RSS Feed

The following are the radio dispatch logs from the Morgan City Police Department. To report unlawful or suspicious activity, call the Police Department at 985-380-4605.
Tuesday, April 22
7:27 a.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Welfare check.
7:42 a.m. 1400 block of Second Street; Suspicious person.
8:08 a.m. 200 block of Federal Avenue; Animal complaint.
8:27 a.m. 400 block of Bush Street; Medical.
8:42 a.m. Dora Street; Suspicious person.
8:58 a.m. 1300 block of Nebraska Street; Subject removal.
9:13 a.m. 700 block of Greenwood Street; Animal complaint.
9:22 a.m. 500 block of Roderick Street; Vehicle accident.
9:26 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Assistance.
10:15 a.m. Florence/Seventh streets; Suspicious person.
11:12 a.m. 900 block of Marguerite Street; Juvenile problem.
11:27 a.m. 1400 block of Second Street; Stand by.
11:38 a.m. 7700 block of La. 182; Lost and found.
12:06 p.m. 2300 block of Clements Street ; Animal complaint.
1:45 p.m. 900 block of Clothilde Street; Complaint.
1:51 p.m. 2400 block of Apple Street; Complaint.
3:46 p.m. 400 block of Leona Street; Medical.
5:23 p.m. 1400 block of North Third Street; Medical.
5:35 p.m. Roderick Street; Complaint.
6:45 p.m. 900 block of Marguerite Street; Suspicious person/vehicle.
7:01 p.m. 2900 block of Railroad Avenue; Animal complaint.
7:04 p.m. 200 block of South Railroad Avenue; Welfare check.
8:16 p.m. Fourth Street; Suspicious person/vehicle.
9:05 p.m. Myrtle Street/La. 182; Suspicious person/vehicle.
9:15 p.m. 3000 block of Allison Street; Medical.
9:22 p.m. 6300 block of La. 182; Disturbance.
10:11 p.m. 900 block of First Street; Complaint.
Wednesday, April 23
12:20 a.m. 6500 block of La. 182; Alarm.
1:39 a.m. Garber Street; Discharging firearms.
5:17 a.m. U.S. 90; Reckless driver.

Growing old alongside your furry friend brings cherished memories, but it also brings inevitable changes. As they age, pets slow down, may experience behavioral changes, and develop stiff joints; one of the most jarring changes that come with a pet’s aging can be their loss of vision.
Dr. Lucien Vallone, a clinical associate professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, describes how to effectively manage the potential age-related decline of eyesight in pets. 
Recognizing
decline
As pets age, their vision can change from one day to the next, prompting behavioral changes that can lead owners to question their companion’s health. These changes may be the result of failing eyesight.
Pets with vision disturbances will likely display one or more of these signs: 
•Increased hesitancy navigating their environment
•Bumping into objects
•Decreased activity and energy levels
•Faulty depth perception
Owners also may notice that their pet is behaving differently toward other pets or people in the household. In addition, reduced vision can trigger fear responses in some animals, which can lead to aggression.
Causes
Dogs and cats can experience vision loss from a variety of causes, but one of the most common is an age-related hardening to the lens known as nuclear sclerosis. The change is progressive throughout life but usually becomes noticeable when pets are around 7 years old or are trying to navigate low-light environments.
“Owners will notice that their cat or dog’s pupil will begin to develop a grayish-white haze that can often be mistaken for a cataract,” Vallone said. “Unlike cataracts, which block incoming light completely, nuclear sclerosis still allows light to reach the retina. This means that vision disturbances are usually subtle and can seem more like faulty depth perception, where the pet sometimes misjudges its footing on stairs or its jumps onto a couch or bed.”
According to Vallone, companion animals may also begin to lose their vision because of years of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun, which can potentially damage the cornea, lens, and retina. 
“Excessive exposure to UV-light will hasten the development of age-related changes and increase the likelihood of developing spontaneous inflammatory and cancerous diseases of the eye,” Vallone said.
“Pets that live in outdoor environments are at the greatest risk for experiencing UV-light-related eye problems and should be provided with heavily shaded areas within their environment to lessen their risk,” he said.
Implementing
changes
In meeting the adjusted needs of an aging pet with declining vision, there are several key factors to focus on: establishing environmental consistency, mitigating safety concerns, and finding ways to help pets use their other senses to navigate the world.
Environments that change frequently are particularly challenging to pets with limited vision.
“It is important to ensure that furniture and obstructive objects are kept in consistent locations,” Vallone said. “Companion animals, on average, are remarkably adept at memorizing stable environments and learning how to avoid potential hazards.”
Establishing foolproof safety measures is also extremely important, as pets who are less aware of their environment may have more trouble avoiding danger.
“It is vital for owners to ensure that stairwells, bodies of water, and motorways are completely blocked off to the low-vision pet to avoid life threatening hazards,” Vallone said.
To better assist your pet in adjusting to reduced vision, you can encourage them to lean into their other sensory cues.
“A low-vision pet will struggle most in an environment that is loud and lacking identifiable touch cues,” Vallone said. “It can be helpful to provide throw rugs or mats in strategic locations to provide a tactile reference point as low-vision pets navigate their environment.”
“For some owners of multiple pets, bells can be attached to the collar or harness of sighted pets,” he said. “These sighted pets can then serve as a familiar reference for the low-vision pet.”
“Adding air fresheners of varying scents in consistent locations throughout a low-vision pet’s environment can similarly help with their navigation,” Vallone said.
Guiding hand
As a general rule, if an owner is concerned about their pet’s vision, so are the veterinarians who care for your well-loved pet. 
“We encourage owners to schedule an eye examination when concerns first arise because the eye has a limited capacity to repair itself from injury,” Vallone said. “The earlier a problem is identified, the greater the likelihood that a treatment intervention and positive outcome can be achieved.”
By keeping a well-trained eye on your pet’s vision changes as they age, you can take proactive steps to support their well-being, ensuring they continue to live a comfortable and fulfilling life by your side.
Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the web at vetmed.tamu.edu/news/pet-talk. Suggestions for future topics may be directed to vmbs-editor@tamu.edu.

PUBLIC NOTICE
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL OF THE
PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA
MARCH 26, 2025
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
6:00 P.M.
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 “Les” Rulf, Jr., Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, Dean Adams, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D.
The Invocation was pronounced by Mr. Ina and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Rev. Mathews.
Mr. Olander moved that the reading of the Special Meeting, March 12, 2025 and First Regular Meeting, March 12, 2025 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
Mayor Duval Arthur, City of Berwick, appeared before the Council in support of the Council’s consideration to appoint Clarence Robinson, Jr. to the Hospital Service District No. 2 Board. He informed that Mr. Robinson is the current Berwick Housing Director.
Mr. Ina requested to move up Item 13A, Appointment to Hospital Service District No. 2.
Mr. Davis moved that Clarence Robinson, Jr. be ap- pointed to Hospital Service District No. 2 Board (Ochsner St. Mary). Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried. Dr. Rink abstained.
Dr. Kristal He- bert, Executive Director of The Arc of St. Mary/Center of Hope, appeared before the Council to present the 2024-2025 update and invited them to the 3rd Annual Arc of St. Mary Prom to be held on March 28, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. at the Church of Assumption’s Recreation Center.
Coach Tremayne “Q” Johnson, Principal Natasha Jackson, and the Franklin Senior High School Hornets Boys Basketball Team appear-ed before the Council to receive recognition and congratulations for winning the 2025 Non-Select Division IV State Championship.
Mr. Ina requested to move up Item 13C, “Proclamation congratulating the Franklin Senior High Hornets Boys Basketball Team, 2025 Non-Select Division IV State Champions.”
Mr. Ina moved that the following Proclamation be adopted. The Council seconded the motion, which carried by the following 11-0-0-0 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Mathews, Ina, Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, and Hidalgo
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, on behalf of the St. Mary Parish Council and all the citizens of our community, to congratulate the Franklin Senior High School Hornets Boys Basketball Team, as the “2025 Non-Select Division IV 2025 State Champions”; and
WHEREAS, the St. Mary Parish Council recognizes the commitment, dedication, and leadership of Coach Tremayne “Q” Johnson to the students and athletes of Franklin Senior High School and our community; and
WHEREAS, St. Mary Parish recognizes the commitment, dedication, and leadership of Principal Natasha Jackson to the students and athletes of Franklin Senior High School and our community; and WHEREAS, the Franklin Senior High School Hornets Basketball Team has played with honor, integrity, and professionalism throughout the 2024-2025 season; and
WHEREAS, the Franklin Senior High School Hornets Boys Basketball Team and coaching staff are great ambassadors representing the St. Mary Parish area; and
WHEREAS, the Franklin Senior High School Hornets Boys Basketball Team continued their drive, dedication, and commitment to their teammates, coaching staff, student body, and community to im- mortalize themselves in the history books of Franklin.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Mary Parish Council do hereby congratulate the Franklin Senior High School Hornets Boys Basketball as the “2025 Non-Select Division IV State Champions”.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 26th day of March 2025.
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
Parish President, Sam Jones reported on the preliminary completion of last year’s finances.
President Jones stated that discussion was had re- garding the overlay of the levee road from the St. Martin Parish line to Verdunville at Lake Road as part of a Hurricane evacuation route and also overlay Martin Ridge Road. He also stated that he received the first report on repairs to the pumps in Morgan City.
Chief Administrative Officer, Paul J. Governale, submitted his report for a two (2) week period, ending March 26, 2025. He expounded on Item 1 of his report regarding the housing of inmates, the year end unaudited operations of the Parish, and the 3/10 % Sales Tax Fund.
Planning & Zoning Director, Mandi LeBlanc, presented the following items as recommended by the Planning & Zoning Commission at their March 17, 2025 Regular Meeting.
a. Recommend Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Approval
Name: Reggie Harris
P. O. Box 744
Charenton, LA 70523
Address: 547 Martin Luther King Rd.
Parcel Id #-2175001095.00- Sec. 14 T13S R9E;
Lot 7 Betty M Blake Prop Per Plat 26W 204494 Acq. 402 335203
Zoned: Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District
PURPOSE: as shown on a plat titled “Plan of Land Lot 7 of Betty M. Blake Subdivision as per COB 26W, Entry No. 204,494 to be subdivided into Lots 7A & 7B Situated in: Section 14, T 13 S – R 9 E St. Mary Parish, Louisiana Southwestern Land District” as drawn by Miller Engineers & Associates, Inc. Engineers & Land Surveyors, dated February 11, 2025, DWG. No. 15181.
Mr. Adams recommends Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development approval. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
b. Recommend Rezoning
Name: Randy Tisdale
Address: 1516 Lake Palourde Rd.
Amelia, LA
Parcel Id# 3524261147.00- Sec.14 T16S R13E
Lot Bd Self - Bayou Boeuf - Galliano - Montet & Boudreaux Acq 464 345043
PURPOSE: to rezone from Heavy Industrial (HI) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN3) Zoned District to allow for a Manufactured Home Park.
c. Recommend Rezoning
Name: Randy Tisdale
Address: 1516 Lake Palourde Rd.
Amelia, LA
Parcel Id# 3524261146.00- Sec.14 T16S R13E
Lot Por Bd Self - Bayou Boeuf - Self - Shell Rd Acq 464 345043 Im- provement on the land of T & S Rentals LLC Acq 464 345043
PURPOSE: to rezone from Heavy Industrial (HI) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District due to the property currently being utilized as residential.
Mr. Adams recommends Rezonings. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Hebert in- formed that the Gulf States Counties and Parishes Caucus’ Symposium will be held on March 27-29, 2025 at Nicholls State University. He also informed that registration is free and there will be a guided bus tour to Port Fourchon on Friday, March 28, 2025. He also expounded on possible grants to help remove debris from waterways in St. Mary Parish.
Rev. Mathews 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 Re- zonings (Zoning Map Amendments).
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
EXHIBIT “A”
Name: Randy Tisdale
Address: 1516 Lake Palourde Rd.
Amelia, LA
Parcel Id# 3524261147.00- Sec.14 T16S R13E
Lot Bd Self - Bayou Boeuf - Galliano - Montet & Boudreaux Acq 464 345043
PURPOSE: to rezone from Heavy Industrial (HI) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN3) Zon-ed District to allow for a Manufactured Home Park.
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).
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
EXHIBIT “A”
Name: Randy Tisdale
Address: 1516 Lake Palourde Rd.
Amelia, LA
Parcel Id# 3524261146.00- Sec.14 T16S R13E
Lot Por Bd Self - Bayou Boeuf - Self - Shell Rd Acq 464 345043 Improvement on the land of T & S Rentals LLC Acq 464 345043
PURPOSE: to rezone from Heavy Industrial (HI) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zon-ed District due to the property currently being utilized as residential.
Item 12C, “An Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2367, establishing the Personnel Policies for St. Mary Parish Government – Section 10.3,” was withdrawn.
Mr. Adams mov-ed that the following Resolution of Respect be adopted. The Council seconded the mo- tion, 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, District Attorney Martin Bofill Duhé; and
WHEREAS, Hon. Duhé was a man of outstanding character, living his life to the fullest and always doing the right thing; and
WHEREAS, he was a graduate of Catholic High School, University of Southwestern Louisiana, and Tulane Law School; and
WHEREAS, in January 2015, he took office as District Attorney, where he worked tirelessly to bring justice to victims and their families until the time of his death; and
WHEREAS, Hon. Duhé was a member of the Louisiana District Attorney’s Association, where he served as a member, President, and on the Legislative and Technology committees; and
WHEREAS, Hon. Duhé was a member of the Louisiana Justice Reinvestment and Juvenil Justice, Task Force, Acadiana Criminalistics Laboratory, and a Board Member of First National Bank of Jeanerette; and
WHEREAS, Hon. Duhé re- ceived the Evangeline Area Boy Scout Council Iberia Parish Distinguished Citizen of the Year award in 2015, Chez Hope Peacemaker Award in 2017, and the Virginia Tyler Guillotte Award from the St. Mary Chamber of Commerce in 2019.
WHEREAS, Hon. Duhé is survived by his loving wife, Lisa Trahan Duhé of 32 years and was a devoted husband, father, Poppa, son and brother; and
WHEREAS, the members of the St. Mary Parish Council wish to ac- knowledge publicly their sorrow and sympathy to the family of Hon. Duhé and hopes that his family will find comfort in the thought that their grief and sorrow are shared by their friends.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the St. Mary Parish Council through the unanimous adoption of this resolution that they solemnly deliberate with 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 26th day of March 2025.
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
Rev. Mathews moved that the following Resolution of Respect be adopted. The Council seconded the motion, which carried by the following 11-0-0-0 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hi- dalgo, Mathews, and Ina
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, Mr. Cleveland Jackson, Sr., and
WHEREAS, Mr. Jackson was a lifelong resident of the Sorrell Community and was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, great grandfather, and dear friend, and
WHEREAS, Mr. Jackson was a faithful servant who loved to sing with the male chorus and senior choir at St. Moses Baptist Church in Jeanerette, Louisiana and
WHEREAS, Mr. Jackson worked at Morton Salt for several years, be- came a Farmer, was a bus driver for St. Mary Parish School Board for over 30 years, and served on the St. Mary Parish Consolidated Gra- vity Drainage District No. 1 Board of Commissioners for 32 years, and
WHEREAS, the members of the St. Mary Parish Council wish to acknowledge publicly their sorrow and sympathy to the family of Mr. Jackson and hopes that his family will find comfort in the thought that their grief and sorrow are shared by their friends.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the St. Mary Parish Council through the unanimous adoption of this resolution that they solemnly deliberate with 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 26th day of March 2025.
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. Duhon mov-ed that the following Resolutions be adopted. Mr. He- bert seconded the motion, which carried by the following 11-0-0-0 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hi- dalgo, Mathews, Ina, and Olander
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the Louisiana Open Housing Act (Louisiana R.S. 51:2605-22614) prohibits discrimination on housing because of race or color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or handicap, and
WHEREAS, St. Mary Parish has dedicated itself to bettering efforts to realize Fair Housing for the citizens of St. Mary Parish, and
WHEREAS, St. Mary Parish desires to increase the public’s awareness regarding Fair Housing and the Louisiana Open Housing Act, and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the St. Mary Parish Council, hereby proclaim the month of April 2025, as
“FAIR HOUSING MONTH”
in St Mary Parish, State of Louisiana.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 26th day of March 2025.
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
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, as amended, state that “…no person shall be subjected to discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin in the sale, rental, or advertising of dwellings, in the provision of brokerage services, or in the availability of residential real estate-related transaction including lenders, builders, and homeowners’ insurance companies,” and
WHEREAS, the State of Louisiana passed the Louisiana Equal Housing Opportunity Act which allows the Louisiana At- torney General’s Office to enforce fair housing laws, and
WHEREAS, St. Mary Parish de- sires to promote Fair Housing practices throughout the community and in particular regard to those programs providing housing assistance to area residents.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the St. Mary Parish Council, hereby proclaim the month of April 2025, as
“FAIR HOUSING MONTH”
in St Mary Parish, Louisiana in order to raise public awareness about the requirements of the Fair Housing Law.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 26th day of March 2025.
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
RESOLUTION
Resolution ap- proving and authorizing the Parish President to execute Task Order No. 5 of the MSA with Quality Engineering & Surveying, LLC dated April 12, 2023, relative to St. Mary Parish Hazard Mitigation Plan Update.
BE IT RESOLV-ED, that Sam Jones, President of the Parish of St. Mary, be and he is hereby authorized and directed, for and on behalf of the Parish Council, to execute Task Order No. 5 of the MSA with Quality Engineering & Surveying, LLC dated April 12, 2023, relative to St. Mary Parish Hazard Mitigation Plan Update, with said task order to contain such terms, conditions, and stipulations as he may best see fit, he being fully authorized in the premises.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 26th day of March 2025.
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
Clerk of the Council, Lisa Morgan stated that there was a clerical error by the engineer relative to verbiage regarding Task Order No. 7 at the time the agenda was complete. She explain-ed that this resolution is to execute Task Order No. 5.
RESOLUTION
A Resolution providing for the approval and authorization for Change Order No. 2 relative to Asphaltic Concrete Overlay of Lake Palourde Road Project.
WHEREAS, a certain contract has been entered into between the St. Mary Parish Council and Huey P. Stockstill, LLC, P.O. Box 758, Picayune, MS 39466, relative Asphaltic Concrete Overlay of Lake Palourde Road Project, and
WHEREAS, the items as shown on Change Order No. 2 will result in an increase of $41,092.42 in the contract price and an increase of 5 days in the contract time.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby approve the issuance of Change Order No. 2 covering an increase of $41,092.42 in the contract price and an increase of 5 days in the contract time for Asphaltic Concrete Overlay of Lake Palourde Road Project.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED that the President of St. Mary Parish, Sam Jones, be and he is hereby authorized to execute Change Order No. 2 on behalf of the St. Mary Parish Council.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in special session convened on this the 26th day of March 2025.
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
RESOLUTION
Resolution of support for the submittal of an Amended Recovery Proposal relative to funds re- ceived from the State of Louisiana, Office of Community Development, Resilient Communities Infrastructure Program and authorizing the Parish President to sign and submit the Recovery Proposal.
WHEREAS, in the aftermath of Hurricanes Laura, Delta, and Ida, and Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding, the United States congress, through Public Law 117-43 appropriated funds to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) Community Development Block Grant (“CDBG”) Program for use through the State of Louisiana for disaster recovery; and
WHEREAS, the Parish of St. Mary has been allocated $361,707.60 in CDBG Disaster Recovery funding for restoration of infrastructure and disaster recovery related to the 2020 and 2021 Hurricanes Laura, Delta, and Ida, and the May 2021 Floods; and
WHEREAS, the Parish of St. Mary is required to submit a Recovery Proposal to justify the recovery needs to be met through the proposed program.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Mary Parish Council hereby authorizes Sam Jones, St. Mary Parish President, to sign and submit an Amended Re- covery Proposal to the Office of Community Development for consideration of funding for the following projects:
•St. Mary Parish Government Employee Classification & Compensation Study
•St. Mary Parish Comprehensive Plan
•St. Mary Parish Capital Improvements Plan
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED, that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby give Sam Jones, St. Mary Parish President, the power and authority to do all things necessary to implement, maintain, amend, or renew said proposal.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED, that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby give Sam Jones, St. Mary Parish President, the authority to authorize OCD to move forward with the proposal of said projects and if and when the project(s) is approved, move forward with the application(s).
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in special session convened on this the 26th day of March 2025.
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
NEW BUSINESS:
A. Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Communications District E 911 (Emergency Medical Services) – 1 Vacancy
Edward Smith – Present Member
Mr. Admas mov-ed that Edward Smith be reappointed to Communications District E 911 (Emergency Medical Services). Mr. Hill seconded the motion, which carried.
Hospital Service District No. 2 (Ochsner St. Mary) – 1 Vacancy
Clarence Robinson, Jr., Barry J. Dufrene
This item was discussed earlier.
West St. Mary Parish Port, Harbor and Terminal District (Ward 3) – 1 Vacancy
Dale Patrick Robicheaux, Della Derouen
Mr. Olander moved that Della Derouen be ap- pointed to West St. Mary Parish Port, Harbor and Terminal District. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
S/G LISA C.
MORGAN
Lisa C. Morgan,
Clerk
Adv. April 23, 2025

mmm

Cost: $579.00
PUBLIC NOTICE
ORDINANCE
NO. 2388
An Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2318 - designating procedures and deadlines relative to the St. Mary Parish Council Meeting Agendas.
BE IT OR- DAINED by the St. Mary Parish Council, in regular session convened:
SECTION I.
WHEREAS, the St. Mary Parish Council declares that, pursuant to the powers granted by operating under a Home Rule Charter, finds that it is necessary and desirable and in the best interest of the citizens of St. Mary Parish, pursuant to the provisions of Article XII, Section 3 of the Louisiana Constitution, to insure that no person shall be denied the right to observe the deliberations of public bodies, except in cases established by law.
WHEREAS, that in furtherance of this objective the Home Rule Charter, Section 2-07(D) provides: “At all regular meetings of the council, the council shall operate from an agenda which, at a minimum, shall be posted in writing in the major population centers of the Parish at least two (2) days prior to the meeting. The agenda for special and emergency meetings shall be made available to the public as soon as practical prior to the meeting.”
WHEREAS, in order to provide adequate time for said agenda to be posted in writing in the major population centers of the Parish at least two (2) days prior to the meeting and to implement the provisions of Section 2-07 (D) of the Home Rule Charter, the St. Mary Parish Council declares that agenda items must be placed on the Council’s meeting agenda, including Ordinances scheduled for introduction, by verbal, written, or electronic notification to the Clerk of the Council, no later than 2:00 p.m. on the Thursday prior to the regular Wednesday meeting or in cases of a special meeting, two hours before the deadline for publication of the agenda of that meeting.
SECTION II.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the St. Mary Parish Council, in regular session convened:
A. Agenda items must be placed on the Council’s meeting agenda, including Ordinances scheduled for in- troduction, by verbal, written, or electronic notification to the Clerk of the Council, no later than 2:00 p.m. on the Thursday prior to the regular Wednesday meeting or in cases of a special meeting, two hours before the deadline for publication of the agenda of that meeting.
B. Notwithstanding, an Ordinance not on the agenda may be introduced at a regular or special meeting, as long as it complies with the provisions of Section 2-12 of the Home Rule Charter and upon a favorable vote of a majority of its membership, which vote shall be taken at the meeting of and prior to its introduction.
SECTION III.
All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
SECTION IV.
This ordinance shall become effective upon the signature of the President of St. Mary Parish.
This ordinance having been offer-ed and read on the 12th day of March 2024; having been published in accordance with law; having been heard in a public hearing held at Franklin, Louisiana on the 9th day of April 2025; was adopted by the following vote on the 9th day of April 2025.
AYES: Rev. Craig Mathews, J Ina, Rodney Olan-der, David Hill, Leslie Rulf, Jr., James Davis, Jr, Mark A. Duhon, Dean S. Adams, Dr. Kristi P. Rink, and Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo.
NAYS: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
ABSENT: Patrick J. Hebert.
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
This Ordinance was submitted to the President of St. Mary Parish on this the 15th day of April 2025 at the hour of 8:52 a.m.
APPROVED:
s/g Sam Jones
SAM JONES,
PRESIDENT
ST. MARY PARISH
This Ordinance was returned to the Clerk of the Council on this the 15th day of April 2025 at the hour 11:48 a.m.
Adv. April 23, 2025

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
PROCEEDINGS OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE MORGAN CITY HARBOR AND TERMINAL
DISTRICT
March 10, 2025
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 March 10, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. Deborah Garber, Vice-President, convened the meeting with Commissioners Joseph Cain, Steven Cor-nes, Matthew Ty- cer, Troy Lombardo and Michael Wise in attendance. Ben Adams, Adam Mayon and Matthew Glover were absent. Also present in the meeting were Raymond Wade, Executive Director; Michael Knobloch, Special Projects Manager; Gerard Bourgeois, Board Attorney; Lt. Jenelle Piche, United States Coast Guard (“USCG”); Robert Karam, T. Baker Smith; Bill Blan-chard, GIS Engineering; Councilman Les Rulf, St. Mary Parish Council; 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. Tycer and seconded by Mr. Lombardo that the minutes of the regular meeting of February 10, 2025 and minutes of the special meeting of February 26, 2025 be approved and adopted, with said motion carrying unanimously.
It was moved by Mr. Tycer that the report of receipts and disbursements for the month of February, 2025 be received and ac- cepted and that all invoices presented to the Board for the month of February, 2025 be paid. Mr. Cain seconded that motion, which carried un- animously.
Raymond Wade reported on behalf of Tim Connell that we currently have two dredges running at this time, Dredge Arulaq continues dredging in the Bar Channel and Dredge Mike Hooks continues dredging in Bayou Chene. He also not-ed in a few weeks Coastal Dredging will be working at Bollinger for the capital outlay project.
Lt. Piche reported that there were 1,914 total transits in February through the VTS zone; (ii) on February 19th we enter-ed high water restrictions due to water levels rising over 3’ and currently holding at 4.8’; and (iii) we will have a Ports Waterways and Safety Assessment (PWSA) on March 26th and 27th, where waterway users will be able to bring up concerns, questions or suggestions for improvements that will also assist the USCG in better prioritizing ATON.
Charles Brittingham reported that the House is negotiating a CR until September 30th, which means the Corps will operate on FY24 available funding. Discussions were also had on im- pacts from proposed tariffs to the Port and its stakeholders.
Michael Knobloch reported that: (i) we met with FP&C on the proposed repurposing of the $282,000 capital outlay funding that will be brought before the Interim Emergency Board and would like the Board to allow roof and insulation work to be included in the project. Mr. Tycer moved to authorize Mr. Wade to authorize the change in our Warehouse Infrastructure Improvements (Fire Suppression System), Planning and Construction (St. Mary) Facility Planning Project to not only include Fire Suppression System, but to also include New Roof and Insulation work, which was seconded by Mr. Cornes and carried unanimously. (ii) Work continues on the camera project, including in- stallation of two concrete bases for camera poles to enable viewing of the rail spurs at all times; (iii) Title VI documents were submitted to MARAD; and (iv) Senator Cassidy’s deadline to submit an application to the FY2026 Community Project Funds and Congressional Directed Spending is March 28th. Mr. Lombardo moved, and Mr. Cain seconded that the following resolution be submitted for $5,600,000 and be matched by $1,400,000 of Port funds for “Multi- Modal Warehouse Project”, which resolution was un- animously adopted.
RESOLUTION
BE IT RESOLV-ED, that the Board of Commissioners of the above does hereby authorize the submission of its proposed funding request entitled “Multi-modal Warehouse” and officially requests $5,600,000 (or, 80% of the $7,000,000 total estimated construction costs) from the FY 2026 Congressional Directed Spending (CDS) Program and/or the FY 2026 Community Project Funding (CPF) Program. Additionally, the Port District Commission agrees to be responsible for providing a 20% local, non-federal cost-share in the amount of $1,400,000 from its general fund for this project.
Robert Karam reported that: (i) we met with the Corps to discuss questions regarding geotechnical analysis and proposed layout on the West dock ex- pansion permit and they will prepare an exhibit to submit to them. Mr. Wade thanked Tim Connell for all of his assistance in helping push this permit process forward.
Bill Blanchard reported that: (i) drydock work continues, but there was a slight delay from Bollinger so next month he will submit a change order for additional days but no additional funding; (ii) we awarded the dredging project to Coastal Dredging at a cost of $2,600,000, with hopes of the pre- construction meeting being scheduled within the next few weeks; and (iii) bulkhead design is currently underway.
Gerard Bourgeois presented a Resolution for a board member participation policy, which was mov-ed by Mr. Tycer, seconded by Mr. Cornes and carried unanimously.
RESOLUTION
A resolution providing for recusal by members of the Board of Commissioners of the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District (“District”).
WHEREAS, this Board of Commissioners (“Board”) recognizes that this body should function as an in- dependent and im- partial entity and that its acts be for the good of the public and not for any individual;
WHEREAS, any member of the Board shall not participate in discussions, debates or voting on any matters related to the entity that employs such Board member and that if any member of the Board in the discharge of his or her duties would be required to vote on a matter that would be in violation of R.S42:112 such Board member’s vote will be marked as “ab- stain” on any such matters; and;
BE IT RESOLV-ED that “abstain” will be marked as the vote of any member of the Board who in the discharge of his or her duties or responsibilities participation would be in violation of La. R.S. 42:112, that such Board member will not participate in any matter related to such abstention and that the em- ployees of the Morgan City Harbor and Terminal District are prohibited from discussing any matters related to said abstention with the Board;
With there being no further business to come before the Board, it was moved by Mr. Cornes and seconded by Mr. Tycer that the meeting was adjourned.
Attest:
———————
Matthew K.
Glover,
Secretary
Adv. April 23, 2025

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
2025 HURRICANE ROOF DAMAGE AND ASSOCIATED WORK
BERWICK HOUSING AUTHORITY
Bids for construction of the “2025 Hurricane Roof Damage And Associated Work” at the Berwick Housing Authority, Berwick, LA., will be received until 2:30 PM, local time, on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at the Housing Authority Office at 2751 Fifth St, Berwick, LA 70342 at which time and place all bids will be publicly read aloud. This project is funded in part under the Capital Fund Program of the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development.
The general scope of work for this project in- cludes roofing replacement on approx 410 Squares of existing roof area with new shingle roofing as specified, together with associated work at various apartment buildings at the Berwick Housing Authority. Bids will be received for a Base Bid and Additive Alternate Bids. Contractors desiring to bid on this project shall obtain a paper copy of the plans and specifications from the Architect to facilitate dissemination of Addenda and other pertinent information to bidders. Contractors must also visit the Site and shall attend the Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting noted below.
Copies of the plans and specifications and related contract documents are on file at the office of the Housing Authority Office at 2751 Fifth St, Berwick, LA, and the office of Firmin Architects, Ltd, 530 Third Street, P.O. Box 972, Morgan City, Louisiana, (985/384-3094) and are open for inspection at each of these offices without charge. Contractors may obtain plans and specifications from the Architect by making a deposit of $100 which will be fully refundable upon return of the plans.
Contractors are required to visit the site prior to submitting their bids and should make appointments to do so by calling the Housing Authority Office at 985/385-1546. Attention is called to the insurance requirements and to the provisions for equal employment op- portunity, and payment of not less than the minimum wages that must be paid on this project, as set forth in the Specifications.
EMPLOYMENT OF FEMALE AND/OR MINORITY INDIVIDUALS AND SUB-CONTRACTORS:
The attention of the Contractor(s) proposing to submit a bid on this project is expressly called to the interest and desire of the Housing Auth- ority, that female and minority individuals, particularly those residing in or near the housing developments of the Auth- ority, be given preference for positions of new employment.
All bids shall be accompanied by a bid bond or certified check equal to at least five percent (5%) of the amount bid for the Base Bid and made payable without condition to the Owner as a guarantee that the bidder, if awarded the contract, will promptly enter into a contract for the project. The form of this security shall be as stated in the Instructions to Bidders included in the Bid Documents for this project. The successful Bidder shall be required to furnish a Performance and Payment Bond or Irrevocable Bank Letter of Credit written as described in the in the Bid Documents for this project.
A MANDATORY PRE-BID
MEETING WILL BE HELD
at 2:30 PM on May 19, 2025 at Administrative Office - 2751 Fifth St, Berwick, LA 70342
Bids shall be accepted from Contractors who are licensed under LA. R.S. 37:2150-2192 for the classification of Building Construction or Specialty; Roofing and Sheetmetal, Siding. Bidder is required to comply with provisions and re- quirements of LA R.S. 38:2212(B)(5). No bid may be withdrawn for a period of forty-five (45) days after receipt of bids, except under the provisions of LA. R.S. 38:2214. Any contractor and/or sub-contractor whose bid exceeds $50,000.00 shall be licensed in ac- cordance with current statutes of Louisiana Law.
The Owner re- serves the right to reject any and all bids for just cause. In accordance with La. R.S. 38:2212(B)(1), the provisions and requirements of this Section; and those stated in the bidding documents shall not be waived by any entity.
Housing Authority of the Town of Berwick, LA
By:
Clarence Robinson Jr.,
Exec Director
Adv. April 23, 30 and May 7, 2025

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
Accepting sealed bids for Qty- 1 surplus generator 150 kw.
Needs rebuilt engine and various electrical issues.
To be sold to highest bidder as is where is.
Contact Mickey @ 985-992-7254 or Calvin @ 985-992-6890.
Bids can be mailed to:
Generator Bid
P O Box 181
Berwick, LA 70342
Adv. April 16, 18, 23, 25, 30, May 2, 7 and 9, 2025

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
SECTION A
INVITATION TO BIDDERS
Sealed bids for the equipment procurement of the following project will be received by St. Mary Levee District at their office located at 7327 Hwy 182 E, Morgan City, LA 70380 until Monday, April 28, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the media room on the first floor at their office.
PROJECT NAME: Pump Station No. 4 Equipment Procurement, Delivery & Testing Package
LOCATED IN: St. Mary Parish, Louisiana
CONTRACTING AGENCY: St. Mary Levee District
7327 Hwy 182 E
Morgan City, LA 70380
PROPOSAL GUARANTY: 5% of the Amount of Bid
Payable to St. Mary Levee District
ENGINEER: GIS Engineering, LLC
Coastal Design & Infrastructure Division
197 Elysian Drive
Houma LA, 70363
Phone: (985) 219-1000
Contact: Ann Schouest
Email: bidquestions@gisy.com
SCOPE OF WORK: The scope of work for this procurement package is to furnish all the equipment necessary to refurbish pump station number 4 for the St. Mary Levee District. This equipment includes, but is not limited to, all necessary pumps, motors, right angle gear drives, and all appurtenances re- quired to refurbish pumps number one, two, three, four and five as further detailed in the enclosed technical specifications.
Bid forms are available from the Engineer and will not be issued later than 24 hours prior to the time set for opening the bids. Each bid shall include a proposal guaranty in an amount not less than specified above.
The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder without discrimination on grounds of race, color, sex or national origin. Disadvantaged businesses will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids.
Plans and specifications may be seen at the Engineer’s office. Plans may be obtained from the Engineer upon payment of $75.00. In accordance with R.S. 38:2212 (D), deposits on the first set of documents furnished bona fide prime bidders will be fully refunded upon return of the documents, deposits on any additional sets will be refunded less the actual costs of reproduction. Re- funds will be made upon return of the documents if within ten days after receipt of bids.
Bid documents are also posted on https://www.centralauctionhouse.com/Category/10279/StMaryLeveeDistrict. 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 Central Auction House at 225-810-4814.
A Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. at the St. Mary Levee District Office, located at 7327 Hwy 182 E, Morgan City, LA. Site inspection trips for perspective Bidders are to be arranged through the office of the Engineer.
The award of a contract, if awarded, will be made to the lowest qualified bidder whose proposal complies with all requirements prescribed within 45 calendar days after opening proposals. However, when the contract is to be fin-anced by bonds which are required to be sold after receipts of bids, or when the contract is to be financed in whole or part by federal or other funds not available at the time bids are received, the time will not start until receipt of federal and/or state concurrence or concurrence of the other funding source. Award will be within 30 calendar days after the sale of bonds or receipt of concurrence in award from federal and/or state agency or other funding source. The successful bidder will be notified by letter mailed to the address shown in the proposal that the bidder is awarded the contract.
On projects in- volving State funds the award of contract will also be contingent upon concurrence by the appropriate State agency, the Coastal Protection and Restoration Auth- ority (CPRA).
The right is reserved to reject bids and waive formalities.
Adv. April 4, 11 and 23, 2025

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
Recreation District No. 4 of the Parish of St. Mary
Minutes of
Meeting
March 19, 2025
Members Present: William Miller, LaGenia Bradford, Vincent Byrd, Edward Austin
Members Ab- sent: Terrance Johnson
Others Present: Jerry Boyles, Gabrielle Gil, Barry Dufrene, Andrew Bienvenu
Mr. Miller open-ed the regular meeting leading the Board in the pledge of allegiance.
The minutes of the regular meeting held on February 19, 2025, were reviewed. Mr. Byrd made a motion to accept the minutes. Mrs. Bradford seconded the motion. The mo- tion passed.
Mr. Dufrene presented and review-ed the financial statements presented to the Board. A motion to accept the report was made by Mrs. Bradford and seconded by Mr. Austin. The motion passed.
After discussion, Noel’s Electric Inc was added, and Cajun Breakers Inc was deleted from the outstanding invoices. Mr. Austin made a motion to pay outstanding invoices. Mrs. Bradford seconded the motion. Mr. Austin, Mrs. Bradford, and Mr. Miller voted yes. Mr. Byrd abstain-ed. The motion passed.
Mr. Boyles presented his report to the Board. Work is continuing to repair and replace seat coverings on chairs the District owns. He reported that one of the RV camping groups will increase the number of times they will be hosting a rally at the District’s building.
Mr. Dufrene presented the review report of the District’s financial records for the year ending September 30, 2024. The report stated the financial statements were fairly presented.
With there being no other business to discuss, a mo- tion to adjourn was made by Mr. Byrd and seconded by Mrs. Bradford. The motion passed.
———————
William Miller
Chairperson
———————
Gabrielle Gil
Secretary Treasurer
Adv. April 23, 2025

mmm

Secretary Gary Westcott, Warden Darrel Vannoy, and the Louisiana Prison Museum at Angola are set to Induct the late 16th Judicial District Attorney Bo Duhé into the Louisiana Justice Hall of Fame during its milestone 20th-anniversary ceremony.
Duhé will be formally recognized and remembered at a banquet on Friday, June 6, at the Lod Cook Alumni Center at LSU in Baton Rouge. Earlier that day, a ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at the Louisiana Prison Museum on the grounds of the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola. The ribbon-cutting event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.
Prior to his untimely passing, the Louisiana Justice Hall of Fame announced its 2025 Class of Inductees, and in honor of his outstanding contributions to justice in Louisiana will posthumously proceed in doing so.
Duhé served as the district attorney for the 16th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, which covers St. Martin, Iberia and St. Mary Parishes. Duhé graduated in 1980 from Catholic High School in New Iberia and graduated from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in 1984 with a general business degree.
From 1984 to 1989, he served as a special assets officer for two saving and loans in Lafayette. In 1989, he enrolled in Tulane University, graduating in 1992 with a law degree. After graduation, he was a law clerk for Judge Buddy Fleming in the 16th Judicial District.
On Aug. 1, 1993, he began working for the 16th Judicial District Attorney’s Office. His primary duties involved prosecution of major felony crimes. He took office as the district attorney on Jan. 12, 2015.
Pre-purchased tickets are required for the banquet and formal induction ceremony. Tickets are $100 per person and include a catered meal.
Contact the Louisiana Prison Museum & Cultural Center at 225-655-2592 or visit www.angolamuseum.org for tickets.