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More than $121,855 in scholarships was awarded to students at South Louisiana Community College for the spring semester.
“These scholarships provide students with a vital boost, ensuring they have the financial resources needed to pursue and accomplish their college aspirations,” said Brittny Ducote, SLCC Foundation development and alumni coordinator. “Thanks to the generous support of our partners throughout Acadiana, our students are empowered to pursue their dreams with significantly reduced financial stress.”
Recipients include a varied mix of majors at SLCC, from registered nursing and nondestructive testing technology to general studies and information technology.
Ddonors are also a diverse group, with many directly tied to the college like Director of Career and Testing Services Toni Celestine. She created the Lt. Linda H. Brown Memorial Scholarship in honor of her mother, a 25-year Ville Platte police veteran.
“I established the scholarship with the hope my mother will be remembered for her dedication and commitment to protect and to serve,” Celestine said. “I firmly believe that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their financial circumstances and I hope this scholarship inspires people to rise up and serve one another, as my mother did.”
A reception for the 125 scholarship recipients was held March 6 at the Devalcourt Auditorium on the SLCC Lafayette Campus.
Area scholarship recipients include St. Mary Parish’s Seth Baham, Justin Bourgeois, Theresa Coleman, Tiffany DeLee, Da’Kya Garrett, Will Garrett, Joan Granger, Brianna Leblanc, Winnie Mabile, Laketra Mitchell, Matthew Sonnier and Danielle Wiese.
St. Martin Parish recipients are Jermaine Broussard, Collin Broussard, Kendria Jones, Graci Laviolette, McGino Philayvanh, Destinie Landry Simmons and Ikia Thompson.

RAYNE — St. Martinville will bring tourists from around the world to learn about the Acadians history, culture, traditions, historic stories and experiences during the 2024 Acadian Memorial Heritage Festival slated March 15-16.
The Acadian Memorial Foundation will host the Annual 17th Acadian Memorial Heritage Festival/Reception as follows: Friday, March 15, 6-8 p.m. reception, and Saturday, March 16, Festival will be held between 9:45 a.m. and 3 p.m.
On Friday, the festival opens with a reception at the Acadian Memorial Museum, St Martinville, honoring two Acadian Cajun families, Dupuis and Cormiers.
Special guest will be Lafayette artist Ceci OKeefe Neustrom who will be displaying her 2024 paintings from her Acadian Heritage series. A brief presentation will be given as to the origin and history of the series at 5 p.m. The life-size portraits depict living descendants of the following Acadian families: St. Julien, Boudreaux, Arceneaux, Poirrier, and Thibodeaux. This is the first public exhibit of her 2024 portraits.
Neustrom is an Ambassador of Art for the Acadian Museum of Erath, and has been developing the series over the last ten years. The models are dressed in outfits befitting of 18th century dress and are poised in compositions reflecting the custom, background, dignity and endurance of Louisiana’s Acadian history. The family name and crest are painted at the bottom of the portraits.
The Acadian Memorial Heritage festival was created to share the history, cuisine, music, historic stories, educational interactives seen in the Memorial/Museums by bringing their livelihood traditions outdoors for all to experience.
Their story of deportation along with the historic settlement of the Acadians/Cajuns, who made a huge mark on the rich culture of Louisiana is beloved by North America, Europe and the world.
The city supports the strongest marker for the true settlement of the Acadians’ original home in France. All this and more makes for drawing tourist’s to this parish of St.Martinville.
For more information on tours, visitation, events or becoming an event vendor, contact Brenda Comeaux Trahan at 337-288-5914, the Acadian Memorial Office 337-394-2258 or visit www.acadianmemorial.org.
Since 2006 the Acadian Memorial Heritage Festival has brought attention to the Arrival of the Acadians to Louisiana with a re-enactment of that event by descendants of Acadians arriving at the Evangeline Oak in St. Martinville paddling Cajun pirogues on historic Bayou Teche.
The Festival also demonstrates age-old ways of Cajun cooking jambalaya, gratons and boudin, along with homemade sweets like gateau-sirop and dark cajun coffee.
And don’t forget the music – Cajun family bands playing traditional instruments and dancing, dancing, dancing!
The Festival is a family-friendly event with a loyal following of folks who appreciate the Festival’s efforts to honor a lifestyle received from generations past.
The Festival is important to the community/area and to the mission of the Foundation which is to maintain the elements of the Acadian Memorial such as the famous Dafford Mural, the Wall of Names and the Memorial Garden with its replica of the Grand-Pré Deportation Cross. Come support the Acadian Memorial Heritage Festival in preserving the Cajun heritage.
Seeking Craft, art, book booths on-site for $25, call 337-394-2258 or email acadianmemorial.org.

BATON ROUGE — The deadline for “budding” and experienced photographers to submit their best photos for the LSU AgCenter’s 2025 Get It Growing calendar is rapidly approaching.
The deadline for entries is March 31.
Project coordinator Elma Sue McCallum said AgCenter faculty will select about 40 photos for the calendar.
Twelve photos will be featured as full-page images for each month’s page in the calendar, and one will be used on the cover. The rest will be used throughout the calendar.
“We encourage gardening lovers and photographers to submit their photos for the Get It Growing Calendar,” McCallum said.
Photographs offered for consideration must be high-resolution, digital images submitted online at www.LSUAgCenter.com/GIGCC. All images must be the original work of the photographer submitting the image. Photographers should limit entries to 25 or fewer of their best photos.
For inforamtion email getitgrowingcalendar@agcenter.lsu.edu.

PUBLIC NOTICE
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL OF THE
PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA
FEBRUARY 14, 2024
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
The St. Mary Parish Council met on this date in Regular Session with Chairperson Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo presiding and the following members present Rev. Craig Mat-hews, J Ina, Rodney Olander, David W. Hill, Leslie Rulf, Jr., Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, Dean Adams, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D.
The Invocation was pronounced by Rev. Mathews and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Rulf.
Mrs. Hidalgo acknowledged Mayor Eugene Foulcard, City of Franklin, Mayor Pro Tem Lester Levine, City of Franklin, and former Parish President, Paul Naquin.
Mr. Olander moved that the reading of the Second Regular Meeting, January 24, 2024 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
Kelia Fontenot Bingham and Sara Gary, Acadiana Planning Commission appeared be- fore the Council to discuss the Acadiana Watershed District.
In response to several Council Members’ inquiries, Kelia Fontenot Bingham ex- pounded on the domicile of the water district, flooding, funding, and allocation.
Mr. Ina requested to move up Item 12B, “FOR ADOPTION - An Ordinance authorizing participation in the Acadiana Watershed District, as codified by Louisiana Act 323. The Acadiana Watershed District shall be domiciled in Lafayette Parish as a central location within the boundaries of the Acadiana Watershed District. St. Mary Parish designates the Acadiana Planning Commission as the office of the Acadiana Watershed District’s business operations and as the public fiscal agent and administering body to conduct daily operations as stated in Louisiana Act 323. St. Mary Parish will assist in adopting the ad- ministrative steps to establish the Acadiana Watershed District Board of Commissioners and the bylaws of the District.” Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Ina moved that the following Ordinance be adopted. Mr. Adams 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
ORDINANCE
NO. 2361
ACADIANA WATERSHED DISTRICT PARTICIPATION
An Ordinance authorizing participation in the Acadiana Watershed District (Watershed Region 5), as codified by Louisiana Act 323. The Acadiana Watershed District shall be domiciled in Lafayette Parish as a central location within the boundaries of the Acadiana Watershed District. St. Mary Parish designates the Acadiana Planning Commission as the office of the Acadiana Watershed District’s business operations and as the public fiscal agent and administering body to conduct daily operations as stated in Louisiana Act 323. ST MARY PARISH will assist in adopting the ad- ministrative steps to establish the Acadiana Watershed District Board of Commissioners and the bylaws of the District.
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
Javon Charles appeared before the Council to discuss St. Mary Parish Recreation De- partment. He suggested that the recreation department be re-activated to provide oversite of compliance, standards, and to help facilitate projects. He stated that he can be the first to volunteer his services.
Several Council Members discussed the recreation department duties and the Home Rule Charter relative to the appointment of a Recreation Director.
Meaghan Thompson, St. Mary Parish Em- ployee, on behalf of the Roads Department employees, appeared before the Council to ask them to move forward with obtaining the proposed St. Mary Parish Employee Compensation Study and Comprehensive Organizational Review.
Chief Administrative Officer, Jean Paul Bourg, submitted his report for a three (3) week period ending February 14, 2024. He ex- pounded on the 2024 Budget Ad- justments.
Several Council Members discussed the costs to house Parish In- mates at neighboring facilities, road patching and grading shoulders on Duhon Bypass Road, Garbage Collection Fees, garbage house count, equipment acquisition, and the twenty five percent reduction of several organizations’ allocations.
After lengthy discussion, Mr. Adams requested that the Advisory Budget Finance Committee hold a Special Meeting on February 21, 2024 at 5:00 p.m., 5th Floor Courthouse, Franklin. Mr. Ina seconded the motion, which carried. Mr. Hebert voted no.
Rev. Mathews expounded on the budget process, anticipated revenue, budget ad- justments, and budget amendments.
President Jones expounded on match money and informed that the Parish does not intend to create or increase any taxes for the citizens.
Rev. Mathews expounded on the proposed Personnel Policy relative to daily practices as it relates to Human Resources, fair labor standards, hiring standards, and hiring practices.
Mr. Adams mov-ed that the reading of the Public Hearing Report, January 24, 2024 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Hebert re- ported on the Legislative Conference that he attended this week in Washington D.C.
Mr. Olander moved that the following Ordinance be adopted. Rev. Mathews seconded the motion, which carried by the following 11-0-0-0 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Ina, Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hidalgo, and Mathews
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
ORDINANCE
NO. 2362
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, Chapter 5 Procedures, Division 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearing, Section 5.4.2 Rezonings (Zoning Map Amendments).
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
EXHIBIT “A”
Name: Lance Barrilleaux
Address: 935 Prairie Rd.
Centerville, LA
Parcel Id# 25344810 78.00-Parcel Id# 2534481047.00- Sec.48/49 T15S R10E, Parcel Id# 2534481078.00-Lot por Tract “DEHCD” per Plat 164 301107 situated in Sec. 48 T15S-R10E Acq. 450 342822, & Parcel Id# 2534481047.00-Lot por Tract “DEHCG” per Plat 164 301107 situated in Sec. 49 T15S-R10E Acq. 450 342822. Improvement on The Land of Barrilleaux Lance J Acq. 450 342822.
PURPOSE: to rezone from Light Industrial (LI) Zoned District to Agricultural (AG) Zoned District.
Per Mr. Rulf’s inquiry, Planning & Zoning Director, Tammy Luke stated that the rezone request is to allow construction of a house.
Mr. Hebert mov-ed that the following Resolution be adopted. The Council seconded the motion, which carried by the following 11-0-0-0 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hi- dalgo, Mathews, and Ina
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
RESOLUTION OF RESPECT
WHEREAS, the Lord Almighty in His Infinite mercy and goodness has seen fit to remove from our midst, Mrs. Glenda Richard Gaudet, and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Gaudet was a lifelong resident of the Acadiana area who worked for St. Mary Parish Government for 15 years as a Ferry Operator at Avoca Island and an Equipment Operator I and Office Manager at the Bayou Vista Barn, and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Gaudet was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and dear friend, and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Gaudet loved to cook, dance, and spend time surrounded by her family and friends, and
WHEREAS, the members of the St. Mary Parish Council wish to ac- knowledge publicly their sorrow and sympathy to the family of Mrs. Gaudet, and
WHEREAS, the St. Mary Parish Council hopes that her family will find comfort in the thought that their grief and sorrow are shared by their friends.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the St. Mary Parish Council through the unanimous adoption of this resolution that they solemnly deliberate with sincere condolences, sympathy, and understanding during this time of grief.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 14th day of February 2024.
APPROVED:
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
ATTEST:
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Rev. Mathews moved that the following Resolutions be adopted. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried by the following 11-0-0-0 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hi- dalgo, Mathews, Ina, and Olander
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
RESOLUTION
Resolution ap- proving and authorizing the Parish President to execute a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement and Bill of Sale of a Movable with Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government relative to the transfer of used stainless-steel animal housing cages for the St. Mary Parish Animal Shelter.
BE IT RESOLV-ED, that Sam Jones, President of the Parish of St. Mary, be and he is hereby authorized and directed, for and on behalf of the Parish Council, to execute a Cooperative En- deavor Agreement and Bill of Sale of a Movable with Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government relative to the transfer of used stainless- steel animal housing cages for the St. Mary Parish Animal Shelter, with said agreement to contain such terms, conditions, and stipulations as he may best see fit, he being fully authorized in the premises.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 14th day of February 2024.
APPROVED:
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
ATTEST:
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Per Mr. Hebert’s inquiry, Mr. Bourg stated that the parish is entering into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement and Bill of Sale to purchase used animal cages from Terrebonne Parish for five hundred dollars.
RESOLUTION
Resolution ap- proving and authorizing the Parish President to execute a Contract by and between the Division of Administration and the St. Mary Parish Government relative to Community Water Enrichment Fund Grant, File #2223-CWEF-SMY-001 for Infrastructure Improvements for Berwick-Bayou Vista Joint Water Commission, St. Mary Parish Water & Sewer Commission No. 4, and St. Mary Parish Water & Sewer Commission No. 5.
BE IT RESOLV-ED, that Sam Jones, President of the Parish of St. Mary, be and he is hereby authorized and directed, for and on behalf of the Parish Council, to execute a Contract by and between the Division of Administration and the St. Mary Parish Government relative to Community Water Enrichment Fund Grant, File #2223-CWEF-SMY-001 for Infrastructure Improvements for Berwick-Bayou Vista Joint Water Commission, St. Mary Parish Water & Sewer Commission No. 4, and St. Mary Parish Water & Sewer Commission No. 5, with said Contract to contain such terms, conditions, and stipulations as he may best see fit, he being fully authorized in the premises.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 14th day of February 2024.
APPROVED:
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
ATTEST:
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
RESOLUTION
Resolution ap- proving and authorizing the Parish President of St. Mary to enter into a contract to accept an allocation from the State of Louisiana Office of Community Development relative to the Resilient Communities Infrastructure and Hometown Revitalization programs.
BE IT RESOLV-ED, that Sam Jones, President of the Parish of St. Mary, be and he is hereby authorized and directed, for and on behalf of the Parish Council, to enter into a contract to accept an allocation from the State of Louisiana Office of Community Development relative to the Resilient Communities Infrastructure and Hometown Revitalization programs, with said contract to contain such terms, conditions, and stipulations as he may best see fit, he being fully authorized in the premises.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 14th day of February 2024.
APPROVED:
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
ATTEST:
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
OLD BUSINESS:
A. Discussion and action relative to the appointment of an Advisory Budget/Finance Committee Vice Chair.
Mr. Adams mov-ed that Mr. Ina be appointed as Vice Chair of the Advisory Budget/Finance Committee. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
B. Referred from the January 24, 2024, Regular Council Meeting - Discussion and action regarding St. Mary Parish Employee Compensation Study and Comprehensive Organizational Review. (Mr. Ina)
Mr. Ina expounded on the proposed Compensation Study and Comprehensive Organizational Review informational handouts created by an independent third party that streamlines job descriptions and salary.
Several Council Members discussed the costs of both studies, additional fees, and services offered.
After lengthy discussion, Dr. Rink referred this item to the Advisory Budget Finance Committee February 21, 2024 agenda.
C. Referred from the November 15, 2023, Regular Meeting – Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Fire Protection District No. 7 (Bayou Vista) – 1 vacancy
Jason Hunt – Present Member, Andros A. Williams, Martin De- Hart, Joseph Adydan, Matthew Kidder
Mr. Hill moved that Andros A. Williams be ap- pointed to Fire Protection District No. 7. Mr. Duhon seconded the mo- tion, which carried. In response to Dr. Rink’s inquiry relative to not reappointing Jason Hunt, Mr. Adams stated that he has missed several meetings.
D. Referred from the December 13, 2023, Regular Meeting – Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Fire Protection District No. 1 (Cypremort Point) – 1 Vacancy
Randy Picou
Mr. Olander moved that Randy Picou be appointed to Fire Protection District No. 1. Mr. Ina seconded the motion, which carried.
E. Referred from the January 24, 2024, Regular Meeting – Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Recreation District No. 6 (Baldwin, Jenerette, & Charenton) – 2 Vacancies
Laquanda Gray, Iris Collins-Tillman – Present Member
Lisa Morgan informed that a late application was received after the deadline.
Rev. Mathews moved that Iris Collins-Tillman be reappointed and Laquanda Gray be appointed to Recreation District No. 6. Mr. Ina seconded the motion, which carried.
St. Mary Parish Water & Sewer Commission No. 4 (Chatsworth, St. Joseph, Irish Bend, Yokely, Sorrell, Websterville, Charenton, and St. Peter Street) – 2 Vacancies
Camile J. Punch – Present Member, Herbert Bell – Present Member, Chad Gianfala, Everett Wayne Logeman, Benjamin Grimm, Jenny Darce
Mr. Olander moved that Benjamin Grimm and Jenny Darce be appointed to Water & Sewer Commission No. 4. Rev. Mathews seconded the motion, which carried. Dr. Rink abstained.
F. As per LA RS 38:291 (Z) relative to the St. Mary Levee District, the St. Mary Parish Council is responsible for submitting a list containing three nominations from each of the eight single member parish council districts. The Governor shall appoint one member to represent each District.
District IV
Mike Thomason
Javon Charles
Andros Williams
Mr. Hill moved to submit the names of Mike Thomason, Javon Charles, and Andros Williams to the Governor for a nomination to the St. Mary Levee District, District IV. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. We received the following fin- ancial statements:
Recreation District No. 7 - year ended September 30, 2023
B. Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Atchafalaya Golf Course Commission – 1 Vacancy
Jacob Marcell, Micah Thibodaux
Mr. Rulf moved that Micah Thibodaux be appointed to the Atchafalaya Golf Course Commission. Mr. Davis seconded the motion, which carried.
West St. Mary Parish Port, Harbor, and Terminal District (Ward 3 or Ward 4) – 1 Vacancy
No applications received.
Lisa Morgan in- formed that a late application was received after the deadline and that this item will be placed on the February 26, 2024 agenda.
C. Terry Foulcard, Registrar of Voters writes in compliance with LSA-RS 42:282-286, she submitted the Report of Ex- penditures for the St. Mary Parish Registrar of Voters Office for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023.
Mrs. Foulcard expounded on having secure voting at the Morgan City location. She stated that the Franklin location should have seven (7) employees and herself. Currently this office only has three (3) employees. She further expounded on compliance relative to the hiring process.
Several Council Members expounded on having a public discussion regarding a personnel matter. They discussed standard practice as it relates to having an additional level of drug testing that results in an additional expense and also discussed the Registrar of Voter’s hiring authority. Mrs. Foulcard stated that she will be placing an item for further discussion on the next agenda.
Parish President, Sam Jones reported on concerns relative to page 18, Section 5-06A, Administration of Operating and Capital Budgets, of the Home Rule Charter. He stated that he will be implementing this procedure on certain budgetary allotments.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
S/G LISA C.
MORGAN
Lisa C. Morgan,
Clerk
Adv. March 8, 2024

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING REPORT
FEBRUARY 14, 2024
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
5:45 P.M.
The St. Mary Parish Council held a Public Hearing on this date with Chairperson Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo presiding and the following members present: Rev. Craig Mathews, Rodney Olander, David W. Hill, Leslie Rulf, Jr., Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, Dean Adams, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. Absent was J Ina.
The purpose of the Public Hearing was to receive written and/or oral comments relative to the following Ordinance:
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, Chapter 5 Procedures, Division 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearing, Section 5.4.2 Rezonings (Zoning Map Amendments). (Lance Barrilleaux)
There were no written or verbal comments received regarding the ordinance.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
s/g Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
s/g Lisa C. Morgan
Lisa C. Morgan,
Clerk
Adv. March 8, 2024

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING REPORT
FEBRUARY 14, 2024
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
5:50 P.M.
The St. Mary Parish Council held a Public Hearing on this date with Chairperson Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo presiding and the following members present: Rev. Craig Mathews, J Ina, Rodney Olander, David W. Hill, Leslie Rulf, Jr., Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, Dean Adams, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D.
The purpose of the Public Hearing was to receive written and/or oral comments relative to the following Ordinance:
An Ordinance authorizing participation in the Acadiana Watershed District, as codified by Louisiana Act 323. The Acadiana Watershed District shall be domiciled in Lafayette Parish as a central location within the boundaries of the Acadiana Watershed District. St. Mary Parish designates the Acadiana Planning Commission as the office of the Acadiana Watershed District’s business operations and as the public fiscal agent and administering body to conduct daily operations as stated in Louisiana Act 323. St. Mary Parish will assist in adopting the administrative steps to establish the Acadiana Watershed District Board of Commissioners and the bylaws of the District.
There were no written or verbal comments received regarding the ordinance.
In response to several Council Members’ inquiries, Kelia Fontenot Bingham, Acadiana Planning Commission spoke briefly in reference to the domicile of the water district, possible grant funding, holding ponds, and Act 323.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
s/g Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
s/g Lisa C. Morgan
Lisa C. Morgan,
Clerk
Adv. March 8, 2024

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
WARDS 5 & 8 JOINT SEWER COMMISSION
P. O. Box 181
Berwick, La 70342
MINUTES
February 5, 2024
The meeting was called to order by Mr. Lopez at 6:00 PM.
Present: Councilman Les Rulf, Councilwoman Kristi Prejeant, Michael Stewart, Gary Beadle, Parish employee Jean Paul Bourg, Councilman David Hill, Larry and Pam Fromenthal, Joe Walker, Chris Cooper, Mickey Carmouche, Karen Sehon, and Rafael Lopez.
The board went over the minutes of previous month’s meeting. Mr. Cooper moved to disburse the reading of the minutes and accept. Mr. Stewart seconded the motion.
The board then went over the treasurer’s report. Mr. Cooper motioned to approve the treasurer’s report and sign checks if all in order. Mr. Beadle seconded the motion.
Providence En- gineering has no representative in attendance. Mrs. Sehon submitted an amendment for the new proposal agreement emailed by Providence. Mr. Beadle made a motion to sign the amendment to agree on the agreement as proposed. Mr. Stewart seconded the motion. All members were in agreement.
Mr. Carmouche reported monthly maintenance. We failed one DMR by 1 sample. He sent the information and explanation for the corrective action. The chlorine system works together from the pump to the bottles. Possible to make a couple of baskets to help. Patterson pond drain line is fixed. He repaired the flapper valve and check valve. Both pumps are working at Station 9. They will be monitoring the levels through the night. The pump was back up and the system online after repairs. He suggested a “Y” connection instead of a “T” connection. The Y helps the flow through better. Station 6 & 7 the walking trail, is pumped down and cleaned out. There is more trash in it already. He was called out to Station 7, due to loss of power in the area. Both pumps shut down. There was a loss of signal. He was able to get the wet well pumped down and the system going again. The trees were removed off the fence at Station 4. The fence repairs at Station 5 have begun. He is awaiting more materials. The materials are due to be in the next two weeks.
Mr. Bourg with St. Mary Parish Government was in attendance. He was asking about the billing rates for sewer treatment. He was asking to see if we could work together to keep fees down. He asked about a consideration of a reduced rate of billing. Mr. Lopez explained if we give them a reduced rate, then all entities will want the same reduction in rates. Mr. Carmouche explained it costs more to treat rainwater vs. city water. We have to use more chlorine to treat rainwater. Sometimes as much as twice the amount. Mr. Stewart motioned to keep the billing rate the same. Board members agreed to keep the billing rate the same. Mr. Carmouche explained the government ran lines to use the commission for sewer treatment due to wanting to get away from all the permits and testing themselves.
Rehabilitation of Station 10 is moving forward. Mr. Lopez discussed with Mr. Carmouche starting to get the materials needed for the project. Ex: hoses, balloons, gate valves for bypass. Rehabilitation of Station 9 will take place after Station 10 is completed. We will wait a few months to recoup funding before starting.
Mr. Cooper mentioned that aerator gearboxes are ex- pensive to build. MC Electric can get the box parts. Approximately $20,000 which that price dropped by ½. So go to MC Electric to get rebuilt. 90% of the ones we have are interchangeable. Mr. Beadle motion-ed to get one rebuilt every quarter. Mr. Walker seconded the motion. All members are in agreement.
Mr. Lopez asked Mrs. Sehon for an update on City of Patterson’s outstanding invoices and payments re- ceived. Mrs. Sehon reported that a check was received on 2/5/2024 for October consumption invoice. She received a call today from the auditors asking for an invoice for July consumption. It was discovered that the consumption amount was not received, therefore it was not billed. While she was on the phone with Mrs. Guarisco for the City, she received the July and December consumption amounts. Mrs. Sehon billed them both today. Currently they have 3 invoices outstanding. Mr. Stewart has been in contact with Mr. Weary to get this resolved. Mr. Stewart asked us to agree as a board before approaching the city. The payments collected monthly should not have a delay as we have been having. All entities have Net 15 days per invoice to get payment submitted. The Patterson council meets the 1st Tuesday of each month. Mr. Lopez asked if we could get a member to attend the meeting next month. Mr. Stewart has gone through the proper channels to get this resolved. We will discuss at the next meeting if steps need to be taken.
The bylaws have been recorded at the Clerk’s office. Mr. Carmouche will look into switching dumpster rental company.
Next meeting scheduled for Monday March 4, 2024.
Having no further business, Mr. Cooper motioned to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Beadle seconded the motion.
———————
Chairperson
———————
Secretary/
Treasurer
Adv. March 8, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY
PARISH
GOVERNMENT
MATERIAL SUPPLY CONTRACT
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
NOTICE IS HEREBY given by St. Mary Parish Government that sealed bids will be received at the office of the St. Mary Parish Purchasing Department, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana 70538, until 10:00 A.M. on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for:
“CATIONIC EMULSIFIED ASPHALT”
“WIRE ROPE”
“LIMESTONE BY PARISH TRUCKS”
“LIMESTONE BY VENDOR TRUCK”
“LIMESTONE BY BARGE”
“ALTERNATE DAILY COVER”
Bids received after the above- specified time will not be considered.
Specifications and contract documents for the above can be ob- tained upon re- quest from the St. Mary Parish Purchasing Department, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana 70538. Official bid documents can be downloaded from Central Bidding at www.centralbidding.com Electronic bids can be submitted at www.centralbidding.com. For any questions relating to the electronic bidding process, please call Central Bidding at 225-810-4814.
Envelopes must be marked as follows:
“BIDS FOR ASPHALT”
“BIDS FOR WIRE ROPE”
“BIDS FOR LIMESTONE BY VENDOR/PARISH TRUCK”
“BIDS FOR LIMESTONE BY BARGE”
“BIDS FOR ALTERNATE COVER”
St. Mary Parish reserves the right to reject any and/or all bids to waive informalities in any and/or all bids, and to award the contract in the best interest of St. Mary Parish.
Thus, done and signed at Franklin, Parish of St. Mary, Louisiana on this 6th day of March, 2024.
———————
Sam Jones
Parish President
St. Mary Parish Government
Adv. March 8, 13, 20 and 27, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
The St. Mary Parish Child Nu- trition Program Department is re- questing bids for Small Kitchen Equipment for the 2023-2024 school year. Sealed bids will be accepted at the St. Mary Parish School Board, Child Nutrition Department until 9:00 a.m., April 9, 2024, at which time they will be opened and read out loud. The public is invited to attend.
Specifications may be obtained from the St. Mary Parish School Board, Child Nu- trition Program Department, P.O. Box 170, 474 Hwy 317, Centerville, Louisiana 70522 or by calling (337) 836-6039. Information is available online at www.centralauctionhouse.com.
No pre-bid conference will be held. Questions should be emailed to dchaisson@st maryk12.net by March 18, 2024. Responses will be provided by email to all potential vendors by March 19, 2024.
The St. Mary Parish School Board Child Nutrition Program is funded 92.2 percent with Federal funds for a total of approximately $6,700,000 per year.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Adv. March 1, 6 and 8, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
Planning &
Zoning
Commission
Regular Meeting
December 18, 2023
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, Jeremy Chesteen, Joshua Montgomery, Glynn Pellerin, and Carla Davis.
Mr. Chesteen pronounced the Invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Mr. Montgomery moved that the reading of the minutes of the Regular Meeting, November 20, 2023 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Mr. Pellerin seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Druilhet read the request for a Rezoning of property by Lance Barrilleaux from Light Industrial (LI) Zoned District to Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 935 Prairie Rd., Franklin, LA -Sec.48/49 T15S R10E;
-Parcel Id# 2534481078.00-Lot por Tract “DEHCD” per Plat 164 301107 situated in Sec. 48 T15S-R10E Acq. 450 342822 &
-Parcel Id# 2534481047.00-Lot por Tract “DEHCG” per Plat 164 301107 situated in Sec. 49 T15S-R10E Acq. 450 342822. Improvement on The Land of Barrilleaux Lance J Acq. 450 342822.
Lance Barrilleaux appeared before the board to discuss the Rezoning of property from Light Industrial (LI) Zoned District to Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 935 Prairie Rd., Franklin, LA -Sec.48/49 T15S R10E;
-Parcel Id# 2534481078.00-Lot por Tract “DEHCD” per Plat 164 301107 situated in Sec. 48 T15S-R10E Acq. 450 342822 &
-Parcel Id# 2534481047.00-Lot por Tract “DEHCG” per Plat 164 301107 situated in Sec. 49 T15S-R10E Acq. 450 342822. Improvement on The Land of Barrilleaux Lance J Acq. 450 342822. (Zon-1421)
Mr. Barrilleaux explained that he is retired, and he intends to build a home on the property and raise livestock.
In reference to Mr. Lipari’s inquiry, Mrs. Tammy Luke, Director of Planning and Zoning stated that there was no opposition from the neighbors and that Mr. Barrilleaux meets all the re- quirements.
Mr. Lipari made a motion to ap- prove the Rezoning of property by Lance Barrilleaux from Light Industrial (LI) Zoned District to Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 935 Prairie Rd., Franklin, LA -Sec.48/49 T15S R10E;
-Parcel Id# 2534481078.00-Lot por Tract “DEHCD” per Plat 164 301107 situated in Sec. 48 T15S-R10E Acq. 450 342822 &
-Parcel Id# 2534481047.00-Lot por Tract “DEHCG” per Plat 164 301107 situated in Sec. 49 T15S-R10E Acq. 450 342822. Improvement on The Land of Barrilleaux Lance J Acq. 450 342822. Mr. Wiley seconded the mo- tion, which carried with the following 6-0-0-0 Roll Call Vote:
Yeas: Jimmy Wiley, Danny Lipari, Jeremy Ches- teen, Joshua Montgomery, Glynn Pellerin, and Carla Davis.
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. March 8, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
Planning &
Zoning
Commission
Public Hearing Minutes
December 18, 2023
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, Jimmy Wiley, Jeremy Chesteen, Joshua Montgomery, and Carla Davis. Absent was Glynn Pellerin.
The purpose of the hearing was to receive written and/or oral comments relative to the following proposed Subdivision/Development of property:
Rezoning of pro- perty by Lance Barrilleaux from Light Industrial (LI) Zoned District to Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 935 Prairie Rd., Franklin, LA -Sec.48/49 T15S R10E;
-Parcel Id# 2534481078.00-Lot por Tract “DEHCD” per Plat 164 301107 situated in Sec. 48 T15S-R10E Acq. 450 342822 &
-Parcel Id# 2534481047.00-Lot por Tract “DEHCG” per Plat 164 301107 situated in Sec. 49 T15S-R10E Acq. 450 342822. Improvement on The Land of Barrilleaux Lance J Acq. 450 342822. (Zon-1421)
Lance Barrilleaux appeared before the board to discuss the Rezoning of property from Light Industrial (LI) Zoned District to Agricultural (AG) Zoned District located at 935 Prairie Rd., Franklin, LA -Sec.48/49 T15S R10E;
-Parcel Id# 2534481078.00-Lot por Tract “DEHCD” per Plat 164 301107 situated in Sec. 48 T15S-R10E Acq. 450 342822 &
-Parcel Id# 2534481047.00-Lot por Tract “DEHCG” per Plat 164 301107 situated in Sec. 49 T15S-R10E Acq. 450 342822. Improvement on The Land of Barrilleaux Lance J Acq. 450 342822. (Zon-1421)
Mr. Barrilleaux stated that the reason for the rezone is so that he may build a home on the property and raise chickens.
There being no further business, Chairman Barry Druilhet adjourned the Public Hearing.
Chairman Barry Druilhet
St. Mary Parish Planning and Zoning Commission
Adv. March 8, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE
CITY OF
BERWICK,
LOUISIANA
NOTICE OF PUBLIC
MEETING
Public Meeting Date: March 12, 2024
Call to Order: 6:00 P.M.
Place: Council Meeting Room, 3225 Third Street, Berwick, LA 70342
A Public Hearing will be held as follows:
Date: March 12, 2024
Time: 6:15 P.M.
Place: Council Meeting Room, 3225 Third Street, Berwick, LA 70342
Prayer
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call: James Richard, Kevin Hebert, Colleen Askew, Raymond Price & Lud Henry
Minutes from last meeting: February 20, 2024
Treasurer’s Re- port
Guests:
The Beacon Shines on: Berwick Junior High School Teacher of the year: Mrs. Darby Ratcliff
Berwick Junior High School Student of the year: Mr. Stanley Aucoin
Police Report:
Fire Report
Public Works Report
Consulting En- gineers Report
Committee Re- ports
PUBLIC HEARING
1. Ordinance No. 746 – Acquire Property – Perry J. Toups, Sr.
ORDINANCES – INTRODUCE/ADOPT
1. Adopt Ordinance No. 746 - Acquire Property - Perry J. Toups, Sr.
2. Introduce Or- dinance No. 747 – Set Drainage Rates for 2024
3. Introduce Or- dinance No. 748 – Set Millage Rate for 2024
RESOLUTIONS/PROCLAMATIONS
1. None
NEW BUSINESS:
1. American Legion Post 242 – Can Shake Permit – April 6, 2024
2. Approve Payment No. 14871 #4 to Miller Engineers & Associates, Inc. for $41,468.70 for Roadway Improvements to 6th Street
3. Declare Surplus Property:
1986 FORD TRACTOR 1710 S/N 03604 - 3CYL DIESEL
2001 UTILITY TANK TRAILER VIN F126018020
26 FT MARKLIFT SCISSOR LIFT S/N 29121656 MODEL J25EP
2008 CHEVY IMPALA BLACK VIN #2G1WV58K88 1356820
FORD 7610 TRACTOR S/N 256013M – DIESEL
1994 FORD 6610 TRACTOR S/N BD61721
JOHN DEER ZERO GAS S/N TC810H014264 - 54” DECK - 22 HP - 2 TRAK PRO Z810A
TIRES AND RIMS FOR DODGE CHARGER 275/25/ZR24
2003 FORD PICKUP VIN # 1FTYR10U63PA23912 - WHITE
2003 FORD PICK UP VIN # 3FTNX20L53MB17775 – BEIGE
2009 FORD PICKUP VIN # 1FTRF12W19KA68211 - WHITE
Adjournment
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact Jamie Keith, Town Clerk, at (985) 384-8858, P.O. Box 486, Berwick, LA 70342 describing the assistance that is necessary.
Adv. March 8, 2024

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