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Senate committee restores teacher stipends, OKs ban on school COVID vaccine

Tue, 05/28/2024 - 1:42pm
MADDIE SCOTT, LSU Manship School News Service

BATON ROUGE — Lawmakers are adding back some of the money for public school teacher stipends next year, and they gave final approval Thursday to bills that would ban gender discussions and COVID-19 vaccines in schools.
The Senate Finance Committee restored $33 million for teacher stipends Wednesday evening after the House had cut the funds last month. The money was added back into next year’s budget in response to recent projections that tax revenues will increase in fiscal 2025, which starts July 1.
The restoration brings the total amount of stipends to $198 million for teachers and school support staff members.
Under the latest plan, teachers could average the same one-time payments of $2,000 that they received this year. Support workers could receive $1,000 on average.
The state budget plan, also called House Bill 1, was presented to the Senate Finance Committee by Rep. Jack G. McFarland, R-Jonesboro, the chairman of the House Appropriations Committee.
The Senate committee also restored $24.2 million to early childhood education programs.
The full Senate on Thursday approved the so-called “Don’t Say Gay” bill and the ban on COVID-19 vaccines in schools, sending both bills to Republican Gov. Jeff Landry for his expected approval.
The Senate voted 28-7 for House Bill 122, which would ban classroom discussions of gender identify and sexual orientation.
The Senate voted 26-9 approve House Bill 46, which would ban public and private K-12 schools, colleges and day care centers from requiring COVID vaccines.
Also in education, the House passed two Senate bills Wednesday regarding supplemental pay for teachers and sick leave.
Senate Bill 205 by Sen. Blake Miguez, R-New Iberia, requires additional compensation for teachers and other school employees under certain circumstances.
The bill has six total amendments, and it passed the House by a vote of 99 to 2.
Also last week, a Senate bill that would have required heating and air-conditioning systems in school buses failed on the Louisiana House floor.
The House rejected the measure 42-57 after nearly 1 ½ hours of debate.
Senate Bill 26 would have required the systems on every school bus bought on and after Aug 1, 2024.
Then in 2027, the bill would have required all school buses to be equipped with them.
Rep. Vanessa LaFleur, D-Baton Rouge, who presented the bill in the House, said the dates would have allowed school districts “a runway” to meet requirements.

Sheriff's Office launches efforts to combat juvenile crime

Tue, 05/28/2024 - 1:30pm
Staff Report

The St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office says it’s putting a grant to use with initiatives in four key areas.
In a Facebook post, the office said Sheriff Gary Driskell “is committed to take proactive measures to steer youth away from criminal activities.”
The office applied for and received a Rural Violent Crime Reduction Initiative grant, designed to reduce violent crime in rural areas.
Lt. 1st Class Oscar West leads the organization and the implementation of the grant.
“Resources have been mobilized and a comprehensive program has been developed and is being implemented,” the post said. “The program emphasize collaboration with various agencies and stakeholders, ensuring a multifaceted approach to juvenile crime prevention.”
The initiative focuses on these areas:
—Education and outreach. A program in schools teaches students about the consequences of crime and the importance of making life choices.
—Mentorship and counseling. Mentorship opportunities coach at-risk youths to offer guidance, support and positive role models.
—Partnerships with local organizations. Nonprofits, religious institutions and recreational centers are among the entities enlisted to create positive opportunities for youth.
—Law enforcement-youth relations. Community police initiatives and interactive programs foster mutual respect and understanding.
“Tackling juvenile crime is a difficult task,” the post said.
“It WILL take all of us: law enforcement, court system, educational system, the faith-based community, non-profit organizations, parents, grandparents, and the list goes on.”

Jeanerette man accused of resisting, assaulting deputy

Tue, 05/28/2024 - 1:11pm
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.)

A Jeanerette man has been charged with burglary and assault on an officer with a weapon as a result of a Friday arrest by the St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies and Morgan City police also reported domestic abuse arrests over the holiday weekend.

St. Mary

Sheriff Gary Driskell reported that over the last 96-hour reporting period, the Sheriff’s Office responded to 172 complaints and made these arrests:

--Jackie Robertson, 60, Jeanerette, was arrested at 12:51 p.m. Friday on charges of burglary, aggravated assault of an officer with weapon, and resisting a police officer with force or violence. Bail was set at $50,000,

--Jeremy Laquinn Smith, 41, Baldwin, was arrested at 6:26 a.m. Friday on a charge of domestic abuse battery. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Andy Joseph Maise, 46, Lafitte, was arrested at 9:54 a.m. Friday on a warrant alleging failure to appear on the charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and improper turn. Bail was set at $7,000.

--William Henderson, 51, Franklin, was arrested at 4:42 p.m. Friday on charges of criminal trespass and resisting an officer by giving false information. Bail was set at $1,500.

--Dandrick Emile Jack, 47, Baldwin, was arrested at 4:55 p.m. Sunday on a warrant for failure to appear on the charges of criminal neglect of family. Bail was set at $500.

--Larry James Tabor, 48, Charenton, was arrested at 7:52 p.m. Sunday on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a charge of criminal neglect of family. Tabor was released on his own recognizance.

--Dakota Breeze Kleimann, 31, Morgan City, was arrested at 5:26 p.m. Monday on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a charge of criminal damage to property. Bail was set at $500.

Morgan City

Chief Chad M. Adams reported that the Morgan City Police Department responded to 133 calls for service over the last 96-hour reporting period and made these arrests:

--Quinton Jamal Jones, 33, Friendship Alley, Amelia, was arrested at 1:42 p.m. Friday on a charge of failure to appear for imposition hearing (16th Judicial District Court).

--James Notte, 58, Freeman Street, Patterson, was arrested at 2:56 p.m. Friday on a charge of possession of marijuana (first offense). (Released on summons.)

--Mark J. Metrejean, 36, Plantation Drive, Napoleonville, was arrested at 10:16 p.m. Friday on charges of possession of Adderall, possession of marijuana, possession of a controlled dangerous substance in the presence of a juvenile, improper lane usage and open container.

--Nicole R Dardar, 33, Bobs Lane, Golden Meadow, was arrested at 10:18 p.m. Friday on charges of possession of Adderall, possession of marijuana and possession of a controlled dangerous substance in the presence of a juvenile.

--Jacob Gabriel Fernandez, 36, Second Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 10:13 a.m. Monday on charges of battery of a dating partner (misdemeanor) and failure to pay fines (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

--Jeremie Juvual Watson, 42, Glenwood Street, Morgan City, was arrested 1:16 a.m. Sunday on charges of driving while intoxicated (first offense), improper lane usage, open container and driving under suspension.

Franklin

Chief Cedric Handy reported that the Franklin Police Department responded to 18 complaints over the holiday weekend and made these arrests:

--Andre Landry, 21, First Street, Franklin, was arrested at 1:48 p.m. Friday on a charge of criminal trespassing. Landry was booked, processed and released to appear in 3rd Ward City Court.

--Damond Preston, 21, Joan Drive, Franklin, was arrested at 3:55 p.m. Friday on charges of criminal trespassing and possession of marijuana. Preston was booked, processed and released to appear in 3rd Ward City Court.

--Zederick Gibson, 33, SJ Lane, Franklin, while incarcerated at the Franklin Police Department, was arrested at 5:47 p.m. Sunday on a warrant alleging theft. Gibson was booked, processed and held on a $1,500 bond.

--Adalberto Lima, 23, Holiday Drive, Houma, was arrested at 6:13 p.m. Sunday on charges of speeding and no driver's license. Lima was booked, processed and released on a $523.50 bond.

--Kayla Smith, 30, B Street, Franklin, was arrested at 8:47 p.m. Sunday on charges of driver must be licensed, no motor vehicle inspection sticker and no insurance. Smith was booked, processed and released on a $500 bond.

Morgan City police radio logs for May 23-27

Tue, 05/28/2024 - 10:31am

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.
Thursday, May 23
7:49 a.m. U.S. 90 West/Martin Luther King Ramp; Medical.
7:55 a.m. 1100 block of Hickory Street; Animal complaint.
8:55 a.m. 2400 block of Apple Street; Remaining where forbidden.
11:48 a.m. 1100 block of Ditch Avenue; Utilities.
12:58 p.m. 600 block of Bush Street; Animal complaint.
2:23 p.m. 500 block of Roderick Street; Remove subject.
2:34 p.m. 7800 block of La. 182; Disturbance.
2:46 p.m. 1300 block of Joseph Street/Siracusa; Discharge firearm.
2:58 p.m. 2200 block of Federal Avenue; Welfare check.
2:59 p.m. 7400 block of La. 182; Suspicious subject.
3:09 p.m. 1500 block of Bernice Street; Remove subject.
4:24 p.m. Everett/Second streets; Remove subject.
4:52 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Stand by.
5:11 p.m. 1900 block of Victor II Boulevard; Vehicle accident.
5:19 p.m. 7100 block of Park Road; Assistance.
Friday, May 24
8:34 a.m. 700 block of Willow Street; Alarm.
8:43 a.m. Railroad Avenue/Fifth Street; Disturbance.
9:06 a.m. 1000 block of Poplar Street; Assistance.
9:12 a.m. 800 block of Brashear Avenue; Crash.
10:07 a.m. 7900 block of La. 182; Animal complaint.
11:07 a.m. 1400 block of Second Street; Assistance.
11:10 a.m. 6000 block of La. 182; Complaint.
11:32 a.m. 600 block of Everett Street; Suspicious subject.
12:20 p.m. 700 block of Duke Street; Complaint.
1:06 p.m. U.S. 90 West; Reckless operation.
1:24 p.m. 1000 block of Sixth Street; Arrest.
1:31 p.m. 1200 block of Victor II Boulevard; Suspicious subject.
2:01 p.m. 500 block of Roderick Street; Complaint.
2:59 p.m. 700 block of Everett Street; Suspicious subject.
3:37 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Suspicious subject.
3:56 p.m. U.S. 90 East; Stalled vehicle.
4:15 p.m. 1700 block of Victor II Boulevard; Fire.
4:28 p.m. Federal Avenue/Orange Street; Loud music.
4:51 p.m. Patton Street; Reckless operation.
4:55 p.m. U.S. 90 East; Reckless operation.
5:25 p.m. 7300 block of La. 182; Animal complaint.
5:30 p.m. 200 block of Patton Street; Animal complaint.
5:56 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Complaint.
6:05 p.m. 1400 block of Railroad Avenue; Complaint.
6:45 p.m. 1100 block of Sixth Street; Theft.
7:48 p.m. Martin Luther King Boulevard; Stalled vehicle.
8:16 p.m. Orange Street; Loud music.
8:41 p.m. 2400 block of Tiger Drive; Suspicious subject.
8:53 p.m. 1100 block of Front Street; Complaint.
9:39 p.m. La. 70; Two arrests.
11:05 p.m. 900 block of Marguerite Street; Suspicious vehicle.
11:34 p.m. 7500 block of La. 182; Telephone harassment.
Saturday, May 25
12:54 a.m. 800 block of Brashear Avenue; Suspicious vehicle.
3 a.m. 7700 block of La. 182; Complaint.
3:07 a.m. La. 70/U.S. 90; Suspicious vehicle.
6:42 a.m. 7300 block of La. 182; Theft.
7:45 a.m. 300 block of Barrow Street; Animal.
11:46 a.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Complaint.
12:51 p.m. 200 block of Belanger Street; Medical.
2:55 p.m. 1200 block of Railroad Avenue; Medical.
3:34 p.m. 1400 block of Railroad Avenue; Animal.
5:05 p.m. 1100 block of Marguerite Street; Complaint.
5:08 p.m. 300 block of Mallard Street; Complaint.
6:16 p.m. 700 block of General Hodges Street; Theft.
7:34 p.m. 7400 block of La. 182; Medical.
9:15 p.m. Area Everett Street/Federal Avenue; Stalled vehicle.
9:29 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Reckless driver.
9:47 p.m. 1200 block of Railroad Avenue; Assistance.
10:32 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Disturbance.
10:34 p.m. 3000 block of Lesley Drive; Alarm.
Sunday, May 26
12:50 a.m. 7000 block of La. 182; Arrest.
4:22 a.m. 1400 block of Railroad Avenue; Power complaint.
4:42 a.m. 7400 block of La. 182; Complaint.
10:15 a.m. 200 block of Third Street; Complaint.
10:48 a.m. 2300 block of La. 182; Complaint.
1:17 p.m. 1000 block of La. 70; Theft.
4:53 p.m. 200 block of Federal Avenue; Animal complaint.
5:28 p.m. 1000 block of Third Street; Complaint.
6 p.m. 700 block of Bush Street; Stand by.
7:18 p.m. 600 block of Leona Street; Juvenile complaint.
7:50 p.m. 600 block of Martin Luther King Boulevard; Warrant.
7:57 p.m. 1100 block of Marguerite Street; Complaint.
8:07 p.m. 700 block of General Hodges Street; Complaint.
9:07 p.m. 700 block of Martin Luther King Boulevard; Disturbance.
9:22 p.m. 1100 block of Victor II Boulevard; Alarm.
9:41 p.m. 600 block of Egle Street; Complaint.
10:39 p.m. Fifth/Greenwood streets; Complaint.
Monday, May 27
12:02 a.m. 600 block of Duke Street; Complaint.
12:15 a.m. 400 block of Fifth Street; Suspicious subject.
5:55 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Medical.
7:07 a.m. 200 block of Bowman Street; Medical.
9:47 a.m. 2400 block of Sixth Street; Lost and found property.
10:04 a.m. 1100 block of Marguerite Street; Warrant.
10:10 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Civil matter.
10:35 a.m. 1000 block of La. 70; Medical.
12:13 p.m. 6300 block of La. 182; 911 hang up.
12:47 p.m. 400 block of Everett Street; Complaint.
1:14 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Lost and found property.
1:56 p.m. 2300 block of La. 70; Intel.
4:15 p.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Remove subject.
7:56 p.m. 1500 block of Sandra Street; Medical.
8:30 p.m. 500 block of Federal Avenue; Medical.
9:25 p.m. 500 block of East Boulevard; Remove subject.
10:56 p.m. 1700 block of Elk Street; Suspicious vehicle.
11:45 a.m. 300 block of Adams Street; Suspicious vehicle.
5:20 a.m. 700 block of Duke Street; Medical.

Bayou Horseshoe Pitchers Spring League, Week 7

Tue, 05/28/2024 - 10:14am

Bayou Horseshoe Pitchers Association
Spring League 2024
Week 7
........................................W L
Born To Ring ................39.5 23.5
Hit & Miss.....................33.5 29.5
The Good Fellas...........31.5 31.5
Bayou Ringers..............31.5 31.5
We Got This..................30 33
The Crawdads..............23.5 40
High scratch point average: (30’) Tim Gilmore 82.3, Burnie Williams 70.0 and Clyde Landry 67.3; and (40’) Dale Pearce 52.1, Dwain Arceneaux 51.7 and Tim Hayles 45.4.
High individual ringer percentage: (30’) Gilmore 61.0, Landry 47.9 and Williams 43.7; and (40’) Pearce 34.6, Arceneaux 33.5, Hayles 23.7 and Randy Giroir 23.7.
High scratch game: (30’) Gilmore 102, Landry 90 and Williams 79; and (40’) Pearce 69, Arceneaux 62 and Hayles 58. High handicap game: Gilmore 111, Landry 111, Mary Guzdial 108, Glen Hidalgo 107, Travis Bourdier 107, Pearce 106 and Julius Lovell 102.
Most ringers: (one night) Gilmore 81, Landry 67, Williams 59, Lovell 56 and Bourdier 56; and (one game) Gilmore 33, Landry 27, Williams 22, Lovell 22, Pearce 21, Bourdier 21 and Jimmy Percle 20. Most points one night: Gilmore 271, Williams 222, Landry 221, Lovell 206 and Bourdier 201.
Best won-loss record: Bourdier 12.5-4.5, Gilmore 11-4, Arceneaux 12-6, Percle 7.5-4.5 and Pearce 12.5-8.5. High over average: (40’) Pearce 20.3 and (30’) Guzdial 24.7. Most points one night – team: Born To Ring 546 and The Crawdads 507. Most ringers one night – team: Born To Ring 146 and Hit & Miss 133.

Local agencies report five arrests

Mon, 05/27/2024 - 2:19pm
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 police agencies reported five arrests late last week, including marijuana and drug paraphernalia arrests.

Morgan City

Chief Chad M. Adams reported that the Morgan City Police Department responded to 33 calls for service over the last 24-hour reporting period and made these arrests:

--Donald James Lewis, 21, Joseph Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:29 p.m. Thursday on charges of possession of marijuana, possession of marijuana and no license plate. Lewis was released on a summons.

St. Mary

Sheriff Gary Driskell reported that over the last 24-hour reporting period, the Sheriff's Office responded to 51 complaints and made these arrests:

--James Salone Austin Sr., 42, Verdunville, was arrested at 3:07 p.m. Thursday on a warrant alleging failure to appear on a charge of criminal neglect of family. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Rachel Whitney Lebourgeois, 35, Metarie, was arrested at 7:08 p.m. Thursday on a warrant alleging failure to appear on the charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Bail was set at $3,500.

Patterson

Chief Garrett Grogan reported this arrest:

--Esther M. Skidmore, 37, Metairie, was arrested at 9:54 a.m. Thursday on a warrant for the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office warrant alleging failure to appear on charges of improper passing, driving while intoxicated and improper lane usage.

Franklin

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

--Zederick Gibson, 33, SJ Lane, Franklin, was arrested at 10:39 p.m. Thursday on charges of no proof of insurance, license plate light required, no turn signal and three counts of possession of drug paraphernalia. Gibson was booked, processed and held on a $3,250 bond.

Public notices for May 24, 2024

Fri, 05/24/2024 - 6:00am

PUBLIC NOTICE
Planning &
Zoning
Commission
Regular Meeting
April 15, 2024
6:00 p.m.
St. Mary Parish Courthouse
Fifth Floor
Franklin,
Louisiana
The Planning & Zoning Commission met on this date with Chairman Barry Druilhet presiding and the following members present: Danny Lipari, Jimmy Wiley, Joshua Montgomery, Jeremy Chesteen, Carla Davis and Glynn Pellerin.
Mr. Montgomery pronounced the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Mr. Montgomery moved that the reading of the minutes of the Regular Meeting, March 18, 2024 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Ms. Davis seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Druilhet read the request for the Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Approval for a subdivision of property for Marla Sere and Randy Foreman in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 5232 Hwy. 317., Centerville, LA- Sec. 9 T16S R9E; -Parcel Id# 2114124018.00-8.60 Ac Lot B-4 per Plat 30C 217891 from Act of Part of Heirs of W E Peltier Sr. Acq. 108 293105.
Mr. Randy Foreman appeared before the board to discuss the request for the Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Approval for a subdivision of property for Marla Sere and Randy Foreman in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 5232 Hwy. 317., Centerville, LA- Sec. 9 T16S R9E; -Parcel Id# 2114124018.00-8.60 Ac Lot B-4 per Plat 30C 217891 from Act of Part of Heirs of W E Peltier Sr. Acq. 108 293105.
Mr. Foreman explained that Marla Sere is his sister.
Mr. Foreman stated that they inherited the property and want to divide it between them equally.
Mr. Montgomery made a motion to approve the re- quest for Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Approval for a subdivision of property for Marla Sere and Randy Foreman in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 5232 Hwy. 317., Centerville, LA- Sec. 9 T16S R9E; -Parcel Id# 2114124018.00-8.60 Ac Lot B-4 per Plat 30C 217891 from Act of Part of Heirs of W E Peltier Sr. Acq. 108 293105. Mr. Wiley seconded the motion, which carried with the following 6-0-0-0 Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Danny Lipari, Jimmy Wiley, Joshua Montgomery, Jeremy Chesteen, Carla Davis and Glynn Pellerin.
Nays: None
Abstained: None
Absent: None
Mr. Druilhet read the request for Rezoning of property by Richard Higgins from Existing Neighborhood (EN1) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District located at 122 Grey Eagle No. 1 Rd., Jeanerette, LA -Sec.27 T13S R9E; -Parcel Id# 2175061005.00-Lot Rem por BD J Mossey - Meynard - Martel -Grey Eagle Road Acq. 20B 168155 Im- provements.
Mr. Richard Higgins appeared before the board to discuss the request for Rezoning of property by Richard Higgins from Existing Neighborhood (EN1) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District located at 122 Grey Eagle No. 1 Rd., Jeanerette, LA -Sec.27 T13S R9E; -Parcel Id# 2175061005.00-Lot Rem por BD J Mossey - Meynard - Martel -Grey Eagle Road Acq. 20B 168155 Im- provements.
Mr. Higgins ex- plained that the rezone is so that he may place a manufactured home on the property.
In reference to Mr. Lipari’s inquiry, Mr. Higgins stated that there are other manufactured homes in the area.
Mr. Lipari made a motion to ap- prove the Rezoning of property by Richard Higgins from Existing Neighborhood (EN1) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District located at 122 Grey Eagle No. 1 Rd., Jeanerette, LA -Sec.27 T13S R9E; -Parcel Id# 2175061005.00-Lot Rem por BD J Mossey - Meynard - Martel -Grey Eagle Road Acq. 20B 168155 Im- provements. Mr. Wiley seconded the motion, which carried with the following 6-0-0-0 Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Danny Li- pari, Jimmy Wiley, Joshua Montgomery, Jeremy Ches-teen, Carla Davis and Glynn Pellerin.
Nays: None
Abstained: None
Absent: None
Mr. Druilhet read the request for Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Ap- proval for a subdivision of property for Susan Hidalgo, represented by Matthew Fore in a Single Family Residential (SR) Zoned District located at 15223 Hwy. 182, Franklin, LA-Sec. 12 T14S R9E; -Parcel Id# 2234781010.00-Lot North 200 ft. No. 9 Columbia Subd. Blk 1 Acq. 24G 191342.
Mr. Matthew Fore with Miller Engineer’s ap- peared before the board to discuss the request for Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Ap- proval for a subdivision of property for Susan Hidalgo, represented by Matthew Fore in a Single Family Residential (SR) Zoned District located at 15223 Hwy. 182, Franklin, LA-Sec. 12 T14S R9E; -Parcel Id# 2234781010.00-Lot North 200 ft. No. 9 Columbia Subd. Blk 1 Acq. 24G 191342.
Mr. Fore ex- plained that the reason for the re- quest is to add additional yard space.
Mr. Lipari made a motion to ap- prove the request for Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Ap- proval for a subdivision of property for Susan Hidalgo, represented by Matthew Fore in a Single Family Residential (SR) Zoned District located at 15223 Hwy. 182, Franklin, LA-Sec. 12 T14S R9E; -Parcel Id# 2234781010.00-Lot North 200 ft. No. 9 Columbia Subd. Blk 1 Acq. 24G 191342. Mr. Montgomery seconded the motion, which carried with the following 6-0-0-0 Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Danny Li- pari, Jimmy Wiley, Joshua Montgomery, Jeremy Ches-teen, Carla Davis and Glynn Pellerin.
Nays: None
Abstained: None
Absent: None
Mr. Druilhet read the request for Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Ap- proval for a subdivision of property for Banta Incorporated C/O Elizabeth Muffoletto, represented by Matthew Fore in a Single Family Residential (SR) Zoned District located at 9873 Hwy. 87, Jeanerette, LA-Sec. 40 T13S R9E; -Parcel Id# 1875004036.00-10.57 Ac Tract being por of Rem por No. 11 ½
Home Place Pltn. of Pharr and Son situated in Sec. 40 T13S R9E Acq. 35A 237086.
Mr. Matthew Fore with Miller Engineer’s ap- peared before the board to discuss the request for Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Ap- proval for a subdivision of property for Banta Incorporated C/O Elizabeth Muffoletto, represented by Matthew Fore in a Single Family Residential (SR) Zoned District located at 9873 Hwy. 87, Jeanerette, LA-Sec. 40 T13S R9E; -Parcel Id# 1875004036.00-10.57 Ac Tract being por of Rem por No. 11 ½ Home Place Pltn. of Pharr and Son situated in Sec. 40 T13S R9E Acq. 35A 237086
Mr. Fore stated that the reason for the request is for additional yard space.
Mr. Lipari made a motion to ap- prove the request for Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Ap- proval for a subdivision of property for Banta Incorporated C/O Elizabeth Muffoletto, represented by Matthew Fore in a Single Family Residential (SR) Zon-ed District located at 9873 Hwy. 87, Jeanerette, LA- Sec. 40 T13S R9E; -Parcel Id# 1875004036.00-10.57 Ac Tract being por of Rem por No. 11 ½ Home Place Pltn. of Pharr and Son situated in Sec. 40 T13S R9E Acq. 35A 237086. Mr. Montgomery seconded the motion, which carried with the following 6-0-0-0 Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Danny Li- pari, Jimmy Wiley, Joshua Montgomery, Jeremy Ches-teen, Carla Davis and
Glynn Pellerin.
Nays: None
Abstained: None
Absent: None
There being no further business, Mr. Pellerin moved for adjournment. Mr. Wiley seconded the motion, which carried.
Chairman Barry Druilhet
St. Mary Parish Planning and Zoning Commission
Adv. May 24, 2024

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
Planning &
Zoning
Commission
Public Hearing Minutes
April 15, 2024
5:45 p.m.
St. Mary Parish Courthouse
Fifth Floor
Franklin,
Louisiana
The Planning & Zoning Commission met on this date with Chairman Barry Druilhet presiding and the following members present: Danny Lipari, Joshua Montgomery, Jeremy Ches-teen, Carla Davis and Glynn Pellerin. Absent was Jimmy Wiley.
The purpose of the hearing was to receive written and/or oral comments relative to the following proposed Subdivision/Development of property:
Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Ap- proval for a subdivision of property for Marla Sere and Randy Foreman in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 5232 Hwy. 317., Centerville, LA- Sec. 9 T16S R9E; -Parcel Id# 2114124018.00-8.60 Ac Lot B-4 per Plat 30C 217891 from Act of Part of Heirs of W E Peltier Sr. Acq. 108 293105. (Sub-1256)
Rezoning of property by Richard Higgins from Existing Neighborhood (EN1) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District located at 122 Grey Eagle No. 1 Rd., Jeanerette, LA -Sec.27 T13S R9E; -Parcel Id# 2175061005.00-Lot Rem por BD J Mossey - Meynard - Martel -Grey Eagle Road Acq. 20B 168155 Im- provements. (Zon-1427)
Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Approval for a subdivision of property for Susan Hidalgo, represented by Matthew Fore in a Single Family Residential (SR) Zon-ed District located at 15223 Hwy. 182, Franklin, LA-Sec. 12 T14S R9E; -Parcel Id# 2234781010.00-Lot North 200 ft. No. 9 Columbia Subd. Blk 1 Acq. 24G 191342. (Sub-1257)
Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Approval for a subdivision of property for Banta Incorporated C/O Elizabeth Muffoletto, represented by Matthew Fore in a Single Family Residential (SR) Zoned District located at 9873 Hwy. 87, Jeanerette, LA-Sec. 40 T13S R9E; -Parcel Id# 1875004036.00-10.57 Ac Tract being por of Rem por No. 11 ½ Home Place Pltn. of Pharr and Son situated in Sec. 40 T13S R9E Acq. 35A 237086. (Sub-1258)
There being no further business, Chairman Barry Druilhet adjourned the Public Hearing.
Chairman Barry Druilhet
St. Mary Parish Planning and Zoning Commission
Adv. May 24, 2024

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY
PARISH
RECREATION
DISTRICT #3
BAYOU VISTA COMMUNITY CENTER
1333 BELLVIEW STREET
P.O. BOX 635
PATTERSON, LA 70392
985-395-6552
The Board of Commissioners of the St. Mary Parish Recreation District #3 met in regular session on Monday, April 22, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in the meeting room at the Bayou Vista Community Center.
Members Pres-ent: Brian Head – Chairman, Lane Boudreaux – Vice Chairman, Dr. Jeffery Fitter, Eddie Gay, Calvin Johnson, Javon Charles
Employees of the District Present: Mark Richard – Facilities Manager, Angie Guillotte – Office Manager, Calley Williams – Activities Director
Secretary: Tyler Lambert
Guest: David Hill – St. Mary Parish Council, Melynda Webster, Leah Ruffin
Mr. Head called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Everyone present stood for the pledge of allegiance.
Board members reviewed the minutes from the February meeting. Mr. Charles mo- tioned to accept the minutes as written. Mr. John-son made a second to the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.
Board members reviewed the ac- counts payable re- port and the monthly budget comparison report. Mr. Charles made a motion to accept the report as is and pay the bills. Mr. Gay made a second to the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.
Mr. Charles made a motion to move the addenda items involving guests to the be- ginning of the meeting and allow the guests present to speak to the board. Melynda Webster spoke to the board about hosting a market and corn hold tournament at the community center over 4th of July weekend. Leah Ruffin gave the board an update on the upcoming youth basketball league.
Leah Ruffin ask-ed the board for dates available to host practices in the gym over the summer. After discussion, Mr. Gay made a motion to allow the league to have the gym on Mondays and Wednesday during the months of June and July after 5:00pm for a price of $25.00. Dr. Fitter offered a second to the motion. All were in favor. The motion carried.
Leah Ruffin also informed the board of an event she will be hosting at the community center. Food for Thought will be held June 2nd from 1-4 p.m.
Melynda Web-ster approached the board requesting to host an event at the community center consisting of a market and a corn hole tournament on July 5th and 6th. After discussion as to what the event would entail and how it would be run, a motion was made by Mr. Charles to allow the event to be hosted on the dates previously mentioned. A second was made by Dr. Fitter. Mr. Gay abstained from the vote; however, all other board members were in favor. The motion carried.
Angie Guillot gave the community center report. She informed the board of the rentals over the past month and an update on the up- coming events.
Mark Richard gave the manager/maintenance re- port. He informed the board that the tractor used for maintenance work around the property was experiencing some mechanical issues and needed repairs. Mr. Richard presented the board with a quote re- ceived to repair the tractor totaling $2,160.70. Dr. Fitter made a motion to approve the quote and get the necessary work done. Mr. Johnson made a second to the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.
Mr. Richard also presented a quote obtained from Acadian total security for repairs needed to the fire alarm system at the community center. The quote totaled $1,405.70. Mr. Charles made a motion to accept the quote and get the necessary work done. Mr. Boudreaux made a second to the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.
In old business, the board revisited the discussion on filling the vacant office in the community center now that the water district moved out. The board discussed possible tenants; however, no motion was made.
Mr. Head presented the board with a message he received from KQKI sales manager Brady Borel inquiring if the board planned to renew its contract to advertise with KQKI. Mr. Charles made a motion to renew the contract. A second was made by Mr. Boud-reaux. All were in favor and the motion carried.
Moving to new business, the board discussed the adoption of new milages. After much discussion, a motion was made by Mr. Charles to adopt 9.320 mills. A second was made by Mr. Johnson. Mr. Gay was not in favor of the motion; however, all other present board members were, and the motion carried.
Ms. Guillote and Ms. Williams presented to the board the idea of hosting a summer camp at the community center. After much discussion, Ms. Williams requested funding to purchase the necessary equipment and supplies needed to host the camp. Mr. Charles motioned to ap- prove $1,400.00 be allocated to the summer camp with an understanding that the board would be reimbursed using the registration funds collected from camp participants. Dr. Fitter made a second to the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.
With no further business to discuss, a motion to adjourn was made by Dr. Fitter. A second was made by Mr. Gay. All were in favor. The motion carried and the meeting was adjourned.
(S) Brian Head
Brian Head,
Chairman
Adv. May 24, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF FILING OF AP- PLICATION OF 1803 ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. FOR AP- PROVAL OF RE- VISIONS TO 1803’S WHOLESALE FORMULA RATE TARIFF, ADJUSTMENT CLAUSES, AND FORMULA RATE PLAN.
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 five (5) member co- operatives, namely Beauregard Electric Cooperative, Inc., Claiborne Electric Cooperative, Inc., Northeast Louisiana Power Cooperative, Inc., South Louisiana Electric Cooperative Association, and Washington-St. Tammany Electric Cooperative, Inc., (collectively, the “1803 Cooperatives” or the “Member Co- operatives”), who collectively provide electric service to their re- spective members in twenty-nine (29) parishes in Louisiana: Allen, As- sumption, Beauregard, Bienville, Calcasieu, Claiborne, East Carroll, Evangeline, Franklin, Jackson, Washington, Jefferson Davis, Lafourche, Lincoln, Madison, Morehouse, Oua- chita, Rapides, Richland, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Tensas, Terrebonne, Union, Vernon Webster, and West Carroll. 1803 has filed with the Louisiana Public Service Commission (the “LPSC”) a matter entitled “1803 Electric Co- operative, Inc., ex parte In re: Application for Approval of Revisions to Wholesale Formula Rate Tariff, Adjustment Clauses, and Formula Rate Plan,” (“Ap- plication”), which could lead to a future change in rates. The proposed revisions to the wholesale formula rate tariff, adjustment clauses, and formula rate plan are reflected in the filing to the LPSC.
Any comments or questions concerning this filing may be directed to the Louisiana Public Service Commission toll free at (800) 256-2397. Additionally, 1803’s Application may be viewed in the Records Division of the LPSC at the following address:
Records Division
602 North 5th Street, 12th Floor
Baton Rouge,
LA 70802
Telephone: (225) 342-3157
Adv. May 24, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE (DOLET HILLS SECURITIZA-TION)
NOTICE is hereby given, pursuant to Article IV, Sec-tion 21(D)(1) of the Louisiana Con-stitution, that on May 17, 2024, Cleco Power LLC (“Cleco Power”), an electric public utility supplying retail electric service to approximately 295,000 customers in twenty-four (24) parishes in the State of Louisiana through its retail business and supplying wholesale power in the State of Louisiana, filed with the Louisiana Public Service Commission (the “LPSC”), pursuant to Article IV, Section 21(D)(3) of the Louisiana Con-stitution and Title 45, Section 1271, et. seq. of the Louisiana Revised Statutes, an application (“Applica-tion”) requesting that the LPSC authorize a securitization financing transaction, through the issuance of approximately $305 million of Energy Transition Bonds, for the costs Cleco Power has incurred in connection with the retirement of Dolet Hills Power Station and the closure of its associated mines. The amount being fin-anced will include a restricted Energy Transition Reserve of approximately $37.8 million for costs related to the demolition and re- mediation of Dolet Hills Power Station and the mines. The amount being fin-anced also will include approximately up to $10 million in upfront bond issuance costs, plus additional future ongoing securitization fin- ancing costs. The twenty-four parishes in which Cleco Power provides service are: Acadia, Allen, Avoyelles, Beauregard, Cal-casieu, Catahoula, Desoto, Evangeline, Grant, Iberia, Jefferson Davis, Lasalle, Natchi-toches, Rapides, Red River, Sabine, St. Landry, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Tan-gipahoa, Vermilion, Vernon, and Wash-ington.
Cleco Power is requesting that these amounts des-cribed in the Ap- plication be recovered through Energy Transition Charges paid by Cleco Power’s customers. Cleco Pow-er requests that these Energy Transition Charges be determined by LPSC-approved rate schedules to implement the Energy Transition Charges. Because the actual revenue requirement will not be known until after the pricing of the Energy Tran-sition Bonds, it is only possible to estimate customer bills at this time. If the LPSC authorizes Cleco Power’s requests in the Application, the estimated monthly Energy Transition Charge for a residential bill at 1,000 kWh would be $3.78 per month, but it would be subject to an estimated surcredit reduction of $0.62 per month, for an estimated net monthly Energy Transition Charge of $3.16 per month.
Notice of Cleco Power’s Application will be published in the May 24, 2024, Official Bulletin of the LPSC. The proposed rate change will affect all parishes served by Cleco Power.
Cleco Power’s Application (including its proposed rate schedules) may be viewed in the Office of the LPSC in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and on the LPSC’s website (www.lpsc.louisiana.gov). Additionally, the LPSC may be contacted regarding questions or comments at (800) 256-2397.
Adv. May 24, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Sixteenth
Judicial District Court
——
PARISH OF
ST. MARY
——
STATE OF
LOUISIANA
PennyMac Loan Services, LLC
Vs. No. 137824 Div “B”
Terry Lee Adams and Jan Adams AKA Jan Blanchard Adams
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:
1. That certain lot or parcel of land together with all buildings and improvements thereon situated and the component parts thereof, and all rights, ways, privileges, prescriptions and servitudes thereto belonging or in anywise appertaining and all appurtenances thereof, lying and being situated in Berwick, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, being known designated and described as LOT 12, BLOCK A, RENWICK SUBDIVISION, PHASE I, as shown by reference to a plan of land prepared by Glenn E. Miller of Miller Engineers & Associates, Inc., P.L.S. No. 4661, Job No. 9683, dated February 2, 1999, recorded February 10, 1999, in St. Mary Parish COB 42-C, Entry No. 264648.
2. That certain lot or parcel of land together with all buildings and improvements thereon situated and the component parts thereof, and all rights, ways, privileges, prescriptions and servitudes thereto belonging or in anywise appertaining and all ap- purtenances thereof, lying and being situated in Berwick, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, being known designated and des-cribed as LOT 9 B, BLOCK A, RENWICK SUBDIVISION, PHASE I, as shown by reference to a plan of land prepared by Kenneth A. Lan-dry, RLS, dated February 9, 2002, said plan of land recorded in St. Mary Parish COB 44-V, page 438, Entry No. 276503; subject to restrictions, servitudes, rights-of-way and outstanding mineral rights of record affecting the property.
to satisfy the sum of THREE HUNDRED SEVENTY FOUR THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED FORTY THREE AND 63/100 ($374,143.63) DOLLARS, with interest thereon at 3.8750% per an- num from October 01, 2020, until paid; all expenses incurred 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 ap- plicable law, such as late charges, escrow advances for the payment of taxes and insurance, corporate advances, property appraisals, 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 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 26th day of June A.D., 2024, be- tween the legal hours commencing at 10 0’Clock A.M.
Sheriff’s Office
Parish of St. Mary, La.
Tuesday, the 7th day of May A.D., 2024.
GARY L.
DRISKELL,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
Adv. May 24 and June 19, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Sixteenth
Judicial District Court
——
PARISH OF
ST. MARY
——
STATE OF
LOUISIANA
Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC
Vs. No. 138129 Div “A”
Kyle Bailay Bellard A/K/A Kyle B. Bellard A/K/A Kyle
Bellard
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 lot or parcel of land together with all buildings and im- provements thereon situated and all rights, ways, privileges, prescriptions and servitudes thereto be- longing or in anywise appertaining and all appurtenances thereof, lying and being situated in Section 14, T16S, R12E, SWLD, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, being known designated and des-cribed as Tract “B, C, H, A, B” on a Plan of Land made by W. D. Stockman, C.E. and Surveyor, of date August 11, 1966, which is attached to an Act of Correction dated and recorded August 29, 1966 in St. Mary Parish COB 14-L, page 88, Entry No 130632. According to said plat the tract conveyed herein has a frontage of 65 feet on the South side of Columbus Avenue, and eastern boundary depth of 125 feet, a western boundary depth of 125.43 feet and a width across the rear of 54.64 feet. The parcel herein conveyed is a portion of Lot 19, Block II, Bayou Vista Subdivision, Addendum No. 1, the whole of this said lot as shown on and according to a plat of said subdivision made by Arthur A. DeFraites, Jr., C.E., dated May 13, 1963 and recorded in St. Mary Parish COB 13-J, Entry No. 122966.
to satisfy the sum of NINETY SIX THOUSAND FOUR HUNDRED FOUR AND 50/100 ($96,404.50) DOLLARS, balance due on Principal of Fixed Rate Note; subject to any credits, interest from February 1, 2023, until paid, at 3.625% 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 26th day of June A.D., 2024, be- tween the legal hours commencing at 10 0’Clock A.M.
Sheriff’s Office
Parish of St. Mary, La.
Friday, the 5th day of April A.D., 2024
GARY L.
DRISKELL,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
Adv. May 24 and June 19, 2024

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Jeremy Alford and David Jacobs: Baton Rouge mayor race will be a ballot highlight

Fri, 05/24/2024 - 6:00am
JEREMY ALFORD AND DAVID JACOBS

In what promises to be one of the hottest local races on the 2024 ballot, the leading Democratic candidates for East Baton Rouge mayor-president are splintering the region’s legislative delegation while testing the bonds of their own friendship, if such a thing even exists during an election cycle.
Moreover, the contest may become another Louisiana case study for how Republican voters can greatly influence outcomes in Democratic strongholds on the municipal level.
Ted James, a former state legislator aiming to become the next Red Stick CEO, said he doesn’t plan to sling mud in his race against incumbent Sharon Weston Broome. In fact, James said he met with Mayor Broome privately to let her know his plans. “I don’t think I have to go negative,” James said. “I still consider the mayor a friend. I still consider her an ally.” 
But Broome, who has built a political brand around Christian principles and pragmatic politics, said she found James’ announcement “disheartening.” After all, James co-chaired her first campaign for mayor and she supported his aspirations in politics and with the U.S. Small Business Administration, where he worked as a regional administrator before leaving to run for mayor. “As recently as two years ago, I was on his resume,” the mayor said. “Of course, this is America, and everybody can run for office.” 
Broome is seeking her third and final term as EBR’s mayor-president. She also served on the Metro Council and was the first woman to be named both speaker pro tem and president pro tem at the Capitol. 
James could have bided his time and run for an open seat in four years, but he said “Baton Rouge can’t afford to wait another four years” for change. He plans to make public safety an issue, and argued the administration has been ineffective at drawing down and utilizing federal dollars for housing. 
He said the Louisiana legislative auditor reported theft by a former employee and noncompliance with federal rules at the EBR Housing Authority, while Terry Jones, then City Hall reporter with The Advocate, tallied some $13.4 million in wasted or unspent federal housing grants. 
On the crime front, Broome said the parish has seen a 34% reduction in gun violence during the past two years, though there has been a spike in the early portion of this year. She pointed to a 14% pay raise for police officers as part of her administration’s efforts to “tackle [crime] head on.” 
Campaign money is the real eye-opener for insiders. For the first quarter of this year, James raised about $500,000, while Broome collected roughly $300,000. Broome’s campaign has highlighted donations from Republicans, including supporters of the St. George incorporation movement, to argue that James has abandoned his progressive values and Democratic voting record. “It shows his allegiance is going to be with those donors who represent special interests that are interested in segregating our city and moving their agenda into City Hall,” Broome said. 
James counters he has three times as many donors who gave less than $100, suggesting grassroots support. He said he worked across the aisle as a legislator and isn’t surprised that some Republicans would want to contribute.
Broome certainly has high-profile backers. Congressman Troy Carter endorsed her last month, and Broome said Senate President Pro Tem Regina Barrow is her campaign co-chair. James’ campaign counts Rep. Barbara Carpenter, Rep. Larry Selders and Rep. Vanessa Caston LaFleur among his legislative delegation supporters. 
The big question in the race now, said consultant and pollster John Couvillon, is whether a viable Republican will enter. EBR is increasingly Democratic, he said, and he expects much of the Democratic base to back the incumbent. But if James can eat into that base, while also cornering the Republican vote, “it’s game over for Mayor Broome, because she’s certainly not going to get 95% of the Black vote against a fellow Black Democrat,” Couvillon said. 
At least one Republican hoping to be that viable candidate is David Tatman, a lobbyist and former EBR school board president. While he has not made a public announcement, Tatman confirmed his intentions to LaPolitics and said he plans to make it official on July 4. 
Tatman (or any Republican) may face a difficult road, said Eddie Rispone, the Baton Rouge businessman who ran for governor against former Gov. John Bel Edwards in 2019. Rispone donated to James’ campaign. Baton Rouge is a Democratic city, Rispone said, though he added that the parish may become more Republican as Central, Zachary and St. George grow. In the meantime, Rispone believes James can appeal to Republican-leaning and independent voters. 
Woody Jenkins, who chairs the EBR Republican Party, said the race is winnable for the GOP, noting that the parish’s sheriff, assessor, clerk of court and coroner are all Republicans, as are the majority of the school board and Metro Council. Jenkins is putting together a committee to identify a candidate who can motivate the base while also tapping into the Democratic vote. He said a strong Republican could not only make the runoff but run first in November.
Plus, in December, the electorate likely would be smaller and have a larger proportion of Republicans. “I don’t see it as a long shot, but a lot of people would,” Jenkins adds. 
There will be a “plethora” of local offices on the ballot this year, added Joel Watson with the Secretary of State’s office. The first round of those elections will also coincide with the presidential vote in November, which typically sees turnout of around 70%, Watson said. (Don’t forget: 2024 will feature a 10-day early voting period for the presidential election, which was part of the emergency election plan in 2020 and was made permanent by legislation passed in 2021.)
While EBR is the largest Louisiana jurisdiction with a mayoral race, “quite a few” cities with a population roughly between 8,000 and 16,000 in population will hold elections, said Barney Arceneaux, the new executive director of the Louisiana Municipal Association. That includes Arceneaux’s hometown of Gonzales, where he served four terms as mayor before stepping down to join the LMA this year. 
Qualifying for the November ballot is July 17 through July 19.
For more Louisiana political news, visit www. LaPolitics.com or follow Alford on Twitter @ LaPoliticsNow.

Lack of credit history may limit options for consumers

Fri, 05/24/2024 - 6:00am

About 313,000 Louisiana residents are “credit invisible,” with credit histories so limited they have no credit scores, according to a survey by BadCredit.org.
According to the recent study, a whopping 25 million Americans are dealing with this issue. This means that they have been denied access to financial products or housing, or have faced higher costs due to their lack of sufficient credit history.
Maryland has the highest proportion of credit invisible residents at 746,480 people, while Idaho has the lowest at 43,450.
Louisianans who are credit invisible often have to make some serious financial sacrifices to get their hands on loans or credit.
Nearly one-third of those surveyed said they had to resort to high-interest options because they couldn’t access traditional credit. 
Some said they had to find a cosigner, make bigger down payments, cut back on spending or delay big purchases.
Others said they were stuck with sky-high interest rates or shorter repayment terms.
And what about emergencies? That’s where things can get really tough.
One-third of the credit invisibles surveyed had to borrow money from loved ones, while one-quarter of respondents said they relied solely on their savings. Some survey participants said they even had to sell their belongings, put off important services or take on side gigs to make ends meet. A small but significant group said they turned to payday loans or cash advances, which can be a slippery slope.
Interestingly, when asked what’s worse – having bad credit or no credit – most people (69%) said bad credit is the bigger headache.
BadCredit.org Senior Editor Ashley Fricker sums it up:  “Credit invisibility is a silent struggle that affects millions of Americans, limiting their access to financial opportunities and hindering their ability to build a stable future. Our study sheds light on this critical issue.
"We hope that policymakers and financial institutions work together to find solutions that promote financial inclusion and empower those who have been left behind by the traditional credit system.”
BadCredit.org has put together some useful tips:
— Apply for a secured credit card. When you obtain a secured credit card, its credit limit is typically backed by a cash deposit you make upfront. This can help you build credit through timely payments without spending beyond your means.
—Obtain a credit-builder loan: This financial tool is offered by many local financial institutions.
The amount you borrow for the loan is typically held in an account while you make monthly payments and build credit.
— Don’t apply for too much credit at once: Each time you apply for credit, it results in a hard inquiry on your credit report, which can temporarily lower your score. Space out your applications and apply strategically.
—Pay your bills on time, every time: If you establish an account that reports to credit bureaus, late payments can negatively affect your credit score. Set up automatic payments or reminders to keep yourself on track.
—Keep your credit utilization low.
Try to use no more than 30% of any available credit you have across all your cards and loans combined.
This shows lenders that you’re responsible with credit.

 

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