure to have the license number on the envelope will be result in the Bid being re- turned unopened.
Bid documents will be posted on www.centralbidding.com. To view, download, and re- ceive bid notices by e-mail, you will have to register with Central Auction House (CAH). Vendors/Contractors will have the option to submit their bids and bid bonds electronically or by paper copy. Contact Ted Fleming with Central Auction House at 1-866-570-9620 concerning any questions about this process.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The project consists of Capital Improvements and Construction for St. Mary Parish Recreation District #3: Bayou Vista Community Center: Reroofing . The estimated construction cost for the Base Bid for this project is
$225,000.00.
Prospective Contractors shall be licensed for Building Construction or Roofing Construction by the State of Louisiana and that license shall be in effect on the date of the bid.
Each proposal must be accompanied by a bid bond, a certified check, or cashier’s check in an amount equal to at least five percent (5%) of the amount bid, made payable without condition to the Owner as a guarantee that the bidder, if awarded the contract, will promptly execute the contract documents. Failure to do so will result in the bid/bids being declared nonresponsive and shall be cause for rejection. If a bid bond is provided it shall be on the attached form and only on the attached form and shall be dated on or be- fore the bid date. The bid security of all bidders, except the three lowest, will be returned promptly after the canvas of bids.
A non-mandatory pre-bid conference, at which the scope of the project, contract time and other requirements can be discussed with prospective bidders, may be held at the project site. All bidders will be notified and are encouraged to at- tend.
Copies of the contract documents are on file at the office of the Architect, Carl P. Blum AIA Architect, 900 David Drive, Morgan City, Louisiana, and are open for inspection without charge.
Contractors may obtain contract documents from the Architect by paying a deposit of Thirty Dollars ($30.00). The full amount of the de- posit, on the first set, will be refunded to each contractor who submits a bona fide bid, upon return of the documents in good condition within ten (10) days after the receipt of bids. Contractors and Material Dealers may obtain additional sets of plans and specifications by making a deposit in the amount named above. Up- on return of these documents, in good condition, one half of the deposit will be refunded, the difference representing the cost of printing, assembling, and distributing the sets. No refund will be made on any set not returned in good condition within ten (10) days after the re- ceipt of bids.
If someone other than a corporate officer signs for the Bidder/Contractor, a copy of a corporate resolution or other signature authorization shall be required for submission of bid. Failure to include a copy of the appropriate signature authorization, if required, may result in the rejection of the bid unless bidder has complied with LA R.S. 38:22:12(A)(1)(C) or LA R.S. 38:22:12(0).
A bid will be considered responsive if it conforms in all respects with the conditions and requirements of the Bidding Documents. In order to be considered re- sponsive, the Louisiana Uniform Public Works Bid Form must: (a) be fully completed, signed and be responsive in all respects to the Bidding Documents; (b) be made on the Bid Forms provided and submitted intact, (c) submitted in ink.
No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for forty-five (45) days.
A. To the extent permitted by applicable state and federal laws and regulations, St. Mary Parish Recreation District No. 3 reserves the right to reject any and/or proposals 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 the entity.
St. Mary Parish Recreation District No. 3.
Adv. July 2, 9 and 16, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
THE CITY OF PATTERSON (herein referred to as the “Owner”)
Sealed bids marked “Sealed Bid - City of Patterson - Replacement of Water Meters” will be received by the City of Patterson at City Hall, 1314 Main Street, Patterson, Louisiana, 70392.
Bids shall be addressed to the City of Patterson and delivered to the City of Patterson at City Hall, 1314 Main Street, Patterson, Louisiana 70392 no later than 2:00 P.M. local time on Thursday, July 31st, 2025.
Sealed bids to be marked “Sealed Bid - City of Patterson - Replacement of Water Meters”. Any bid received after the specified time and date will not be considered. The sealed bids will be publicly opened and read aloud at 2:00 P.M. local time on Thursday, July 31st, 2025, at the City of Patterson, City Hall, 1314 Main Street, Patterson, Louisiana 70392.
The Information for Bidders, Form of Bid Proposal, Form of Contract, Plans, Specifications, and Forms of Bid Bond, Performance Bond and Payment Bond, and other contract documents may be examined at the office of Professional Engineering and Environmental Consultants, Inc., 46148 LA-445 Robert, Louisiana 70455, (504) 347-1900 (Engineer) (mo@peecinc.com), and are open for public inspection between the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A set of such documents may be obtained from the Engineer by prospective bidders upon payment of a deposit in the amount of ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS ($150.00). This deposit will be refunded upon request in accordance with R.S. 38:2212. An electronic set of Contract Documents, Technical Specifications and Drawings may be ob- tained by submitting a request to james@peecinc.com.
All questions must be submitted in writing by email to james@peecinc.com.
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.
No bid may be withdrawn for at least forty-five (45) days after scheduled closing time for receipt of bids.
The Owner re- serves the right to reject any and all bids for just cause. Such actions will be in accordance with Title 38 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes. All bidders must sign: (l) the Bid; (2) Certificate of Corporate Principal and Surety; (3) any Addenda issued; and (4) Bid Bond which MUST al- ways accompany the bid in the correct amount.
A Corporate Resolution authorizing a representative of the corporation to sign the bid MUST accompany the bid if the bidder is a corporation.
A Pre-Bid Conference will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Monday, July 21st, 2025 at City of Patterson, City Hall, 1314 Main Street, Patterson, Louisiana, 70392.
Attendance of the Pre-Bid Conference is Mandatory.
The Contractor shall begin mobilization and procurement of materials within ten (10) working days of receipt of the Notice to Proceed.
The Attention of Bidders is called particularly to the requirements for conditions of em- ployment to be observed and minimum wage rates to be paid under the Contract, Section 3, Segregated Facilities, Section 109, Executive Order 11246, and all applicable laws and regulations of the Federal Government and State of Louisiana and bonding and insurance requirements.
The successful bidder will be re- quired to execute the OWNER’S Standard Form of Agreement/Contract for construction together with the Performance and Payment Bonds within ten (10) working days after normal award of contract.
Any person with disabilities requiring special accommodations must contact the City of Patterson, City Hall, no later than seven (7) days prior to bid opening.
The OWNER hereby notifies all bidders that in regard to any contract entered into pursuant to this Advertisement, that Minority Business Enterprises will be af- forded equal op- portunity to submit offers in re- sponse to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, sex, national origin or disability in consideration for an award.
IN PARTICULAR, BIDDERS SHOULD NOTE THE REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS AND CERTIFICATIONS TO BE EXECUTED AND SUBMITTED WITH THE BID PROPOSAL.
Adv. July 2, 9 and 16, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
PROJECT NAME: Replace HVAC Unit Mickey Mouse Head Start Center
St. Mary Community Action Agency
1407 Barrow Street, Franklin, La. 70538
St. Mary CAA requests for bids for services to remove and re- place HVAC Unit at:
Mickey Mouse Head Start Center, 105 TJ Hatcherson Street, Baldwin, LA 70514. The following proposal request will outline the project goals and detail the format you should submit your proposal. Please read the timeline carefully. In order for your bid to be considered, it must meet the deadlines in- cluded in the timeline included.
Contact Information
Please contact Almetra J. Franklin for questions about the bid submission details:
Phone: 3378285703
E-mail: AFrank6333@aol.com
Project Specifications
Remove current 15 Ton HVAC System, Install new 15 Ton Carrier system. Bid proposal should include all equipment, labor, duct work, electrical work, and materials needed to complete the job.
Project Specifications included in the bid packets.
Deadline for Bids:
All bid proposals must be sealed and submitted to St. Mary CAA by Thursday, July 19, 2025 to be considered. Late bid proposals will not be considered.
All potential bidders can pick up a bid packet at the St. Mary CAA Central Office – 1407 Barrow Street, Franklin, La. 70538.
Please Note:
St. Mary/Vermilion CAA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Provider, and Lender. We do not discriminate based on race, creed, religion, age, sex, or sexual orientation or veteran status.
(s) Almetra J. Franklin,
CEO
Adv. July 4, 11 and July 16, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the St. Mary Parish Council in accordance with law that a vacancy exists on the Board of Commissioners of Hospital Service District No. 2 (Ochsner St. Mary).
The St. Mary Parish Council will receive applications for the filling of this vacancy from this date until August 7, 2025, at Noon.
Qualifications for submitting of an application will be in compliance with Title 46 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, Section 46:1053.
Applications may be mailed or personally submitted Monday- Thursday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. till noon on Friday to Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk of the Council, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana 70538.
The St. Mary Parish Council will meet in regular session on August 13, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana to fill this vacancy.
Adv. July 16 and 30, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
Regular Meeting of
St. Mary Parish School Board
06/12/2025
05:30 PM
Evans Medine Meeting Room
474 Hwy 317, Centerville, LA 70522
MEETING MINUTES
————
Attendance
————
Voting Members
Guienzy Brent, Board Member
Lindsey Anslem, Board Member
Debra Jones, Board Member
Ginger Griffin, Board Member
Marilyn LaSalle, Board Member
Chad Paradee, Board Member
Alaina Black, Board Member - President
Andrew Mancuso, Board Member
Rhonda Dennis, Board Member
Lawrence Guillory, Board Member
Absent Members
Tammie Moore, Vice President
————
I. Meeting Called to Order (Mrs. Black)
The meeting was called to order by Mrs. Black.
1. Roll Call (Dr. Fegenbush)
The roll call was conducted by Dr. Fegenbush.
II. Opening of Regular Meeting
The St. Mary Parish School Board met in regular session on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., in the Evans Medine Meeting Room at the Central Office Complex in Centerville, Louisiana for the following purposes and to take whatever actions necessary. The meeting may be viewed online at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnZ1z15loF_FZnVcBe09cRQ
1. Invocation (Mr. Holmes)
Due to the ab- sence of Mr. Holmes, the invocation was provided by Ms. Estay.
2. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America (Mrs. Black)
President Black led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.
III. Appearances
1. Recognition of newly ap- pointed positions (Ms. Estay)
Ms. Estay recognized the newly appointed positions as follows:
•Mrs. Sarah Olivier as the LaGrange Elementary Dean of Students.
•Mrs. Kendra Thomas as the Raintree Elementary Assistant Principal.
•Mrs. Christina Harrison as the Federal Program Liaison.
2. Recognition of Support Personnel of the Year-State Winner. (Ms. Estay)
Ms. Estay recognized Ms. Donella Wagner, a custodian at Raintree Elementary as the 2025 Louisiana Outstanding School Support Employee of the Year.
IV. Approval of Amended Agenda (Mrs. Black)
There was no amended agenda.
V. Approval of Official School Board Minutes (Mrs. Black)
1. Regular Meeting: May 8, 2025
A motion was made and duly seconded to approve the official school board minutes from the regular school board meeting held on May 8, 2025, as presented.
Motion made by: Rhonda Dennis
Motion seconded by: Marilyn LaSalle
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
VI. Approval of Consent Agenda (Mrs. Black)
President Black stated that board members can re- move any of the items on the consent agenda for further discussion in the regular proceedings. Dr. Fe- genbush read aloud the items on the consent agenda.
A motion was made and duly seconded to approve the following consent agenda as presented by Dr. Fegenbush.
Motion made by: Andrew Mancuso
Motion seconded by: Marilyn LaSalle
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
1. *Award Bids: Child Nu- trition Department Items: Juice, Milk, Produce, Dry and Canned Foods, Frozen Foods and Meat, Paper and Cleaning, Small Kitchen Equipment. (Ms. Chaisson)
2. *Approve a newspaper to serve as the official journal for the school board for the year commencing July 1, 2025. (Mrs. Voisin)
VII. Business Affairs
1. Receive Group Health Insurance Premium to Claims Summary Re- port (Mr. James Perez)
Mr. James Perez of DJW Insurance provided the Board with an updated Premium to Claims Summary through May 2025 on the Group Health Insurance Plan. He reported that there was a favorable month with $1,114,019 in premiums and $841,446 of claims paid out. The loss ratio for May was 75.5 percent, and year-to-date, under 81 percent. For the past 12 months (June 2024 to May 2025), the loss ratio has been about 90 percent, which was better than last year.
2. Approve amended 24-25 budget. (Mrs. Voisin)
Mrs. Voisin re- ported that each year, the St. Mary Parish School Board are provided with preliminary Federal Allocations in June. This value was $14,251,062 this fiscal year. Both in November/December and again in February. Additional allocations are provided that total $6,610,354 this fiscal year for a grand total re- vised FINAL “variable” Federal budget of $20,861,416 of which have already or will spend on or before 06/30/25 except for the two grants that are allowed to carry over spending which are Title I and IDEA. It was recommended that the board adopt, as presented, the Final 24/25 budget for these designated funds and that the board allow the final budgets for the funds to be deemed a variable budget, provided that such expenditures do not exceed those approved by the Board and/or State or Federal regulatory authorities.
A motion was made and duly seconded to approve the amended 24-25 budget as presented by Mrs. Voisin.
Motion made by: Rhonda Dennis
Motion seconded by: Chad Paradee
Voting:
Guienzy Brent - Yes
Lindsey Anslem - Yes
Debra Jones - Yes
Ginger Griffin - No
Marilyn LaSalle - Yes
Chad Paradee - Yes
Alaina Black - Yes
Andrew Mancuso - Yes
Rhonda Dennis - Yes
Lawrence Guillory - Yes
The motion passed with 9 votes in favor, 1 vote against, and 1 absent.
3. Approve Louisiana Compliance Questionnaires of audit engagement entities and adopt the Resolution for audit purposes. (Mrs. Voisin)
A motion was made and duly seconded to approve the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaires of audit engagement entities and adopt the Resolution for audit purposes, as presented by Mrs. Voisin.
Motion made by: Chad Paradee
Motion seconded by: Debra Jones
Voting:
Guienzy Brent - Yes
Lindsey Anslem - Yes
Debra Jones - Yes
Ginger Griffin - Yes
Marilyn LaSalle - Yes
Chad Paradee - Yes
Alaina Black - Yes
Andrew Mancuso - Yes
Rhonda Dennis - Yes
Lawrence Guillory - Yes
The motion passed with 10 votes in favor and 1 absent.
4. Approve change order # 2 for the Track and Field im- provements for Franklin Senior High, Patterson Senior High, and Berwick Senior High School to reduce the contract by $7,216.25 to eliminate discus cage at Franklin Sr. High. (Mr. Wiese)
A motion was made and duly seconded to approve change # 2 for the track and field improvements for Franklin Senior High, Patterson Senior High, and Berwick Senior High School to reduce the contract by $7,216.25 to eliminate the discus cage at Franklin Sr. High as presented by Reid A. Miller, P.E., of Miller Engineers & Associates, Inc.
Motion made by: Lawrence Guillory
Motion seconded by: Debra Jones
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
5. Award Substantial Completion for the Track and Field improvements for Franklin Senior High, Patterson Senior High, and Berwick Senior High School. (Mr. Wiese)
A motion was made and duly seconded to approve substantial completion of the Track and Field improvements for Franklin Senior High, Patterson Senior High, and Berwick Senior High School as presented by Reid A. Miller, P.E., of Miller Engineers & Associates, Inc.
Motion made by: Debra Jones
Motion seconded by: Marilyn LaSalle
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
6. Approve Community Eligibility Provision Participation for the 2025-2026 School Year. (Ms. Chaisson)
A motion was made and duly seconded to approve the Community Eligibility Provision Participation for the 2025-2026 School Year as presented by Ms. Chaisson.
Motion made by: Marilyn LaSalle
Motion seconded by: Guienzy Brent
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
VIII. Committee Reports
1. The Policy Committee Meeting met on May 21, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., in the Evans Medine Meeting Room to discuss the following items. (Mr. Mancuso)
Mr. Mancuso re- ported that the Policy Committee met on May 21, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., in the Evans Medine Meeting Room to discuss the Employee Dress Policy (GAMB). The committee recommended tabling the policy until the Goldbook could be reviewed to ensure alignment and consistency.
The committee also discussed the implementation process for the new policy manual within the SIMBLI platform.
Additionally, approximately 20 policies from the Louisiana School Boards Association (LSBA) series—specifically Series 00, 100, and 200—were reviewed. These policies were submitted to Attorney Bob Hammonds for legal review.
Mr. Mancuso recommended tabling further discussion on these policies and proposed scheduling the next Policy Committee Meeting for Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 4:00 p.m., prior to the regular board meeting, in the Evans Medine Meeting Room at the Central Office Complex in Centerville. This will allow committee members adequate time to review the policies in advance.
A. Discussion and any action regarding policy GAMB
B. Discussion and any action on policy manual review process.
C. Discussion and any action regarding Louisiana School Board Association (LSBA) 00, 100, and 200 series policies
IX. Staff Re- ports
1. Chief Financial Officer’s Re- port (Mrs. Voisin)
A. Sales Tax Update
Mrs. Voisin re- ported the sales tax collections for eleven months into the fiscal year. The fiscal year-to-date sales tax collections from July through May were 13 percent favorable, with $2,005,000 collected in May, which was $53,000 under budget.
B. Financial Statements (Major Funds Only)
The Board was provided financial statements for major funds only to review at their leisure.
1. Consider scheduling the 2025-2026 general funds, maintenance districts, and school food service budget workshop
The St. Mary Parish School Board 2025-2026 Budget Workshop for general funds, maintenance districts, and food service funds is scheduled for Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Evans Medine Meeting Room at the Central Office Complex in Centerville, Louisiana.
C. Other Significant Items
There were no other significant items to report.
X. Superintendent’s Report (Dr. Fegenbush)
Dr. Fegenbush reported that educators across the state of Louisiana attended the Teacher Leader Summit 2025, from June 10-12, at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.
The St. Mary Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Education Banquet was held on June 12, 2025, where principals, teachers, and students of the year were recognized. A silent auction was held to raise funds for scholarships throughout the year.
The Louisiana Public Service Commission Energy Efficiency Program provides annual funding for LED lighting up- grades to promote and reduce costs for public entities. The program is funded with a surcharge from electric bills paid by cities, parishes and other political subdivisions. Each year, school sites are selected by the Commission for participation. This year, two of the St. Mary Parish school sites have been selected. La- grange Elementary School has been awarded a grant of $14,076 and Paterson High School has been awarded a grant of $381,617, which brings the total value of lighting upgrades to $526,693 provided at no cost to the school system. These upgrades will improve lighting quality, in- crease energy efficiency and result in long-term cost savings.
This summer, two school board member workshops will be held to support ongoing professional development and fulfill annual training requirements. On Friday, June 27, a District-Led Workshop will focus on district goals and accountability, best practices and curriculum and intervention strategies. On Friday, July 18, representatives from the Louisiana School Board Association will lead sessions on good governance and policies. Both workshops will count towards the annual board member education hours.
XI. Resolution of Respect (Ms. Estay)
There were no Resolutions of Respect.
XII. Executive Session (Mrs. Black)
1. Strategy session and/or action concerning pending litigation……….. As authorized by La.R.S. 42:17(A)(2), there may be an executive session to discuss strategy in litigation entitled “Boudreaux, et al vs. School Board of St. Mary Parish,” bearing Civil Action No. 6:65-11351 on the docket of the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana.
A motion was made and duly seconded to enter into the Executive Session.
Motion made by: Andrew Mancuso
Motion seconded by: Lawrence Guillory
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
A motion was made and duly seconded to return to regular session.
Motion made by: Andrew Mancuso
Motion seconded by: Marilyn LaSalle
Voting:
Unanimously approved
XIII. Closing - Adjournment (Mrs. Black)
A motion was made and duly seconded to adjourn the meeting at 6:53 p.m.
Motion made by: Andrew Mancuso
Motion seconded by: Lindsey Anslem
Voting:
Unanimously Approved
Adv. July 16, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
A MEETING OF THE LEPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS WILL BE HELD AT THE LEPA MAIN OFFICE LOCATED AT 210 VENTURE WAY, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70507, ON THURSDAY, JULY 17, 2025 AT 10:30 A.M.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
AGENDA
MEETING DATE: July 17, 2025
MEETING PLACE: LEPA Main Office, 210 Venture Way, Lafayette, LA
TIME: 10:30 A. M.
ITEM 1 Call to Order
ITEM 2 Pledge of Allegiance
ITEM 3 Roll Call
ITEM 4
Approval of the Minutes of the May 15, 2025 Board of Directors Meeting
ITEM 5 Ratification of the final actions authorized by the Operating Committee at the Meetings of such Committee held on April 17, 2025
ITEM 6 OLD BUSINESS
(a) Report on Wholesale Power Costs and Residential Retail Rates
(b) Update on Rodemacher Unit No. 2
(c) Discussion on any other Outstanding Items of Old Business
ITEM 7 NEW BUSINESS
(a) LEPA Talking Points – Data Center Details
(b) Discussion on the future of Rodemacher Unit No. 2
(c) Consideration for Approval of an engagement letter between LEPA and Kean Miller for legal services pertaining to the cessation of coal burning for Rodemacher Unit No. 2
ITEM 8 AD- JOURNMENT
Adv. July 16, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the St. Mary Parish Council in accordance with law that a vacancy exists on the Board of Commissioners of Recreation District No. 3.
The St. Mary Parish Council will receive applications for the filling of this vacancy from this date until August 7, 2025, at Noon.
Qualifications for submitting of an application will be in compliance with Title 33 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, Section 33:4564.
Applications may be mailed or personally submitted Monday- Thursday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. till noon on Friday to Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk of the Council, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana 70538.
The St. Mary Parish Council will meet in regular session on August 13, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana to fill this vacancy.
Adv. July 16 and 30, 2025

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the St. Mary Parish Council in accordance with law that a vacancy exists on the Board of Commissioners of Recreation Dis- trict No. 4.
The St. Mary Parish Council will receive applications for the filling of this vacancy from this date until August 7, 2025, at Noon.
Qualifications for submitting of an application will be in compliance with Title 33 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, Section 33:4564.
Applications may be mailed or personally submitted Monday-Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and Noon and 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk of the Council, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana 70538.
The St. Mary Parish Council will meet in regular session on August 13, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, and Franklin, Loui-siana to fill this vacancy.
Adv. July 16 and 30, 2025

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