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The following are the radio dispatch logs from the Morgan City Police Department. To report unlawful or suspicious activity, call the Police Department at 985-380-4605.
Tuesday, April 16
6:23 a.m. 7200 block of La. 182; Welfare concern.
6:26 a.m. 500 block of Federal Avenue; Alarm.
8:03 a.m. 900 block of Second Street; Animal complaint.
9:01 a.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Complaint.
10:01 a.m. 1000 block of Ninth Street; Suspicious person/vehicle.
10:41 a.m. 10th block of Glenwood Street; Welfare concern.
10:56 a.m. Brashear Avenue; Vehicle accident.
11:34 a.m. Colonial Plaza; Complaint.
11:48 a.m. Florence/Fifth streets; Complaint.
12:35 p.m. 2400 block of Tiger Drive; Vehicle accident.
1:48 p.m. 300 block of Laurel Street; Animal complaint.
2:36 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Criminal damage to property.
2:49 p.m. 800 block of Brashear Avenue; Hit and run.
2:56 p.m. 700 block of Myrtle Street; Criminal damage to property.
3:05 p.m. 500 block of Levee Road; Juvenile problems.
3:43 p.m. 800 block of Fourth Street; Removal of subject.
5:53 p.m. Chitimacha; Assistance.
6:12 p.m. 200 block of Fourth Street; Alarm.
7:28 p.m. Sixth/General Patton streets; Vehicle accident.
7:54 p.m. Sixth/Arenz streets; Criminal damage to property.
8:43 p.m. 900 block of First Street; Fire.
8:51 p.m. 600 block of Tunica Street/Chitimacha; Assistance.
8:55 p.m. 300 block of Laurel Street; Medical.
9:48 p.m. 100 block of Chirpy’s Lane; Assistance.
9:55 p.m. 7000 block of Railroad Avenue; Animal complaint.
10:15 p.m. 400 block of Greenwood Street; Animal complaint.
Wednesday, April 17
4:28 a.m. Morgan City Area; Building checks.

PUBLIC NOTICE
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL OF THE
PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA
MARCH 27, 2023
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, Dean Adams, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D.
The Invocation was pronounced by Mr. Ina and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Rev. Mathews.
Mr. Olander moved that the reading of the First Regular Meeting, March 13, 2024, be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Mr. Davis seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Ina requested to move up Item 13B, “Proclamation congratulating the Franklin Senior High Hornets Boys Basketball Team, 2024 Non-Select Division IV State Champions and declaring March 10, 2024,” as “Franklin High School Hornet Basketball Team/Garnet & Gold Day.” Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Ina moved that the following Proclamation be adopted. The Council seconded the motion, which carried by the following 11-0-0-0 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Mathews, Ina, Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, and Hidalgo
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, on behalf of the St. Mary Parish Council and all the citizens of our community, to congratulate the Franklin Senior High School Hornet Boys Basketball Team, as the “2024 State Champions;” and
WHEREAS, the St. Mary Parish Council recognizes the commitment, dedication, and leadership of Coach Tremayne “Q” Johnson to the students and athletes of Franklin Senior High School and our community; and
WHEREAS, the St. Mry Parish recognizes the commitment, dedication, and leadership of Principal Natasha Jackson to the students and athletes of Franklin Senior High School and our community which led to her being named the 2023 Principal of the Year; and
WHEREAS, the Franklin Senior High School Boys Basketball Team has not been State Champions since 1958; and
WHEREAS, the Franklin Senior High Hornet Basketball Team has played with honor, integrity, and professionalism throughout the 2023-2024 season; and
WHEREAS, the Franklin Senior High School Hornet Boys Basketball Team and coaching staff are great ambassadors representing the St. Mary Parish area; and
WHEREAS, St. Mary Parish de- clares that March 10, 2024, as Franklin High Senior School Hornet Boys Basketball Team/Garnet & Gold Day within St. Mary Parish; and
WHEREAS, the Franklin Senior High School Hornet Boys Basketball Team continued their drive, dedication, and commitment to their teammates, coaching staff, student body, and community to immortalize themselves in the history books of Franklin.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Mary Parish Council do hereby congratulate the Franklin Senior High School Hornet Boys Basketball team and proclaim March 10, 2024, as:
“Hornet Basketball Team/Garnet & Gold Day”
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 27th day of March 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
Chief Gerald Price, St. Mary Parish Fire Association President, appeared before the Council to discuss the funding cuts to emergency services. He stated that he addressed his concerns at the Advisory Budget Finance Committee meeting earlier.
Parish President, Sam Jones stated that it is important to balance and approve the budget.
In response to Rev. Mathews’ in- quiry relative to replacing Chief Administrative Officer, Jean Paul Bourg, who is re- signing, President Jones stated that he and Finance Director Paul Governale will still be in the office. He stated that the Parish President has authority to do certain things.
Several Council Members discussed procedure(s) to fill the Chief Administrative Officer’s vacancy.
In response to several Council Members’ inquiries’, Legal Counsel Morgan Guillory Bodin stated that the Home Rule Charter does not address procedure to fill the Chief Administrative Officer’s (CAO) vacancy, it only states that the Parish President has to appoint a CAO that has to be approved by the Council.
Several Council Members discussed concerns relative to the im- portance of immediately appointing an interim CAO to run day to day operations and address personnel issues.
After lengthy discussion, Rev. Mathews moved to expand the agenda to appoint an interim Chief Administrative Officer.
Mrs. Bodin ex- plained that, according to the Home Rule Charter, the Council cannot appoint a CAO.
Rev. Mathews moved to recommend to President Jones to appoint Paul Governale as interim CAO.
As per President Jones’ inquiry, Mrs. Bodin ex- plained the term “interim” as it relates to appointing a Chief Administrative Officer.
After further discussion, Rev. Mathews withdrew his motion to expand the agenda to appoint an interim CAO.
Rev. Mathews moved to recommend that President Jones appoint Paul Governale as interim CAO for 30 days, effective March 28, 2024 at 4:30 p.m. Mr. Ina seconded the motion.
President Jones stated again that he needs to understand the definition of interim and also needs time to discuss it with Mr. Governale.
Per several Council Members’ inquiry, Mr. Governale stated his concerns as interim CAO and willingness to help the Parish but asked that his current position stay va- cant as Director of Finance. He also informed that he would like to re- turn as the Director of Finance when a full time CAO is appointed.
Dr. Rink recommended that a motion be made to appoint Paul Governale as interim CAO for a period of thirty days, terminating at thirty days with the recommendation that a permanent CAO be appointed, with an extension of an additional thirty days if the vacancy is not filled.
Rev. Mathews moved to expand the agenda to allow President Jones to appoint an interim CAO. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
After discussion, President Jones declined to appoint an interim CAO at this time. He stated that he needs to have discussion with legal counsel and will continue to have conversations with Mr. Governale and others relative to appointing a CAO.
Mrs. Hidalgo in- formed that in 2018 there was discussion that Courthouse security was needed at the Council meetings. She also stated that she was told last week that security was no longer needed. She informed that she spoke with Sheriff Gary Driskell and discussed the importance of continuing security at Council meetings. Therefore, she requested to place discussion relative to continuing Courthouse security on the April 10, 2024 agenda.
Per Mr. Hebert’s inquiry, Mr. Bourg stated that the administration was not involved in discussion or the decision to stop Courthouse security at Council meetings.
Chief Administrative Officer, Jean Paul Bourg announced his resignation as St. Mary Parish’s Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). He thanked the Council and previous and current Administration for having faith in him to serve as CAO and stated that it was a very difficult decision to make.
Tammy Luke presented the following items as recommended by the Planning & Zoning Commission at their March 18, 2024, Regular Meeting:
a. Recommend Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Approval
Name: GIS En- gineering
16878 West Main St.
Cut Off, LA 70345
Address: 10501 Hwy. 182, Amelia, LA
Parcel Id #-3494221002.00- Sec. 46 T16S R13E.
33.78 AC POR 44.80 AC TRACT B PER PLAT 251 312968 SITUATED IN SEC 46 T16S R13E ACQ 126 295760
Zoned: Heavy Industrial (HI) Zoned Districts
PURPOSE: as shown on a plat titled “Survey Plat Showing a Lot Line Shift of Block 3, Lot 2, Belonging to Blaine C. Aucoin, and Tract “B” Belonging to Sidney B. Moffett, into Lot 2-A and Remainder of Tract “B” being in Section 46, T16S-R13E, St. Mary Parish” as drawn by GIS Engineering, LLC, dated January 12, 2024.”
Mr. Adams recommends Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Approval for:
Name: GIS En- gineering
16878 West Main St.
Cut Off, LA 70345
Address: 10501 Hwy. 182, Amelia, LA
Parcel Id #-3494221002.00- Sec. 46 T16S R13E.
33.78 AC POR 44.80 AC TRACT B PER PLAT 251 312968 SITUATED IN SEC 46 T16S R13E ACQ 126 295760
Zoned: Heavy Industrial (HI) Zoned Districts
PURPOSE: as shown on a plat titled “Survey Plat Showing a Lot Line Shift of Block 3, Lot 2, Belonging to Blaine C. Au- coin, and Tract “B” Belonging to Sidney B. Moffett, into Lot 2-A and Remainder of Tract “B” being in Section 46, T16S-R13E, St. Mary Parish” as drawn by GIS Engineering, LLC, dated January 12, 2024.”
Rev. Mathews seconded the motion, which carried.
Dr. Rink reminded the Council that Hospital Service District No. 1, Bayou Bend Health System, has invited the Council and President Jones to attend an executive session on March 28, 2024 at 5:15 p.m. to discuss financial challenges of Labor and Delivery.
Mr. Olander in- troduced the following Ordinances:
ORDINANCE
NO.
An ordinance declaring certain Public Property surplus and authorizing the sale of same.
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OF- FICE
ORDINANCE
NO.
An Ordinance establishing the Personnel Policies for St. Mary Parish Government.
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OF- FICE
Dr. Rink referred Item 13A, “Resolution of respect in memory of Honorable Blaise W. Smith, St. Mary Parish Sheriff,” to April 10, 2024 agenda.
Mr. Olander moved that the following Proclamation and Resolutions be adopted. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried by the following 11-0-0-0 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Ina, Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Du- hon, Adams, Rink, Hidalgo, and Mathews
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the Louisiana Open Housing Act (Louisiana R.S. 51:2605-22614) prohibits discrimination on housing because of race or color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or handicap, and
WHEREAS, St. Mary Parish has dedicated itself to bettering efforts to realize Fair Housing for the citizens of St. Mary Parish, and
WHEREAS, St. Mary Parish de- sires to increase the public’s awareness regarding Fair Housing and the Louisiana Open Housing Act, and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the St. Mary Parish Council, hereby proclaim the month of April 2024, as
“FAIR HOUSING MONTH”
in St Mary Parish, State of Louisiana.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 27th day of March 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
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, as amended, state that “…no person shall be subjected to discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin in the sale, rental, or advertising of dwellings, in the provision of brokerage services, or in the availability of residential real estate-related transaction including lenders, builders, and homeowners’ insurance companies…,” and
WHEREAS, the State of Louisiana passed the Louisiana Equal Housing Opportunity Act which allows the Louisiana At- torney General’s Office to enforce fair housing laws, and
WHEREAS, St. Mary Parish de- sires to promote Fair Housing practices throughout the community and in particular regard to those programs providing housing assistance to area residents.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the St. Mary Parish Council, hereby proclaim the month of April 2024, as
FAIR HOUSING MONTH”
in St Mary Parish, Louisiana in order to raise public awareness about the requirements of the Fair Housing Law.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 27th day of March 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
RESOLUTION
BE IT RESOLV-ED, that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby adopt and approve the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire for St. Mary Parish as completed for year ending December 31, 2023.
ADOPTED AND APPROVED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 27th day of March 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
RESOLUTION
BE IT RESOLV-ED that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby adopt and approve the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire for St. Mary Parish Sales & Use Tax Department as completed for year ending December 31, 2023.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 27th day of March 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
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, since the beginning of the operation of the control structure at Old River, current management of the Atchafalaya Basin Floodway has resulted in a filling in of the basin, which has reduced the capacity of the basin. This has resulted in higher water elevations in the basin and higher elevation of the waters against the levees along either side of the basin, placing stresses on those levees and without a remedy to the status, this stress upon the levees will put the residents living along the levee at risk, and
WHEREAS, certain levee segments are not yet constructed to the elevation required to safely pass the project flood as defined by the 2010 flow line study. Before any operational changes can be considered, these deficiencies must be addressed, and
WHEREAS, while the Atchafalaya Basin Floodway is intended to safely deliver flood waters to the Gulf of Mexico, increasingly, these waters are impacting back-water areas on a more significant manner. Associated channels are capturing more of the flow and spreading flood threats outside the levee system. Additional features will need to be constructed to mitigate back-water flood effects due to the construction of the Atchafalaya Basin, and
WHEREAS, levees constructed West of Berwick currently provide some protection to the back-water flooding threat however, since these levees are constructed along the Gulf coast, with minimal protection from storm surge, we believe these levees will need to be raised to prevent overtopping from storm surge and damages because of this. If they were to be overtopped and damaged, they will not be there to prevent River flooding, and
WHEREAS, sea-level rise and/or subsidence will also continue to provide risk to the Levees that are a component of the Atchafalaya Basin Levee and elevations will need to be raised to deal with this threat.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby support the comments of the St. Mary Levee District relative to the Comprehensive Management Study.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 27th day of March 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
OLD BUSINESS:
A. Referred from the January 24, 2024, Regular Council Meeting- Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Fire Protection District No. 1 (Cypremort Point) – 1 Vacancy
Dawn Schouest
Mr. Olander moved that Dawn Schouest be ap- pointed to Fire Protection District No. 1. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
B. Referred from the February 26, 2024, Regular Council Meeting- Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Gravity Drainage District No. 6 (Amelia area) – 1 Vacancy
Larry J. Aucoin – Present Member
Mr. Duhon mov-ed that Larry J. Aucoin be reappointed to Gravity Drainage District No. 6. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
C. Referred from the March 13, 2024, Regular Council Meeting – Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
St. Mary Parish Water and Sewer Commission No. 5 (Four Corners/Glencoe) –
6 Vacancies
Sandra E. Lockett – Present Member, Merker Broussard, Sr. – Present Member, Roy C. Louviere, Bettye J. Tillman, Virginia Sutton – Present Member, Nekesia Bowie
Lisa Morgan informed that a late application was received after the deadline.
Rev. Mathews moved that this item be deferred to the April 10, 2024 agenda.
There being no further business, Mr. Adams moved for adjournment. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
S/G LISA C.
MORGAN
Lisa C. Morgan,
Clerk
Adv. April 17, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the following entitled ordinance was introduced at a meeting of the St. Mary Parish Council, State of Louisiana (the “Parish Council”), on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, and laid over for publication of notice:
PROPOSED ORDINANCE
Ordinance amending and re-enacting Ordinance No. 2351 adopting the 2024 Combined Budgets of Revenues and Expenditures for the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana.
NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Council will meet on Wednesday, May 8, 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 ordinance.
/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. April 17, 2024

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVISORY BUDGET/FINANCE
COMMITTEE REPORT
MARCH 27, 2024
FRANKLIN,
LOUISIANA
5:00 P.M.
The Advisory Budget/Finance Committee met on this date with Chairman Craig Mathews presiding and the following members present: J Ina, Rodney Olander, David W. Hill, Leslie “Les” Rulf, Jr., Patrick J. Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark A. Du- hon, Dean S. Adams, Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D., and Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo.
Also present were Parish President Sam Jones, Chief Administrative Officer Jean Paul Bourg, and Director of Finance Paul Governale.
The Invocation was pronounced by Mr. Ina and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Adams.
Almetra Franklin, St. Mary Community Action Agency CEO, ap- peared before the Council to discuss the importance of continued funding from St. Mary Parish Government. She expounded on the services they offer to citizens of St. Mary Parish.
Several Council Members discussed the rural transit program and lack of funding that municipalities contribute to St. Mary Community Action Agency.
Parish President, Sam Jones stated that after having a discussion with Mrs. Franklin, their funding will only be reduced by twenty five percent.
Rev. Mathews explained the budget process and stated that this committee will make recommendations to the Parish Council for a final decision.
Wendell Bogan, St. Mary Community Action Agency Board Member appeared before the Council to inform of the 22 programs they offer, including transportation and food services.
Chuck Autin, Emergency Aid Center appeared before the Council to inform of the services they offer to citizens, including help with food and utilities. He thanked the Parish for their continued help.
Parish President, Sam Jones stated that funding to the Emergency Aid Center will only be re- duced by twenty five percent.
In reference to President Jones’ inquiry, Mr. Autin stated that they do not receive funding from the City of Franklin or any other municipalities. He did inform that they receive some funding from United Way.
Edward Smith, 911 Communications District ap- peared before the Council to inform of the services they provide to St. Mary Parish. He ex- pounded on his concerns relative to rental fees to occupy the Parish owned building in Morgan City. He stated that there are four other entities in the building that do not pay rent.
Per Mr. Ina’s inquiry, Mr. Smith stated that the other entities that occupy space in that building are the Public Health Unit, Juvenile Court for Morgan City, and two other entities.
Chief Administrative Officer, Jean Paul Bourg explained that instead of providing funding to the Health Unit, the agreement with the State is that the Parish provide office space for them. He expounded on past agreements with 911 Communications District and up- grades provided by the Parish, including improvements, maintenance, and insurance expenses. He also stated for the record that the Parish does not have reserves.
Several Council Members discussed 911 Communications services, their budget, funding source, intake of funds, matching funds, and fire department dispatch charges. President Jones requested that Mr. Smith provide the fund balance and how much they take in and submit it to the Council when the ordinance is on the agenda for adoption.
Gerald Price, Fire Protection District No. 7, Bayou Vista Fire Chief appeared before the Council as Fire Association representative for all Fire Stations in St. Mary Parish. He expounded on the Fire Truck Allocation, budget cut effect, and the process of purchasing a fire truck. He expounded on millages relating to fire services and the importance of receiving the Fire Truck Allocation.
John MacDougall, Morgan City’s Assistant Fire Chief and Fire Association Member, appeared before the Council to discuss how budget cuts will affect levels of service they provide. He expounded on his operating budget.
OLD BUSINESS:
Referred from the Regular Meeting March 13, 2024 - Rev. Mathews to request an allocation of $60,000 from Wards 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, and 10 3/10% Sales Tax Fund to Recreation District No. 5 relative to equipment up- grades to West St. Mary Civic Center (Fire Suppression System deposit and Air Conditioner Unit Replacement 1 of 3).
Rev. Mathews explained that there are dedicated funds in the budget and specific uses for revenue. He expounded on the 3/10% Sales Tax Fund’s specific uses, road bonds, cash flow, and allocation specifications. He suggested President Jones and Administration work with the Council to create a payment allocation/schedule to allow payment over a period of time for the $60,000 allocation request.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. Review and discuss proposed amendments to the 2024 Budget.
Rev. Mathews informed of the re- vised 2024 Anticipated Budget Adjustments spreadsheet that was handed out to the Council by President Jones and Administration and the Fire Departments and Districts spreadsheet that Mr. Adams handed out to the Council.
Mr. Adams stated that the fund balance is not a true balance, it is what should be there. He suggested creating an ordinance to separate funding for each district in the 3/10% Sales Tax Fund.
Several Council Members discussed the 3/10% Sales Tax Fund relative to specific and appropriate uses of the 3/10% Sales Tax Fund and specific and appropriate uses of the General Fund. They also discussed the differences between the original Budget Adjustments/Reduction and the Budget Adjustments that was handed out to- night.
After discussion, Mr. Hill moved to not recommend to the Parish Council, to approve the 2024 Anticipated Budget Adjustments and Additional Anticipated Adjustments. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion.
Several Council Members discussed funding and grass cutting budgeted allocations for Recreation District No. 7 (Centerville/Verdunville area), the first 25% fund reduction to monthly allocations, the additional 25% reduction, and expenses. They further discussed the 25% reduction that occurred two (2) years ago, when services were not being used, due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.
After discussion, the vote to reject recommendation to the Parish Council to approve the 2024 Anticipated Budget Ad- justments and Additional Anticipated Adjustments passed by a 6-5-0-0 all in favor vote. Those voting yes were Rev. Mathews, Mr. Ina, Mr. Olander, Mr. Hill, Mr. Hebert, and Mr. Davis. Those voting no were Mrs. Hidalgo, Dr. Rink, Mr. Rulf, Mr. Duhon, and Mr. Adams.
B. Discussion of acquisition of land at Verdunville Park within Recreation District No. 7 of St. Mary Parish.
Rev. Mathews informed that there is a playground area adjacent to the Alternative School in Verdunville that is owned by the St. Mary Parish School. Discussion was had relative to the Parish or Recreation District No. 7 acquiring the property in order to obtain grant funding for repairs and improvements.
After discussion, Mr. Adams moved to recommend to the Parish Council to send a letter to the St. Mary Parish School Board in reference to acquiring the land. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
Per President Jones’ inquiry, Rev. Mathews ex- plained that the action was to reject recommendation to the Parish Council to approve the revised 2024 Anticipated Budget Adjustments and Additional Anticipated Ad- justments. Mr. Hill also informed, to not cut funding to the recreation and fire departments.
Rev. Mathews clarified that the revised 2024 Anticipated Budget Ad- justments and Additional Anticipated Adjustments will not be recommended to the Parish Council for approval.
There being no further business, Mr. Hill moved for adjournment. Mr. Ina seconded the motion, which carried.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED,
S/G CRAIG MATHEWS
CRAIG MATHEWS,
CHAIRMAN
ADVISORY BUDGET/FINANCE COMMITTEE
Adv. April 17, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
PROCEEDINGS OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COMMISSION-ERS OF THE MORGAN CITY HARBOR AND TERMINAL DISTRICT
March 11, 2024
The Board of Commissioners (“Board”) of the Morgan City Har-bor and Terminal District (“District”) met in regular session at the Dis-trict’s office at 7327 Highway 182, Morgan City, Louisiana on March 11, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. Pete Orlando, Presi-dent, convened the meeting with Com-missioners, Deborah Garber, Joseph Cain, Steven Cornes, Matthew Tycer, Troy Lombardo, Adam Mayon and Matthew Glover in attendance. Ben Adams was absent. Also present in the meeting were Tori Henry, Office Man-ager; Cindy Cut-rera, Economic De- velopment Man-ager; Michael Knobloch, Knob-loch Professional Services; Gerard Bourgeois, Board Attorney; Tim Connell, U. S. Army Corps of En- gineers; Lieu-tenant Jenelle Piche and Timothy Spence, United States Coast Guard (“USCG”); Philip Chauvin, T. Baker Smith; Bill Blanchard, GIS Engineering; Councilmen Louis Tamporello, City of Morgan City; Councilman Jimmy Davis, St. Mary Parish; along with members of the general public.
The meeting was called to order and the presence of a quorum was noted. Troy Lom-bardo led the invocation, and the Pledge of Alle-giance was recited.
It was moved by Mr. Mayon and seconded by Mr. Cornes that the minutes of the special meeting of February 8, 2024 be approved and adopted, with said motion carrying unanimously.
It was moved by Mr. Cornes that the report of re- ceipts and disbursements for the month of February, 2024 be received and accepted and that all invoices presented to the Board for the month of February, 2024 be paid. Mr. Tycer seconded that motion, which carried unanimously.
Timothy Connell reported that: (i) surveys are being taken monthly now to make sure we are showing the channel really is open; (ii) we are fortunate to have financial reserves to keep dredges working as needed; (iii) they have modified the Dredge Texas contract to increase dredging hours; (iii) we were awarded $16.5 million in FY25 President’s budget; (iv) phase ii to complete full project dimensions over all reaches on Bayous Chene, Boeuf and Black will be awarded in September; and (iv) surveys were done at Stouts Pass to see if the reported grounding was in the Channel or outside.
Lieutenant Piche reported: (i) 1,897 total transits in February through the VTS zone, at an average of 66 per day; and (ii) we were under high water restrictions from February 11th through February 29th but those restrictions have since been released.
Michael Knob-loch reported that: (i) our capital outlay requests will be presented be- fore committee soon; and (ii) we will be requesting funding from the Louisiana Depart-ment of Agriculture and Forestry Resilient Food Sy- stems Infrastruc-ture grant and Port Infrastructure Development (PIDP) grant, with the application due May 10th. It was moved by Mr. Tycer and seconded by Mr. Mayon that the following resolution be submitted for $6,400,000 and be matched by $1,600,000 of Port funds for “Phase 4 – Concrete Cargo Transloading Area and Rail Extension Project”, which resolution was un- animously adopted.
RESOLUTION
BE IT RESOLV-ED, that the Board of Commissioners of the Morgan City Harbor and Ter-minal District does hereby authorize and support the submission of its proposed funding request entitled “Phase 4 – Concrete Cargo Trans-loading Area and Rail Extension Project” to the US Department of Transportation’s (USDOT’s) “FY 2024 Port Infra-structure Develop-ment Program” (PIDP) Grant Program. In addition, since the project totals $8,000,000, the MCHTD requests $6,400,000 from the FY 2024 PIDP program and agrees to provide a local, non-federal match of $1,600,000. If fully-awarded, the project will complete Phase 4 of the port District’s informal “Port of Morgan City Ter-minal Facility In- frastructure Im- provement Master Plan.”
Philip Chauvin presented Sealevel Construction’s Payment Applica-tion No. 13 in the amount of $12,722.08 with Ms. Garber moving for payment, seconded by Mr. Tycer and carried unanimously; and (ii) balancing Change Order No. 2 of an underrun of ($5,508.34), which was moved by Mr. Mayon, seconded by Mr. Cornes and carried unanimously. He also reported that: (i) we are in the clear lien period on the East Dock, both punch items were completed, and he is working on close out reports; and (ii) they are still waiting on the NEEPA process to be completed and a Corps permit for the West Dock.
Cindy Cutrera reported that: (i) she learned from Charles Brit-tingham that the House and the Senate kept the $62.5 million in the FY24 Presi-dent’s budget; (ii) on April 17th we will be hosting our annual hurricane preparedness meeting; (iii) she attended the Red River Valley Asso-ciation Conference where she served in a panel discussion with MARAD, DOTD and Red River Ports and was also able to visit with Corps officials from Vicksburg; (iv) Mac gave Colonel Jones, Mike Stack and Tim Connell from the Corps New Orleans Dis-trict a tour of in- dustrial areas in our District, where they prepared a video and shared on Facebook; and (v) several commissioners and staff attended both Lower Mississippi River Study public meetings on March 7th where Mr. Wade gave a brief comment, but a more detailed comment will be submitted prior to the April 2nd deadline.
Gerard Bour-geois presented: (i) a modified engineering agreement between the Dis-trict and GIS as a result of delay in funding. Mr. Cor-nes moved to authorize Mr. Or- lando to execute said contract, which was seconded by Mr. Tycer and carried unanimously; (ii) drydock assignments from Port of New Orleans to the District and bareboat chartered to Bollinger. Mr. Ty- cer moved to authorize Mr. Orlando to execute said assignment(s), which were seconded by Mr. Lombardo and carried unanimously; and (iii) servitude agreements between the District and Bollinger Ship-yards Lockport for dredging and bulkheading, subject to LED requirements. Mr. Cornes moved to authorize the following resolutions and that Mr. Orlando be authorized to execute said agreements, which were seconded by Mr. Mayon and carried unanimously.
RESOLUTION
A resolution authorizing the Morgan City Har-bor and Terminal District (“District”) to enter into a Ser-vitude Agreement with Bollinger Shipyards Lock-port, LLC.
BE IT RESOLV-ED that Pete J. Orlando, Presi-dent, be authorized and directed to execute on behalf of the Morgan City Har-bor and Terminal District (“Dis-trict”), a Servitude Agreement with Bollinger Ship-yards Lockport, LLC. whereby Bollinger Ship-yards Lockport, LLC. grants to the District a servitude, on, over, under and across, the lands described therein, for use by the District, their representatives, agents and contractors, to dredge certain water bottoms, and for such other purposes as may be required in connection with said works.
BE IT FUR-THER RESOLVED Pete J. Orlando, President, be authorized and directed to do any and all act and things necessary, proper, or that may be required to carry out and accomplish the transactions contemplated with regards to the above mentioned servitude.
RESOLUTION
A resolution authorizing the Morgan City Har-bor and Terminal District (“District”) to enter into a Ser-vitude Agreement with Bollinger Shipyards Lock-port, LLC.
BE IT RESOLV-ED that Pete J. Orlando, Presi-dent, be authorized and directed to execute on behalf of the Morgan City Har-bor and Terminal District (“Dis-trict”), a Servitude Agreement with Bollinger Ship-yards Lockport, LLC. whereby Bollinger Ship-yards Lockport, LLC. grants to the District a servitude, on, over, under and across, the lands described therein, for use by the District, their representatives, agents and contractors, to construct, maintain, repair, operate and establish a bulkhead system for bank protection, and for such other purposes as may be required in connection with said works.
BE IT FUR-THER RESOLVED Pete J. Orlando, President, be authorized and directed to do any and all act and things necessary, proper, or that may be required to carry out and accomplish the transactions contemplated with regards to the above mentioned servitude.
With there being no further business to come before the Board, it was moved by Mr. Mayon and seconded by Mr. Lombardo that the meeting was adjourned.
Attest:
———————
Steven W. Cornes,
Secretary
Adv. April 17, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
A PUBLIC
AUCTION
THURSDAY, MAY 2, 2024 AT 1:00PM
SURPLUS
MOVABLE PROPERTY FROM ST MARY PARISH SHERIFF’S OFFICE
LOCATION: Manheim
Lafayette
1611 St. Mary Street
Scott, LA 70583
The St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office is desiring to sell surplus movable property at a public auction. All items are sold “as is” and the seller reserves the right to reject any and all bids and remove said item of movable property from sale.
For more information, contact Cpt. Bart Lange, Fleet Manager @ (985) 509-0010 or
Louis Ashley @.337-578-3932
Auction
conducted by:
MANHEIM LAFAYETTE
1611 St. Mary Street, Scott, LA 70583
(337) 237-5620
LISTING: www.stmaryso.com & https://www.manheim.com/publicauctions/sales.do
INSPECTION: Public Buyers can inspect the inventory beginning the morning of the sale up until sale time.
TERMS: Cash, Cashier’s Checks, Money Order. No personal or company checks without a Bank Letter of Guarantee valid for 15 banking days after the auction
Items to be auctioned: Minimum Bid
2009 Ford Crown Vic, 2FAHP71V89X139069: $200
2009 Ford C/V 4.6L, 2FAHP71V89X144305: $200
2010 Ford C/V 4.6L, 2FABP7BVXAX132486: $200
2011 Ford C/V 4.6L, 2FABP7BV6BX122443: $200
2010 Ford C/V 4.6L, 2FABP7BV9AX109877: $200
2011 Ford C/V 4.6L, 2FABP7BV5BX128976: $200
2008 Ford C/V 4.6L, 2FAFP71V18X172890: $200
2008 Ford C/V 4.6L, 2FAFP71V08X151058: $200
2008 Ford Crown Vic, 2FAFP71V18X145138: $200
2008 Ford C/V 4.6L, 2FAFP71V28X154737: $200
2011 Ford Crown Vic, 2FABP7BV2BX148893: $200
2006 Chev Trailblazer, 1GNDT13S56214 4885: $200
2006 Ford Crown Vic, 2FAFP71W76X124963: $200
Adv. April 10 and 17, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR RFP
The Louisiana Energy & Power Authority located at 210 Venture Way, Lafayette, LA 70507 will be accepting RFPs until 5PM on May 6, 2024 for the decommissioning cost study of LEPA Unit No. 1 Combined Cycle plant in Morgan City, LA. For a copy of the RFP, please call the LEPA office at (337) 269-4046 or email David Bergeron at dbergeron@lepa.com.
Adv. April 10, 17 and 24, 2024
PUBLIC NOTICE
SPECIAL NOTICE OF THE ANNUAL REPORT OF PRIVATE FOUNDATIONS
The Annual Report of The Felterman Foundation is available for inspection during regular business hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. by any citizen upon request made within 180 days of this notice. The principal office of the Foundation is 115 Landry Street, Patterson, Louisiana and the principal manager is Danny C. Felterman.
Adv. April 17, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
Centerville,
Louisiana
March 14, 2024
The St. Mary Parish School Board met in regular session on Thursday, March 14, 2024, at 5:30 p.m., in the Evans Medine Meeting Room at the Central Office Complex in Centerville, Louisiana, with the following members answering to roll call:
Present: Ms. Guienzy M. Brent, Ms. Tammie L. Moore, Mrs. Lindsey T. Anslem, Ms. Debra R. Jones, Mrs. Ginger S. Griffin, Ms. Marilyn P. LaSalle, Mr. Murphy J. Pontiff Jr., Mr. Chad M. Paradee, Mrs. Alaina L. Black, Mr. Andrew V. Mancuso, Mrs. Rhonda R. Dennis.
Absent: None
Invocation
Mr. Holmes gave the Invocation.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.
President Black led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.
Appearances:
Appearances:
St. Mary Parish District Students of the Year
Ms. Rose Hale introduced St. Mary Parish District Students of the Year as follows:
Berwick Elementary: Carson Paradee, 5th grade student
B. Edward Boudreaux Middle School: Tyren Austin, 8th grade student
Berwick High School: Cherish Lewis, 12th grade student
Introduction of Students and Employees of the Month
Franklin Junior High School:
Principal J Ina introduced 8th grade student S’Nai Burrell as Student of the Month at
Franklin Junior High School.
Principal J Ina introduced Paraeducator, Norma Troquille as Employee of the Month at Franklin Junior High School.
Patterson High School:
Principal Amy Vaccarella introduced 12th grade student Ella Doucet as Student of the Month at Patterson High School.
Principal Amy Vaccarella introduced Special Education Teacher, Anna Perry as Employee of the Month at Patterson High School.
Wyandotte Elementary School:
Principal Celeste Pipes introduced 5th grade student Annabelle Guag-liardo as Student of the Month at Wyandotte Elementary School.
Principal Celeste Pipes introduced 2nd Grade Teacher, Lisa Hover as Employee of the Month at Wyandotte Elementary School.
Recognition of Franklin Senior High School Hornets Boys Basketball Division IV Non-Select State Championship.
Principal Natasha Jackson recognized and thanked the assistant principal, coaches, managers, parents, students, Hornets fans, and staff members for their support. Principal Jackson said, “The team would not have made it this far without Coach Tremayne Johnson and all of the other coaches and the effortless hours they put into the operation of the program is priceless.” As the principal and a mother of one of the players, she is extremely proud to recognize the Franklin High School Hornets Boys Basketball Team Division IV Non-Select as “State Champions.”
Coach Tremayne Johnson said, “It’s been a long journey since he took over the program.” He acknowledged Franklin Senior High School’s former coach, Principal Alexis Rack, for all the basketball knowledge that he learned from her. He thanked Principal Jackson for allowing him to run the program in a way that he feels works best. Coach Johnson permitted each player to introduce themselves to the audience.
Approval of Amended Agenda.
No amended agenda.
Approval of Official School Board Minutes.
Mrs. Griffin offered the motion and Ms. Moore offered the second to approve the official school board minutes from the regular school board meeting held on February 8, 2024, and the special session school board meeting held on February 16, 2024. All in favor and the motion carried.
Approval of Consent Agenda.
President Black stated that Board Members can remove any of the items on the consent agenda for further discussion in the regular proceedings. Dr. Fegenbush read aloud the items on the consent agenda as follows:
New Business
Personnel:
Item 13. *Field Trips
A. *Franklin Junior High School, 6th - 8th Science STEM travel to Houston, Texas,
(May 20-22, 2024)
B. *Morgan City High School JROTC, STEM Camp travel to Starkville, Mississippi,
(June 24-28, 2024)
C. *Morgan City High School JROTC, National Flight Academy travel to Pensacola,
Florida, (June 9-14, 2024)
D. *Bayou Vista Elementary School, National Elementary Beta Club Convention
travel to Savannah Convention Center, Savannah, Georgia, (June 14-16, 2024)
Ms. Moore made a motion and seconded by Ms. Brent to approve the consent agenda as presented by Dr. Fegenbush. All in favor and the motion carried.
Business Af- fairs:
Item 1. Approve School Board Member Training Resolution for the year 2023 reflecting each member of the St. Mary Parish School Board for receiving a minimum of six (6) hours of training and instruction, as required by ACT 705 of the 2011 Louisiana Legislature.
A. Joseph C. Foulcard, Jr. (Posthumous Authorization)
B. Tammie M. Moore
C. Lindsey T. Anslem
D. Debra R. Jones
E. Ginger S. Griffin
F. Marilyn P. LaSalle
G. Murphy J. Pontiff, Jr.
H. Chad M. Paradee
I. Alaina L. Black
J. Andrew V. Mancuso
K. Rhonda R. Dennis
President Black read aloud the resolution as follows:
School Board Member Training Resolution
WHEREAS, each member of a city and parish school board shall receive a minimum of six hours of training and in- struction, as re- quired by ACT 705 of the 2011 Louisiana Legislature; and
WHEREAS, this training and instruction shall consist of school laws of this state, laws governing the powers, duties, and responsibilities of city and parish school boards, educational trends, research, and policy; and
WHEREAS, such instruction may be received from an institution of higher education in this state, from instruction sponsored by the State Department of Education, or by an in-service training program conducted by a city or parish school board central office or the Louisiana School Boards Association, or training provided at the national level; and
WHEREAS, each member of a city and parish board shall receive one hour of ethics training, per year, of their tenure as board member;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that it become public record that Lindsey T. Anslem, Alaina L. Black, Rhonda Dennis, the late Joseph C. Foulcard Jr., Ginger S. Griffin, Debra R. Jones, Marilyn P. LaSalle, Andrew V. Mancuso, Tammie M. Moore, Chad M. Paradee, and Murphy J. Pontiff, Jr. members of the St. Mary Parish School Board, have successfully re- ceived and exceeded the six hours of required training as mandated by the Legislature of Louisiana and all board members have fulfilled the mandate of one hour of ethics training for the year 2023.
CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Superintendent of St. Mary Parish School Board , do hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true copy of a resolution adopted at its regular School Board meeting on March 14, 2024.
———————
Dr. Buffy S. Fegenbush,
Superintendent
St. Mary Parish School Board
Mr. Mancuso made a motion and seconded by Mrs. Dennis to approve the School Board
Member Training Resolution for the year 2023 reflecting each member of the St. Mary Parish School Board for receiving a minimum of six (6) hours of training and instruction, as required by ACT 705 of the 2011 Louisiana Legislature. All in favor and the motion carried.
Item 2. Recognize and Honor Board Members for Achieving Certified School Board Member Designation that voluntarily earned twenty (20) or more LSBA ap- proved training hours during the 2023 calendar year.
A. Joseph C. Foulcard, Jr. (Posthumous Authorization)
B. Tammie M. Moore
C. Lindsey T. Anslem
D. Debra R. Jones
E. Murphy J. Pontiff, Jr.
F. Chad M. Paradee
G. Alaina L. Black
H. Andrew V. Mancuso
I. Rhonda R. Dennis
Family members of the late Jospeh C. Foulcard, Jr. was present to accept his awards from the Louisiana School Board Association (LSBA), as des-cribed in Item 1 and 2.
Item 3. Receive Group Insurance Update.
Mr. James Perez of DJW Insurance Agency, Inc. provided the Board with a Group Health Insurance Plan premium to claims summary updated through February 2024. Total premiums paid in $2,184,948 and total claims paid out $1,865,069 with a simple loss ration of 85 percent. After expense adjustments it is estimated at 94 percent loss ratio.
Item 4. Approve recommendation regarding property insurance renewal for building and contents coverage for the year commencing April 1, 2024.
Ms. LaSalle made a motion and seconded by Ms. Moore to approve the property insurance renewal for building and contents coverage with Paul’s Agency, rejecting the terrorism coverage and not to exceed the total cost of $2,1183,240 for the year commencing April 1, 2024, as presented by Ms. Carmel Breaux. All in favor and the motion carried.
Item 5. Approve recommendation regarding property insurance renewal for boiler and machinery coverage for the year commencing April 1, 2024.
Mrs. Griffin made a motion and seconded by Ms. Brent to approve the property insurance renewal for boiler and machinery coverage with Frank’s Agency for the year commencing April 1, 2024, as presented by Ms. Carmel Breaux. All in favor and the motion carried.
Item 6. Approve recommendation regarding workers’ compensation in- surance for the year commencing May 1, 2024.
Ms. Carmel Breaux explained how self-funding works for the Board regarding the workers’ compensation insurance.
No action was required from the Board. This insurance was approved last year for two years, which does not expire until May 1, 2025.
Item 7. Approve recommendation to retain services of third-party administrator (TPA) and safety consultant to assist the Board with the workers compensation program.
Mr. Mancuso made a motion and seconded by Mrs. Anslem to approve services of third- party administrator (TPA) with CAS in Tyler, Texas for $21,367 and safety, loss prevention consultant with RiskWise for $12,000 to assist the Board with the workers compensation program, as presented by Ms. Carmel Breaux. All in favor and the motion carried.
Item 8. Approval of School Calendar for the 2024-2025 school year.
Mrs. Anslem made a motion and seconded by Ms. Moore to approve School Calendar for the 2024-2025 school year, as presented by Dr. Sanders. All in favor and the motion carried.
Item 9. Approve 180, 182, 200, 202, 212, 220, 222, 240, 242 Employee Calendars for 2024-2025 school year.
Ms. Moore made a motion and seconded by Ms. Jones to approve 180, 182, 200, 202, 212, 220, 222, 240, 242 Employee Calendars for the 2024-2025 school year, as presented by Dr. Sanders. All in favor and the motion carried.
Item 10. Discuss and take appropriate action regarding deletion of the Student Conduct Policy (JCDA)
Ms. LaSalle made a motion and seconded by Ms. Jones to approve deletion of the Student Conduct Policy (JCDA), as presented by Dr. Sanders. All in favor and the motion carried.
Item 11. Discuss and take appropriate action regarding revision to Student Fees, Fine and Charges Policy (JS).
Mrs. Anslem made a motion and seconded by Mr. Mancuso to approve revision of the Student Fees, Fine and Charges Policy (JS), as presented by Dr. Sanders. All in favor and the motion carried.
Item 12. (DE- LETED) Discuss and take appropriate action regarding the 2024-2025 Schedule of Fees.
Item 14. Award Substantial completion to the St. Mary Alternative Program Roofing Project using ESSER Funds.
Mrs. Griffin made a motion and seconded by Mr. Pontiff to approve the substantial completion for the St. Mary Alternative Program Roofing Project using ESSER Funds, as presented by Mr. Wiese. All in favor and the motion carried.
Item 15. Ap- proval of E-Rate Contract.
Ms. LaSalle made a motion and seconded by Mr. Pontiff to approve the E-Rate Contract to IConvergence, Inc., as presented by Mr. Vead. All in favor and the motion carried.
Reports
Committee:
1. Policy Committee Meeting (February 28, 2024)
Mr. Mancuso reported that the Policy Committee met on February 28th to discuss the Sick Leave Policy (GBRIB), Employee Sick Leave Bank Policy (GBRIBB) and obsolete policies recommended for deletion.
A. Approve recommendations regarding Sick and Extended Leave Policy (GBRIB)
A summary of the changes in- cluded in the proposed revision are as follows:
•A general re- structuring of the policy for clarity and renaming it to Sick and Extended Leave.
•Updated definition and added references to applicable state statutes from employee categories.
•Identified and referenced two personal days to the appropriate personnel leave policy.
•Included a standard month method of qualifying sick days based on the category of employee.
•Removed ex- amples of special circumstances.
•Added the availability of three days of leave for special circumstances to be utilized at the discretion of a designee of the superintendent.
•Other recommendations from Forethought Consultant.
•Recommendations from legal counsel.
Mr. Mancuso made a motion to approve policy (GBRIBB) as recommended by the Policy Committee and reviewed by legal counsel.
Mrs. Griffin moved to amended the original motion on the floor to leave in the current employee scale reflecting the years of experience for 12-month employees, as described on page three of policy (GBRIB) and add grandchildren back into the policy under the Sick Leave for Emergencies, as des-cribed on the top of page five. Mrs. Anslem made a second, all in favor and the motion carried.
Mrs. Griffin made a motion to the original motion as amended. Mrs. Anslem made a second, all in favor and the motion carried.
B. Approve recommendations regarding Employee Sick Leave Bank Policy (GBRIBB)
Policy (GBRIBB) Employee Sick Leave Bank was also reviewed after being recommended for revisions at the February regular board meeting. Summary of the proposed revisions are as follows:
•Removed the sick leave bank board due to confidentiality concerns.
•Included stipulations for employment term for eligibility.
•Set a maximum number of days that can be received from the bank.
•Set a maximum payment level for days paid from the bank.
•Recommendations from legal counsel.
Mr. Mancuso made a motion to approve revisions as recommended by the committee and reviewed by legal counsel. All in favor and the motion carried.
C. Approve recommendations to delete Section M from the CAPS System
•Education Re- search and Service Centers (ME)
•Colleges and Universities (MF)
•State Education Agency Relations (MI)
•Education Ac- creditation Agency Relations (MK)
The four obsolete policies as described in Item C were also re- viewed in the Policy Committee meeting. These policies were never revisited after being adopted in 1976.
Mr. Mancuso made a motion to approve recommendations made by the Policy Committee to delete Section M from the CAPS System. All in favor and the motion carried.
2. Special Education Advisory Council Committee Meeting (March 13, 2024)
Ms. McClarity reported that the Special Education Advisory Council met on March 13th at 4:00 p.m., in the Evans Medine Meeting Room. Mr. David Hanagriff was appointed as the new chairperson of the Special Education Advisory Committee. Ms. Leguya Brown Davis, a Special Education teacher was also a new member on the committee.
Ms. Tiffany Wilson is an advocate for kids with Autism. Ms. Wilson shared information about Autism and provided a list of events that will take place in St. Mary Parish in March and April.
Ms. McClarity encouraged the pubic to attend the next Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting scheduled on Wednesday, April 10th at 4:00 p.m., in the Evans Medine Meeting Room at the Central Office Complex in Centerville.
LEAP and ACT testing were discussed, and ex- tended school year for special education students was also discussed.
In closing, Ms. McClarity invited everyone to come out and support the Special Olympics Track Meet on Friday, March 22, 2024 at 10:00 a.m., which will be held at Patterson High School Stadium.
3. Set time and date for District Maintenance Committee I, II, and III Special Project Meeting.
•District I - will meet on Tuesday, April 23 at 4:30 p.m. in the Evan Medine Meeting Room at the Central Office Complex.
•District II - will meet on Tuesday, April 23 at 3:00 p.m. in the Evan Medine Meeting Room at the Central Office Complex.
•District III - will meet on Tuesday, April 30 at 3:00 p.m. in the Evan Medine Meeting Room at the Central Office Complex.
Staff:
1. Chief Financial Officer’s Report
Sale Tax Up- date:
Mr. Perry re- ported that the sales tax collections for eight months into the fiscal year collected $1,885,458 versus a budget of $ 1,951,000.
Financial Statements (Major Funds Only):
The Board was provided financial statements for major funds only to review at their leisure.
Other Significant Items:
Mr. Perry provided the Board with a Tentative Schedule of Events for Ad Valorem taxes election being held on December 7, 2024. This is informational only and no action is required from the Board.
Superintendent’s Report:
Dr. Fegenbush reported as part of the district’s obligations set forth in the federal desegregation case, all St. Mary Parish students are required to attend school in their residential attendance zone. The only exception will be for students with approved 2024-2025 transfer applications. Visit the St. Mary Parish Public Schools website or individual school sites for more information.
The Special Olympics Track Meet will be held on Friday, March 22, 2024 at 10:00 p.m., at the Patterson High School Stadium.
The St. Mary Parish Arts Jams will be held at the Franklin Theater on Monday, March 18, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. for students in grade 1st - 8th and Thursday, March 21st for grade 9th-12th at 5:30 p.m. The public is invited to attend this special event.
March 20th ends the third nine-week period and report cards will be distributed on March 21st. Parents are reminded to call the school to set up appointments with any concerns or questions.
The public is invited to attend the Discipline Policy Committee Meeting on Tuesday, March 19th at 4:30 p.m., and the School Uniform Committee Meeting on Wednesday, March 20th at 5:30 p.m. Meetings will be held in the Evans Medine Meeting Room at the Central Office Complex in Centerville.
St. Mary Parish Public Schools will be on Easter break starting March 25-April 1st.
In closing, Dr. Fegenbush wished everyone a peaceful and restful break.
Closing:
Resolutions of Respect:
Mr. Holmes read the Resolutions of Respect for the late Annie Boudreaux (retired school cafeteria technician), Gayle Louviere (retired school bus attendant), Todd Viator (retired high school social studies teacher), Kathleen Washington (retired school paraprofessional), and Earline Wise (retired school teacher).
Adjournment:
With there being no further business to address, Ms. Moore made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:23 p.m. Mrs. Dennis made a second, all in favor and the motion carried.
RESOLUTION
IN MEMORIAM
Annie
Boudreaux
WHEREAS, Al- mighty God, in His infinite wisdom, has taken from our midst Annie Boudreaux, and
WHEREAS, her untimely death has deprived the St. Mary Parish School System of a retired school cafeteria technician and a fine citizen;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Mary Parish School Board and the people attending this Board meeting, rise and bow our heads in silent prayer out of respect for the late Annie Boudreaux, and ex- tend to her be- reaved family our sincere condolences in this, their hour of sorrow; and in these inadequate words, en- deavor to express the high regard in which we held her in life and honor her memory in death.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED that a copy of this resolution be inscribed on a separate page of the official proceedings of this meeting; that a copy of this resolution be sent to the bereaved family of Annie Boudreaux, and that this meeting ad- journs out of respect for her.
This Resolution was therefore de- clared approved and adopted this 14th of March, 2024.
(S) Alaina L. Black
ALAINA L. BLACK,
PRESIDENT
ATTEST:
(S) Buffy
Fegenbush
BUFFY FEGENBUSH, Ed.D.,
SECRETARY
RESOLUTION
IN MEMORIAM OF
Gayle Louviere
WHEREAS, Al- mighty God, in His infinite wisdom, has taken from our midst Gayle Louviere, and
WHEREAS, her untimely death has deprived the St. Mary Parish School System of a retired school bus attendant and a fine citizen;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Mary Parish School Board and the people attending this Board meeting, rise and bow our heads in silent prayer out of respect for the late Gayle Louviere, and extend to her bereaved family our sincere condolences in this, their hour of sorrow; and in these inadequate words, endeavor to express the high regard in which we held her in life and honor her memory in death.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED that a copy of this resolution be inscribed on a separate page of the official proceedings of this meeting; that a copy of this resolution be sent to the be- reaved family of Gayle Louviere, and that this meeting adjourns out of respect for her.
This Resolution was therefore de- clared approved and adopted this 14th of March, 2024.
(S) Alaina L. Black
ALAINA L. BLACK,
PRESIDENT
ATTEST:
(S) Buffy
Fegenbush
BUFFY FEGENBUSH, Ed.D.,
SECRETARY
RESOLUTION
IN MEMORIAM OF
Todd Viator
WHEREAS, Al- mighty God, in His infinite wisdom, has taken from our midst Todd Viator, and
WHEREAS, his untimely death has deprived the St. Mary Parish School System of a retired high school social studies teacher and a fine citizen;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Mary Parish School Board and the people attending this Board meeting, rise and bow our heads in silent prayer out of respect for the late Todd Viator, and extend to his be- reaved family our sincere condolences in this, their hour of sorrow; and in these inadequate words, endeavor to express the high regard in which we held him in life and honor his memory in death.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED that a copy of this resolution be inscribed on a separate page of the official proceedings of this meeting; that a copy of this resolution be sent to the be- reaved family of Todd Viator, and that this meeting adjourns out of respect for him.
This Resolution was therefore declared approved and adopted this 14th of March, 2024.
(S) Alaina L. Black
ALAINA L. BLACK,
PRESIDENT
ATTEST:
(S) Buffy
Fegenbush
BUFFY FEGENUSH, Ed.D.,
SECRETARY
RESOLUTION
IN MEMORIAM OF
Kathleen Washington
WHEREAS, Al- mighty God, in His infinite wisdom, has taken from our midst Kathleen Washington, and
WHEREAS, her untimely death has deprived the St. Mary Parish School System of a retired school paraprofessional and a fine citizen;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Mary Parish School Board and the people attending this Board meeting, rise and bow our heads in silent prayer out of respect for the late Kathleen Washington, and ex- tend to her bereaved family our sincere condolences in this, their hour of sorrow; and in these inadequate words, en- deavor to express the high regard in which we held her in life and honor her memory in death.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED that a copy of this resolution be inscribed on a separate page of the official proceedings of this meeting; that a copy of this resolution be sent to the bereaved family of Kathleen Washington, and that this meeting adjourns out of respect for her.
This Resolution was therefore declared approved and adopted this 14th of March, 2024.
(S) Alaina L. Black
ALAINA L. BLACK,
PRESIDENT
ATTEST:
(S) Buffy
Fegenbush
BUFFY FEGENBUSH, Ed.D.,
SECRETARY
RESOLUTION
IN MEMORIAM OF
Earline J. Wise
WHEREAS, Al- mighty God, in His infinite wisdom, has taken from our midst Earline J. Wise, and
WHEREAS, her untimely death has deprived the St. Mary Parish School System of a retired school teacher and a fine citizen;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Mary Parish School Board and the people attending this Board meeting, rise and bow our heads in silent prayer out of respect for the late Earline J. Wise, and extend to her bereaved family our sincere condolences in this, their hour of sorrow; and in these inadequate words, en- deavor to express the high regard in which we held her in life and honor her memory in death.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED that a copy of this resolution be inscribed on a separate page of the official proceedings of this meeting; that a copy of this resolution be sent to the be- reaved family of Earline J. Wise, and that this meeting adjourns out of respect for her.
This Resolution was therefore declared approved and adopted this 14th of March, 2024.
(S) Alaina L. Black
ALAINA L. BLACK,
PRESIDENT
ATTEST:
(S) Buffy
Fegenbush
BUFFY FEGENBUSH, Ed.D.,
SECRETARY
Adv. April 17, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
Centerville,
Louisiana
March 26, 2024
The St. Mary Parish School Board met in special session on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at 5:30 p.m., in the Evans Medine Meeting Room at the Central Office Complex in Centerville, Louisiana, with the following members answering to roll call:
Present: Ms. Guienzy M. Brent, Ms. Tammie L. Moore, Mrs. Lindsey T. Anslem, Ms. Debra R. Jones, Mr. Chad M. Paradee, Mrs. Alaina L. Black, Mrs. Rhonda R. Dennis, Mrs. Ginger S. Griffin, Ms. Marilyn P. LaSalle.
Absent: Mr. Andrew V. Mancuso and Mr. Murphy J. Pontiff, Jr.
Invocation.
Dr. Fegenbush gave the Invocation.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.
President Black led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.
Staff:
Approval of Resolution opposing State Legislation for Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) including House Bill 745 which creates the LA GATOR Scholarship Program.
President Black read aloud the resolution as follows:
A Resolution ex- pressing opposition to state legislation establishing Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), including House Bill 745 which creates the LA GATOR Scholarship Program, that provide public dollars for private school tuition and educational ex- penses and to urge the St. Mary Parish legislative delegation to vote NO on any bill proposing an Education Savings Account, and otherwise to provide with re- spect thereto.
WHEREAS, there is a renewed and concerted effort at the legislature to pass bills that will give public funds directly to parents to be used for private school tuition and other educational expenses with little to no oversight; and
WHEREAS, for the past 20 years, the state has failed to adequately fund K-12 public education; and
WHEREAS, during that same period the state has continuously placed new ac- countability de- mands on both our students and our schools; and
WHEREAS, the St. Mary Parish School Board provides free public K-12 education to any student who resides in our school district within the guidelines set by both the state and federal government; and
WHEREAS, diverting public dollars to private schools and other programs through Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) without fully funding public schools disadvantages our students and schools; and
WHEREAS, providing public dollars to ESAs without requiring the same state ac- countability testing imposed on public school students is irresponsible public policy.
THEREFORE, the St. Mary Parish School Board does hereby ex- press its OPPOSITION to legislation creating and/or funding Education Savings Ac- counts.
FURTHER, the St. Mary Parish School Board directs the superintendent of the St. Mary Parish School System to deliver a certified copy of this Resolution to each member of the legislative delegation of St. Mary Parish.
I, the undersigned President, and Superintendent of St. Mary Parish School Board, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true copy of a resolution adopted at its special session meeting on March 26, 2024.
———————
Dr. Buffy S.
Fegenbush,
Superintendent
———————
Mrs. Alaina L. Black,
President
St. Mary Parish School Board
Ms. Moore made a motion and seconded by Ms. Brent to approve the Resolution opposing State Legislation for Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) including House Bill 745 which creates the LA GATOR Scholarship Program. All in favor and the motion carried.
Adjournment:
With there being no further business to address, Mrs. Dennis made a motion to ad- journ the meeting at 5:38 p.m. Mrs. Anslem made a second, all in favor and the motion carried.
Adv. April 17, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
BERWICK-
BAYOU VISTA JOINT WATERWORKS
COMMISSION
POST OFFICE BOX 322
BERWICK, LA 70342
(985) 384-8990
Chairman – Herb Mashburn, Vice Chairman – N.A. Hensgens, Jr., Vice Chairman – Troy Lombardo, Vice Chairman – Paul T. Tholen
A regular meeting of the Berwick – Bayou Vista Joint Waterworks Commission was called at the Berwick Civic Center, 300 Patti Drive, Berwick, La. At 5:30 P.M., March 14, 2024.
Board Members Present: Herb Mashburn, Paul Tholen, N.A. Hensgens, Jr. and Troy Lombardo.
Others Present: Joel Miller, Jacob Dupuy and Tori Henry.
The meeting was called to order by Herb Mashburn.
It was moved by N.A. Hensgens, seconded by Troy Lombardo and un- animously agreed to accept the minutes from the January meeting. Tori Henry noted there were no minutes from February because there was no meeting due to lack of a quorum.
It was moved by N.A. Hensgens, seconded by Troy Lombardo and un- animously agreed to accept accounts payable & treasurer’s report for the month of January and February.
Tori Henry re- ported we received the reimbursement from St. Mary Parish through CWEF funding for the backwash pump.
Jacob Dupuy reported the newest employee’s 90 day probationary period has ended and he is now eligible for benefits. He has also been gathering information to begin his certification process through the state.
Herb Mashburn reported he and Mr. Hensgens spoke with a roofing vendor, who will provide a quote to add to the ones Mr. Dupuy has collected. He asked Mr. Miller to discuss the roofing project in detail with him.
There being no further business to come before the Board, it was moved by Troy Lombardo, seconded by Paul Tholen and unanimously agreed that the meeting be adjourned.
———————
Chairman
Adv. April 17, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
A MEETING OF THE LEPA OPERATING COMMITTEE WILL BE HELD AT THE LEPA MAIN OFFICE LOCATED AT 210 VENTURE WAY, LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70507, ON THURSDAY, APRIL 18, 2024 AT 10:30 A.M.
OPERATING COMMITTEE MEETING
AGENDA
MEETING DATE: April 18, 2024
MEETING PLACE: LEPA Main Office, 210 Venture Way, Lafayette, LA 70507
TIME: 10:30 A. M.
ITEM 1 Call to Order
ITEM 2 Pledge of Allegiance
ITEM 3 Roll Call
ITEM 4 Approval of the Minutes of the February 15, 2024 Operating Committee Meeting
ITEM 5 OLD BUSINESS
(a) Report on Wholesale Power Costs and Residential Retail Rates
(b) Update on Rodemacher Unit No. 2
(c) Discussion on any other outstanding items of Old Business
1. APPA Lineworker Rodeo
2. Update on Town of Erath Substation
3. LEPA Wholesale Rate Stabilization – The Winnfield Experiment
ITEM 6 NEW BUSINESS
(a) Discussion on SB 410 by Senator Coussan – Modification to R.S. 33:4545.4(E)
(b) LUS Electric Utility Storm Re- sponse and Recovery Summit
ITEM 7 AD- JOURNMENT
Individuals with a disability that falls under the Americans with Disabilities Act who wish to participate electronically in the meetings, please call (337) 269-4046 at least 24 hours in ad- vance of the meeting in order for us to accommodate you.
Adv. April 17, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Sixteenth
Judicial District Court
———
PARISH OF
ST. MARY
———
STATE OF
LOUISIANA
US Bank Trust National Association Not In Its Individual Capacity But Solely As Owner Trustee for VRMTG Asset Trust
Vs. No. 138162 Div “C”
Ramon Coler and Virginia Floyd Coler A/K/A
Virginia Floyd Godette Coler
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 and thereunto belonging, and all rights, ways, privileges and servitudes thereunto appertaining, situated in Patterson, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, being more particularly known, designated and described as LOT 39 OF BLOCK 6 OF SUGAR RIDGE DEVELOPMENT, all as more fully shown and des-cribed on the plat of land prepared by Gulf South En- gineers, Houma, Louisiana, being a Re-Subdivision of Blocks 4 & 6. Sugar Ridge De- velopment, recorded August 29, 1984 in St. Mary Parish COB 27-L, page 238, Entry No. 207,341; subject to restrictions, servitudes, rights-of-way and outstanding mineral rights of record affecting the property.
to satisfy the sum of THIRTY NINE THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED AND 79/100 ($39,100.79) DOLLARS, with interest thereon at 5.250% per annum from June 01, 2023, until paid; all expenses in- curred in enforcing the note and mortgage including reasonable attorney’s fees; if/as applicable, such other or additional amounts incurred or advanced for taxes, insurance premiums, special assessments, re- pairs to and/or maintenance of the property, for the protection, preservation, re- pair and recovery of the property, for the protection and preservation of the lien of the mortgage, for the protection and preservation of the mortgagee’s interest thereunder, and other amounts provided by the mortgage and applicable law, such as late charges, escrow advances for the payment of taxes and insurance, corporate advances, property ap- praisals, inspection fees, prior attorney fees and expenses, abstract and title charges, NSF charges, attorney fees and expenses, and other charges which plaintiff is permitted to prove by verified petition, verified supplemental petition, or affidavit filed or submitted before distribution by the sheriff of the proceeds of the judicial sale herein; and all law charges, fees and expenses incurred in connection or relating to this proceeding including without limitation sheriff’s commission, sheriff’s costs, court costs and all costs of this proceedings, as well as all sheriff’s costs and commission
All successful bidders must have cash, cashier’s check or a verifiable letter of credit in favor of said bidder from a solvent bank, savings and loan association or other such financial institution authorized to do business in the state of Louisiana and full payment must be made on the date of sale. Letter must state that money is available on the date of sale.
I shall expose the same at public sale, for Cash, according to law WITH appraisement to the last and highest bidder, at the principal front door of the 1st floor lobby area of the Court House in the Parish of St. Mary, Town of Franklin, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 24th day of April A.D., 2024, be- tween the legal hours commencing at 10 O’Clock A.M.
Sheriff’s Office
Parish of St. Mary, La.
Wednesday, the 14th day of February A.D., 2024
BLAISE W. SMITH,
SHERIFF
By: Heidi Rineholt
Deputy Sheriff
Adv. March 22 and April 17, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
April 5, 2024
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Council will hold a Public Hearing at 5:45 p.m. and will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, in the Parish Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana.
The purpose of the Public Meeting will be to receive written and/or oral comments and to adopt the following ordinances:
An ordinance declaring certain Public Property surplus and authorizing the sale of same.
An Ordinance establishing the Personnel Policies for St. Mary Parish Government.
Your attendance will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO,
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Adv. April 17, 2024

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PROCEEDINGS
ST. MARY LEVEE DISTRICT
REGULAR MEETING
February 15, 2024
Morgan City, LA
The St. Mary Levee District (“SMLD”) met on this date with President William Hidalgo, Sr., presiding and the following board members present: Will Terry, J.P. Hebert, Norris Crappell, Andrew Mancuso, Mike Ortiz, and Kenny Arceneaux.
Also present: Tim Matte, Executive Director; Michael Brocato, Operations Manager; Bill Bourgeois; Robert Karam, T. Baker Smith; Nicole Bur- anzon, APTIM; and members of the public.
Mr. Terry moved to dispense with the reading and to approve the Jan 18 regular monthly minutes. After a second by Mr. Mancuso, the motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Arceneaux presented the payables report, which Mr. Crappell mov-ed to approve. Following Mr. He- bert’s second, the motion was carried unanimously.
Mr. Matte also presented the Statement of Revenues by sources and Summary of Expenditures of the St. Mary Levee District.
Mr. Robert Karam with T. Baker Smith re- ported his office is waiting for the map from FTN Phase 1 for the West of Charenton Drainage Canal Drainage Study.
Mr. Karam re- ported the pumps for the Morgan City Pump Station are scheduled to be delivered March 4. Mr. Karam reported there has been a Lakeside Stakeholders meeting on the Lakeside Project to discuss alignment options.
Mr. Brocato re- ported the gauge at Bayou Chene is up and running and one was re- paired to the one that was run over. Mr. Brocato stated that 25 of the 40 lights were changed on Bayou Chene. Mr. Brocato also reported a pump at Bayou Teche went out and is now up and running.
Mr. Matte re- ported the official report as a result of the inspection of the levee segments has been issued by the USACE with no new issues raised. Mr. Matte stated him, and Michael have attended meetings on the Lower Mississippi River Comprehensive Management Study that will evaluate alternatives for ensuring effective long-term management of the Mississippi River from Cape Girardeau to the Gulf of Mexico that the USACE has instituted. Mr. Matte stated that another public meeting will be held on Mar 7 in Morgan City at the Municipal Auditorium to make available some of the team members to receive public input on this study.
Mr. Matte also reported upriver gauges indicate a brief rise in the water levels in the Mississippi River before heading down to our area. The Mississippi River at New Orleans currently stands below 11’ and is expected to drop in the coming couple of weeks.
Mr. Matte stated CPRA has an- nounced new leadership under Governor Landy’s ad- ministration, Gordie Dove of Terrebonne has been named chairman of CPRA. Glenn Ledet has been appointed as Executive Director of CPRA and Tony Alford who has served as President of Terrebonne Parish Levee and Conservation District will serve as Charmain the Governor’s Advisory Commission. Mr. Matte also reported there are discussions of a reorganization of the CPRA which might include combining certain functions of the Department of Energy and Natural Resources with coastal activities.
Mr. Arceneaux motioned to authorize Bourgeois Law to be the designated ethics designee as required by law. With a second by Mr. Ortiz, the motion was carried unanimously.
Mr. Terry mo- tioned to update the SMLD Master Plan which was seconded by Mr. Mancuso, the motion was carried unanimously.
Mr. Hidalgo ask-ed for further comments and did not receive any. Mr. Terry moved for adjournment, which was seconded by Mr. Arceneaux carried unanimously.
Attest:
———————
Kenneth
Arceneaux Jr.,
Secretary/
Treasurer
St. Mary Levee District
Adv. April 17, 2024

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April 14, 1935, is still referred to as Black Sunday in the American Midwest because that was the worst day of one of the worst dust storms in U.S. history.
More than 300,000 tons of topsoil were blown away during that storm, some of it landing in south Louisiana.
It didn’t turn mid-day into midnight as it did in some places, but it did darken and dirty us up.
The National Weather Service account said that other storms had preceded this one, but none were as bad.
“The 1930s were times of tremendous hardship on the Great Plains. Settlers dealt not only with the Great Depression, but also with years of drought that plunged an already-suffering society into an onslaught of relentless dust storms for days and months on end. They were known as dirt storms, sand storms, black blizzards, and ‘dusters.’ It seemed as if it could get no worse, but on Sunday, the 14th of April 1935, it got worse.,” according to that report
“The day is known in history as ‘Black Sunday,’ when a mountain of blackness swept across the High Plains and instantly turned a warm, sunny afternoon into a horrible blackness that was darker than the darkest night. Famous songs were written about it, and on the following day, the world would hear the region referred to for the first time as ‘the Dust Bowl,’” (“The Black Sunday Dust Storm of 14 April 1935,” Norman Oklahoma Weather Forecast Office.)
The storm had blown up weeks before Black Sunday, and the cloud began to arrive in south Louisiana on Thursday, April 11, when the Eunice newspaper reported, “The sun lost in an attempt to spread its rays.”
It was nothing like the black blizzard that brought devastation elsewhere, but all across south Louisiana dust seeped into and spread over everything.
As the Jennings News reported, “residents got a close-up picture of the devastating dust storm which for several months has been playing havoc with the Great Plains states. … Throughout the morning the skies were gray and heavily dust laden as the cloud bearing thousands of acres of topsoil from Kansas and Oklahoma passed over the city.”
The Associated Press reported, “Lake Charles residents, indoors and out, were irritated Thursday by the odor of flying dust, which banked on window sills and even penetrated into rooms through closed windows.”
The Crowley Signal said that town “felt a touch of what a real dust storm might be like.”
The dust cloud also reached there on Thursday morning and “continued to increase during the late afternoon until visibility was reduced to about a half a mile.”
Merchants in Bunkie were forced to close up shop as the dust grew worse on Thursday afternoon and, according to the AP, St. Martinville and Opelousas were “dust coated.”
In many places “motorists had to keep their headlights on during daylight hours” and planes were grounded in Shreveport and Monroe because of the poor visibility.
By Saturday, Alexandria and other places reported the dust cloud had grown even darker and that particles “began to sift inside of buildings.”
People who ventured out of doors had to tie handkerchiefs across their faces.
The Town Talk reported that the sun was “obscure, not by clouds, but by dust the intensity of which has increased during the day.”
New Orleans was spared much of it.
Isaac Cline, the veteran weather forecaster there, reported “dust aloft” but said most of it was blowing past the city on winds generally from the northwest.
He recalled that another dust cloud had blown over the city almost exactly a year before.
The regularity of those storms and their growing destruction eventually caught the eye of Congress, which  had just begun to take up the questions raised when the Black Sunday storm choked and blinded half the nation. That big storm helped speed deliberations, and they were also helped by a timely demonstration by Mother Nature.
According to the Weather Service account, “The blowing dust … was attributed not only to dry weather, but to poor soil conservation techniques that were in use at the time. In March 1935 (several weeks before Black Sunday), one of President [Franklin] Roosevelt’s advisors, Hugh Hammond Bennett, testified before congress about the need for better soil conservation techniques. Ironically, dust from the Great Plains was transported all the way to the East Coast, blotting out the sun even in the Nation’s capital. Mr. Bennett only needed to point out the window to the evidence supporting his position, and say, ‘This, gentlemen, is what I’ve been talking about.’ Congress passed the Soil Conservation Act before the end of the year.”
You can contact Jim Bradshaw at jimbradshaw4321@gmail.com or P.O. Box 1121, Washington LA 70589.

A year after a monument to oilfield divers was unveiled, organizers are planning the first Morgan City Oilfield Divers Rally.
The event is scheduled for April 26-28.
Last April’s unveiling of a life-sized statue of a diver at Monument Park near Morgan City Municipal Auditorium drew hundreds, many of them divers and former divers who spent a weekend telling stories about the early days of offshore work.
This year’s rally includes these events:
—A welcome reception 4-7 p.m. April 26 at Legends at Clarion Inn & Suites, 520 Roderick St.
—The unveiling of a granite monument at 10 a.m. April 27 at Monument Park, 728 Myrtle St.
—At 10:45 a.m., April 27, a moderated panel discussion on commercial diving at Lake End Park, 2300 La. 70. Everyone is welcome.
—A crawfish boil at 1 p.m. April 27 at Lake End Park. The fee is $35 per person.
—An informal breakfast 7-10 a.m. April 28 at Morgan’s Restaurant at Clarion Inn and Suites.
“Our motto of ‘By Divers for Divers’ has tremendous meaning and we all should be so proud of ourselves,” said Bryce Merrill, curator at the Diving & ROV Historical Preservation Museum,
The Oilfield Divers Monument project has awarded three $1,000 scholarships to South Louisiana Community College’s School of Commercial Diving.
The project also started a SLCC Dive School Endowment Fund funded by $20,000, which will be matched dollar for dollar by the state of Louisiana.
The project has some funds left to add to the endowment.
“This is what the Rally Weekend is raising funds for,” Merrill said, “besides the gathering of old friends, crawfish boil, having a beer and as Mayor [Lee] Dragna put it, a bunch of old guys standing around hugging each other.”
All money goes to the scholarship fund. There will be a small silent auction and a few small items for sale as donations.
“All you young divers come on down, share your stories,” Merrill said. “You will be the ones to carry on our traditions and the diving business into the future. …
“One day sooner than you think, you will be the old guy and wish you had the chance to be part of our most interesting history.”