RSS Feed

MADELEINE K. BOUILLION

Thu, 02/06/2025 - 7:50am

Madeleine K. Bouillion, 88, a native of Lafayette and resident of Morgan City, died Friday, Jan. 24, 2025 at Landmark South Nursing Center.
She is survived by a son, Paul Bouillion of Gonzales; daughter, Carolyn Bouillion of Baton Rouge; grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Constance Landgrave of Lafayette and Marguerite Sumrall of Patterson.
She was preceded in death by her husband and parents.
Visitation will be Thursday from 10 a.m. until memorial services at 11 a.m. at Twin City Funeral Home.
Twin City Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements

Deputies make arrests on heroin, meth charges

Wed, 02/05/2025 - 4:29pm
Staff Report

(Editor’s note: The charges listed here and the narratives that go with them are provided by the police agencies that made the arrests. Guilt or innocence has not been determined in court.)

St. Mary deputies reported arrests on heroin, methamphetamine and hallucinogenic drug charges early this week, plus the arrest of a Thibodaux woman accused of arson with intent to defraud.

Franklin police arrested a teen on an attempted murder charge.

St. Mary

Sheriff Gary Driskell reported that over the last 48-hour reporting period, the Sheriff's Office responded to 97 complaints and made these arrests:

---Nicholas Fitch, 42, Houma, was arrested at 6:36 p.m. Tuesday on two warrants alleging possession of heroin, possession of a legend drug without a prescription, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while license is suspended.

Bail has not been set at this time.

--Raymond Javon Hayward, 36, Baldwin, was arrested at 12:38 a.m. Tuesday on charges of possession of methamphetamine, driving under suspension, improper lane usage, open container, possession of drug paraphernalia, three counts of no child restraint and possession of a controlled dangerous substance in the presence of persons under 17, and on a Baldwin Police Department warrant alleging shoplifting.

--Hanisha La'trice Azema, 24, Thibodaux, was arrested at 4:24 p.m. Monday on a Louisiana Department of Public Safety warrant alleging arson with intent to defraud and criminal conspiracy. Bail was set at $17,500.

--Lezlie Tyler Aucoin, 33, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:13 a.m. Tuesday on a warrant alleging burglary of an inhabited dwelling. Bail was set at $5,000.

Bail has not been set at this time.

--William David Dycus II, 40, Vidor, Texas, was arrested at 2:04 p.m. Monday on charges of driving while intoxicated, open container, resisting an officer by flight and possession of Schedule I drugs.

Bail has not been set at this time.

--Dillon Gavin, 33, Amelia, was arrested at 5:53 p.m. Monday on charges of window tint, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of hallucinogens and illegal carrying of weapons in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance.

Bail has not been set at this time.

Morgan City

Chief Chad M. Adams reported that the Morgan City Police Department responded to 32 calls for service over the last 24-hour reporting period and made these arrests:

--Mario Alfonso Gonzalaz, 26, Camelot Drive, Mission, Texas, was arrested at 11:30 p.m. Monday on charges of driving while intoxicated (first offense) and reckless operation of a motor vehicle.

--David Aguilera Sandoval, 21, Tyler Street, Jacksonville, Texas, was arrested at 11:30 p.m. Monday on charges of driving while intoxicated (first offense), reckless operation of a motor vehicle and open container in a motor vehicle.

Franklin

Chief Cedric Handy <.b>reported that the Franklin Police Department responded to seven calls for service over the last 24-hours reporting period and made this arrest:

--Avery Hines Jr., 18, Jordan Street, New Iberia, turned himself in to the Franklin Police Department at 1:37 p.m. Tuesday on a warrant alleging attempted second-degree murder, illegal use of weapons or dangerous instrumentalities, four counts of resisting an officer, aggravated criminal damage to property, disturbing the peace (interruption of lawful assembly) and firearm-free zones. Hines was booked, processed and held with no bond set at the time of press release.

Morgan City police radio logs for Feb. 3-4

Wed, 02/05/2025 - 1:29pm

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.
Monday, Feb. 3
7:10 a.m. 300 block of Terrebonne Street; Animal complaint.
7:34 a.m. 3100 block of Jennie Drive; Animal complaint.
8:14 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Complaint.
9:38 a.m. 1600 block of Chestnut Drive; Utilities.
9:45 a.m. 700 block of Fifth Street; Disturbance.
10:57 a.m. 100 block of Terrebonne Street; Complaint.
11:05 a.m. 200 block of Franklin Street; Animal complaint.
11:09 a.m. 1000 block of Fourth Street; Animal complaint.
11:21 a.m. 1600 block of Sixth Street; 911 hang up.
11:47 a.m. 600 block of Sixth Street; Suspicious person.
11:49 a.m. First Street; Animal complaint.
12:07 p.m. 2600 block of Elm Street; Animal complaint.
1:08 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Complaint.
1:33 p.m. 900 block of Florence Street; Complaint.
1:45 p.m. U.S. 90 East; Assistance.
2 p.m. 1000 block of La. 70; Assistance.
2:28 p.m. 1100 block of Marguerite Street; Assistance.
2:32 p.m. U.S. 90 West; Stalled vehicle.
2:37 p.m. 200 block of Franklin Street; Disturbance.
2:40 p.m. 1200 block of David Drive; Medical.
3:02 p.m. 2400 block of Tiger Drive; Hit and run.
3:20 p.m. 700 block of Arenz Street; Complaint.
4:33 p.m. U.S. 90 West; Stalled vehicle.
6:20 p.m. Martin Luther King Boulevard; Medical.
8:32 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Complaint.
8:55 p.m. 600 block of Brashear Avenue; Theft.
9:23 p.m. 400 block of Idaho Street; Complaint.
9:48 p.m. Greenwood Street/Victor II Boulevard; Alarm.
11:32 p.m. 1400 block of Maple Street; Medical.
Tuesday, Feb. 4
7:50 a.m. 900 block of Marguerite Street; Fight.
8:44 a.m. 100 block of Railroad Avenue; Open door.
9:04 a.m. Veterans Boulevard/La. 70; Assistance.
10:09 a.m. 600 block of Shannon Street; Warrant.
10:51 a.m. 200 block of Everett Street; Medical.
10:57 a.m. 700 block of Florence Street; Missing person.
11:23 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Arrest.
11:27 a.m. 300 block of Oriole Street; Juvenile problem.
11:51 a.m. 1000 block of La. 70; Complaint.
12:05 p.m. 2400 block of Pecan Street; Civil matter.
12:06 p.m. 1000 block of Palm Street; Medical.
1:05 p.m. 3300 block of Youngs Road; Complaint.
1:33 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Arrest.
1:42 p.m. 700 block of Fifth Street; Complaint.
3:16 p.m. 500 block of Bowman; Medical.
3:22 p.m. 1200 block of Kenneth; 911 hang up.
3:27 p.m. 6400 block of La. 182; Vehicle accident.
3:29 p.m. 600 block of General McArthur Street; Utilities.
4:45 p.m. Hemlock/Fig streets; Utilities.
5:26 p.m. Sixth Street; Reckless driving.

State takes over finances for cash-strapped Bogalusa

Wed, 02/05/2025 - 6:00am
NOLAN McKENDRY, The Center Square

The Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s Fiscal Review Committee has voted to place the city of Bogalusa under fiscal administration, citing severe financial distress.
The decision follows the arrest of Mayor Tyrin Truong, 25, on accusation of using drug money, soliciting prostitutes and involvement in a drug trafficking network.
Bogalusa has been grappling with a significant decline in cash reserves, raising concerns about its ability to meet financial obligations, according to Judith Dettwiller and Steven Kraemer of the Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s office.
According to the LLA, the city’s cash balance dropped from $6.7 million at the start of 2024 to approximately $3.42 million by year's end, a nearly 50% reduction.
“It's clearly that we need assistance. We need to help in getting all issues resolved for our city and for our citizens, more importantly,” Bogalusa City Council member Gloria Kates said.
Additionally, the city faces roughly $10 million in outstanding payables, with only $500,000 in unrestricted funds available to cover debts. Among these obligations, the city owes the IRS approximately $1.2 million in unpaid payroll taxes and an additional $273,000 to the Louisiana Department of Revenue.
Vendor payments totaling around $600,000 are also past due.
Kraemer further noted that Bogalusa's water bond accounts are not adequately funded. The city transferred $62,000 from its depreciation contingency account into the general fund in September, failing to replenish it, which may put the bond in jeopardy.
Meanwhile, the city has projected a $3.1 million general fund deficit for the fiscal year and planned to shift $1.7 million from the utility fund to cover shortfalls despite existing compliance issues with the Department of Environmental Quality .
Payroll tax payments to the IRS and the state stopped around October 2023 and remained unpaid through November 2024. Though city officials are attempting to negotiate a payment plan with the IRS, no agreement has been finalized, and penalties and interest continue to accrue.
Additionally, between January and October 2023, payroll tax payments were made but not properly filed, further complicating the situation.
Bogalusa's risk management fund is also under strain, with a balance of just $263,000. Questions were raised about whether the Louisiana Municipal Association risk management group could terminate the city's insurance, particularly workers’ compensation.
The Louisiana Firefighters Retirement System is also owed about $116,000, equivalent to one to two months of payments.
Adding to the city's woes, property tax bills, which were supposed to be mailed around Nov. 1, were delayed until December 9, potentially postponing the collection of $3 million to $4 million in much-needed revenue.
Meanwhile, the city’s financial reporting is in serious arrears. The 2022 audit, due in September 2023, remains incomplete, delaying subsequent audits for 2023 and 2024.
A private firm was hired to clean up the city’s accounting records at a cost of several hundred thousand dollars, but the work remains unfinished. If the 2022 audit is not completed by June 30, Bogalusa will be three years behind, an automatic trigger for state-imposed fiscal administration.
After his arrest, Truong posted a $150,000 bond and returned to work at city hall early this month.
Truong took to social media to defend himself, stating: "When you're cutting contracts, shutting down favors and exerting influence -- shaking up things and exposing truths -- you become a target."
He denied the allegations and insisted he would let his attorney handle the matter.
The Louisiana State Police-led investigation links Truong to a drug trafficking network accused of using social media to distribute narcotics and launder drug money through firearm purchases tied to violent crimes. Several individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, and further legal proceedings are expected.
Cates confirmed that the council unanimously voted on Dec. 6 to request a fiscal administrator from the Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s office. “It's clearly that we need assistance. We need to help in getting all issues resolved for our city and for our citizens, more importantly,” she stated.
However, the resolution was not signed by the mayor.
“At the time, the mayor, no, did not sign,” Cates noted, adding that she was uncertain whether the mayor now supports the measure.
One of the most pressing issues facing the city is its failing sewer infrastructure.
“Citizens posted about 14 videos to social media reporting the sewer issues and showed sewage bubbling out,” Councilmember Mark Irvine said. “We tried to write work orders on it as fast as we could. As a council, we don’t like to make comments on it, because we are not repair people.
“But we did report this into our work order system as quickly as we did. There were some we didn't even know about.”
According to Irvine, some of the sewage spills have led to road collapses. “There's even one in a creek that literally was marked completed in fall 2023, and as of last month, it was still bubbling inside that creek and pouring raw sewage through an eight-inch line,” he said.
Cates highlighted ongoing struggles in accessing financial records, particularly those related to invoices for sewer system repairs.
“I had requested our financials, specifically the invoices on the pumps and sewage, which I did not ever gain access to,” Cates said.
She noted that a former public works director had informed her that he was prevented from providing certain records. Despite the council’s efforts to obtain financial transparency through committee meetings, many requests remain unfulfilled.
“Funds have been gone,” Cates said, adding that while ARPA funds were allocated for water and sewage projects with unanimous council approval, additional funds were also designated for parks, streets, and retail strategies.
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality has since become involved.
“We have a health and welfare issue, but the DEQ is aware of that. They are aware of this issue,” Irvin stated. However, he expressed frustration at the city's misaligned priorities. “It's nice to have luxury items like dog parks and all that for bigger cities, but when you have sewage bubbling up in the middle of the street, you need to take care of that.”
With the city now under fiscal administration, state-appointed administrator Robert Neilson will oversee Bogalusa's finances, including budgetary decisions and debt repayment strategies. Nielson is a certified public accountant, and has worked for the city of Bogalusa as an auditor.

Wheel House for Feb. 5

Wed, 02/05/2025 - 6:00am

RUMMAGE
SALE
Hosted by Patterson United Methodist Church, 1204 Main St., Patterson, 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, Feb. 15. Items for sale include clothes, shoes, household items, toys, books, Valentine, Mardi Gras and Easter decorations, and lots of men’s clothes.

Jim Bradshaw: When the train was late coming to the prairie

Wed, 02/05/2025 - 6:00am
JIM BRADSHAW

The common assumption is that after the railroad crossed the Louisiana prairies in 1880, Southern Pacific went right to work recruiting settlers to provide travelers and cargoes for their trains. The railroad did push for immigrants to build new towns next to the rails. But according to one of the most important town builders that didn’t happen as quickly or as easily as we might think.
W. Duson founded Crowley and, as manager of the Southwest Louisiana Land Co., bought and sold hundreds of thousands of acres of South Louisiana prairie land. He spoke at the Louisiana Banker’s Association convention in Lake Charles in April 1906, and his remarks were preserved in a little booklet printed and distributed by him.
His opening lets us know that he thought highly of this place: “When your arrangement committee placed me on the program for an address upon the development of Southwest Louisiana, they were evidently laboring under the impression that this convention would be in session for two weeks instead of two days, and that at least one week of that time would be allotted to me … [because] you might listen for an entire week regarding the wonderful development of … Southwest Louisiana … and even then the story would not be half told.”
He said he did not like to simply recite “dry and uninteresting figures,” but that some of the numbers were necessary to show “results so astounding and so remarkable as to be truly dramatic, pregnant with the story of work, energies and efforts; of undying faith in spite of ridicule and doubt, but over which …  success stands pre-eminent.”
He gave statistics about increases in real estate assessments, taxable incomes, bank deposits, money spent on education, and the timber trade, and suggested that the recent discovery of oil would be “of great benefit” to the area. His dry figures, he said, showed “an improvement so rapid, so steady and … so successful as to astonish even [the bankers] who are accustomed to deal with big transactions and big results.”
Coming from Crowley, already proclaimed “the rice capital of the world,” he devoted a good part of his remarks to that budding industry, the irrigation systems that supported it, and “the efforts … put forth by the little band of men who have worked so hard and so faithfully to build up … a magnificent and prosperous farming community.”
It was that little band of men, not the railroad, that first produced the vision of prosperity on the prairie, Duson said. They built a farm economy that  “demonstrated … what could be done with our lands,” and also saw that it was “necessary that we should have people to develop them.” It seemed only natural that owners and managers of the newly built railroad would share that sentiment, but that wasn’t the case, according to Duson.
 “When you take into consideration the fact that the lands to be developed lay entirely along the line of a single railroad, the management of which at that time had no faith in this section of the state, and, in fact, no interest in its development, you can readily realize by what great difficulties we were handicapped,” he said.
Nonetheless, the  people of South Louisiana kept promoting their vision and “gradually the confidence of the railroad officials was gained” until “finally the Southern Pacific management was found marching hand in hand with the progress of Southwest Louisiana.”.
“Inasmuch as all which has been accomplished … was done only after surmounting every possible obstacle which could confront those … endeavoring to develop what was then almost a bare prairie, it is safe to say that the development already accomplished is but the forerunner of what can and will be done,” he concluded, forecasting that south Louisiana would soon be “leading, the entire gulf coast in … development, increased wealth, and the value of her products.”
He was too modest to mention that he was at the forefront of that little band of persevering community builders, or that he’d hounded the railroad management until it finally took notice of the prairie’s potential.
You can contact Jim Bradshaw at jimbradshaw4321@gmail.com or P.O. Box 1121, Washington LA 70589.

Pet Talk: A dangerous disease you've probably never heard of

Wed, 02/05/2025 - 6:00am

Cushing’s syndrome, or hypercortisolism, is a condition caused by overproduction of cortisol — a hormone that regulates stress, metabolism, and immune response. While cortisol is vital for normal body function, too much can lead to serious health issues.
Two Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences clinicians — Dr. Andrew Bugbee, a clinical associate professor of internal medicine, and Dr. Daisuke Ito, an associate professor of neurology — provide insight into this condition and how veterinarians diagnose it in dogs and cats.
Cushing’s syndrome is most commonly caused by a benign tumor on the pituitary gland — a small, pea-shaped structure located at the base of the brain. This form of the condition, known as pituitary-dependent hypercortisolism, accounts for 85% of cases.
Often called the “master gland,” the pituitary plays a central role in regulating the body’s hormone production by signaling other glands, including the adrenal glands, to release hormones. The adrenal glands, located next to the kidneys, are responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism, blood sugar, immune responses, and stress levels.
“The pituitary gland acts like the conductor of an orchestra, signaling the adrenal glands to release cortisol,” Bugbee said.
“When a tumor develops on the pituitary, it sends too many signals to the adrenal glands, causing an overproduction of cortisol.”
Less commonly, Cushing’s results from a tumor on one of the adrenal glands themselves, known as adrenal-dependent hypercortisolism. In this case, the tumor causes the affected adrenal gland to produce excess cortisol independently of the pituitary gland’s control.
While larger dogs are more prone to adrenal-based Cushing’s, patients of any size can develop either form of this condition. Both result in similar symptoms but may require different treatment approaches.
Owners should be watchful for the following signs of Cushing’s in their pets: 
•Increased thirst and appetite
•Increased urination frequency and volume
•Hair loss, often along the chest, flank, and tail
•Panting, even when at rest
•Thin legs with a distended abdomen
•Dark, discolored, or thinned skin on the abdomen
•Blackheads on their belly
“These symptoms arise because cortisol affects nearly every organ system in the body,” Bugbee said. “If left untreated, Cushing’s can lead to serious complications, such as recurrent skin or urinary tract infections, ligament injuries, high blood pressure, kidney disease, blood clots, or damage to vital organs.”
In some cases, large tumors in the pituitary gland can also lead to neurological symptoms.
“When a pituitary tumor grows large enough, it can press on the brain, leading to seizures, vision problems, or changes in behavior,” Ito said. “This compression can also affect the animal’s consciousness and ability to coordinate walking.”
With its wide-ranging symptoms and potential for severe complications, early recognition and intervention are key to managing Cushing’s syndrome and improving a pet’s quality of life.
Diagnosing Cushing’s requires a careful and methodical approach, as its symptoms often overlap with normal aging or other conditions. Veterinarians typically begin with routine lab work to evaluate the pet’s organ function and blood cell counts.
“Abnormalities such as diluted urine, protein in the urine, elevated liver enzymes, changes in white blood cells, or high fat levels in the blood can raise suspicion of Cushing’s syndrome,” Bugbee said.
If initial tests point to the possibility of Cushing’s, veterinarians proceed with more specialized tests to examine how the pet’s body is managing cortisol.
“These tests can yield false positive results, especially if the pet is sick or stressed for other reasons or the tests aren’t done correctly,” Bugbee said.
“That’s why it’s important for veterinarians to carefully evaluate a pet’s symptoms and health history before deciding to run these tests.”
By identifying the condition early, veterinarians can provide targeted treatments, improving a pet’s quality of life and mitigating long-term complications.
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. 

Dear Abby: Time couldn't heal these wounds

Wed, 02/05/2025 - 6:00am

DEAR ABBY: Twenty years ago, I developed psychosis with a personality change. I did things I’m ashamed of. I had an affair, remarried and moved out of the country, leaving my 13-year-old daughter with my ex-husband. I snapped out of it 15 years ago with the help of a good psychiatrist and excellent medication. I deeply regret my behavior, and I have made every effort to change things. However, my relationship with my daughter has never recovered in spite of my apologies, sorrow and deep shame.
Fast-forward: My daughter got married recently and invited her father but not me. I was devastated. I have been trying so hard for so many years to reestablish trust and show her I love her. I know I can’t force her to forgive me, but banning me from her wedding brings me to tears every time I think of it.
I have a therapist and I’m working hard to recover from my bout of insanity all those years ago. I love my daughter very much. Can you think of anything I can do to heal our relationship, or must I just bump along unless and until she forgives me?
IN A STATE
IN WASHINGTON

DEAR IN A STATE: I know neither you nor your daughter other than what you have described to me. Continue talking with your therapist for guidance. This individual is most familiar with your history and how hard you have tried to repair the damage you caused. Your therapist is the most qualified to help you traverse the “bumpy” path ahead.

DEAR ABBY: I have a longtime friend, “Erin,” who is my age (early 60s). She retired several months ago and has told me a couple of times since then that she has stopped wearing bras. I thought she meant around the house, but she means ALL the time. Erin is generously endowed and has “headlights.”
In warmer weather, she’s less likely to wear a cardigan, so the lack of a bra or anything else to preserve a bit of modesty other than wearing her shirts in a larger size is starting to bother me.
I don’t normally care what other women wear. But I cringe having Erin around my husband and other friends, and I no longer want to go out and about with her.
Am I a prude? If this were something occasional, I would ignore it. But this seems to be forever. If I say something, what should I say?
CAN’T UNSEE THIS IN CALIFORNIA

DEAR CAN’T UNSEE: If your longtime friend is unaware of how much of her “assets” are on display, someone should point it out. If she asks why you have distanced yourself, be truthful. (You may be doing her a favor.)
Do not, however, expect her to stop doing what she’s been doing. Erin has the right to go braless if she wishes.
Only you can decide whether her lack of attire is grounds for ending a long friendship.

***

To receive a collection of Abby’s most memorable — and most frequently requested — poems and essays, send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 to: Dear Abby — Keepers Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447.

Public notices for Feb. 5, 2025

Tue, 02/04/2025 - 9:52am

ST. MARY PARISH RECREATION DISTRICT NO. 1
PROCEEDINGS OF THE BOARD OF COMMIS-SIONERS OF ST. MARY PARISH RECREATION DISTRICT NO. 1
The board of Commissioners of St. Mary Recrea-tion District No. 1 met in regular session on Tuesday December 17, 2024.
The meeting was called to order by Mrs. Janice Aucoin at 6:00pm.
Roll was called and those present were Commis-sioners, Mr. Tyrone Richardson, Mrs. Janice Aucoin, Mr. Steve Patureau, Ms Carla Gagliano, Mr. Scott Sin-gleton, Manager Mike Beadle
Guest Mr. An- drew Grow, Ethel Grow, Brent Hidalgo
A motion was made by Mr. Ste Patureau to accept the minutes as written. The mo- tion received a second from Mrs. Carla Gagliano. All were in favor.
Guest Brent Hi- dalgo asked about repairs to be made from storm damage and asked for an allowance of up to $10,000 to pay for a slab to build batting cage for the complex and CCHS would furnish labor and materials to construct the batting cage. A motion was made by Mr. Steve Patureau and re- ceived a second by Mrs. Carla Gag-liano. All was in favor. Approved
Guest Mr An- drew Gros wanted information on upcoming repairs to complex and Manager Mike Beadle confirmed ongoing repairs that were already in the works. In addition Mr Grow asked for the board to consider tearing down a Dixie ball field to use for additional soccer usage. Also asked for the safety barrier of the fence on ball fields be removed. Mr. Mike Beadle(manager) said was not safe to remove that. No decisions were made on these requests by the board.
Manager Mike Beadle presented quotes to fix damages from the last hurricane including, Light pole knocked down, bleacher covering damage and existing batting cage damages. Are still waiting on further quotes to fix light pole. Board agreed unanimously to do the repair to bleachers and batting cage asap as seen fit by mangers quotes and availability of companies to do work due to the upcoming baseball season.
The monthly bills were re- viewed. A motion was made by Mr. Steve patureau to pay the bills. The motion received a second from Mr. Tyrone Richard-son. All were in favor.
Mr. Mike Beadle presented the treasures report. A motion was made by Mr. Steve Patureau to accept the report as read. The motion re- ceived a second from Mr Tyrone Richardson. All were in favor.
General Dis-cussion
Manger Mike Beadle gave Man-agers report of daily tasks, Dis-cussed Walking trial start up . After all issued were addressed and no further matters were present, Mr. Steve Patureau made a motion to adjourn the meeting. All were in favor. Meeting Adjourn-ed.
———————
MIKE BEADLE
MANAGER
———————
Board Commisioner
Adv. Feb. 5, 2025

mmm

Cost: $70.50
LEGAL NOTICE
ST. MARY
PARISH
RECREATION DISTRICT NO. 1
PROCEEDINGS OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF ST. MARY PARISH RECREATION DISTRICT NO. 1
The board of Commissioners of St. Mary Recreation District No. 1 met in special session on Monday December 17, 2024.
The meeting was called to order by Mrs. Janice Aucoin at 6:00pm.
Roll was called and those present were Commissioners, Mr. Tyrone Richardson, Mrs. Janice Aucoin, Mr Steve Patureau, Mr. Scott Singleton, Manager Mike Beadle absent was Ms. Carla Gagliano
Guest Mr. An- drew Grow, Ethel Grow, Dean Adams, Kristie Rink, Glen Hidalgo, Gwen Hidalgo, Bridget Mabile, John George
Several guests made recommendations on concerns about recreation spending on a new batting cage slab.
Board rescinded vote made at previous meeting to budget $10,000 toward batting cage slab. Motion by Scott Singleton, second by Tyrone Richardson. All in favor.
After discussion and reviewing slab costs and potential damage to one of the field Ms. Janice Aucoin made a motion to table the vote on new slab. Received a second by Tyrone Richardson. All in Favor.
General Discussion
Manger Mike Beadle gave Managers report of update projects going on, after no further discussion. Ms Janice made a motion to adjourn. Meeting Adjourn-ed.
———————
MIKE BEADLE
MANAGER
———————
Board
Commissioner
Adv. Feb. 5, 2025

mmm

LEGAL NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
The Town of Berwick, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, acting through its Mayor, Duval H. Arthur, Jr., will receive sealed bids for the Roadway Improvements to Sixth Street project that is funded in part by the State of Louisiana CDBG Program, at Berwick Town Hall, 3225 Third Street, Berwick, Louisiana 70342, until March 6th, 2025, at 10:00 A.M., local time, at which time and place, they will be publicly opened and read aloud. Bids received after the time set forth above for opening of bids will not be considered and will be returned unopened.
This project consists of Portland cement concrete pavement, lime and cement treated base course, aggregate shoulders, paved and unpaved drive restoration, pavement striping, and other related work.
The Contract Documents (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 following locations:
•Miller Engineers & Associates, Inc. – 601 Main Street; Franklin, Louisiana 70538
•Berwick Town Hall – 3225 Third Street; Berwick, Louisiana 70342
Copies of the bidding documents may be obtained from the office of Miller Engineers and Associates, Inc. upon receipt of $70.00 for each set during normal business hours (7:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. Monday – Thursday and 7:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Friday). Checks for Bidding Documents shall be made payable to “Miller Engineers & Associates, Inc.”. In accordance with La. R.S. 38:2212 A (1) (e), deposits on the first set of documents furnished bona fide prime bidders will be fully refunded upon return of the documents and deposits on any additional sets will be refunded less the actual cost of reproduction. Re- funds will be made upon return of the documents un- marked and in good condition if within ten days after receipt of bids.
Official bid documents can be downloaded from Central Bidding at www.centralbidding.com. Electronic bids can be submitted at www.centralbidding.com. For any questions relating to the electronic bidding process, please call Central Bidding at (225) 810-4814.
There will be no pre-bid conference for this project. Bidders are re- sponsible for making site visitations in preparation of their bids.
To qualify to bid, each bidder shall be a properly licensed Contractor in accordance with La. R.S. 37:2150 – 2163 for the classification of HIGHWAY, STREET & BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION or related classification.
The Owner 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.
Each bidder must have an active UEI Number, as verified on www.sam.gov, prior to the beginning of construction.
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 bidder may withdraw his/her bid within forty-five (45) days after the actual date of the opening thereof.
The Contractor shall begin mobilization and procurement of materials within ten (10) working days of the receipt of the Notice to Proceed.
The Attention of Bidders is called particularly to the requirements for conditions of employment to be observed and minimum wage rates to be paid under the Contract, Section 3, Segregated Facilities, Executive Order 11246, Public Law 17758, and all applicable laws and regulations of the Federal government and State of Louisiana and bonding and insurance requirements.
Any person with disabilities requiring special accommodations must contact the Town of Berwick no later than seven (7) days prior to the bid opening.
In particular, Bidders should note the required attachments and certifications to be executed and submitted with the bid proposal.
/s/ Duval H. Arthur
Duval H. Arthur,
Mayor
Town of Berwick
Adv. Feb. 5, 12 and 19, 2025

mmm

LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF
FILING OF 1803 ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. FORMULA RATE PLAN ANNUAL REPORT
This notice is given pursuant to Article IV, Section 21, Paragraph (D)(1) of the Louisiana Constitution of 1974 that 1803 Electric Cooperative, Inc. (“1803”), who is made up of six (6) member cooperatives, namely Beauregard Electric Cooperative, Inc., Claiborne Electric Co- operative, Inc., Northeast Louisiana Power Cooperative, Inc., South Louisiana Electric Cooperative Association, and Washington-St. Tammany Electric Cooperative, Inc., and Pointe Coupee Electric Membership Corporation (collectively, the “1803 Cooperatives” or the “Member Cooperatives”), who collectively provide electric service to their re- spective members in thirty two (32) parishes in Louisiana: Allen, As- sumption, Beauregard, Bienville, Calcasieu, Claiborne, East Carroll, Evangeline, Franklin, Iberville, Jackson, Jefferson Davis, La- fourche, Lincoln, Madison, Morehouse, Ouachita, Pointe Coupee, Rapides, Richland, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Tensas, Terrebonne, Union, Vernon, Washington, Webster, West Baton Rouge and West Carroll. 1803 has filed a formula rate plan (“FRP”) annual report pursuant to LPSC Docket No. U-36268, which could result in a change in rates. Any comments or questions concerning this filing may be directed to the Louisiana Public Service Commission at (225) 342-4999.
Adv. Feb. 5, 2025

mmm

LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the following entitled ordinances were introduced at a special meeting of the St. Mary Parish Council, State of Louisiana (the “Parish Council”), on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, and laid over for publication of notice:
PROPOSED ORDINANCES
An Ordinance declaring multiple tax adjudicated properties as surplus property and authorize the Parish to proceed with the process for ad- vertising and sale of such adjudicated properties.
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, Chapter 5 Procedures, Division 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearing, Section 5.4.2 Re- zonings (Zoning Map Amendments). (Randy Tisdale)
NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Council will meet on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at five-forty-five (5:45) o’clock p.m. at the Parish Council Room of the Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana, at which time there will be a public hearing on the adoption of the aforesaid ordinances.
/s/ Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
CHAIRPERSON OF THE COUNCIL
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
/s/ Lisa C. Morgan
CLERK OF THE COUNCIL
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Adv. Feb. 5, 2025

mmm

LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Sixteenth
Judicial District Court
——
PARISH OF
ST. MARY
——
STATE OF
LOUISIANA
Newrez LLC D/B/A Shellpoint Mortgage
Servicing
Vs. No. 138951 Div “B”
Kevin Brown and Shawanna Lewis A/K/A Shawanna Lewis Brown
TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of Order of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable 16th Judicial District Court, in and for the Parish of St. Mary, and to me directed, in the above numbered and entitled suit, I have seized the following mentioned and described property, to wit:
That certain tract or parcel of land together with all buildings and improvements thereon situated and the component parts thereof, and all rights, ways, privileges, servitudes, prescriptions and appurtenances thereunto belonging or in anywise appertaining, lying and being situated in Patterson, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, being more particularly known, designated and described as LOT 2 OF BLOCK “B” OF SUCROSE ACRES SUBDIVISION as shown on a plan of land prepared by T. E. Petermann, dated June 1, 1981, bearing Job No. 81366-S, a copy of which is recorded in St. Mary Parish COB 24-1, Entry No. 191,908 and made a part hereof by reference thereto; said lot having a frontage of 60 feet on the Northerly side of Mike Drive; subject to restrictions, servitudes, rights-of-way and outstanding mineral rights of record affecting the property.
to satisfy the sum of ONE HUNDRED NINETY FOUR THOUSAND SIX AND 92/100 ($194,006.92) DOLLARS with interest thereon at 7.125% per annum from April 01, 2024, until paid; all expenses in- curred in enforcing the note and mortgage including reasonable attorney’s fees; if/as applicable, such other or additional amounts incurred or advanced for taxes, insurance premiums, special assessments, re- pairs to and/or maintenance of the property, for the protection, preservation, re- pair and recovery of the property, for the protection and preservation of the lien of the mortgage, for the protection and preservation of the mortgagee’s interest thereunder, and other amounts provided by the mortgage and applicable law, such as late charges, escrow advances for the payment of taxes and insurance, corporate advances, property ap- praisals, inspection fees, prior attorney fees and expenses, abstract and title charges, NSF charges, attorney fees and expenses, and other charges which plaintiff is permitted to prove by verified petition, verified supplemental petition, or affidavit filed or submitted before distribution by the sheriff of the proceeds of the judicial sale herein; and all law charges, fees and expenses incurred in connection or relating to this proceeding including without limitation sheriff’s commission, sheriff’s costs, court costs all as permitted by the note or mortgage being en- forced by this proceeding and all costs of this proceedings as well as all sheriff’s costs and commission
All successful bidders must have cash, cashier’s check or a verifiable letter of credit in favor of said bidder from a solvent bank, savings and loan association or other such financial institution authorized to do business in the state of Louisiana and full payment must be made on the date of sale. Letter must state that money is available on the date of sale.
I shall expose the same at public sale, for Cash, according to law WITH appraisement to the last and highest bidder, at the principal front door of the 1st floor lobby area of the Court House in the Parish of St. Mary, Town of Franklin, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 12th day of February A.D., 2025, between the legal hours commencing at 10 O’Clock A.M.
Sheriff’s Office
Parish of St. Mary, La.
Friday, the 15th day of November A.D., 2024
GARY L.
DRISKELL,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
Adv. Jan. 10 and Feb. 5, 2025

mmm

Cost: $96.00
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING REPORT
JANUARY 8, 2025
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
5:45 P.M.
The St. Mary Parish Council held a Public Hearing on this date with Chairperson Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo presiding and the following members present: Rodney Olan-der, David W. Hill, Leslie Rulf, Jr., Patrick Hebert, Mark Duhon, Dean Adams, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. Absent were Rev. Craig Mathews, J Ina, and James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr.
The purpose of the Public Hearing was to receive written and/or oral comments relative to 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). (Huey Borel Jr.)
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). (Neil Thibodaux)
There were no written and/or oral comments received regarding the proposed ordinances.
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. Feb. 5, 2025

mmm

LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING REPORT
JANUARY 8, 2025
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
5:50 P.M.
The St. Mary Parish Council held a Public Hearing on this date with Chairperson Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo presiding and the following members present: Rodney Olan-der, David W. Hill, Leslie Rulf, Jr., Patrick Hebert, Mark Duhon, Dean Adams, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. Absent were Rev. Craig Mathews, J Ina, and James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr.
The purpose of the Public Hearing was to receive written and/or oral comments relative to the following Ordinance:
An Ordinance amending and re-enacting Section I of Ordinance No. 2152, establishing training for board members.
There were no written and/or oral comments received regarding the proposed ordinance.
Mr. Adams stated that he attended a board meeting last night and the board members were interested in future training.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
s/g Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
s/g Lisa C. Morgan
Lisa C. Morgan,
Clerk
Adv. Feb. 5, 2025

mmm

LEGAL NOTICE
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL OF THE PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA
JANUARY 8, 2025
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: 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. Absent were Rev. Craig Mat-hews, J Ina, and James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr.
The Invocation was pronounced by Mr. Olander and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Hill.
Nominations were opened for Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the Council for the year 2025.
Mr. Olander moved to nominate Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D., Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo, and Dean S. Adams for Chairperson of the Council. Mr. He- bert seconded the motion, which carried.
Voting to elect Dr. Rink for Chairperson was Mr. Rulf.
Voting to elect Mr. Adams for Chairperson were Mr. Duhon, Mr. Adams, and Dr. Rink.
Voting to elect Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo for Chairperson were Mr. Olander, Mr. Hill, Mr. Hebert, and Mrs. Hidalgo.
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo was elected Chairperson of the Council for the year 2025.
Mr. Adams mov-ed to nominate Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. as Vice Chairperson of the Council for the year 2025. Mr. Hill seconded the motion, which carried. Mr. Adams moved to closed nominations.
Voting to elect Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. for Vice Chairperson were Mr. Olander, Mr. Hill, Mr. Rulf, Mr. Hebert, Mr. Du- hon, Mr. Adams, Dr. Rink, and Mrs. Hidalgo.
Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. was elected Vice Chairperson of the Council for the year 2025 by an 8-0-0-3 Roll Call vote.
Theresa Boykin, Louisiana Ultimate Woman Plus Miss America ap- peared before the Council to discuss the upcoming event for the 13th Annual “Rock the Runway Fashion and Talent Show” to support Lydia Cancer Association on January 18, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Bayou Bend Health Center. She informed that Beverly Domen-geaux is someone that has walked the cancer journey and has been an inspiration to the community and will be honored at the event. To buy tickets or make donations, call 337-578-1618.
Beverly Domen-geaux, Executive Director, St. Mary Council on Aging appeared before the Council to discuss their Annual Financial and Activities Report.
Mrs. Hidalgo recognized Jake Benoit, Regional Representative for Senator John Kennedy’s Acadiana area office. Mr. Benoit introduced himself and stated that his contact number is 337-250-6879.
Randy Tisdale appeared before the Council re- garding his rezone request at 1092 Lake Palourde Road in Amelia from Heavy Industrial Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood Zoned District to place a manufactured home. Mr. Tisdale stated that he had resided on this property since 2013 but the manufactured home is no longer there. He also informed that currently the property still has those utilities connected from that manufactured home.
Mr. Duhon stated that Mr. Tisdale gave him information that states the parish does not want residential in existing industrial areas and that his property is zoned industrial.
Mr. Tisdale read information relative to residential and industrial areas and ex- pounded on adjacent property.
Stephen Swiber, representing the Carline Buff Properties, stated that this property is adjacent to Mr. Tisdale’s property. He stated that the properties are actively in commerce and ex- pounded on zoning laws and the liabilities relative to activities from adjacent businesses.
In response to Mr. Duhon’s inquiry regarding a buffer zone, Mr. Swiber stated that the manufactured home will be leas-ed to a tenant and will be placed on the fence line.
Mr. Duhon stated that residents of a trailer park appeared before the Council years ago to sue Petroleum Helicopters, Inc. (PHI) due to vibration noise.
In response to Mrs. Hidalgo’s inquiry, Mr. Tisdale stated that someone is currently residing on the property.
Mr. Hebert mov-ed that the reading of the December 18, 2024 meeting be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried.
Parish President, Sam Jones informed that a comprehensive report will be given in February.
Chief Administrative Officer, Paul J. Governale, submitted his report for a three (3) week period, ending January 8, 2025.
In response to Mr. Duhon’s inquiry regarding the jetta equipment, Mr. Governale stated that he still has not located it. Mr. Duhon stated that it is at the Berwick Landfill and will call Mr. Governale to discuss.
In response to Mr. Duhon’s inquiry relative to the shoulder/road repairs in Amelia, Mr. Governale re- quested specific locations. Mr. Duhon thanked Norris Boudreaux Contractors for digging ditches and canals in Morgan City to aid in drainage.
Per Dr. Rink’s inquiry relative to CPRA (Coastal Protection and Restoration Auth- ority) funds for Drainage District No. 2A, President Jones stated that the contract is being prepared and funds should be received in a few weeks.
Per Dr. Rink’s inquiry relative to CPRA funds that was mentioned at the Drainage District meeting in Patterson, President Jones stated that he is not aware of this. Mr. Duhon stated that CPRA funds take a few years to re- ceive after it is re- quested.
Planning & Zoning Director, Mandi LeBlanc, presented the following items as recommended by the Planning & Zoning Commission at their December 16, 2024 Regular Meeting.
a. Recommend Rezoning
Name: Randy Tisdale, Jr.
Address: 1092 Lake Palourde Rd., Amelia, LA
Parcel Id# 3524261015.00 - Lot B Templet - Bayou Boeuf - Giroir and Aucoin - Shell Road Acq. 334 324674
PURPOSE: to rezone from Heavy Industrial (HI) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District to place one (1) manufactured home on the property.
Mr. Duhon recommends denying the Rezone re- quest. Mr. Adams seconded the mo- tion.
In response to Dr. Rink’s inquiry regarding the Planning & Zoning Commission’s vote, Mrs. LeBlanc stated that two (2) members voted against the rezone. Mrs. LeBlanc stated that once the original mobile home moved off of the property, it lost the six month grandfather clause to be replaced by another one. She also stated that they did not discuss subdividing that portion of the property.
Several Council Members discussed whether any public attended in opposition to the rezone request.
Per Mr. Adams’ inquiry regarding whether a sign was posted on the property and property owners notified, Mrs. LeBlanc stated that a sign was posted on the property and letters were mailed certified return receipt to property owners within 200 feet. She stated that she received three (3) signed certified back and one (1) was re- turned without a signature.
Mr. Adams stated that his concern is that if the shipyard is sanding and painting then it will be a liability.
In response to Dr. Rink’s inquiry relative to rezoning a portion of the property, Mr. Tisdale stated that he currently has a camp to the rear of the property, a concrete slab in the front where the manufactured home used to be, electricity and water hookups that are still in service.
Several Council Members discussed the property still currently having utilities and the grandfather clause.
In response to Dr. Rink’s inquiry, Mrs. LeBlanc stated that Mr. Tisdale can request a Subdivision of the property, but will probably need to requests variances to meet setback requirements, and then ask for a rezone again.
Mr. Duhon recommends denying the Rezone re- quest. Mr. Adams seconded the mo- tion, which failed by the following 4-1-3-3 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Olander, Hebert, Duhon, and Adams
NAYS: Hidalgo
ABSTAIN: Hill, Rulf, and Rink
ABSENT: Mathews, Ina, and Davis
After discussion, Dr. Rink moved to return the request back to the Planning & Zoning Commission for reconsideration. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion, which carried. Mr. Hebert voted no.
Dr. Rink moved that the Public Hearing Report, December 18, 2024 – 5:45 p.m. be adopted. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Adams stated that repairs to the Bayou Ramos Bridge will begin soon. Mr. Duhon stated that the fiber optic lines have to be moved before repairs begin.
Mr. Hebert re- ported on the open house for the 16th Judicial District Attorney that he and Mr. Olander attended.
Clerk of the Council, Lisa Morgan stated that no action can be taken on Item 13A, “FOR INTRODUCTION - An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, Chapter 5 Procedures, Division 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearing, Section 5.4.2 Re- zonings (Zoning Map Amendments). (Randy Tisdale),” due to the Council denying the rezone re- quest.
Lisa Morgan informed that Item 13B, “FOR INTRODUCTION – An Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2341 – DIVISION 1.3 Permitted; Limited; Specific; and Prohibited Uses, Table 1.3.4 Industrial, Agricultural, and Special Uses; DIVISION 1.4 Limited and Specific Use Standards Sec. 1.4.8 Solar Farms; and DIVISION 9.3 Use Definitions Sec. 9.3.8 of the St. Mary Parish Unified Development Code,” was withdrawn.
Mr. Olander moved that the following Ordinances be adopted. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried by the following 8-0-0-3 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Duhon, Adams, Rink, and Hidalgo
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Ina, Davis, and Mathews
ORDINANCE
NO. 2383
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 RE- VIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
EXHIBIT “A”
Name: Huey Borel, Jr.
Address: 139 Martin Rd.
Franklin, LA
Parcel Id# 2534481064.00 Lot Por No 1 Lanclos Est Part Per Plat 126 295867 Situated in Sec 49 T15S R10E Acq. 127 295908.
PURPOSE: to rezone from Agricultural (AG) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District.
ORDINANCE
NO. 2384
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: Neil Thibodaux
Address: 9080 Hwy 90 W Frontage Rd.
Franklin, LA 70538
Parcel Id# 2474501018.00 3.56 Ac Por 5.00 AC Tract ABCDA Per Plat 103 292410 Situated in Sec 37 T15S R10E Acq 232 310395
PURPOSE: to rezone from Light Industrial (LI) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District to continue to utilize the property as residential.
PENDING: Preliminary and Final Subdivision approval on December 11, 2024
Mr. Adams moved that the following Ordinance be adopted. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion, which carried by the following 8-0-0-3 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Duhon, Adams, Rink, and Hidalgo
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Davis, Mathews, and Ina
ORDINANCE
NO. 2385
An Ordinance amending and re-enacting Section I of Ordinance No. 2152, establishing training for board members.
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR RE- VIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
This Ordinance was returned to the Clerk of the Council on this the 13th day of January 2025 at the hour 3:51 p.m.
Mr. Adams moved that the following Resolution be adopted. The Council seconded the motion, which carried by the following 8-0-0-3 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Du- hon, Adams, Rink, Hidalgo, and Olan-der
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Davis, Mathews, and Ina
RESOLUTION OF RESPECT
WHEREAS, the Lord Almighty in His Infinite mercy and goodness has seen fit to remove from our midst Dr. Robert Paul Blereau, and
WHEREAS, Dr. Blereau was a man of boundless generosity, unwavering dedication, and an enormous heart for his family and his countless patients, and
WHEREAS, he was described as being a brilliant physician, boss, teacher, and en- courager, and
WHEREAS, Dr. Blereau was a loving and devoted doctor, husband, father, and grandfather, and
WHEREAS, the members of the St. Mary Parish Council wish to acknowledge publicly your sorrow and sympathy to the family of Dr. Robert Paul Blereau, and
WHEREAS, the St. Mary Parish Council hopes that his family will find comfort in the thought that your 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 8th day of January 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. Adams moved that the following Resolution be adopted. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried by the following 8-0-0-3 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Rulf, He- bert, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hi- dalgo, Olander, and Hill
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Davis, Mathews, and Ina
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the St. Mary Parish Council request the relocation of the Polling Place for Precinct No. 34, and
WHEREAS, this relocation would move the Polling Place for Precinct 34 from Hilton Rebardi, Sr. Fire Station to the Berwick Housing Authority office, and
WHEREAS, the Berwick Housing Authority office is a public facility located within the boundaries of Precinct 34.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby recommend the relocation of the Polling Place for Precinct 34.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED, that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby request that the relocation change be submitted to the U. S. Department of Justice and the Secretary of the State of Louisiana.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 8th day of January 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
OLD BUSINESS:
A. Referred from the December 18, 2024, Regular Meeting - Appointment to the following Boards and Commissions:
Fire Protection District No. 1 (Cypremort Point) – 2 Vacancies
Dawn Schouest – Present Member, Vickie A. Frederick - Present Member
Mr. Olander moved that Dawn Schouest and Vickie A. Frederick be reappointed to Fire Protection District No. 1. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
Mosquito Control District No. 1 (Cypremort Point) – 2 Vacancies
Kimberly Simon – Present Member, Michael S. Trosclair
Mr. Olander moved that Kimberly Simon be reappointed and Michael S. Trosclair be appointed to Mosquito Control District No. 1. Mr. Hill seconded the motion, which carried.
B. Referred from the December 18, 2024, Regular Meeting - Discussion and action pertaining to Ordinance No. 2354 relative to the Solar Farm Specific Use extension. (Adm.)
Mr. Hebert mov-ed to grant the Solar Farm Specific Use Extension. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried.
C. Referred from the December 18, 2024, Regular Meeting - Discussion and action relative to creation of a committee to reduce the number of Boards and Commissions. (Mrs. Hidalgo and Dr. Rink)
After discussion, the Council decided to not create a committee.
Mrs. Hidalgo re- quested that a Special Meeting be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 5:00 p.m., 5th Floor Courthouse, Franklin.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. Discussion and action relative to appointment of Advisory Budget/Finance Committee Chair and Vice-Chair.
Mr. Hill moved that Rev. Craig Mathews be reappointed as Chairperson of the Advisory Budget/Fin-ance Committee and Mr. J Ina be reappointed as Vice-Chairperson of the Advisory Budget/Finance Committee. Mr. Olander seconded the motion, which carried.
B. Jeffery B. LaGrange has written to resign from the Wax Lake East Drainage District effective immediately.
Mr. LaGrange will be sent a letter thanking him for his service and the vacancy will be advertised.
C. Discussion and action relative to Recreation District No. 1 board members including possible
removal. (Mr. Duhon)
Mr. Duhon made a motion to remove all five (5) board members of Recreation District No.1. Mr. Adams 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. Feb. 5, 2025

mmm

LEGAL NOTICE
This Ordinance introduced with first reading on November 19, 2024, a second reading on December 19, 2024 a third reading on January 28, 2025. Published by title on November 29, 2024, and December 20, 2024.
Mr. Hymel offer-ed the following Ordinance, who moved for its adoption.
ORDINANCE
NO. 25-01
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF MORGAN CITY, LOUISIANA AMENDING THE OPERATING BUDGET FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2024, AND ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2024.
WHEREAS, by Ordinance Number 23-16 dated November 28, 2023, the City Council adopted the operating budget for the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2024, and ending December 31, 2024, and
WHEREAS, during the year certain amendments were deemed necessary,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council, the governing authority of the City of Morgan City, Louisiana, that revenues and other financing sources for 2024 be amended to $54,944,780 and the expenditures be amended to $56,961,421 leaving a net deficiency of $2,016,641.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAIN-ED, etc., that said net deficiency be applied to the fund balance of $32,505,325 leaving a fund balance of $30,488,684 for the fiscal year ended 2024.
Mrs. Leonard seconded the motion.
The vote thereon was as follows:
AYES: Hymel, Leonard, Bias, Blanchard, Do- mangue
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
Certified ap- proved and adopted this 28th day of January, 2025.
Delivered to Mayor Dragna at 1:30 pm this 30th day of January, 2025.
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie
Harrington, Clerk
Approved this 30th day of January, 2025.
/s/ Lee Dragna
Lee Dragna, Mayor
Received from Mayor Dragna at 1:45 pm on January 30, 2025.
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Debbie
Harrington, Clerk

mmm

Outgoing Nike royalty

Tue, 02/04/2025 - 9:40am

Abigal Kathleen Photography
The successors for King and Queen Nike LII Brandon Guagliardo and Meredith Loupe will be named Saturday at the Krewe of Nike ball.

Pages

ST. MARY NOW

Franklin Banner-Tribune
P.O. Box 566, Franklin, LA 70538
Phone: 337-828-3706
Fax: 337-828-2874

Morgan City Review
1014 Front Street, Morgan City, LA 70380
Phone: 985-384-8370
Fax: 985-384-4255

St Mary Now Copyright  © 2026