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Franklin remembers World War II hero with virtual flag-raising

Wed, 09/04/2024 - 5:26pm
Banner-Tribune

FRANKLIN — On Aug. 19, the city of Franklin held a live virtual wreath laying-flag raising ceremony in honor of Army Ranger, 2nd Lt. Edward V. Loustalot, the first American solider to die in Nazi occupied Europe during World War II.
KQKI 95.3FM collaborated with the city of Franklin and Petite Caux, France to livestream the ceremony.
The French government and its citizens have commemorated and memorialized Lt. Loustalot annually since Aug.19, 1946.
The city of Franklin and the Loustalot family were made aware of this in October 2019, when the city was contacted by Diane Boutier, an American board member of the Memorial du 19 Aout 1942 Museum in Dieppe, France.
Boutier and a small delegation from France traveled to Franklin in January 2020 to help usher in the city’s bicentennial celebration and to tell this amazing Louisiana story.
During the presentation, Franklin Mayor Eugene Foulcard and Public Relations Director Ed “Tiger” Verdin were presented medals of honorary citizenship from the Mayor of Berneval Le Grand, France.
Lt. Edward Loustalot was one of the first 50 select U.S. Army Rangers embedded with British and Canadian commandos in what is now known as Operation Jubilee or the Dieppe Raid of August 19, 1942. Unfortunately, Loustalot was killed in action during the raid.
The raid ultimately gave U.S. and Allied forces a blueprint for the invasion of the beaches of Normandy on D-Day.

Morgan City police radio logs for Sept. 3

Wed, 09/04/2024 - 1:40pm

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, Sept. 3
6:30 a.m. U.S. 90 West/Amelia; Reckless driving.
8:14 a.m. 900 block of Seventh Street; Alarm.
8:17 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Harassment.
11:13 a.m. 700 block of Fourth Street; Stand by.
11:38 a.m. 1000 block of La. 70; Vehicle accident.
12:23 p.m. 900 block of Spruce Street; 911 hang up.
12:26 p.m. 400 block of Fifth Street; Animal complaint.
12:33 p.m. Victor II Boulevard/Myrtle Street; Vehicle accident.
1:05 p.m. 1000 block of La. 70; Vehicle accident.
2:27 p.m. 300 block of Allison Street; Complaint.
3:45 p.m. 600 block of Martin Luther King Boulevard; Complaint.
4:05 p.m. 2400 block of Apple Street; Suspicious person/vehicle.
4:24 p.m. 500 block of Federal; Medical.
4:34 p.m. 300 block of Egle Street; Medical.
4:41 p.m. 400 block of Fifth Street; Medical.
5:32 p.m. 1600 block of Maple Street; Welfare concern.
5:59 p.m. 200 block of Patton Street; Suspicious person/vehicle.

Heroin charges among drug arrests in St. Mary

Wed, 09/04/2024 - 1:16pm
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.)

Local law enforcement agencies reported seven arrests on drug-related charges over the last week, including two in Patterson on heroin possession charges.

Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival weekend was also busy for Morgan City police, who made six arrests on disturbing the peace charges.

Patterson

Chief Garrett Grogan reported these arrests:

--Ericka A. Mangrum, 40, Avenue C, Marrero, was arrested at 2:49 a.m. Tuesday on charges of possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamine.
Mangrum is incarcerated at the Patterson PD Jail with no bond set.

--Jeffrey M. Simoneaux, 34, Avenue C, Marrero, was arrested at 2:49 a.m. Tuesday on charges of possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine, no turn signal and switched plates. Simoneaux is incarcerated at the Patterson PD Jail with no bond set.

--Crystal Kemp, 35, Easy Street, Franklin, was arrested at 2:36 p.m. Monday on charges of obedience to traffic sign and driver’s license suspended or revoked. Kemp was issued a citation.

--Danny L. Andorf, 50, Natalie Lane, Patterson, was arrested at 2:55 p.m. Monday on charges of expired motor vehicle inspection, no driver’s license and no insurance. Andorf was issued a citation.

Morgan City

Chief Chad M. Adams reported that the Morgan City Police Department responded to 262 calls for service over the last 130-hour reporting period and made these arrests:

--Kobe Peck, 17, Levee Road, Morgan City, was arrested at 4:05 p.m. Tuesday on charges of possession of marijuana (first offense), possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of tobacco by a person under 21. (Released on summons.)

--Jalaysin Johnson, 18, Shannon Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 9:21 p.m. Tuesday on charges of possession of marijuana (first offense) and possession of drug paraphernalia. (Released on summons).

--Rafael Kendell, 35, Chennault Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 4:02 a.m. Aug. 30 on a charge of excessive noise prohibited. (Released on summons.).

--Anthony Joseph Benitez, 20, Two Brother Lane, Morgan City, was arrested at 8:40 p.m. Aug. 30 on a charge of resisting an officer.

--Shawn Case Lovell Jr., 21, River Road, Berwick, was arrested at 11:43 p.m. Aug. 30 on charges of criminal damage to property and disturbing the peace (intoxicated).

--Thomas Jones, 35, Railroad Avenue, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:43 p.m. Aug. 30 on charges of criminal damage to property and disturbing the peace (intoxicated).

--Arissa Guidry, 27, Felicia Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 2:45 a.m. Saturday on a charge of disturbing the peace (fighting).

--Lydia Mary Boudreaux, 34, Ramos Street, Amelia, was arrested at 5:51 a.m. Saturday on charges of possession of marijuana (first offense) and disturbing the peace (intoxicated).

--Lawrence Sauce, 62, Franklin Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 1:47 p.m. Saturday on a charge of disturbing the peace (intoxicated).

--Earl Leonard Garrison, 60, La. 182, Morgan City, was arrested at 5:55 p.m. Saturday on a charge of resisting an officer.

--Trevor Joseph Landry, 24, La. 182, Morgan City, was arrested at 9:05 p.m. Saturday on a charge of disturbing the peace (intoxicated).

--Victoria Alpha, 37, Ellis Road, Deridder, was arrested at 3:01 p.m. Sunday on a charge of failure to appear for trial (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

--Dan Curtis Gant, 69, South Railroad Avenue, Morgan City, was arrested at 7:08 p.m. Sunday on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of MDMA, improper lane usage, expired driver’s license and failure to appear for trial (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

--Marcus Dean Aucoin, 21, La. 182, Morgan City, was arrested at 10:28 p.m. on a charge of remaining where forbidden.

--Shina Short, 41, Arizona Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 12:02 a.m. Sunday on a charge of failure to appear for arraignment (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

--Justin Cheramie, 43, Federal Avenue, Morgan City, was arrested at 2:06 a.m. Sunday on a charge of allowing dogs to roam. (Released on summons.)

--Trevor Joseph Landry, 24, La. 182, Morgan City, was arrested at 4:13 a.m. Monday on a charge of possession of marijuana (first offense).

--Christopher Lee Allen, 23 La. 182, Morgan City, was arrested at 7:10 a.m. Monday on a charge of violation of a protective order.

--Sylvester Francois, 27, Taft Street, Patterson, was arrested at 4:39 p.m. Monday on six counts of failure to appear for trial (6th Ward Morgan City Court), as a fugitive from the Berwick Police Department and on a charge of resisting an officer.

St. Mary

Sheriff Gary Driskell reported that over the last 96-hour reporting period, the Sheriff's Office responded to 142 complaints and made these arrests:

--Macy Wiggins, 25, Patterson, was arrested at 11:27 p.m. Monday on a warrant alleging disturbing the peace (fighting). Bail has not been set at this time.

--Jerry Phillip Mayon, 39, Berwick, was arrested at 1:45 p.m. Saturday on a warrant alleging criminal neglect of family. Bail was set at $7,913.86.

--James Salone Austin Sr., 43, Verdunville, was arrested at 3 p.m. Sunday on charges of burglary from a vehicle, resisting an officer by giving false information and possession of stolen things. Bail has not been set at this time.

--April Shantel Lewis, 33, Jeanerette, was arrested 11:02 p.m. Saturday on charges of criminal mischief (tampering) and criminal damage to property. Lewis was released on a $750 bond.

--Mark Anthony Bell, 54, Franklin, was arrested at 9:13 p.m. Saturday on charges of driving while intoxicated and careless operation with accident. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Nolan Obrien Nelson, 23, Houma, was arrested at 7:21 a.m. Monday on charges of hit and run and reckless operation with accident. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Trent Henry Duhon, 29, Patterson, was arrested at 11:30 a.m. Aug. 30 on a charge of criminal trespass. Bail has not been set at this time.

Franklin

Chief Cedric Handy reported that the Franklin Police Department responded to eight complaints over the last 24-hour reporting period and made this arrest:

--Charlesha Henry, 28, Cirus Street, Franklin, was arrested at 9:28 p.m. Tuesday on charges of speeding, expired license plate and resisting an officer. Henry was booked, processed and released on a $488 bond.

Dear Abby: Man suddenly smitten by woman he's known for years

Wed, 09/04/2024 - 6:00am

DEAR ABBY: I have been around “Kendra” since she was 4. I am 59 and not married to her mother, although we are good friends. Kendra is 36 now and has an 8-year-old son. She lives with her boyfriend, who is the father. They are not married. We have a great relationship.
For some reason, over the past four months, my feelings for Kendra have grown into an infatuation. I mean, I have always loved her, but now I wish I was with her. I WANT to be with her. My feelings are so strong, I would even marry her. I know she loves me, but I doubt in the way I love her now.
I don’t want to destroy what we have, but it’s killing me that I can’t be with her. I’m just a stupid old man thinking this way, but I can’t help it. I am confused about what I need to do.
LOVING HER
IN THE EAST
DEAR LOVING: What happened four months ago that changed your feelings about Kendra from the paternal ones you have felt for the last 32 years? If you express to her the (lustful) feelings you are harboring, you will blow the entire family apart. An appropriate place to examine your feelings would be in the office of a licensed psychotherapist. Please don’t wait.
DEAR ABBY: My husband, “Jake,” tells his mother where we plan to go and what we plan to do on our “date nights.” On several occasions, she has actually shown up. She pretends to be surprised when she sees us, asking us “what we’re up to.” She doesn’t try to sit with us or hang around, thank goodness, but she’s there, watching and listening from a short distance. She has never liked me, and I suspect this is another of her passive-aggressive ways to get under my skin.
Our date nights are an active effort to try to save our marriage. The first time she showed up, I told Jake I didn’t like it and that it better not happen again. He assured me it wouldn’t. I also asked him to stop telling her where we’re going and what we’re going to do. He hasn’t done that. He says he “can’t” tell his mother to leave because it’s a public place, and she has every right to be there, too. What should I do?
HAD IT IN
OKLAHOMA
DEAR HAD IT: If you and Jake are serious about saving your marriage and not yet in marriage counseling, start talking with a licensed marriage and family therapist NOW. Jake appears to be a man who can’t say no to his mother. Your MIL does have a right to patronize any restaurant she pleases, but she should not be hovering over your shoulders. A therapist may be able to help you get that message across to your husband, whose priorities appear to be skewed.
In the meantime, YOU should take charge of your date nights. Make the reservations and tell no one where you are going — even your husband.

***

What teens need to know about sex, drugs, AIDS and getting along with peers and parents is in “What Every Teen Should Know.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 to: Dear Abby, Teen Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447.

Pet Talk: Wobble in dog's walk may be warning sign

Wed, 09/04/2024 - 6:00am

A slight wobble in your canine companion’s footsteps may be easily attributed to an exhausting day. Yet, when an exhaustion-induced misstep becomes routine, there can be an explanation found in the neurological health of your pup.
Dr. Joseph Mankin, a clinical associate professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, relays the signs and realities of wobbler syndrome, a neurologic disease that can affect the neck region of a dog’s spine and, if left untreated, can diminish their quality of life.
Missed signals
The name “wobbler syndrome” is derived from the “wobble” afflicted dogs demonstrate when they walk. The disease causes pain by putting pressure on the spinal cord, thus affecting the nervous system, a vital part of the body that sends signals to the brain. 
According to Mankin, the syndrome presents itself in two forms. 
“In young, giant breed dogs such as great Danes, there is bone proliferation, or rapid growth, in the part of the spine that makes up the neck, leading to compression of the spinal cord,” Mankin said. 
“In older dogs, we see degeneration of the intervertebral disc, which also leads to compression of the spinal cord.”
While this disease can affect all breeds, great Danes, dobermans, German shepherds, Rottweilers, and Weimaraners are the most commonly affected by wobbler syndrome.
Stumbling
into a diagnosis
As wobbler syndrome progresses, symptoms intensify. According to Mankin, owners should look for:
—Difficulty getting up, leading to an appearance of stiffness
—Difficulty walking – leading to stumbling
—Dragging of feet, leading to nail wear
—Semi or complete paralysis
Mankin points out that the largest sign of wobblers lies in the source of the immediate pain.
“Since this is a condition of the neck, the clinical signs will progress to affect both the back and front legs,” Mankin said. “Pain may be part of their condition, which may be displayed as reluctance to move their head or lower it for eating and drinking.”  
While these signs may appear similar to the symptoms of arthritis, Mankin says that the two are different in that arthritis tends to present with generalized joint pain and may be worse after sitting or lying for a prolonged period of time, while with wobblers, the signs will be consistent throughout the day.
Recovery journey
Because the severity of each wobblers case varies, treatment recommendations also vary. Treatment goals generally aim to control pain, reduce inflammation, and alleviate spinal cord and nerve compression.
In some cases, Mankin said, surgical intervention may be necessary. 
“Surgical selection depends on the type of compression seen on advanced imaging obtained with an MRI or CT scan,” Mankin said. “Surgery may not be necessary, as medical management may be successful in some cases.”
Each dog’s recovery timeline looks different and is often associated with the dog’s stage of spinal compression, but medical intervention has cured and brought back the comfortability for many furry patients, according to Mankin. 
“If you are concerned your pet may have wobblers, see your family veterinarian for evaluation,” he said. “Other conditions may mimic these signs, so a complete neurologic exam is the first step in diagnosis.
Following that, imaging with MRI is often recommended, as evaluation of the cervical spinal cord is essential in diagnosis.”
When it comes to wobbler syndrome, being overly watchful and cautious of a dog’s seemingly odd actions can potentially improve their well-being and overall quality of life.
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.

Jim Bradshaw: Keeping watch for the coffin in a tree

Wed, 09/04/2024 - 6:00am

In December 1900 the Board of Control of the Louisiana State Penitentiary bought nearly 3,000 acres of land between New Iberia and Jeanerette to use as a prison farm.
They named it, somewhat facetiously, Hope Plantation.
According to the memories of some of the people who lived near the farm, the only hope for more than 200 inmates who were housed there was the hope of escape — something they tried to do regularly.
Gertrude Hebert lived near the farm when she was young. She said in a piece in the Attakapas Gazette historical magazine some years ago that the “most chilling and spine-tingling sound” heard in the area was the baying of the bloodhounds used to track down would-be escapees.
She said the baying hounds were also the signal for the plantation’s neighbors to rush out and take in any washing hung out to dry, because the prisoners would steal clothing from the lines. A
They needed to get rid of their black-and-white striped garb and they also wanted to change clothes to confuse the dogs.
Convicts at Hope Plantation tended a sugar cane crop and made bricks.
Photos taken in the early 1900s show a row of barracks-like buildings, a sugar mill, prison bakery, and an infirmary on the premises.
A kiln was added  when it was discovered that some of the land along Bayou Teche was composed of red clay that made good bricks that were used for buildings on the plantation or sold.
The plantation was also said to be the source of one of the most unusual landmarks on the old U.S. 90, now La. 182, and of a spate of stories that went with it.
Hebert thought the landmark, a large box in a tree, was deposited in its branches during the Flood of 1927, but some others who recall seeing it say it was too high up in the tree to have been put there by the flood.
However it got there, the tree became known locally as “the coffin tree,” and folks who used the route regularly remember watching for it.
Kids traveling with their parents sometimes had a contest to see who would spot it first. Stories circulated for years that the box was used for convicts who died on the farm.
Elaine Oubre of Broussard told me a decade or more ago that in the tales her father told, “it was definitely a coffin, not just a box.”
There was another story that the coffin contained a nearby plantation owner’s treasure and that you’d break a bone or go nuts if you tried to get to it.
Those are nice stories, but it almost certainly wasn’t a coffin, held no riches, and had nothing to do with Hope Plantation.
It was only an old sugar vat that was placed in the tree about 1927, when a Civilian Conservation Camp was opened nearby.
Several people told me that CCC workers used the rain-filled metal box as a shower to cool off during long, hot summer days.
Hope Plantation was closed as a penal farm in 1931 and sold to private owners. The tank and the tree it was in were removed when the Jeanerette high school was built in the late 1960s.
You can contact Jim Bradshaw at jimbradshaw4321@gmail.com or P.O. Box 1121, Washington LA 70589.

Public notices for Sept. 4, 2024

Wed, 09/04/2024 - 6:00am

LEGAL NOTICE
Amelia Recreation Center has the new Budget for the fiscal year of Sept 2024-Sept 2025.
Available for inspection at 2109 Duhon Blvd, Amelia 70340. May review between hours of 8am – 3pm Monday – Friday
Public Hearing for new fiscal year adoption of Budget set Sept 17, 2024 at 5:45 PM.
Adv. Sept. 4, 2024

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LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
Recreation District No. 3 of the Parish of St. Mary will conduct a proposed budget hearing on Monday, September 23, 2024 at 5:15 pm at the Bayou Vista Community Center, Bayou Vista, Louisiana. The purpose of the hearing is to invite public comment in the budget process on the District’s operations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024.
The proposed budget is available for public inspection in the District’s offices at the Bayou Vista Community Center, 1333 Belleview Street Morgan City, LA 70380. Interested persons may examine the budget documents during regular office hours, Monday through Friday (8:00 am – 4:00 pm).
Brian Head,
President
Recreation District No. 3 of the Parish of St. Mary
Adv. Aug. 16, 21, 23, 28, 30, Sept. 4, 6, 11, 13 and 18, 2024

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LEGAL NOTICE
OFFICIAL
PROCEEDINGS OF THE ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL OF THE PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA
AUGUST 14, 2024
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
The St. Mary Parish Council met on this date in Regular Session with Chairperson Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo presiding and the following members present: Rev. Craig Mathews, J Ina, Rodney Olander, David W. Hill, Leslie “Les” Rulf, Jr. Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. Absent was Dean Adams.
The Invocation was pronounced by Rev. Mathews and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Duhon.
Mr. Olander moved that the reading of the Second Regular Meeting, July 24, 2024 and Special Session, August 7, 2024 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Mr. Davis seconded the motion, which carried.
Mrs. Hidalgo moved up Item 13A, “Resolution of respect in memory of Mr. Jody Gerard Vaccarella.”
Mr. Duhon moved that the following Resolution be adopted. The Council seconded the motion, which carried by the following 9-0-0-2 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Mathews, Ina, Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, and Hidalgo
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Adams and Rink
RESOLUTION OF RESPECT
WHEREAS, the Lord Almighty in His Infinite mercy and goodness has seen fit to remove from our midst Jody Gerard Vaccarella, and
WHEREAS, Mr. Vaccarella was a man of boundless generosity, unwavering dedication, and an enormous heart, and
WHEREAS, Mr. Vaccarella was a hard worker and devoted provider who exemplified what it meant to be an amazing father, husband, and grandfather, and
WHEREAS, Mr. Vaccarella was known as a generous man, proud Coach of Little League Baseball, and was a testament to the power of family, friendship, and fun, and
WHEREAS, the members of the St. Mary Parish Council wish to ac- knowledge publicly your sorrow and sympathy to the family of Jody Vaccarella, 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 RE- SOLVED, 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 14th day of August 2024.
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
Efrem Randle appeared before the Council to give a presentation for the EBP (Efrem’s Benefit Party) Community Boxing Sport. He asked for community support and a Resolution of Support from the Council.
In response to several Council Members’ inquiries, Mr. Randle stated that community clubs will be located in Franklin, Patterson, Morgan City, and West St. Mary Civic Center that will cater to children from ages 8-18 and will in- corporate the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Education) Education Program.
Rev. Mathews moved to expand the agenda to adopt a Resolution of Support for EBP Community Boxing. Mr. Hill seconded the motion, which carried.
Rev. Mathews moved that the following Resolution be adopted. Mr. Ina seconded the motion, which carried by the following 9-0-0-2 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Ina, Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Hidalgo, and Mathews
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Adams and Rink
RESOLUTION
BE IT RESOLV-ED, by the St. Mary Parish Council, State of Louisiana, in regular session convened on this 14th day of August 2024:
WHEREAS, that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby support the creation of the EBP Community Boxing Initiative, and
WHEREAS, that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby commend and support the efforts of Mr. Efrem Randle on his dedication and success of creating the EBP Community Boxing Initiative for the empowerment of children and young adults throughout St. Mary Parish, aimed at reducing violence by promoting self-discipline, anger management, conflict resolution, and physical fitness, and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby support the creation of the EBP Community Boxing Initiative and Mr. Randles positive engagement of the youths of St. Mary Parish.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 14th day of August 2024.
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 congratulated Vernon Norwood, Morgan City resident, for winning the Olympic Gold Medal in the Men’s 4x400 meter relay final at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
President Jones informed that the oldest living person in the United States, Elizabeth Francis, was born in St. Mary Parish and just celebrated her 115th birthday.
Mr. Hebert in- formed that his wife’s grandmother, Lorena Gaudet Aucoin, celebrated her 103rd birthday on August 13, 2024 and was born in Amelia, Louisiana.
Chief Administrative Officer, Paul J. Governale submitted his re- port for a three (3) week period ending August 14, 2024.
Item 3 of Mr. Governale’s report stated, “Capital Outlay Applications – FY 2024-2025 Mr. Jim Fir-min with Community Design Group is preparing Capital Outlay applications for the up- coming state fiscal year. The deadline to submit project ideas for applications is September 3, 2024. Any potential project applications that are submitted after that deadline will be included in the FY 2025-2026 applications that will be submitted next fall.”
In response to Mr. Ina’s inquiry relative to the em- ployee leave process, Mr. Governale stated that the process is the same for every employee. He stated that if the employee knows they will be absent, they submit a re- quest for leave form to their supervisor for approval or disapproval. He stated that if an emergency happens and the employee cannot give advance notice and submit their leave request form, they will need to notify their supervisor and their leave request form will be submitted after. He also explained that if an employee forgets to clock in or out, they need to contact their supervisor, who will approve and write their time in for them. He informed that if the issue occurs several times, the employee will get a warning. He also explained that if an employee says they were at work but was not seen at work, some areas have cameras to review.
Per Mr. Duhon’s inquiry relative to the overweight loads contract re- newal with the State relative to using Duhon Boulevard as the alternate route and obtaining a grant to repair Duhon Boulevard, Mr. Governale stated that he will re- search this information.
In response to Rev. Mathews’ in- quiry relative to procedure of certain approval(s) for a director’s leave request, Mr. Governale stated that he, the CAO, approves or disapproves all directors’ leave request.
Mr. Hebert mov-ed that the reading of the Public Hearing Report – July 24, 2024 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion, which carried.
Lisa Morgan in- formed that Item 13B “Resolution approving and authorizing Parish President to execute a contract with the lowest bidder relative to the Runway and Taxiway Overlay and Striping at Harry P. Williams Memorial Airport,” was withdrawn.
OLD BUSINESS:
A. Referred from the July 24, 2024, Regular Council Meeting - Discussion and action pursuant to Ordinance No. 2152 which provides that any member of any Board of Commissioners appointed by the Parish who shall miss three (3) meetings in any twelve (12) month period of time without good cause stated to the Parish Council shall be terminated from the Board of Commissioners. The intent of the ordinance is to have people serving on these boards that have the time and willingness to attend meetings so as to ensure that a quorum would be met to conduct business that may come before the board. On June 21, 2024, a letter was sent to Mr. Herbert Bell and Mr. Wendell C. Bogan informing them that a commissioner who misses three meetings within a twelve-month period without good cause shall be terminated. They were both asked if they wanted to continue to serve and I have not heard back from either board member.
Per Rev. Mathews’ inquiry, Lisa Morgan stated that the majority of the time, the Chairperson or Director of the board will report the absences.
Mrs. Hidalgo in- formed that Dr. Kristi Prejeant Rink is now in attendance.
Several Council Members discussed the verbiage and amending of Ordinance No. 2152, attendance record keeping, and past procedure (s) to remove a member(s) from a board.
Dr. Rink inform-ed that Herbert Bell did attend the July 2024 meeting.
Mr. Rulf also informed that due to lack of a quorum, this board only meets quarterly and that meeting notices are sent last minute.
After discussion, Mr. Hebert moved that Herbert Bell and Wendell C. Bogan be removed from the Kemper Williams Park Advisory Committee. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion.
After lengthy discussion, Mr. Hebert called for the question. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion, which carried by the following 9-1-0-1 Roll Call Vote:
YEAS: Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Rink, Hidalgo, and Mathews
NAYS: Ina
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Adams
Mr. Hebert amended the motion to remove Wendell C. Bogan from the Kemper Williams Park Advisory Committee. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion.
Mr. Ina telephoned Mr. Bogan who informed him that he would like to be removed from the Kemper Williams Park Advisory Committee.
After discussion, Mr. Hebert moved that Wendell C. Bogan be removed from the Kemper Williams Park Advisory Committee. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion, which carried.
B. Referred from the June 6, 2024, Regular Meeting – Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
St. Mary Parish Tourist Commission - District 7, 8, and bordering 9 (1 Vacancy)
Patsy W. Powell (District 7, 8, and bordering 9) - Present Member
Mr. Davis moved that Patsy W. Powell be reappointed to the St. Mary Parish Tourist Commission. Mr. Duhon seconded the motion, which carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. We received the following financial statements:
St. Mary Parish Sales & Use Tax Department – year ended December 31, 2023
St. Mary Parish Water & Sewer Commission No. 2 and Report on Internal Control – years ended September 30, 2023, and 2022
B. Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Recreation District No. 4 (Patterson) – 1 Vacancy
LaGenia Darnell Bradford – Present Member
Mr. Rulf moved that LaGenia Darnell Bradford be reappointed to Recreation District No. 4. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
Dr. Rink in- formed that the next Public Forum/Town Hall Meeting is scheduled to be held on August 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at the Bayou Vista Civic Center.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Mr. Hill seconded the motion, which carried.
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
S/G LISA C.
MORGAN
Lisa C. Morgan,
Clerk
Adv. Sept. 4, 2024

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LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the following entitled ordinances were introduced at a regular meeting of the St. Mary Parish Council, State of Louisiana (the “Parish Council”), on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, and laid over for publication of notice:
PROPOSED 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).
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, DIVISION 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearings, Section 5.4.3 Specific Use Permits granting a Specific Use. (Jordy Bernard)
An ordinance proposing an amendment to Section 2-12(B) of the Home Rule Charter for St. Mary Parish.
WHEREAS, Section 2-12(B) of the Home Rule Charter for St. Mary Parish (the “Charter”) provides for the publication of ordinances prior to consideration for final passage; and
WHEREAS, the St. Mary Parish Council proposes to amend Section 2-12(B) of the Charter as set forth herein.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED by the St. Mary Parish Council, as the governing authority of the Parish of St. Mary Parish, State of Louisiana, that:
SECTION 1. Subject to the provisions of Section 2 hereof, Section 2-12(B) of the Charter shall be amended to read as follows:
Section 2-12. Ordinances in General.
B. All proposed ordinances shall be read by title when introduced and published in full or in summary within seven (7) days after introduction, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, except that ordinances proposing amendments to the charter shall be published in full. Except as otherwise provided in Section 2-14 (Emergency Ordinances), no ordinance shall be considered for final passage until at least twenty (20) days from the date of introduction and after a public hearing has been held on the ordinance. The public hearing may shall be held at the meeting at which final passage is to be considered.
SECTION 2. This ordinance is hereby adopted in accordance with Section 2-11 and Section 7-03 of the Charter for St. Mary Parish. The amendment proposed herein shall be submitted for ratification to the electors of St. Mary Parish at an election to be held on December 7, 2024, in accordance with the Louisiana Election Code and shall only become effective only upon approval by a majority vote of the electors voting on the amendment proposed herein.
This ordinance having been offer-ed and read on this the 28th day of August, 2024; having been published in accordance with law; and having been heard in a public hearing at Franklin, Louisiana on the ——— day of ———————, 2024; was adopted by the following vote on the ——— day of ———————, 2024.
NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Council will meet on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, 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. Sept. 4, 2024

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LEGAL NOTICE
Posted on door
September
5:00 p.m.
CITY OF
PATTERSON
NOTICE OF PUBLIC
MEETING
September 3, 2024
A Public Meeting will be held as follows:
DATE: September 3, 2024
TIME: 6:00 PM
PLACE OF MEETING: City Hall, Council Meeting Room, 1314 Main Street, Patterson, Louisiana 70392
AGENDA
***********
6:00 PUBLIC HEARING
•Discussion on Ordinance No. 2024-08, adopting Utility Fees and Public Works Service Fees.
•Discussion on Ordinance No. 2024-08A, authorizing the City of Patterson to enter into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Town of Berwick for sale of Gas.
•Discussion on Ordinance No. 2024-08B, adopting levying General Alimony Tax for the tax year 2024.
•Discussion on Ordnance No. 2024-08C, adopting levy millage rates for Public Improvement Bond for Waterworks Issues for the tax year 2024.
***********
1) MEETING CALLED TO ORDER BY THE MAYOR
2) INVOCATION
3) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4) ROLL CALL
5) APPROVAL OF THE AUGUST 6, 2024 MINUTES.
6) PUBLIC COMMENT
7) GUEST
1) Travis Darnell – Patterson High School Cross Country Team – can shake
8) UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1) Adoption of amended Ordinance No. 2024 – 08 rate increase for Utility Fees and Public Works Service Fees.
2) Adoption Ordinance No. 2024-08A to Authorize Cooperative Endeavor Agreement for Sales of Gas by the City of Patterson to the Town of Berwick
3) Adoption of Ordinance No. 2024-08B levying the General Alimony Tax for the tax year 2024.
4) Adoption of Ordinance No. 2024-08C levying millage rates for Public Improvement Bond for Waterworks Issues for the tax year 2024.
5) Monica Ma- bile - update date on financials.
9) NEW BUSINESS
1) Appointments to Planning & Zoning Board.
2) Declare surplus.
3) Resolution of Respect for Mr. Charles Grogan.
4) Resolution of Respect for Mrs. Jeanine Peterson.
10) AN- NOUNCEMENTS
11) ENGINEERS REPORT
12) LEGAL MATTERS
13) ADJOURN
ANY AND ALL BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL WITH THEIR UNANIMOUS CONSENT, ADJOURN
Midge Bourgeois,
City Clerk
City of Patterson
1314 Main Street
Patterson, LA 70392
985-395-5205
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact Midge Bourgeois at 985-395-5205 or email: midge.bourgeois@cityofpattersonla.gov describing the necessary assistance.
“City of Patterson is an Equal Opportunity
Provider and Employer”
Adv. Sept. 4, 2024

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LEGAL NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
The St. Mary Parish Government, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, acting through its President, Sam Jones, will receive sealed bids for the Louisiana Recreational Trails Grant – Amelia Trail, Federal Award #H.015209 project, at the St. Mary Parish Courthouse Council Meeting Room. Fifth Floor, Franklin, Louisiana 70538, until September 19, 2024, at 10:00 A.M., local time, at which time and place, they will be publicly opened and read aloud. Bids re- ceived after the time set forth above for opening of bids will not be considered and will be returned unopened.
The Contract Documents (Plans, Information for Bidders, Bid Form, Specifications and other pertinent documents) may be examined at the following locations:
•Miller Engineers & Associates, Inc. – 601 Main Street; Franklin, Louisiana 70538
•St. Mary Parish Purchasing Agent’s Office – Fifth Floor, Courthouse Building; Franklin, Louisiana 70538
Copies of the bidding documents may be obtained from the office of Miller Engineers and Associates, Inc. upon receipt of $120.00 for each set during normal business hours (7:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. Monday – Thursday and 7:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Friday). Checks for Bidding Documents shall be made payable to “Miller Engineers & Associates, Inc.”. In accordance with La. R.S. 38:2212 A (1) (e), deposits on the first set of documents furnished bona fide prime bidders will be fully refunded up- on 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 in accordance with Title 38 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes.
Each bidder must deposit with his/her bid, security in the amount, form and subject to the conditions provided in the Information for Bidders. Sureties used for obtaining bonds must appear as acceptable on the U.S. Department of Treasury Circular 570.
A bidder may withdraw their bid within forty-eight (48) hours of the bid opening, ex- cluding Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays as governed by La. R.S. 38:2214 (C).
Any questions or clarifications shall be submitted to the Project Engineer, Jules M. Darden, in writing a minimum of five (5) days prior to the bid opening date. Addenda will be issued to all prospective bidders a minimum of 72 hours prior to the bid opening date. Only information provided within written addenda issued by the Project Engineer shall be considered binding.
Any person with disabilities requiring special accommodations must contact the St. Mary Parish Government no later than seven (7) days prior to the bid opening.
/s/ Sam Jones
Sam Jones,
President
St. Mary Parish Government
Adv. Aug. 21, 28 and Sept. 4, 2024

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LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON PROPOSED SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN
THE LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
AND
RIVIERA OPERATING, LLC
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality and Riviera Operating, LLC (Respondent), Agency Interest Numbers 31686, 31693, 32425, 32427, 32430, 32432, 32446, 32548, 32551, 86053, 86054, 88667, 91914, 91915, 93421, 93429, 93434, 93435, 105325, 105326, 105327, 114656, 116452, 117366, 117368, 124727, 125870, 146567, 146740, 146882, 146883, 146884, 146886, 146887, 150129, 158684, 159019, 160992, 171558, 175016, 177526, 179398, 179784, 179785, 196401, 200588, 208001, 208012, and 211737, have entered into a proposed settlement agreement, Settlement Tracking No. SA-AE-20-0116, concerning the State’s allegations of environmental violations by Respondent at its facilities in Bossier Parish, Lincoln Parish, Ouachita Parish, Jackson Parish, and St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, which allegations are set forth in Notice of Potential Penalty, Enforcement Tracking No. AE- PP-19-00690.
The Department of Environmental Quality will accept comments on the proposed settlement for the next forty-five (45) days. The public is invited and en- couraged to submit written comments to the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, Office of the Secretary, Legal Division, Post Office Box 4302, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70821-4302, Attention: Jay L. Glorioso, Attorney. All comments will be considered by the Department of En- vironmental Quality in reaching a decision on whether to make the settlement final.
Terms and conditions of the proposed settlement agreement may be reviewed on the Department of En- vironmental Quality’s website at www.deq.louisiana.gov, by selecting About LDEQ, Enforcement, and Settlements. The document may also be viewed at, and copies ob- tained from, the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, Public Records Center, Room 127, Galvez Building, 602 North Fifth Street, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70802. To request a copy of the proposed settlement, submit a completed Public Record Request Form (DEQ Form ISD-0005-01). The form and instructions for completion may be found on the DEQ Website at the following address: http://deq.louisiana.gov/assets/docs/General/PublicRecordsRequestForm.pdf, or by calling the Customer Service Center at 1-866-896-5337.
Pursuant to La. R.S. 30:2050.7(D), the Department of Environmental Quality may hold a public hearing re- garding this proposed settlement when either of the following conditions are met: 1) a written request for public hearing has been filed by twenty-five (25) persons, by a governmental subdivision or agency, or by an association having not less than twenty-five (25) members who reside in the parish in which the facility is located; or 2) the secretary finds a significant degree of public interest in this settlement.
For further in- formation, you may call the Legal Division of the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality at (225) 219-3985.
Adv. Sept. 4, 2024

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LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Sixteenth
Judicial District Court
——
PARISH OF
ST. MARY
——
STATE OF
LOUISIANA
First Horizon Bank
Vs. No. 133401 Div “F”
Jessie Paul Adams and Taniecia Lynn Duplantis
TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of Writ of FiFa 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 lot or parcel of land, lying and being situated in the City of Morgan City, Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana, known, designated and described as Lot No. Twenty (20) of Square “E”, of the Colonial Acres Subdivision, as per map or plat of said Subdivision entitled “Plan of Land Showing Property of Finkelstein- Levy, Tract “ABCDEFGHIA” Colonial Acres Subdivision, Morgan City, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana,” made by Lee B. Delaune, Surveyor, of date May 29, 1965, which map is recorded in Book 13-Y, Entry No. 127,512 of date October 27, 1965, Conveyance Records, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, and according to which plat Lot No. 20-E has a frontage of Sixty-two and five-tenths (62.5’) feet on the West side of Cottonwood Street, by a depth between parallel lines of One Hundred Ten (110’) feet on the South side of Filmore Street.
Together with all the buildings and improvements thereon situated, rights, ways, privileges, servitudes and appurtenances thereunto be- longing or in anywise appertaining.
to satisfy the sum of SEVENTY-EIGHT THOUSAND, SIX HUNDRED TWENTY-EIGHT AND 88/100 ($78,628.88) and a deferred principal of ONE THOUSAND, THREE HUNDRED TWENTY-NINE AND 55/100 ($1,329.55) with interest of TWENTY-SEVEN THOUSAND, EIGHT HUNDRED THIRTY-SEVEN AND 01/100 ($27,837.01) to November 21, 2023 and thereon at the variable rate of 8.875% per annum, until paid; (the following amounts accrued to November 21, 2023: late charges of $79.16, advances of $30,249.40 for the payment of taxes and insurance, prior attorney fees and expenses of $3,594.15, BPO/Appraisal of $960.00, property preservations in the amount of $5,046.57, property inspections of $485.00, and any such additional amounts accruing thereafter through the date of sale; (all expenses in- curred in enforcing the note and mortgage including reasonable attorney’s fees as provided for by the note and mortgage, (all law charges, costs, fees and expenses in- cluding sheriff’s commission and also, all costs 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 11th day of September A.D., 2024, between the legal hours commencing at 10 O’Clock A.M.
Sheriff’s Office
Parish of St. Mary, La.
Friday, the 14th day of June A.D., 2024
GARY L.
DRISKELL,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
Adv. Aug. 9 and Sept. 4, 2024

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LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Sixteenth
Judicial District Court
——
PARISH OF
ST. MARY
——
STATE OF
LOUISIANA
UMB Bank, National Association, Not In Its Individual Capacity, But Solely As Legal Title Trustee For PRL Title Trust II
Vs. No. 138521 Div “A”
Frankie Wilson Smith A/K/A Frankie W. Smith A/K/A Frankie Smith
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:
The following described property, to-wit: That certain tract or parcel of land lying and being located in the Town of Patterson, Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana and being more fully described as follows: On its front or south measuring and containing sixty-five (65) feet running in an easterly or westerly manner being bounded on its east line or border by Plum Street running in a vertical line measuring one hundred sixty-one (161) feet and being bounded by property be- longing to B. Watson on the rear or north boundary running in a slightly diversion line to Plum Street bounded by property belonging to Louise Wilson et al measuring an containing sixty-one point eight (61.8) feet on its west line or border running in a slightly diverging vertical line measuring one hundred fifty (150) feet being bounded by what is known as Hecter Street.
to satisfy the sum of SIXTEEN THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED TWENTY FOUR AND 29/100 ($16,224.29) DOLLARS, balance due of principal of note, interest from October 14, 2022, until paid, at 9.816% per annum, reasonable attorney’s fees to be computed 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 WITHOUT ap- praisement 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 11th day of September A.D., 2024, between the legal hours commencing at 10 O’Clock A.M.
Sheriff’s Office
Parish of St. Mary, La.
Thursday, the 20th day of June A.D., 2024
GARY L.
DRISKELL,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
Adv. Aug. 9 and Sept. 4, 2024

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Wheel House for Sept. 4

Wed, 09/04/2024 - 6:00am

CHURCH, PASTOR
ANNIVERSARY
11 a.m. Sept. 22 at Mt. Era Baptist Church, 406 Lawrence St., Morgan City. Church’s 124th anniversary, 18th anniversary for the Rev. Norman and Katherine D. Stovall. Speaker of the hour: the Rev. Carl F. Lewis, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Loreauville, and Triumph Baptist Church, Franklin.

SUNDAY
DANCE
by AARP Chapter 4435, 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29, AARP Building, 4014 Chennault St., Morgan City. $10 per person; Music: POT 2 LA. Bring your own food, snacks and drinks. Ice provided. AARP membership not required.

Parish Council puts off action on charter amendments

Wed, 09/04/2024 - 6:00am
Staff Report

The St. Mary Council put off action on proposed charter amendments at a quick, smooth and lightly attended Aug. 28 meeting.
The council now expects to take up the proposed amendments later this month. They focus on tweaks to the existing charter and on bringing the charter in line with changes in state law.
A separate charter review commission has been meeting to examine larger issues with the organization of parish government, including the role of the parish president and whether the job should be full time.
The council couldn’t have passed the tweaks proposed in 11 ordinances at Wednesday’s meeting. Passing a charter amendment ordinance, which would put an amendment on a parishwide ballot, requires eight positive votes.
Only seven council members were present for the Aug. 28 meeting until Dr. Kristi Prejeant Rink of Centerville, a physician who occasionally arrives late for meetings, came in midway through.
The ordinances have already passed the 20-day period that must elapse between introduction and a public hearing followed by a passage vote.
The changes in the ordinances would:
—Require council members to be legally domiciled in the districts where they live for a year before they qualify to run. The current charter requires candidates to be voters in their districts but not that they have legal domiciles there.
—The charter currently says council members forfeit their offices if they lack the required qualifications, are convicted of state or federal felonies, or fails to take office. The amendment would add the catch-all phrase “otherwise disqualified by law from holding office.”
—When a council vacancy occurs, one of the ordinances would allow an interim appointee to serve the remainder of a term if it’s less than 18 months. If it’s more than 18 months, the seat must be filled with a special election. The charter currently says a vacancy appointee can serve up to a year, and that a vacancy lasting more than a year requires an election.
—Instead of being reimbursed for receipts related to travel outside the parish on government business, council members would be given a per diem at the rate set by the federal General Services Administration.
—Official acts of the council would have to be published within 20 days, rather than the current 30 days.
—The passage vote on proposed ordinances would have to come at least 20 days after the ordinance is published, not within 20 days after introduction as is the case now.
—As with council members, an ordinance adds “otherwise disqualified by law” to the reasons for which the parish president may be removed from office.
—Again, as with council members, a vacancy appointee for the parish presidency could serve up to 18 months of an unexpired term. A longer vacancy would require a special election.
—A proposed amendment would repeal the charter section 3-10A(8), that deals with the appointment of members to board, commissions and authorities, leaving the rules governing the process up to state law.
—Another proposed amendment would make it clear that after a construction project or means of financing a construction project has been rejected by voters, it can’t be placed on the ballot again for at least a year
Also at the Aug. 28 meeting, Parish President Sam Jones paid tribute to Oray Rogers, the longtime Franklin City Council member and two-term parish president who died Aug. 17.
Rogers was on the council when Jones was elected Franklin’s mayor.
“He was the first guy, when I got elected in 1982, to put me on the right track,” Jones said.

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