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As work on the physical functionality of Ochsner St. Mary continues, members of the Hospital Service District No. 2 board on Wednesday turned its attention to what people will see when they enter the Morgan City hospital.
It turns out that a hospital’s physical appearance and its functionality aren’t entirely separate matters.
The board adopted a motion by member Clarence Robinson to adopt a plan for architectural changes at the facility, which the district owns and is operated under lease by Ochsner Health.
Barry Lann and Emily Stewart presented the Grace Design Studio plan for alterations to the hospital’s first floor. The plan is designed to eliminate what Lann called bottlenecks at the main entrance and emergency room entrance, creating a flow that gets people where they need to go.
In the Grace Design plan, people walking into the main entry will be greeted by a curved reception desk. Around the desk to the right will be registration stations for paperwork.
A left turn leads people to a hall leading to the radiology department and the lab.
The emergency room entrance will lead through a climate-controlled vestibule leading to an area for triage, the process of assigning priority to patients based on their medical needs.
Also on the first floor, a largely unused area of office space will be converted into public meeting rooms.
The food service area will get badly needed replacements for the ceiling and flooring.
Meanwhile, work continues to deal with the effects of age and Hurricane Francine. The exterior of the building was sealed last year, giving the hospital a brighter appearance.
Other work completed or planned includes installation of rooftop units that will provide positive pressure in the hospital; an upgrade to two staff elevators; and a new heating and air conditioning system.
The work on the hospital is being financed with a 9-mill property tax approved by voters in December 2024.
Board counsel William Bourgeois said Wednesday that collections through February, covering the first year of receipts from the 9-mill tax, came to about $3.2 million.
The ballot language estimated the proceeds of the tax to be about $3.4 million. Entities that receive property tax proceeds, like working people, have to pay withholding, in this case to various pension funds.

BATON ROUGE — The crawfish industry is facing a labor shortage due to federal immigration caps as the state enters the start of the harvesting season, Commissioner of Agriculture Mike Strain said in a House committee meeting on Tuesday.
Most of the seasonal workers employed by the state’s crawfish peeling and packing facilities are authorized to work temporarily in the U.S., and this year, many of them are being denied visas to work, leaving the packing facilities without a workforce and causing a few to close their doors for the season.
“My personal constituent had to close four other locations and only can operate one because he can’t get the workers that he normally has no problem getting,” Rep. Dodie Horton, R-Bossier, told Strain in the hearing.
The issue is not a shortage in those wanting work, but rather federal quotas, Strain said.
Under the federal H-2B program, immigrants can apply to work seasonal, non-agricultural jobs in the country before returning home at the end of the season, and many of the state’s crawfish factories utilize the program. But there is a cap on the allotted visas, and Louisiana reached it before the factories could be fully staffed.
Because of a demonstrated need, the cap was extended from 66,000 to include an additional 35,000 supplemental visas, distributed to employers on a lottery basis. However, a couple of the packing facilities were still left without employees, according to Doug Guillory, owner of Riceland Crawfish, a seafood wholesaler in Eunice, one of the few facilities to make it under the cap.
While this shortage is not expected to have a significant effect on the supply and cost of live and boiled crawfish in the state, producers are anticipating a drop in domestic production of frozen crawfish tails shipped around the country, which may affect the rest of the industry, Strain said.
 The impact of the labor shortage on the price of peeled and frozen Louisiana crawfish tails is not immediately clear. 
 In the past when domestic factories have been unable to keep up with peeling and packaging, the crawfish have either gone unconsumed or have been sent to Mexico to be peeled and packed and sold in America.
Strain said he has reached out to national leaders, including Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, the Department of Labor, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, to find a workaround for the cap, but he has been told there is nothing they can do.
“That’s unacceptable – this whole process has gotten now totally out of hand,” Strain said.
Despite numerous letters, emails and phone calls to federal officials, Strain has seen no progress in tweaking the visa process. According to Horton, Gov. Jeff Landry, Sen. John Kennedy and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson have addressed the issue with federal agencies, but no new answers have been found.
“I’m going to find out what desk it is stuck on in Washington, and I’m going to find out why,” Strain said.
The state’s packaging facilities struggle to find labor in the country, which pushes them to employ through H-2B in the first place, and that struggle still exists, Strain said.
“Overall, our deal is, it costs a lot more for them because they have to provide housing, transportation,” Strain said. “It’s all a cost to get them in. It’s very expensive for these workers, but they are the only option in town.”
Despite the lack of answers, Strain suggested that legislators add an amendment to the next budget reconciliation bill in order to allow crawfish facilities to bring in more employees.
“They’re very valuable, but these are skilled workers, and right now we cannot get them, and it’s very frustrating,” Strain said.

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

Morgan City police reported five arrests on battery charges over the last eight days. Agencies across the region reported arrests on drug charges in the last week.

Morgan City

Chief Chad M. Adams reported these arrests:

--Tom Nguyen, 68, Lake Palourde Road, Morgan City, was arrested by the St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office at 10:39 a.m. Tuesday on a warrant alleging sexual battery, simple battery and simple criminal damage to property.

--Stesheka Brown, 39, Martin Luther King Boulevard, Patterson, was arrested at 1:30 p.m. Monday on a charge of simple battery.

--Steisha Brown, 41, Garber Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 1:30 p.m. Monday on a charge of simple battery.

--Jesus Obando, 27, La. 182, Morgan City, was arrested at 9:10 a.m. Saturday on charges of domestic abuse battery (strangulation) and domestic abuse (child endangerment law).

--Isrrael Gomez, 23, Sixth Street, Berwick, was arrested at 12:35 a.m. Monday on charges of criminal damage to property, disturbing the peace, resisting an officer, battery on a police officer and theft (under $1,000).

--Marvin Williamson Jr., 61, La. 182, Morgan City, was arrested at 10:23 p.m. Tuesday on charges of possession of methamphetamine, resisting an officer and six counts of failure to appear for trial.

--Kaitlyn Beadle, 29, Ann Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 10:09 p.m. Monday on charges of possession of synthetic cannabinoids, remaining where forbidden and theft (under $1,000).

--Brice Kemp, 39, Joseph Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 3:05 p.m. Tuesday on a charge of failure to appear to pay fine.

--Don Fryou, 37, Bayou Black Drive, Gibson, was arrested at 10:15 p.m. Tuesday on charges of driving under suspension, possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting an officer, no safety belt, improper lane usage and failure to appear for arraignment.

--Breanna Aucoin, 21, Parish Road 131, Franklin, was arrested at 1:03 a.m. Wednesday on charges of driving while intoxicated and careless operation.

--Alberto Ramirez, 34, Park Road, Morgan City, was arrested at 7:41 p.m. Monday on charges of driver’s license and headlights required. (Released on summons.)

--Victor Martinez Jr., 22, Aarons Drive, Mission, Texas, was arrested at 8 p.m. Monday on charges of no driver’s license and careless operation of a vehicle. (Released on summons).

--Charity Johnson, 21, La. 182, Berwick, was arrested at 7:53 p.m. Feb. 27 on charges of disturbing the peace and resisting an officer.

--Cierra Ruffin, 30, Driskill Drive, Berwick, was arrested at 7:53 p.m. Feb. 27 on charges of disturbing the peace, resisting an officer, interfering with an investigation and failure to appear to pay fine (6th Ward Morgan City Court).

--Jorge Posada Ordonez, 33, Railroad Avenue, Morgan City, was arrested at 8:42 p.m. Saturday on charges of improper lane use and improper lane usage, and as a fugitive from Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

--Jimmy Businelle, 66, Bush Street, Morgan City, was arrested at 11:52 a.m. Sunday on charges of violation of a protective order, disturbing the peace and resisting an officer.

--Kristen Walch, 40, Bayou Black Drive, Gibson, was arrested at 8:34 p.m. Sunday and held for the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office.

St. Mary

Sheriff Gary Driskell reported these arrests:

--Ranney Joseph Suttoon Jr., 50, Morgan City, was arrested at 2:03 p.m. Tuesday on a warrant alleging failure to appear on charges of operating a vehicle without proper required equipment and improper use of registration, license plates or license.

Bail has not been set at this time.

--Chase Aaron Scully, 24, Lafayette, was arrested at 3:26 p.m. Tuesday on a warrant alleging failure to appear on charges of possession with intent to distribute THC edibles, manufacture of Schedule I drugs and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Bail has not been set at this time.

--Willie James Hayes Jr., 46, Franklin, was arrested by the Narcotics Section at 6:53 p.m. Tuesday on charges of improper lane usage, possession of schedule I drugs, and illegal carrying of weapons in the presence of a CDS. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Kentrell Dmarcus Gunner, 40, Morgan City, was arrested at 1:34 a.m. Monday on charges of hit and run and failure to report accident. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Ernest James Perez, 49, Jeanerette, was arrested at 12:19 p.m. Sunday on charges of criminal trespass, illegal carrying of a weapon, driver must be licensed, no insurance and violation of protective orders.

Bail was set at $91,000.

--Xavion Lamar, 21, Franklin, was arrested by the Narcotics Section at 11:40 a.m. Monday on a warrant alleging failure to appear on charges of operating a vehicle without proper equipment and possession of marijuana. Bail has not been set at this time.

--Edward Joseph Trimm Jr., 50, Siracusa, was arrested by the Narcotics Section at 11:40 a.m. Monday on charges of possession of meth, possession of heroin, possession of a legend drug without a prescription and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Bail has not been set at this time.

Patterson

Chief Garrett Grogan reported this arrest:

--Shina D. Short, 43, Live Oak Street, Patterson, was arrested at 7:19 p.m. Monday on charges of possession of methamphetamine, resisting an officer (false information), bicycles (front lamps, side and rear reflectors) and misrepresentation during booking.

Short is incarcerated at the Patterson PD Jail with no bond set.

Assumption

Sheriff Leland Falcon reported this arrest:

--Keynyn D. Jackson, 41, Ninth Street, Lake Charles, was arrested Monday on a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia and on a fugitive warrant from Lafourche Parish alleging contempt of court and driving while intoxicated (third offense).

The charges arise from a suspicious person complaint at an industrial construction facility in Amelia on Monday afternoon.

A uniformed patrol deputy assigned to an off-duty assignment was notified that an individual had made unlawful entry onto the premises by crawling under a fence.

The deputy located the individual now identified as Jackson. The deputy interviewed Jackson and conducted a warrants check, which revealed that Jackson was wanted by the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office on a fugitive warrant.

Jackson was arrested. During a pat-down search incidental to arrest, Jackson was found to be in possession of assorted drug paraphernalia.

Jackson was booked into the Assumption Parish Detention Center pending a bond hearing on the drug paraphernalia charge.

Upon satisfying the Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office charges, Jackson will be transferred to the custody of Lafourche Parish.

Franklin

Chief Cedric Handy reported this arrest:

--Dea’vanta Burden, 33, La. 83, Franklin, was arrested at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday on charges of resisting an officer, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine, possession of schedule of crack cocaine and possession of marijuana. Burden was booked, processed and held with no bond set at the time of press release.

PUBLIC NOTICE
The following ordinance having been introduced at a meeting held on January 27, 2026, was offered for final adoption by Mr. Hutchinson and seconded by Pastor Bias:
ORDINANCE
An ordinance authorizing the incurring of debt and issuance of Three Million One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($3,100,000) of Limited Tax Bonds, Series 2026, of the City of Morgan City, State of Louisiana; and providing for other matters in connection therewith.
WHEREAS, the City of Morgan City, State of Louisiana (the “Issuer”), is now receiving revenues de- rived from the levy and collection of a special tax of 16.07 mills (such rate being subject to adjustment from time to time due to reassessment) which the Issuer is authorized to im- pose and collect each year (the “Tax”); and
WHEREAS, the Issuer now desires to incur debt and issue Three Million One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($3,100,000) of its Limited Tax Bonds, Series 2026 (the “Bonds”), pursuant to Part II of Chapter 4 of Subtitle II of Title 39 of the Louisiana Re- vised Statutes of 1950, as amended, and other constitutional and statutory authority, for the purpose of (i) paying any costs associated with the demolition, rehabilitation, re- pair, reconstruction, renovation, restoration and improvement of the Issuer’s properties and facilities resulting from or related to Hurricane Francine, including purchasing any materials, furnishings, fixtures and equipment incidental or necessary in connection therewith, and (ii) paying the costs of issuance of the Bonds; and
WHEREAS, the Bonds will be payable as to principal and interest from the proceeds of the Tax as set forth herein; and
WHEREAS, the Issuer has no outstanding bonds or other obligations of any kind or nature payable from or enjoying a lien on the revenues of the Tax; and
WHEREAS, the maximum amount of principal and interest due in any year on the Bonds will not exceed seventy-five percent (75%) of the income estimated to be realized from the Tax in 2026; and
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Issuer to fix the details necessary with respect to the issuance of the Bonds and to provide for the authorization and issuance thereof;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Morgan City Council, acting as governing authority of the Issuer, that:
SECTION 1) Definitions. As used herein, the following terms shall have the following meanings, unless the context otherwise requires:
“Act” means Part II of Chapter 4 of Subtitle II of Title 39 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended, and other constitutional and statutory authority.
“Additional Parity Bonds” means any pari passu additional obligations hereafter issued by the Issuer on a parity with the Bonds with respect to the Tax, all as provided herein.
“Agreement” means the agreement to be entered into between the Issuer and the Paying Agent pursuant to this Ordinance, if required.
“Bond” or “Bonds” means any or all of the Issuer’s Limited Tax Bonds, Series 2026, authorized by this Ordinance in the total aggregate principal amount of Three Million One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($3,100,000), whether initially delivered or issued in exchange for, upon transfer of, or in lieu of any bond previously issued.
“Bond Register” means the records kept by the appropriate Paying Agent at its designated office in which registration of the Bonds and transfers of the Bonds shall be made as provided herein.
“Business Day” means a day of the year other than a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday for the Issuer.
“Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
“Costs of Issuance” means all items of expense, directly or indirectly payable or reimbursable and related to the authorization, sale and issuance of the Bonds, including but not limited to printing costs, costs of preparation and reproduction of documents, filing and recording fees, initial fees and charges of any fiduciary, legal fees and charges, fees and disbursements of consultants and professionals, costs of credit ratings, fees and charges for preparation, execution, transportation and safekeeping of the Bonds, costs and expenses of refunding, premiums for the insurance of the payment of the Bonds, if any, and any other cost, charge or fee paid or payable by the Issuer in connection with the original issuance of Bonds.
“Delivery Date” means the date on which the Bonds are delivered to the Lender in exchange for payment therefor, which is anticipated to be March 5, 2026.
“Determination of Taxability” means any final, unappealable determination, decision, de- cree or advisement by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue, or any District Director of Internal Revenue or any court of competent jurisdiction to the effect that, as the result of any action or inaction of the Issuer, interest paid or to be paid on the Bonds is or will be includable for federal income tax purposes in the gross income of the Lender or any other Owner thereof.
“Event of Default” shall have the meaning given such term in Section 25 hereof.
“Executive Of- ficers” means, collectively, the Mayor, Chief Ad- ministrative Officer, and Director of Finance of the Issuer, and the Clerk of the Governing Authority.
“Fiscal Year” means the one-year accounting period beginning on January 1st of each year, or such other period as may be designated by the Governing Authority as the fiscal year of the Issuer.
“Governing Authority” means the Morgan City Council.
“Government Securities” means direct obligations of, or obligations the principal of and interest on which are un- conditionally guaranteed by the United States of America, which are non callable prior to their maturity, may be United States Treasury obligations such as the State and Local Government Series and may be in book entry form.
“Interest Payment Date” means each March 1 and September 1, commencing September 1, 2026.
“Issuer” means the City of Morgan City, State of Louisiana.
“Lender” means Regions Equipment Finance Corporation for Bond R-1 ($2,350,000) and the Louisiana Public Facilities Authority for Bond R-2 ($750,000).
“Maximum Rate” means 6% per annum, provided that such rate shall not ex- ceed the maximum rate allowed pursuant to Louisiana law.
“Ordinance” means this Ordinance authorizing the issuance of the Bonds, as it may be supplemented and amended.
“Outstanding” when used with respect to Bonds means, as of the date of determination, all Bonds theretofore issued and delivered under this Ordinance, except:
1. Any Bond theretofore canceled by the Paying Agent or delivered to the Paying Agent for cancellation;
2. Any Bond the payment for which sufficient funds or Government Securities, or both, have been theretofore paid to or de- posited in trust for the owners of such Bond with the effect specified in this Ordinance or by law;
3. Any Bond in exchange for or in lieu of which another Bond has been registered and delivered pursuant to this Ordinance; and
4. Any Bond alleged to have been mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen which may have been paid as provided in this Ordinance or by law.
“Owner” or “Owners” when used with respect to any Bond means the Person in whose name such Bond is registered in the Bond Register.
“Paying Agent” means Regions Bank, New Orleans, Louisiana, for Bond R-1, and the Clerk of the Governing Authority for Bond R-2, or such successor Paying Agents which may be named by this Governing Authority.
“Person” means any individual, corporation, partnership, joint venture, association, joint stock company, trust, unincorporated organization or government or any agency or political subdivision thereof.
“Record Date” for the interest payable on any Interest Payment Date means the 15th calendar day of the month next preceding such Interest Payment Date.
“State” means the State of Louisiana.
“Tax” means an ad valorem tax of 16.07 mills (such rate being subject to adjustment from time to time due to reassessment) which the Issuer is authorized to impose and collect each year pursuant to Article VI, Section 27 of the Louisiana Constitution of 1974.
“Term Sheet” means the executed Term Sheet of Regions Equipment Finance Corporation with re- spect to Bond R-1, attached hereto as Exhibit A-1.
SECTION 2) Authorization of Bonds; Maturities. In compliance with the terms and provisions of the Act, there is hereby authorized the incurring of an indebtedness of Three Million One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($3,100,000) for, on behalf of, and in the name of the Issuer, for the purpose of (i) paying any costs associated with the demolition, rehabilitation, repair, reconstruction, renovation, restoration and improvement of the Issuer’s properties and facilities resulting from or related to Hurricane Francine, including purchasing any materials, furnishings, fixtures and equipment incidental or necessary in connection therewith, and (ii) paying the Costs of Issuance of the Bonds, and to represent said indebtedness, this Governing Authority does hereby authorize the issuance of Three Million One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($3,100,000) of Limited Tax Bonds, Series 2026, of the Issuer.
The Bonds shall be issued in the form of two, fully registered term bonds numbered R-1 and R-2 and shall be dated the Delivery Date.
Bond R-1 shall bear interest at the rate of 4.56% per annum, shall be in the denomination of $2,350,000, and shall mature in installments on March 1 of each year, without necessity of notice, as follows:
Year (March 1), Principal Maturing
2028, $156,000
2029, 163,000
2030, 170,000
2031, 178,000
2032, 186,000
2033, 194,000
2034, 203,000
2035, 212,000
2036, 220,000
2037, 326,000
2038*, 342,000
*Final Maturity
Bond R-2 shall bear interest at the rate of 2.28% per annum, shall be in the denomination of $750,000, and shall mature in installments on March 1 of each year, without necessity of notice, as follows:
Year (March 1), Principal Maturing
2028, $75,000
2029, 77,000
2030, 80,000
2031, 81,000
2032, 83,000
2033, 85,000
2034, 87,000
2035, 89,000
2036*, 93,000
*Final Maturity
The installments of principal of the Bonds, as they fall due, and interest on the Bonds shall be payable by check of the Paying Agent or the Issuer mailed to the Owner (determined as of the close of business on the Record Date) at the address shown on the Bond Register or, in the discretion of the Paying Agent, by wire from the Paying Agent or the Issuer delivered to the Owner (determined as of the close of business on the Record Date) in accordance with wiring instructions provided by the Own-er, provided, however, that principal of the Bonds at final maturity or upon earlier prepayment in full shall be payable at the designated office of the Paying Agent upon presentation and surrender thereof. Each Bond delivered under this Ordinance upon transfer of, in exchange for or in lieu of any other Bond shall carry all the rights to interest accrued and unpaid, and to accrue, which were carried by such other Bond, and each such Bond shall bear interest (as herein set forth) so neither gain nor loss in interest shall re- sult from such transfer, exchange or substitution.
Interest on the Bonds shall accrue from the Delivery Date or from the most recent Interest Payment Date to which interest has been paid or duly provided for and shall be payable on each Interest Payment Date. Notwithstanding the foregoing, up- on occurrence of an Event of Default or a Determination of Taxability, the applicable rate of interest on Bond R-1 shall be adjusted as set forth in the Term Sheet, not to exceed the Maximum Rate. In the case of a Determination of Taxability, the Issuer shall pay to Re- gions Equipment Finance Corporation, as Lender with respect to Bond R-1, an ad- justed rate, as determined by such Lender, from the Delivery Date that would provide such Lender with an after-tax yield at least equal to the after-tax yield such Lender could have received if the Determination of Taxability had not occurred. If such rate adjustment would otherwise exceed the Maximum Rate, then (i) interest at the Maximum Rate shall be due and payable with respect to such interest period and (ii) a fee in an amount rate equal to the difference between (A) the rate of interest calculated in accordance with the terms hereof and (B) the Maximum Rate (the “Excess Fee”) shall be deferred until such date as the rate of interest calculated in accordance with the terms hereof ceases to exceed the Maximum Rate, at which time the Issuer shall pay to such Lender (but solely from revenues of the Tax), with re- spect to amounts then payable to such Lender that are required to accrue interest hereunder, such portion of the deferred Excess Fee as will cause the rate of interest then paid to such Lender to equal the Maximum Rate, which payments of deferred Excess Fee shall continue to apply to such unpaid amounts hereunder until all deferred Excess Fee is fully paid to such Lender, to- gether with interest thereon at the Maximum Rate. The Excess Fee shall not be deemed to be an increase in the interest rate on the Bonds.
No Bond shall be entitled to any right or benefit under this Ordinance, or be valid or obligatory for any purpose, un- less there appears on such Bond a certificate of registration, substantially in the form provided in this Ordinance, executed by the Paying Agent by manual signature.
SECTION 3) Optional Prepayment of Bonds. Installments of principal of the Bonds shall be callable for prepayment at the option of the Issuer in whole or in part on any Interest Payment Date, at the principal amount to be prepaid, plus accrued interest on the amount to be prepaid from the most recent Interest Payment Date to which interest has been paid or duly provided for. Any partial prepayment shall be applied (i) first, to the principal, if any, due on and interest accrued on the Bonds to such date, and (ii) then, to reduce the remaining principal maturities of the Bonds in inverse order.
Any prepayment of the Bonds or any portion thereof may be made expressly contingent upon the availability of funds therefor.
Official notice of such call of any portion of the Bonds for prepayment shall be given by means of first class mail, postage prepaid, by notice deposited in the United States mails or via acceptable means of electronic communication not less than five (5) days prior to the redemption date, addressed to the Owner of such Bond to be prepaid at his address as shown on the Bond Register.
SECTION 4) Registration and Transfer. The Issuer shall cause the Bond Register to be kept by the Paying Agent. The Bonds may be transferred, registered and assigned only on the appropriate Bond Register, which such registration shall be at the expense of the Issuer, and only by the execution of an assignment form on the Bonds being transferred. A new Bond or Bonds, may, upon request, be delivered by the Paying Agent to the last assignee (the new Owner) in exchange for such transferred and assigned Bond or Bonds after receipt of the Bond(s) to be transferred in proper form. Such new Bond or Bonds shall be in an authorized denomination of the same maturity and like principal. The Paying Agent shall not be required to issue, register the transfer of, or ex- change any Bond during a period beginning at the opening of business on a Record Date and ending at the close of business on the Interest Payment Date.
SECTION 5) Form of Bonds. The Bonds and the endorsements to appear thereon shall be in substantially the forms acceptable to the Executive Officers, upon advice of bond counsel, and the Lenders.
SECTION 6) Execution of Bonds. The Bonds shall be signed by the Executive Officers for, on behalf of, in the name of and under the corporate seal of the Issuer, which signatures and corporate seal may be either manual or facsimile.
SECTION 7) Pledge and Dedication of Revenues. Pursuant to the Act, the Bonds shall be secured by and payable from an irrevocable pledge and dedication of the avails or proceeds of the Tax. This Governing Authority does hereby obligate itself and its successors in office to impose and collect the Tax annually in each year and does hereby irrevocably and irrepealably dedicate, appropriate and pledge the annual income to be de- rived from the assessment, levy and collection of the Tax in each year to the payment of the Bonds and any Additional Parity Bonds until their maturity. The Issuer further covenants that it shall not lower the Tax rate to result in lower Tax revenues than were collected in the Fiscal Year prior to the proposed ad- justment.
SECTION 8) Sinking Fund. For the payment of the principal of and the interest on the Bonds there is hereby created a special fund known as “City of Morgan City-Limited Tax Bonds Sinking Fund,” said Sinking Fund to be established and maintained with the regularly designated fiscal agent bank of the Issuer. The Issuer shall deposit in the Sinking Fund at least two (2) days in advance of the date on which each payment of principal and/or interest falls due, from the proceeds of the Tax funds fully sufficient to promptly pay the maturing principal and/or interest so falling due on such date, which funds shall be made available from said Sinking Fund to the Paying Agent for the Bonds at least one (1) day in advance of the date on which each payment of principal and interest falls due. Payments not received by Re- gions Equipment Finance Corporation, as Lender with respect to Bond R-1, within ten (10) days of the applicable Interest Payment Date shall be assessed a late fee of five percent (5%) of the total payment due.
It shall be specifically understood and agreed, however, and this provision shall be a part of this contract, that after the funds have actually been budgeted and set aside in the Sinking Fund out of the revenues derived from the levy and collection of the Tax in any calendar year sufficient to pay the principal and interest on the Bonds for that calendar year, then any excess of such revenues re- maining in that Fiscal Year shall be free for expenditure by the Issuer for any lawful purpose for which the Tax is authorized.
All moneys deposited with the regularly designated fiscal agent bank or banks of the Issuer or the Paying Agent under the terms of this Ordinance shall constitute sacred funds for the benefit of the Owners of the Bonds, and shall be secured by said fiduciaries at all times to the full extent thereof in the manner re- quired by law for the securing of deposits of public funds.
All or any part of the moneys in the Sinking Fund shall, at the written request of the Issuer, be invested in accordance with the provisions of the laws of the State, in which event all income derived from such investments shall be transferred to the general fund.
SECTION 9) Budget; Audit. So long as any of the Bonds are outstanding and un- paid in principal or interest, the Issuer shall maintain and keep proper books of records and accounts separate and apart from all other records and accounts in which shall be made full and correct entries of all transactions relating to the collection and expenditure of the Tax. Not later than six (6) months after the close of each Fiscal Year, the Issuer shall cause an audit of such books and accounts to be made by the Legislative Auditor of the State of Louisiana (or his successor) or by a recognized independent firm of certified public accountants showing the receipts of and disbursements of the proceeds of the Tax. The Issuer agrees to provide to the Lender, or if the Lender is not the Owner of 100% of the Outstanding Bonds, then to the Paying Agent, its audited financial statements within 210 days after the end of each Fiscal Year, unless a later time for completion has been granted to the Issuer by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor, then when accepted by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor. The Issuer further agrees that the Paying Agent and any Owner shall have at all reasonable times the right to inspect the records, accounts and data of the Issuer relating to the Tax.
SECTION 10) Additional Parity Bonds. The Issuer shall issue no other bonds or obligations of any kind or nature payable from or enjoying a lien on the revenues of the Tax having priority over or parity with the Bonds, except that Additional Parity Bonds may hereafter be issued on a parity with the Bonds under the following conditions:
(1) The Bonds herein authorized or any part thereof, including the interest thereon, may be refunded, and the refunding bonds so issued shall enjoy complete equality of lien with the portion of the Bonds, which is not refunded, if there be any, and the refunding bonds shall continue to enjoy whatever priority of lien over subsequent issues may have been enjoyed by the Bonds refunded; provided, however, that if only a portion of the Bonds outstanding is so refunded and the refunding bonds require total principal and in- terest payments during any year in excess of the principal and interest which would have been required in such year to pay the Bonds refunded thereby, then such Bonds may not be refunded without the consent of the Owners of the unrefunded portion of the Bonds issued hereunder and any Additional Parity Bonds (provided such consent shall not be required if such refunding bonds meet the re- quirements set forth in clause 2 of this Section).
(2) (a) Additional Parity Bonds may be issued on and enjoy a full and complete parity with the Bonds with respect to the Tax, provided that the highest amount of the combined principal and interest re- quirements for any future year on the Bonds and the said Additional Parity Bonds does not exceed 75% of the revenues estimated to be realized by the Issuer from the levy of the Tax in the year in which such Additional Parity Bonds are issued.
(b) The Issuer must be in full compliance with all covenants and undertakings in connection with the Bonds and there must be no delinquencies in payments required to be made in connection therewith.
(c) An Executive Officer will certify as to the Issuer’s compliance with paragraphs (a) and (b).
(3) Junior and subordinate bonds may be issued without restriction.
SECTION 11) Application of Proceeds. The Executive Officers are hereby empowered, authorized and directed to do any and all things necessary and incidental to carry out all of the provisions of this Ordinance, to cause the necessary Bonds to be typed or printed, to issue, execute and seal the Bonds, and to effect delivery thereof as hereinafter provided. The proceeds de- rived from the sale of the Bonds shall be deposited by the Issuer in a separate fund hereby created and to be maintained with its fiscal agent bank or banks to be used only for the purpose for which the Bonds are issued.
SECTION 12) Bonds Legal Obligations. The Bonds shall constitute legal, binding and valid obligations of the Issuer and shall be the only representation of the indebtedness as herein authorized and created.
SECTION 13) Ordinance a Contract. The provisions of this Ordinance shall constitute a contract between the Issuer, or its successor in law, and the Owner or Owners from time to time of the Bonds, and the provisions of such contract shall be enforceable by appropriate proceedings to be taken by any such Owner or Owners, either by may at law or in equity, by suit, action, mandamus or other proceedings, en- force and compel the performance of all duties required to be performed by this Governing Authority or the Issuer as a result of issuing the Bonds.
No material modification or amendment of this Ordinance, or any resolution or ordinance or enactment of any Ordinance amendatory hereof or supplemental hereto, may be made without the consent in writing of the Owner or Owners of two thirds (2/3) of the aggregate principal amount of the Bonds then outstanding; provided, however, that no modification or amendment shall permit a change in the maturity provisions of the Bonds, or a reduction in the rate of interest thereon, or in the amount of the principal obligation thereof, or affecting the obligation of the Issuer to pay the principal of and the interest on the Bonds as the same shall come due from the revenues appropriated, pledged and dedicated to the payment thereof by this Ordinance, or reduce the percentage of the Owners required to consent to any material modification or amendment of this Ordinance, without the consent of the Owners of all of the outstanding bonds.
SECTION 14) Recital of Regularity. This Governing Authority having investi¬gated the regularity of the proceedings had in connection with the Bonds and having determined the same to be regular, the Bonds shall contain the following recital, to wit:
“It is certified that this Bond is authorized by and is issued in conformity with the requirements of the Constitution and statutes of Louisiana.”
SECTION 15) Effect of Registration. The Issuer, the Paying Agent, and any agent of either of them may treat the Owner in whose name the Bonds are registered as the Owner of such Bond for the purpose of re- ceiving payment of the principal of and interest on such Bond and for all other purposes whatsoever, and to the extent permitted by law, neither the Issuer, the Paying Agent, nor any agent of either of them shall be affected by notice to the contrary.
SECTION 16) Cancellation of Bonds. Any Bond surrendered for payment, redemption, transfer, ex- change or replacement, if surrendered to the Paying Agent, shall be promptly canceled by it and, if surrendered to the Issuer, shall be delivered to the Paying Agent and, if not already canceled, shall be promptly canceled by the Paying Agent. The Issuer may at any time deliver to the Paying Agent for cancellation any Bond previously registered and delivered which the Issuer may have acquired in any manner whatsoever, and any Bond so delivered shall be promptly canceled by the Paying Agent. Any canceled Bond held by the Paying Agent shall be disposed of as directed in writing by the Issuer.
SECTION 17) Mutilated, De- stroyed, Lost or Stolen Bonds. If (1) any mutilated Bond is surrendered to the Paying Agent, or the Issuer and the Paying Agent re- ceive evidence to their satisfaction of the destruction, loss or theft of any Bond, and (2) there is delivered to the Issuer and the Paying Agent such security or indemnity as may be required by them to save each of them harmless, then, in the ab- sence of notice to the Issuer or the Paying Agent that such Bond has been acquired by a bona fide purchaser, the Issuer shall execute, and upon its request the Paying Agent shall register and deliver, in exchange for or in lieu of any such mutilated, destroyed, lost, or stolen Bond, a new Bond of the same maturity and of like tenor, interest rate and principal amount, bearing a number not contemporaneously outstanding. In case any such mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Bond has become or is about to become due and payable, the Issuer in its discretion may, instead of issuing a new Bond, pay such Bond. Upon the issuance of any new Bond under this Section, the Issuer may require the payment by the Owner of a sum sufficient to cover any tax or other governmental charge that may be imposed in relation thereto and any other expenses (including the fees and expenses of the Paying Agent) connected therewith. Every new Bond issued pursuant to this Section in lieu of any mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen bond shall constitute a re- placement of the prior obligation of the Issuer, whether or not the mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Bond shall be at any time enforceable by anyone and shall be entitled to all the benefits of this Ordinance equally and ratably with all other Outstanding Bonds. Any additional procedures set forth in the Agreement, authorized in this Ordinance, shall also be available with respect to mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Bonds. The provisions of this Section are exclusive and shall preclude (to the extent lawful) all other rights and remedies with re- spect to the re- placement and payment of mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Bonds.
SECTION 18) Discharge of Ordinance; Defeasance. If the Issuer shall pay or cause to be paid, or there shall otherwise be paid to the Owners of all of the Outstanding Bonds, the principal of and interest on the Bonds, at the times and in the manner stipulated in this Ordinance, then the pledge of the money, securities, and funds pledged under this Ordinance and all covenants, agreements, and other obligations of the Issuer to the Own-er shall thereupon cease, terminate, and become void and be discharged and satisfied, and the Paying Agent shall pay over or deliver all money held by it under this Ordinance to the Issuer.
Bonds or interest installments for the payment of which money shall have been set aside and shall be held in trust (through deposit by the Issuer of funds for such payment or otherwise) at the maturity date thereof shall be deemed to have been paid within the meaning and with the effect expressed above in this Section if they are defeased in the manner provided by Chapter 14 of Title 39 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended.
SECTION 19) Successor Paying Agent; Paying Agent Agreement. The Issuer will at all times maintain a Paying Agent meeting the qualifications hereinafter described for the performance of the duties hereunder for the Bonds. The designation of the initial Paying Agents in this Ordinance are hereby confirmed and approved. The Issuer reserves the right to appoint a successor Paying Agent by (a) filing with the Person then performing such function a certified copy of an ordinance or a resolution or ordinance giving notice of the termination of the Agreement and appointing a successor and (b) causing notice to be given to each Owner. Every Paying Agent appointed hereunder shall at all times be a bank or trust company organized and doing business under the laws of the United States of America or of any state, authorized under such laws to exercise trust powers, and subject to supervision or examination by Federal or State authority. The Executive Officers are hereby authorized and directed to execute an appropriate Agreement with the Paying Agents for and on behalf of the Issuer in such form as may be satisfactory to said officers, the signatures of said officers on any such Agreement to be conclusive evidence of the due exercise of the authority granted hereunder.
SECTION 20) Notices to Owners. Wherever this Or- dinance provides for notice to Owners of Bonds of any event, such notice shall be sufficiently given (unless otherwise herein expressly provided) if in writing and mailed, first-class postage prepaid, to each Own-er of such Bonds, at the address of such Owner as it appears in the Bond Register. In any case where notice to Owners of Bonds is given by mail, neither the failure to mail such notice to any particular Owner of Bonds, nor any defect in any notice so mailed, shall affect the sufficiency of such no- tice with respect to all other Bonds. Where this Ordinance provides for notice in any manner, such notice may be waived in writing by the Owner or Owners entitled to receive such notice, either before or after the event, and such waiver shall be the equivalent of such notice. Waivers of notice by Owners shall be filed with the Paying Agent, but such filing shall not be a condition precedent to the validity of any action taken in reliance upon such waiver.
SECTION 21) Arbitrage. The Issuer covenants and agrees that, to the extent permitted by the laws of the State, it will comply with the requirements of the Code in order to establish, maintain and preserve the exclusion from “gross income” of interest on the Bonds under the Code. The Issuer further covenants and agrees that it will not take any action, fail to take any action, or permit any action within its control to be taken, or permit at any time or times any of the proceeds of the Bonds or any other funds of the Issuer to be used directly or indirectly in any manner, the effect of which would be to cause the Bonds to be “arbitrage bonds” or would result in the inclusion of the interest on the Bonds in gross income un- der the Code, including, without limitation, (i) the failure to comply with the limitation on investment of Bond proceeds, or (ii) the failure to pay any required rebate of arbitrage earnings to the United States of America or (iii) the use of the proceeds of the Bonds in a manner which would cause the Bonds to be “private activity bonds.”
The Executive Officers are hereby empowered, authorized and directed to take any and all action and to execute and deliver any instrument, document or certificate necessary to effectuate the purposes of this Section.
SECTION 22) Designation as “Qualified Tax-Exempt Obligations”. The Bonds are designated as “qualified tax exempt obligations” within the meaning of Section 265(b)(3)(B)of the Code. In making this designation, the Issuer finds and determines that:
(a) the Bonds are not “private activity bonds” within the meaning of the Code; and
(b) the reasonably anticipated amount of qualified tax exempt obligations which will be issued by the Issuer and all subordinate entities in calendar year 2026 does not exceed $10,000,000.
SECTION 23) Disclosure Under SEC Rule 15c2-12. The Issuer will not be required to comply with the continuing disclosure requirements described in Rule 15c2-12 of the Securities and Ex- change Commission [17 CFR 240.15c2-12].
SECTION 24) Post-Issuance Compliance. The Executive Officers and/or their designees are directed to establish, continue, and/or amend, as applicable, written procedures to assist the Issuer in complying with various State and Federal statutes, rules and regulations applicable to the Bonds and are further authorized to take any and all actions as may be required by said written procedures to en- sure continued compliance with such statutes, rules and regulations throughout the term of the Bonds.
SECTION 25) Default. Upon the Issuer’s (i) failure to timely make any payment due hereunder, or (ii) breach or violation of any covenant contained herein, which breach or violation shall continue for a period of thirty (30) days following written notice thereof from either the Paying Agent or the Owners of a majority of the Outstanding principal amount of the Bonds (provided, however, that if such breach or violation is of a type that cannot reasonably be cur-ed within said 30-day period, then such period shall be continued until the earliest such date as such breach or violation may reasonably be cured), either of which shall be an “Event of Default,” then any Owner of such bonds or any trustee appointed to represent such Owners as hereinafter provided, shall be authorized to exercise any remedy afforded such person by law, and further provided that the unpaid principal of Bond R-1 shall, until such Event of Default is cured, bear interest at the Maximum Rate. In the event of a default set forth in (i) above, the Issuer shall report such default on the Municipal Securities Rule- making Board’s Electronic Municipal Market Access website (“EMMA”).
SECTION 26) Publication. A copy of this Ordinance shall be published immediately after its adoption in one issue of the official journal of the Issuer. It shall not be necessary to publish the exhibits to this Ordinance but such exhibits shall be made available for public inspection at the offices of the Governing Authority at reasonable times and such fact must be stated in the publication within the official journal.
SECTION 27) Award of Bonds. The Issuer hereby accepts the offers of the Lenders, which offers are attached as Ex- hibit A-1 and A-2 hereto, and any Executive Officers are hereby authorized to execute said offers on be- half of the Issuer. As a condition to the delivery of the Bonds to the Lenders, the Lenders will execute a standard letter, acceptable to them and the Issuer, indicating they have conducted their own analysis with respect to the Bonds and are extending credit in the form of the Bonds as a vehicle for making a commercial loan to the Issuer.
SECTION 28) Headings. The headings of the various sections hereof are inserted for convenience of reference only and shall not control or affect the meaning or construction of any of the provisions hereof.
SECTION 29) Severability; Application of Subsequently Enacted Laws. In case any one or more of the provisions of this Ordinance or of the Bonds shall for any reason be held to be illegal or invalid, such illegality or invalidity shall not affect any other provisions of this Ordinance or of the Bonds, but this Ordinance and the Bonds shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal or invalid provisions had not been contained therein. Any constitutional or statutory provisions enacted after the date of this Ordinance which validate or make legal any provision of this Ordinance and/or the Bonds which would not otherwise be valid or legal, shall be deemed to apply to this Ordinance and to the Bonds.
SECTION 30) Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon its adoption and approval.
This ordinance having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:
YEAS: Hymel, Bias, Domangue, Leonard, and Hutchinson.
NAYS: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAINING: None.
And the ordinance was declared adopted on this, the 24th day of February, 2026.
/s/ Lee Dragna
Mayor
/s/ Debbie
Harrington
Clerk of the
Council
[EXHIBITS ARE ON FILE WITH THE ISSUER AND ARE AVAILABLE DURING NORMAL BUSINESS HOURS]
Adv. March 4, 2026

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY PARISH 9-1-1 COMMUNICATIONS DISTRICT
Regular Board Meeting
1200 David Dr., Building B
Morgan City, LA 70380
September 25, 2025
1:00 P.M.
Board Member, Mr. Jimmy Broussard opened the September 25, 2025, regular meeting with the roll call. Mr. Jimmy Broussard, Mr. Duval Arthur, III, Mr. Garrett Grogan, Mr. Justin Martin, and Mr. Scott Verrett were in attendance. Mr. Ed Smith and Mr. Matt Mayon did not attend.
In the absence of the chairman and vice-chairman, Mr. Verret made a mo- tion for Mr. Broussard to preside over the meeting. Mr. Grogan seconded the motion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
Mr. Verret made a motion to dispense with the reading of and to accept the August 28, 2025, minutes. Mr. Grogan seconded the motion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
Guest: none
Public Comment: None
The income statement for August 2025 was $85,530.45. Mr. Arthur made a motion to accept the income statement. Mr. Grogan seconded the mo- tion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
The expense statement August 2025 was $90,190.73. Mr. Grogan made a motion to accept the expense statement. Mr. Arthur seconded the motion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
A budget vs actual comparison was provided to the board for review.
Old Business: None
New Business:
Proposed Policy Revision: Ms. Randle proposed some policy changes regarding em- ployee absences. After a brief discussion, Mr. Grogan made a motion to table the matter pending legal advice. Mr. Verret seconded the motion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
Adjustment of November and December board meeting dates: Mr. Martin made a motion to hold the November 2025 board meeting on the 20th, and the December 2025 meeting on the 18th due to the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Mr. Duval seconded the motion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
Director Up- dates: None
General Discussion: None
Adjournment: Mr. Duval made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Verret seconded the motion. All members were in favor and the motion carried.
Approved:
———————
Mr. Matt Mayon,
Vice-Chairman
———————
Martha Randle,
Director
Adv. March 4, 2026

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL OF THE
PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA
JANUARY 28, 2026
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
6:00 P.M.
The St. Mary Parish Council met on this date in Regular Session with Chairperson Gwendolyn L. Hi- dalgo presiding and the following members present: Rev. Craig Mat-hews, J Ina, David W. Hill, Leslie “Les” Rulf, Jr., Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, Dean Adams, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. Absent was Rodney Olander.
The Invocation was pronounced by Rev. Mathews and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Hill.
Mr. Hill moved that the reading of the First Regular Meeting, January 14, 2026 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Mr. He- bert seconded the motion, which carried.
Jacob Bell ap- peared before the Council to discuss “Save Our Children Mentoring Program.” He stated that he is a volunteer and discussed the importance of the program.
Discussion was had relative to allocation and maintenance of Save Our Children Mentoring property and building.
Chad Ross, Gra- vity Sub-Drainage District No. 1 of Gravity Drainage District No. 2 Chairperson ap- peared before the Council to discuss an allocation of $500,000 from Wards 5 & 8 Sales Tax Fund for Drainage and Sew-er System Im- provements in the Bayou Vista area. He submitted an opinion of probable cost regarding pumping capacity improvements to the Bertrand-Vinning Pump Station for St. Mary Parish Gravity Sub- Drainage District No. 1 of Gravity Drainage District No. 2.
Discussion was had relative to the pumping capacity, GOMESA or Coastal Protection Funding, Capital Outlay Funding, use of funds, proposed projects, and the budget.
In response to Mr. Duhon’s inquiry relative to Capital Outlay funding for culverts by the truck stop in Bayou Vista, Mr. Ross stated that the new estimated cost has not been received and Capital Outlay funding is not enough for that project.
Mayor Clarence Vappie, Town of Baldwin, appeared before the Council in support of a Resolution congratulating Mrs. Rosemary Salsman Breaux on her 106th Birthday.
Former St. Mary Parish President, Paul Naquin, ap- peared before the Council in support of a Resolution congratulating Mrs. Rosemary Salsman Breaux on her 106th Birthday.
Mr. Ina moved up Item 13A, “Resolution congratulating Mrs. Rosemary Salsman Breaux on her 106th Birthday.”
Rev. Mathews moved to adopt the following Resolution. The Council seconded the mo- tion, which carried by the following 10-0-0-1 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Mathews, Ina, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Du- hon, Adams, Rink, and Hidalgo
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Olander
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Mrs. Rosemary Salsman Breaux was born on January 23, 1920, in Donner, Louisiana, moved to Baldwin Louisiana as a young teenager, and recently celebrated her 106th Birthday, and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Breaux graduated from Franklin High School in 1937 and married Donald Breaux in 1943, and
WHEREAS, Mr. & Mrs. Breaux spent the next few years in various states and towns traveling with the Army and Shell Oil Company, then settling in Baldwin in 1954, purchasing and operating Breaux’s Grocery Store on Main Street then relocating to Charenton Road, re- naming it Breaux’s Foodland, and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Breaux devoted most of her life working in the store and helping others, she retired at the age of 94 and now spends her time sitting in her yard enjoying nature, watching LSU Football and Baseball, and making occasional trips to Cypress Bayou Casino, and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Breaux is very thankful to God for her long and blessed life, her family, many friends, and former customers, and
WHEREAS, the St. Mary Parish Council would like to offer their congratulations to Mrs. Breaux on this milestone in her life.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RE- SOLVED, that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby congratulate and extend their best wishes to Mrs. Breaux.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 28th day of January 2026.
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
Gary Musgrove appeared before the Council in support of a Resolution opposing carbon capture and sequestration in St. Mary Parish. He stated that he is a farmer and owns a nursery in Forest Hill, Louisiana. He stated that did research on carbon capture and explained what carbon capturing and sequestration is, its process, risks, term of risks, contract, liability, mineral rights, eminent domain, and projection wells.
Retired Colonel Mark Guillory ap- peared before the Council in support of a Resolution opposing carbon capture and se- questration in St. Mary Parish. He expounded on carbon capture and sequestration process, the oil & gas industry, eminent domain, utilization, and unconstitutionality of laws and requirements, risk, and danger to the environment.
After lengthy discussion, Rev. Mathews called for the question. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried.
Rev. Mathews moved up Item 13D, “Resolution opposing carbon capture and se- questration in St. Mary Parish.”
Rev. Mathews moved to adopt the following Resolution. Mr. Adams seconded the mo- tion, which carried by the following 10-0-0-1 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Ina, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hi- dalgo, and Mat-hews
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Olander
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING CARBON CAPTURE AND SE- QUESTRATION IN SAINT MARY PARISH
WHEREAS, the St. Mary Parish Council recognizes its duty to protect the health, safety, property, and welfare of the citizens of St. Mary Parish and to preserve the parish’s natural resources, in- cluding clean air, safe drinking water, productive agricultural land, and a stable environment for current and future generations; and
WHEREAS, Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS) projects, which involve the capture, transportation, and underground injection of carbon dioxide (CO2), have raised significant public concern within St. Mary Parish and throughout the State of Louisiana regarding potential impacts on public safety, groundwater, soil stability, private property, and local ecosystems; and
WHEREAS, incidents in other jurisdictions have demonstrated that CO2 pipeline ruptures and underground storage failures can pose serious health and safety hazards, particularly in rural areas with limited emergency response capacity; and
WHEREAS, the long-term monitoring, liability, and environmental oversight of CCS projects uncertain, and the potential risks and remaining financial burdens may ultimately be borne by local governments, landowners, and taxpayers; and
NOW, BE IT RESOLVED, that the St. Mary Parish Council, hereby formally opposes the siting, permitting, construction, or operation of any Carbon Capture and Se- questration (CCS) project or associated CO2 pipeline infrastructure within the boundaries of St. Mary Parish unless and until such technologies are independently verified by credible, peer- reviewed scientific evidence to be safe. effective, and fully supported by the informed consent of the residents of St. Mary Parish; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED, that the St. Mary Parish Council urges the Governor of Louisiana, the Louisiana De- partment of Natural Resources, the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality. and all relevant state and federal agencies to give full and careful consideration to the concerns of local governments and citizens when evaluating CCS proposals.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 28th day of January 2026.
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 Administrative Officer, Paul J. Governale, submitted his re- port for a two (2) week period, ending January 28, 2026. He submitted Departmental Reports for the 4th Quarter of 2025 from Departments of Economic Development, Finance, Homeland Security, Personnel, Planning & Zoning, and Public Works. He also submitted a report from Tim Matte, St. Mary Parish Levee District Director, on the status of TE-168, Pump Station No. 4, Pump Station No. 9, Pump Station No. 8, and Pump Station No. 6.
Item 2C of Mr. Governale’s report stated, “Resolution authorizing and setting the monthly garbage collection service charge for each residence within the unincorporated areas of St. Mary Parish. (Adm.) Annual rate increases to customers due to increase from Pelican Waste.”
Planning & Zoning Director, Mandi LeBlanc, presented the following items as recommended by the Planning & Zoning Commission at their December 15, 2025, Regular Meeting:
a. Recommend Specific Use
Name: Wilson Ferguson, Jr.
Address: 1909 Chatsworth Rd., Franklin, LA
Parcel Id# 2204701237.00 & 2204701236.00
2204701237.00 - Lot Por No 10-D Diane Luke Nu- gent Et Al Part Per Plat 27H 206574 DWG No. 6356-1, Situated in Sec. 62 T14S R9E, Acq. 341 325811 & 2204701236.00 - Lot Por No. 10-D Diane Luke Nu- gent Et Al Part Per Plat 27H 206574 DWG No 6356-1, Situated in Sec. 2 T14S R9E, Acq. 344 326296
Currently Zon-ed: Agricultural (AG) Zoned District
Specific Use Purpose: to allow for a church in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District.
Rev. Mathews recommends the above Specific Use Approval. Mr. He- bert seconded the motion, which carried. Mr. Rulf, Mr. Adams, and Dr. Rink abstained.
In response to Mr. Adams’ inquiry, Mrs. LeBlanc stated this property is located in a residential area and that a petition in opposition was submitted to the Planning & Zoning Commission.
2. Recommended by the Planning & Zoning Commission at their January 20, 2026, Regular Meeting:
a. Denied Re- zoning
Name: Donna Rogers
Address: 1698 Iberia St., Franklin, LA
Parcel Id# 2204701197.00 - Lot Tract A-B-C-I-A, Per Plat 24M 192689, Acq. 449 342553, Sec.62 T14S R9E
PURPOSE: Re- zone from Neighborhood Commercial (NC) Zoned District to General Commercial (GC) Zoned District.
Mr. Hebert recommends the above Rezoning denial. Mr. Hill seconded the motion, which carried.
b. Recommend Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Approval
Name: Succession of Kerry and Charlotte Landry
637 Moresi Rd., Jeanerette, LA 70544
Address: 190 Fortier Rd., Jeanerette, LA
Parcel Id # 1754924076.00 23.95 Ac por tract No. 3 George Landry Est. part being por 26.45 ac tract BIJKLMNOPQRSDCB, per plat 429 339285, Situated in Sec. 34 T13S R8E, Acq. 429 339285
Zoned: Agricultural (AG) Zoned District
PURPOSE: as shown on a plat titled “titled “Showing property boundary survey of a portion of Tract “B-I-J-K-L-M-N-O-P-Q-R-S-D-C-B” belonging to Succession of Kerry Landry and Succession of Charlotte Landry, Herein designated as “Tract “O-C-B-Q-bb-aa-M-N-J-O” containing 1.105 acres total. Also showing property boundary survey of Tract “G-H-O-J-K-G,” a shared in- gress/egress & utility easement. Said property is Situated in Section 34, T13S-R8E, Parish of St. Mary Parish, State of Louisiana.” as surveyed by S. J. Langlinais & Associates, Inc. Consulting Land Surveyors 2413 Veterans Memorial Drive Abbeville, Louisiana 70510, dated December 29, 2025.
Mr. Hebert recommends the above Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Approval. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
c. Recommend Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Approval
Name: Domino Estates ET AL DE-7
P. O. Box 3537, Morgan City, LA 70381
Address: 6959 Hwy. 182, 9681 Hwy. 182, 9651 Hwy. 182, 9625 Hwy. 182, 9730 Hwy. 182, 9622 Hwy. 182, and 9628 Hwy. 182, Morgan City, LA
Parcel Id # 3434241012.00. 837 AC being por of 40.00 AC R R – Rhodes Boeuf – R R situated in Sec. 42 T16S R13E, 160.37 AC R R – Ditch – Boeuf – Rhodes, less separate assessments designated as leased lots, Acq. 27 208939;
-9681 Hwy. 182, Morgan City, LA 70380-Sec. 42 T16S R13E, Parcel ID# 3434241035.00. 2.00 Ac tract being that por of property designated as DE-112 situated in Sec. 42 T16S R13E, lying south of railroad and north of Hwy. 90, also being further described as por of 122.00 Ac being a por of the following: Lot bd Alexander Jeanerette Lumber & Shg. Co. – Alexander – Domino Lot bd SPRR – Domino – Greenwood – Domino Lot bd Hwy. 90 – Domino – Domino – Domino 40.00 Ac bd R R – Rhodes – Boeuf – R R 160.37 Ac bd R R – Ditch – Boeuf – Rhodes less separate assessments designated as leased lots, Acq 27U 208939;
-Parcel ID# 3434241034.00. 1.26 Ac tract being that por of property designated as DE-113 situated in Sec. 42 T16S R13E, lying south of railroad and north of Hwy. 90, also being further described as por of 122.00 Ac being a por of the following: Lot bd Alexander – Jeanerette Lumber & Shg. Co. – Alexander – Domino Lot bd SPRR – Domino – Greenwood – Domino Lot bd Hwy. 90 – Domino – Domino – Domino 40.00 Ac bd R R – Rhodes – Boeuf – R R 160.37 Ac bd R R – Ditch – Boeuf – Rhodes less separate assessments designated as leased lots, Acq 27U 208939;
-9651 Hwy 182, Morgan City, LA 70380-Sec. 42 T16S R13E, Parcel ID# 3434241011.00. 1.18 Ac being por of 40.00 Ac R R – Rhodes – Boeuf – R R situated in Sec. 42 T16S R13E, 160.37 Ac R R – Ditch – Boeuf – Rhodes, less separate assessment designated as leas-ed lots, Acq. 27U 208939. Improvement on the land of Domino Estates et al, DE-7, Acq. 27U 208939.
-Parcel ID# 3434241022.00, 0.574 Ac being por of 40.00 Ac R R – Rhodes – Boeuf – R R situated in Sec. 42 T16S R13E, 160.37 Ac R R – Ditch – Boeuf – Rhodes, less separate assessments designated as leas-ed lots, Acq. 27U 208939;
-Parcel ID# 3434241020.00, 0.574 Ac being por of 40.00 Ac R R – Rhodes – Boeuf – R R situated in Sec. 42 T16S R13E, 160.37 Ac R R – Ditch – Boeuf – Rhodes, less separate assessments designated as leas-ed lots, Acq. 27U 208939;
-9625 Hwy. 182, Morgan City, LA 70380-Sec. 42 T16S R13E; Parcel ID# 3434241015.00. 0.879 Ac being por of 40.00 Ac bd R R – Rhodes – Boeuf – R R situated in Sec. 42 T16S R13E, 160.37 Ac bd R R – Ditch – Boeuf – Rhodes, less separate as- sessments designated as leased lots, Acq 27U 208939;
-9730 Hwy. 182, Morgan City, LA 70380-Sec. 42 T16S R13E; Parcel ID# 3434241033.00. 0.41 Ac being por of 40.00 Ac bd R R – Rhodes – Boeuf – R R situated in Sec. 42 T16S R13E, 160.37 Ac bd R R – Ditch – Boeuf – Rhodes, less separate as- sessments designated as leased lots, Acq 27U 208939;
-9622 Hwy. 182, Morgan City, LA 70380-Sec. 42 T16S R13E; Parcel ID# 3434241002.00. 5.83 Ac tract being that por of property designated as DE-3 situated in Sec 42 T16S R13E, lying south of Hwy. 90 and west of Lot DE-4, also being further described as por of 122.00 Ac being a portion of the following: Lot Alexander – Jeanerette Lumber & Shg. Co. – Alexander – Domin Lot SPRR – Domino – Greenwood – Domino Lot Hwy. 90 – Domino – Domino – Domino 40.00 Ac R R – Rhodes – Boeuf – R R 160.37 Ac R R – Ditch – Boeuf – Rhodes less separate as- sessments designated as leased lots, Acq 27U;
-9628 Hwy. 182, Morgan City, LA 70380-Sec. 42 T16S R13E; Parcel ID# 3434241003.00. 2.945 Ac being por of 40.00 Ac R R – Rhodes – Boeuf – R R situated in Sec. 42 T16S R13E, 160.37 Ac R R – Ditch – Boeuf – Rhodes, less separate assessments designated as leas-ed lots, Acq 27U 208939.
Zoned: Heavy Industrial (HI) Zoned District
PURPOSE: as shown on a plat titled “Domino Estates, LLC Subdivision Survey Plat showing a subdivision of DE-4, DE-7, DE-8, DE-10, DE-19, DE-100, DE-101, DE-111, DE-112, and DE-113 belonging to Domino Estates, LLC, into DE-4-A, DE-7-A, DE-8-A, DE-10-A and DE-100-A, being in Section 42, T16S-R13E St. Mary Parish Louisiana” as drawn by GIS Engineering, LLC, dated December 22, 2025.
Mr. Duhon recommends the above Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development Approval. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried.
d. Recommend Specific Use
Name: Freddie DeCourt
Address: 3411 Hwy. 319, Franklin, LA
Parcel Id# 1034364295.00 - Lot Por No 68-C Moresi Estates Part. 9 Per Plat 96 291386 lying South of Hwy. 319, Acq. 422 338186; Sec.20 T15S R6E
Currently Zon-ed: Single Family Residential (SR) Zoned District
Specific Use purpose: to allow for a Recreational Vehicle (RV) in a Single Family Residential (SR) Zoned District.
Rev. Mathews recommends the above Preliminary & Final Subdivision/Development. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
Rev. Mathews moved that the Public Hearing Report, January 14, 2026 – 5:45 p.m. and Public Hearing Report, January 14, 2026 – 5:50 p.m. be approved. Mr. He- bert seconded the motion, which carried.
Dr. Rink introduced the following Ordinance:
ORDINANCE
NO.
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, DIVISION 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearings, Section 5.4.3 Specific Use Permits granting a Specific Use.
WHEREAS, on March 12, 2014, the St. Mary Parish Council adopted Ordinance No. 1973 – St. Mary Parish Unified De- velopment Code, and
WHEREAS, DIVISION 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearings, Section 5.4.3 Specific Use Permits provides a process for the granting of a specific use, and
THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAIN-ED by the Parish Council of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana, acting as the governing authority of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana:
SECTION I - That certain tract of land described in Exhibit “A” is hereby approved and granted a specific use to allow for a church in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District.
This ordinance shall become effective and be in full force upon publication in the official journal of the Parish.
This ordinance having been offer-ed and read on this 28th day of January 2026; having been published in accordance with law.
EXHIBIT “A”
Name: Wilson Ferguson, Jr
Address: 1909 Chatsworth Rd., Franklin, LA
Parcel Id# 2204701237.00 & 2204701236.00
2204701237.00 - Lot Por No 10-D Diane Luke Nu- gent Et Al Part Per Plat 27H 206574 DWG No. 6356-1, Situated in Sec. 62 T14S R9E, Acq. 341 325811 & 2204701236.00 - Lot Por No. 10-D Diane Luke Nu- gent Et Al Part Per Plat 27H 206574 DWG No 6356-1, Situated in Sec. 2 T14S R9E, Acq. 344 326296.
Currently Zon-ed: Agricultural (AG) Zoned District
Specific Use Purpose: to allow for a church in an Agricultural (AG) Zoned District.
Rev. Mathews introduced the following Ordinances:
ORDINANCE
NO.
An Ordinance declaring multiple tax adjudicated properties as surplus property and authorize the Parish to proceed with the process for advertising and sale of such adjudicated properties.
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR RE- VIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
EXHIBIT “A”
PARCEL NUMBER; PROPERTY ADDRESS; TAX ASSESSMENT
3194321076.00; 119 ARIZONA ST, MORGAN CITY; 2015-1402
3134321012.00; 771 OREGON ST, BERWICK; 2015-23351
1844921021.00; 901 BIG FOUR CORNERS RD, JEANERETTE; 2015-26410
2234681100.00, 2234681101.00 & 2234681099.00; 491 ONEAL CHUBE ST & 507 ONEAL CHUBE ST., FRANKLIN; 2015-67836
3164401189.00, 3164401190.00 & 3164401193.00; 600 LAWRENCE ST., MORGAN CITY; 2015-70038
3164421010.00; 2621 SIXTH ST., MORGAN CITY; 2015-71268
2234681179.00; 615 IBERT ST., FRANKLIN; 2015-72486
1784921016.00; 520 HWY 668, JEANERETTE; 2015-8953
2264721178.00; 205 MECHANIC ST., FRANKLIN; 2017-28887
2264721219.00; 124 BAYOU VIEW DR., FRANKLIN; 2018-17554
1905041172.00 & 1905041093.00; 161 GABRIEL RD., JEANERETTE; 2018-83171
2234681077.00; 502 SIXTH ST., FRANKLIN; 2019-6109
2234701249.00; 1007 EAGLE ST. FRANKLIN; 2019-71338
2894321349.00; 200 WISE ST., PATTERSON; 2019-81542
ORDINANCE
NO.
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, DIVISION 5.4
General Procedures for Public Hearings, Section 5.4.3 Specific Use Permits granting a Specific Use.
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR RE- VIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
EXHIBIT “A”
Name: Freddie DeCourt
Address: 3411 Hwy. 319, Franklin, LA
Parcel Id# 1034364295.00 -Lot Por No 68-C Moresi Estates Part 9 Per Plat 96 291386 lying South of Hwy. 319, Acq. 422 338186; Sec.20 T15S R6E
Currently Zon-ed: Single Family Residential (SR) Zoned District
Specific Use purpose: to allow for a Recreational Vehicle (RV) in a Single Family Residential (SR) Zoned District.
Mr. Adams mov-ed to adopt the following Resolution. The Council seconded the motion, which carried by the following 10-0-0-1 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hidalgo, Mathews, and Ina
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Olan-der
RESOLUTION
OF RESPECT
WHEREAS, the Lord Almighty in His Infinite mercy and goodness has seen fit to remove from our midst, former Mayor of Morgan City, Mr. Cedric Simon LaFleur, and
WHEREAS, Mr. LaFleur was a resident of Morgan City, was elected as a City Council Member until serving as Mayor Pro-Tem under “Doc” Brownell, was elected and served as Mayor of Morgan City from 1983 until 1993, was one of only five Directors to serve consecutive years as Chairman of the Louisiana Energy and Power Authority (LEPA), and
WHEREAS, Mr. LaFleur began de- livering milk for Borden’s Milk Company across Southern Louisiana and into parts of Mississippi, he and his wife open-ed LaFleur Dairy in 1954 and distributed Borden’s milk until selling the company to a grandson in 2006; he also owned and co-owned businesses such as La- Fleur Offshore in Galveston, Texas, LaFleur/Hebert Plymouth Chrysler car dealership, and Oceanside Seafood, and
WHEREAS, Mr. LaFleur had a strong Catholic Faith, was a strong supporter of Holy Cross Catholic Church, Holy Cross Elementary, and Central Catholic High School, he will also be remembered for his love and devotion for family, dedication to his community, through his work ethic, business instincts, and support for family and friends, and
WHEREAS, the members of St. Mary Parish Council wish to acknowledge publicly our sorrow and sympathy to the family of Mr. Cedric Simon LaFleur and hopes that the family and community will find comfort in the thought that your grief and sorrow are shared by your friends.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RE- SOLVED, by the St. Mary Parish Council through the unanimous adoption of this resolution, that we 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 28th day of January 2026.
APPROVED:
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
Rev. Mathews moved to adopt the following Resolutions. Mr. Hebert seconded the mo- tion, which carried by the following 10-0-0-1 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hi- dalgo, Mathews, and Ina
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Olan-der
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Section 2 of Ordinance No. 1171 provides that the Parish of St. Mary shall have the right to assess charges in excess of $6.50 per month per residence if and when its contract cost of such collection exceeds $6.50 per month subject to the approval of the St. Mary Parish Council, and
WHEREAS, the present contract cost of such collection is $24.50 per month per residence, and
WHEREAS, it has been determined there exist a need to increase the current charge of $23.32 per month per residence by $1.18 per month.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RE- SOLVED, that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby authorize a collection service charge of $24.50 per month effective February 1, 2026 for each residence within its jurisdiction from which solid waste is collected.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 28th day of January 2026.
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
Resolution auth- orizing Sam Jones, the President of St. Mary Parish to execute an Amendment to Owner- Engineer Agreement with Miller Engineers & Associates, Inc. relative to the Renovations to Quintana Canal Boat Launch Project – Phase II.
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 an Amendment to Owner-Engineer Agreement with Miller Engineers & Associates, Inc. relative to the Renovations to Quintana Canal Boat Launch Project – Phase II, with said amendment 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 28th day of January 2026.
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
A resolution authorizing Sam Jones, the President of St. Mary to execute contract with Frisco Industrial Contractors, LLC relative to the Renovations to Quintana Canal Boat Launch, Phase 2 - Cypremort Point.
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 with Frisco Industrial Contractors, LLC, P.O. Box 568, Franklin, Louisiana 70538 relative to the Renovations to Quintana Canal Boat Launch, Phase 2 in Cypremort Point., 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 28th day of January 2026.
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. Discussion and action relative to the amendments to the St. Mary Parish Personnel Manual that were recommended at a previous Council Meeting. (Rev. Mat-hews)
Rev. Mathews stated that lengthy discussion was had at a previous Council Meeting relative to revising some sections of the Personnel Policy, specifically Section 10-Concerns, Disciplines, and Appeals. He stated that currently this section does not provide an adequate outlet for subordinate em- ployees to have grievances fairly addressed and be able to have the Personnel Board hear valid issues, concerns, and complaints. He stated that currently, the personnel director is the only person that decides whether or not an employee can go before the Personnel Board and suggested this section be resolved immediately.
Lengthy discussion was had relative to the Personnel Policy Committee that was created to review and revise the personnel policy. Discussion was also had relative to the grievance process and procedure, the process for awarding raises, restrictions of what goes before the personnel board, employee value/asset, and reconsideration of revising certain sections of the Personnel Policy.
B. Discussion and action relative to collection fee enforcement at the boat landings re- garding Ordinance No. 2355. (Mr. He- bert)
Mr. Hebert mov-ed to table this item to the February 11, 2026 meeting. Mr. Duhon seconded the mo- tion, which carried.
C. Referred from January 14, 2025, Council Meeting - Dr. Rink to request an allocation of $500,000 from Wards 5 & 8 Sales Tax Fund for Drainage and Sew-er System Im- provements in the Bayou Vista area.
Dr. Rink moved to allocate $500,000 from Wards 5 & 8 Sales Tax Fund for Drainage and Sew-er System Im- provements in the Bayou Vista area. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion.
After discussion, Mr. Hill amended the motion to allocate $500,000 for improvements to the Bertrand-Vinning Pump Station for St. Mary Parish Gravity Sub- Drainage District No. 1 of Gravity Drainage District No. 2. Mr. Hebert seconded the mo- tion which carried by the following 6-4-0-1 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Mathews, Ina, and Hill
NAYS: Rulf, Adams, Rink, and Hidalgo
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Olan-der
The amended vote to allocate $500,000 for im- provements to the Bertrand-Vinning Pump Station for St. Mary Parish Gravity Sub- Drainage District No. 1 of Gravity Drainage District No. 2 carried by an all in favor vote. Mr. Rulf, Mr. Adams, Dr. Rink, and Mrs. Hidalgo voted no.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Fire Protection District No. 1 (Cypremort Point) – 2 Vacancies
Michael S. Trosclair – Present Member
Dr. Rink moved that Michael S. Trosclair be reappointed to Fire Protection District No. 1. Mr. Hill seconded the motion, which carried.
Recreation District No. 6 (Baldwin, Jeanerette, and Charenton) – 1 Vacancy
Anna Perry – Present Member
Rev. Mathews moved that Anna Perry be reappointed to Recreation District No. 6. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
St. Mary Parish Water & Sewer Commission No. 4 (Chatsworth, St. Joseph, Irish Bend, Yokely, Sorrell, Websterville, Charenton, St. Peter Street) – 3 Vacancies
Willie Scott – Present Member, William P. Gray – Present Member, Anthony R. Dar-den, Camile J. Punch, Herbert Bell
Mr. Ina moved that William P. Gray be reappointed to Water & Sewer Commission No. 4. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Ina moved to table the ap- pointments of the remaining vacancies to the February 11, 2026 meeting. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
There being no further business, Mr. Adams moved for adjournment. Mr. Davis 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 4, 2026

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
CITY OF
PATTERSON
NOTICE OF PUBLIC
MEETING
March 3, 2026
A Public Meeting will be held as follows:
DATE: March 3, 2026
TIME: 6:00 PM
PLACE OF MEETING: City Hall, Council Meeting Room
1314 Main Street, Patterson, Louisiana 70392
AGENDA
* * * * * * *
6:00 P.M. - PUBLIC HEARING
Discussion on amended FY 2025-2026 Budget
* * * * * * *
1) MEETING CALLED TO ORDER BY THE MAYOR
2) INVOCATION
3) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4) ROLL CALL
5) APPROVAL OF THE FEBRUARY 3, 2026, MINUTES.
6) SUBMISSION OF MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT
7) PUBLIC COMMENT
8) GUEST
1) Kristy Gant – PHS Project Graduation can shake
2) Beverly Do- mengeaux – St. Mary Council on Aging Annual Re- port
3) Angelina Brocato – Arcade Brocato
4) Community Spotlight – Chief Garret Grogan and the Patterson Police Department
9) UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1) Adopt the Amended Budget of Revenues and Expenditures for FY 2025-2026
2) Approval of a Professional Service Agreement with Land Unlockd
10) NEW BUSINESS
1) Introduction of Ordinance levying a General Alimony Tax for 2026.
2) Introduction of Ordinance to levy millage rates for Public Improvement Bond for Waterworks Issues for 2026.
3) Resolutions of Respect
a. Janis Jones
b. Shirley May
11) AN- NOUNCEMENTS
12) ENGINEERS REPORT
13) LEGAL MATTERS
14) ADJOURN
ANY AND ALL BUSINESS TO COME BEFORE THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL WITH THEIR UNANIMOUS CONSENT, ADJOURN
Midge Bourgeois,
City Clerk
City of Patterson
1314 Main Street
Patterson, LA 70392
985-395-5205
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you re- quire special assistance, please contact Midge Bourgeois at 985-395-5205 or email midge.bourgeois@cityofpattersonla.gov to describe the necessary assistance.
“City of Patterson is an Equal Opportunity
Provider and Employer”
Adv. March 4, 2026

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a proposed ordinance has been introduced for enactment by the City Council of Morgan City, Louisiana.
Said proposed ordinance provides for amending and reenacting Section 18-5, to provide for keeping domestic poultry, chickens, ducks, fowl, sheep, and rabbits.
Copies of the proposed ordinance are available for inspection at City Hall and may be obtained by contacting the Administrative Secretary at 385-1770.
Notice is further given that a public hearing has been called for 6:00 PM, local time, on March 24, 2026, in the Court Room, City Court Building, Highway 182 East at Myrtle Street, Morgan City, Louisiana to receive and consider public input concerning said proposed ordinance.
/s/ Genie G.
Bonner
Genie G. Bonner
Administrative Secretary
Adv. March 4, 2026

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
February 26, 2026
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Council will hold a Public Hearing at 5:50 p.m. and will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, 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 ordinance:
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, DIVISION 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearings, Section 5.4.3 Specific Use Permits granting a Specific Use. (Bryan Rock)
In accordance with Act 393 of 2023 and the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk of the Council at 337-828-4100, Ext. 5050, describing the assistance that is necessary.
Your attendance will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO,
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
February 26, 2026
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, March 11, 2026, 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 ordinance:
An ordinance prohibiting feeding of stray cats and dogs within the unincorporated areas of St. Mary Parish and imposing penalties for the violation thereof.
In accordance with Act 393 of 2023 and the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk of the Council at 337-828-4100, Ext. 5050, describing the assistance that is necessary.
Your attendance will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO,
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Adv. March 4, 2026

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL OF THE PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA
FEBRUARY 11, 2026
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
6:00 P.M.
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, Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, Dean Adams, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. Absent were Leslie Rulf, Jr., Chief Administrative Officer, Paul J. Governale, and Finance Director, Desiree Gros.
The Invocation was pronounced by Mr. Hebert and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Dr. Rink.
Mr. Olander moved that the reading of the Second Regular Meeting, January 28, 2026 be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
Jazmin DuBois, Coalition Coordinator, St. Mary Parish Youth Prevention Coalition along with Bailee Guillory, Youth Engagement Board Chair, and Karley Boutte, Youth Ambassador, appeared be- fore the Council to announce Teen Wellness Day on Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Franklin Recreation Center.
Janet Aucoin, Amelia resident appeared before the Council to discuss animal control and public safety matters. She asked for clarity on penalties, enforcement, reporting violations, required proof, and structure of the proposed ordinance for introduction re- garding prohibiting the feeding of stray cats and dogs within the unincorporated areas of the Parish.
Evan Boudreaux, Economic Development Di- rector, appeared before the Council with an update on the Industrial De- velopment Board. He expounded on the legal foundation, duties, powers, and minimum criteria for ITEP Exemption of the Industrial Board.
Tina Billiot Rainey, Bayou Vista resident, ap- peared before the Council in opposition to a Specific Use for Bryan Rock to allow chickens and a rooster in an Existing Neighborhood Zoned District. She stated that her rear property is adjacent to Mr. Rock’s property and complained about the foul smell from the chickens, waste draining into her yard when it rains, and the noise of the rooster crowing all times of the day. She played a re- cording of the rooster crowing.
Discussion was had relative to notification re- quirements to residents, current number of chickens, distance to neighbors, the sale of various edible items, possible economic use on the property, and public nuisance.
Mr. Adams re- quested to move up Item 13A, “FOR ADOPTION - An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, DIVISION 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearings, Section 5.4.3 Specific Use Permits granting a Specific Use. (Bryan Rock).”
Mr. Olander moved to adopt Item 13A. Dr. Rink seconded the mo- tion.
Several Council Members discussed voting op- tions, notification requirements, specific use process, and opposition from other neighbors.
After discussion regarding notification process, Mr. Olander withdrew his motion, Dr. Rink withdrew her second.
Mr. Olander moved to table Item 13A, “FOR ADOPTION - An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, DIVISION 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearings, Section 5.4.3 Specific Use Permits granting a Specific Use. (Bryan Rock)” to the March 11, 2026 meeting and re- quested Planning & Zoning Director, Mandi LeBlanc be present to answer questions regarding notifications. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried. Rev. Mat-hews voted no.
Chris Breaux, Attorney representing owners of the old Plantation Inn Hotel, located at 815 Highway 90, appeared be- fore the Council and submitted a restoration project summary and estimates of repairs. He expounded on damages and re- pair costs before and after Hurricane Ida and Francine and the winter storm of 2025 resulting in a pending insurance claim.
Several Council Members discussed whether permits, inspections, architectural plans, and good faith efforts for im- provements were ever done.
After lengthy discussion, Rev. Mathews requested to move up Item 13C, “FOR ADOPTION - An Ordinance of the St. Mary Parish Council condemning the improvements consisting of the Plantation Inn Hotel, situated at 815 Highway 90, Parcel ID No. 2984281045.00 & 2984281004.00, as a result of same being in a dilapidated and dangerous condition which endangers the public welfare and ordering the demolition and re- moval of said im- provements by the owner thereof within sixty days from the effective date of this ordinance.”
Mr. Hill moved to adopt the following Ordinance. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried by the following 10-0-0-1 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Mathews, Ina, Olander, Hill, Hebert, Davis, Du- hon, Adams, Rink, and Hidalgo
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Rulf
ORDINANCE
NO. 2422
An Ordinance of the St. Mary Parish Council condemning the im- provements consisting of the Plantation Inn Hotel, situated at 815 Highway 90, Parcel ID No. 2984281045.00-2984281004.00, as a result of same being in a dilapidated and dangerous condition which endangers the public welfare and ordering the demolition and removal of said improvements by the owner thereof within sixty days from the effective date of this Ordinance.
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR RE- VIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
Parish President Sam Jones reported on additional property acquired by Saronic, two (2) rigs that are coming to the Parish, and a State allocation of $5,000,000 to renovate the old Franklin Foundation Hospital to accommodate 58-72 rooms for senior living.
President Jones discussed Water & Sewer Commission No. 4 debt to the Parish.
In response to Mr. Ina’s inquiry relative to whether the City of Franklin and Town of Baldwin received any funds from the opioid settlement through the Parish, President Jones stated that funds were receiv-ed and he will re- search the matter.
Per Rev. Mat-hews’ inquiry re- garding payments received from Water & Sewer Commission No. 4, President Jones stated that one (1) payment was re- ceived.
Rev. Mathews requested that Water & Sewer Commission No. 4 Board members, Joel Authement and Chad Gianfala approach the podium. They stated they just learned that garbage and mosquito fees were being collected from customers but were not being paid to the Parish and that a certified CPA has been hired.
Discussion was had relative to increased rates, creating a budget, and audit findings.
Mr. Duhon questioned whether un- collected fees from the district were listed as an IOU.
Evan Boudreaux stated that a ground breaking ceremony for the old Franklin Foundation Hospital will be held in March. He also informed that St. Mary Parish was the only parish in Louisiana to be chosen to participate in the Select USA Investment Summit. He ex- pounded on Saronic’s expansion project, a new investment coming to the east end of the Parish, and housing development.
Mr. Ina stated he is concerned with workforce de- velopment and the economic impact.
Rev. Mathews reported on the Association of Community Action Partnerships, that represent all 42 agencies, that was held earlier this week regarding workforce development boards.
Rev. Mathews informed that Almetra Franklin, CEO, Community Action, retired in December 2025 and was nominated and inducted by the Board of Directors into the National Community Action Hall of Fame.
Mr. Hill inform-ed that the Basin Brew Fest will be held on March 28, 2026 in downtown Morgan City.
Mr. Ina informed that the 100 Black Men Annual Quiz Bowl will be held on February 28, 2026 at Patterson High School.
Mr. Adams in- troduced the following Ordinance:
ORDINANCE
NO.
An ordinance prohibiting the feeding of stray cats and dogs within the unincorporated areas of St. Mary Parish and imposing penalties for the violation thereof.
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR RE- VIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
Mr. Hebert mov-ed to adopt the following Ordinance. Mr. Hill seconded the motion, which carried by the following 10-0-0-1 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Ina, Olander, Hill, Hebert, Davis, Du- hon, Adams, Rink, Hidalgo, and Mat-hews
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Rulf
ORDINANCE
NO. 2423
An Ordinance Amending
Ordinance 2410
Section 4
Adding Council Members to speaking time limitations
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR RE- VIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
Mr. Olander moved to adopt the following Proclamation. The Council seconded the motion, which carried by the following 10-0-0-1 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Olander, Hill, Hebert, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hidalgo, Mathews, and Ina
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Rulf
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the National Council on Problem Gambling (and any additional state/local sponsors) has designated March 2026 as Problem Gambling Awareness Month; and
WHEREAS, problem gambling is a public health issue affecting millions of Americans of all ages, races, and ethnic backgrounds; and
WHEREAS, problem gambling has a significant societal and economic cost for individuals, families, businesses and communities; and
WHEREAS, problem gambling is treatable, and treatment is effective in minimizing this harm to individuals, communities and society as a whole; and
WHEREAS, numerous individuals, professionals and organizations have dedicated their efforts to the education of the public about problem gambling and the availability and effectiveness of treatment; and
WHEREAS, the National Council on Problem Gambling, invite all residents of St. Mary Parish to participate in Problem Gambling Awareness Month.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RE- SOLVED, that the St. Mary Parish Council and the Parish President, on behalf of the entire St. Mary Parish Government, do hereby proclaim March 2026 as:
“PROBLEM GAMBLING AWARENESS MONTH”
and encourage all citizens to support the National Council on Problem Gambling in their efforts to mitigate gambling-related harm nationwide.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 11th day of February 2026.
———————
Sam Jones,
Parish President
———————
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
Mr. Adams mov-ed to adopt a Resolution ordering and calling a special election to be held in St. Mary Parish to vote upon the adoption of an amended St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter. Dr. Rink seconded the motion.
Discussion was had relative to the cost and date of the election, adding items to the ballot, and possible violations if it is not on the first available election, according to the ordinance.
After lengthy discussion, Mr. Ina called for the question. Mr. Adams seconded the mo- tion, which carried.
The vote to adopt the following Resolution carried by the following 9-1-0-1 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Hill, Davis, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hi- dalgo, Mathews, Ina, and Olander
NAYS: Hebert
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Rulf
RESOLUTION
Resolution ordering and calling a special election to be held in the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana, to vote upon the adoption of an amended St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter, making application to the State Bond Commission, and providing for other matters in connection therewith.
BE IT RESOLV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council, State of Louisiana (the “Governing Authority”), acting as the governing authority of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana (the “Parish”), that:
SECTION 1. Election Call. Subject to the approval of the State Bond Commission, and under the authority conferred by the Constitution of the State of Louisiana of 1974, including Article VI, Sections 5, and 22 thereof, the applicable provisions of the Louisiana Election Code, and other constitutional and statutory authority, a special election is hereby called and ordered to be held in the Parish on SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2026, between the hours of seven o’clock (7:00) a.m. and eight o’clock (8:00) p.m., in ac- cordance with the provisions of La. R.S. 18:541, and at the said election there shall be submitted to all registered voters qualified and entitled to vote at the said election under the Constitution and laws of this State and the Constitution of the United States, the following proposition, to-wit:
CHARTER AMENDMENT PROPOSITION
Shall the St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter be amended and re- stated to modernize parish governance by reducing the Parish Council from eleven members (eight district and three at-large) to eight single- member districts, eliminating at- large seats; updating council and parish-president compensation to reflect current duties, with cost-of-living adjustments every four years; establishing term limits of one-and-one-half consecutive terms for both the council and the parish president; designating the Parish President as chief executive and ad- ministrative officer, eliminating the separate chief administrative officer position; clarifying procedures for vacancies, meetings, and publication of ordinances; and re- moving obsolete or redundant sections, including outdated ballot and district provisions, all as provided in the re- vised St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter adopted by the Charter Commission?
SECTION 2. Publication of Notice of Election. A Notice of Special Election shall be published in the official journal of the Parish once a week for four consecutive weeks, with the first publication to be made not less than forty-five (45) days nor more than ninety (90) days prior to the date of the election, which Notice shall be substantially in the form attached hereto as “Exhibit A” and incorporated herein by reference the same as if it were set forth herein in full.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, prior to the publication of the Notice of Election, the Clerk is authorized and directed to make any amendments to the foregoing proposition that may be required to comply with any state or federal regulatory agencies.
SECTION 3. Canvass. This Governing Authority shall meet at its regular meeting place, the Parish Council Meeting Room, 500 Main Street, Franklin, Louisiana, on WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2026, at 6:00 P.M., and shall then and there in open and public session proceed to examine and canvass the returns and de- clare the result of the said special election.
SECTION 4. Polling Places. The polling places for the precincts in the Parish are hereby designated as the polling places at which to hold the said elections, and the Commissioners-in-Charge and Commissioners, respectively, will be the same persons as those designated in ac- cordance with law.
SECTION 5. Election Commissioners; Voting Machines. The officers designated to serve as Commissioners-in- Charge and Commissioners pursuant to Section 4 hereof, or such substitutes therefor as may be selected and designated in accordance with La. R.S. 18:1287, shall hold the said special election as herein provided, and shall make due returns of said election for the meeting of the Governing Authority to be held as provided in Section 3 hereof. All registered voters in the Parish will be entitled to vote at the special election, and voting machines shall be used.
SECTION 6. Authorization of Officers. The Clerk of the Governing Authority is hereby empowered, authorized and directed to arrange for and to furnish to said election officers in ample time for the holding of said election, the necessary equipment, forms and other paraphernalia essential to the proper holding of said election and the Chairperson and/or Clerk of the Governing Authority are further authorized, em- powered and di- rected to take any and all further action required by State and/or Federal law to arrange for the election.
SECTION 7. Furnishing Election Call to Election Officials. Certified copies of this resolution shall be forwarded to the Secretary of State, the Clerk of Court and Ex-Officio Parish Custodian of Voting Machines of St. Mary Parish and the Registrar of Voters of St. Mary Parish, as notification of the special election, in order that each may prepare for said election and perform their re- spective functions as required by law.
SECTION 8. Application to State Bond Commission. Application is made to the State Bond Commission for consent and authority to hold the special election as herein provided, and in the event said election carries for further consent and authority to amend the Home Rule Charter. A certified copy of this resolution shall be forwarded to the State Bond Commission on behalf of this Governing Authority, together with a letter re- questing the prompt consideration and approval of this application.
SECTION 9. Employment of Counsel. This Governing Authority finds and determines that a real necessity exists for the employment of special counsel on matters related to the special election, and accordingly, Foley & Judell, L.L.P., is hereby employed as special counsel for said purpose for a term not ex- ceeding one (1) year from the date of this resolution. The fee to be paid said special counsel shall be an amount computed at hourly rate based on the Attorney General’s then current Maximum Hourly Fee Schedule, not to exceed $1,000 in the aggregate, together with reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses, and payment for the work herein specified is hereby approved without further action of this Governing Authority as and when invoices are presented. The scope of this legal representation does not involve federal claims.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in special session convened on this the 11th day of February 2026.
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
EXHIBIT “A”
NOTICE OF SPECIAL ELECTION
Pursuant to the provisions of a resolution adopted by the St. Mary Parish Council, State of Louisiana (the “Governing Auth- ority”), acting as the governing authority of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana (the “Parish”), on February 11, 2026, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a special election will be held within the Parish on SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2026, and that at the said election there will be submitted to all registered voters in the Parish qualified and entitled to vote at the said election under the Constitution and Laws of the State of Louisiana and the Constitution of the United States, the following proposition, to-wit:
CHARTER AMENDMENT PROPOSITION
Shall the St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter be amended and re- stated to modernize parish governance by reducing the Parish Council from eleven members (eight district and three at-large) to eight single- member districts, eliminating at- large seats; updating council and parish-president compensation to reflect current duties, with cost-of-living adjustments every four years; establishing term limits of one-and-one-half consecutive terms for both the council and the parish president; designating the Parish President as chief executive and ad- ministrative officer, eliminating the separate chief administrative officer position; clarifying procedures for vacancies, meetings, and publication of ordinances; and re- moving obsolete or redundant sections, including outdated ballot and district provisions, all as provided in the re- vised St. Mary Parish Home Rule Charter adopted by the Charter Commission?
The said special election will be held at each and every polling place in the Parish, which polls will open at seven o’clock (7:00) a.m. and close at eight o’clock (8:00) p.m., in accordance with the provisions of La. R.S. 18:541.
The polling places at the precincts in the Parish are hereby designated as the polling places at which to hold the said election, and the Commissioners-in-Charge and Commissioners, respectively, shall be those persons designated according to law.
The estimated cost of this election as determined by the Secretary of State based upon the provisions of Chapter 8-A of Title 18 and actual costs of similar elections is $85,200.
The said special election will be held in accordance with the applicable provisions of Chapter 5, Chapter 6-A and Chapter 6-B of Title 18 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended, and other constitutional and statutory authority, and the officers appointed to hold the said election, as provided in this Notice of Special Election, or such substitutes therefor as may be selected and designated in accordance with La. R.S. 18:1287, will make due returns thereof to said Governing Authority, and NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the Governing Authority will meet at its regular meeting place, the Parish Council Meeting Room, 500 Main Street, Franklin, Louisiana, on WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2026, at 6:00 P.M., and shall then and there in open and public session proceed to examine and canvass the returns and de- clare the result of the said special election. All registered voters of the Parish are entitled to vote at said special election and voting machines will be used.
OLD BUSINESS:
A. Referred from November 12, 2025, Council Meeting, Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Consolidated Gravity Drainage District No. 2 (Morgan City/Siracusaville) – 5 Vacancies
Glen A. Swain – Present Member, Paul Rappmundt, Nelda T. Dural
Mr. Davis moved that Glen A. Swain be reappointed and Paul Rappmundt and Nelda T. Dural be appointed to Consolidated Gravity Drainage District No. 2. Mr. Duhon seconded the motion, which carried.
B. Referred from January 28, 2026, Council Meeting, Appointments to the following Boards and Commissions:
Fire Protection District No. 1 (Cypremort Point) – 2 Vacancies
Kimberly Simon – Present Member
Mr. Olander moved that Kimberly Simon be re- appointed to Fire Protection District No. 1. Mr. Hill seconded the motion, which carried.
St. Mary Parish Water & Sewer Commission No. 4 (Chatsworth, St. Joseph, Irish Bend, Yokely, Sorrell, Websterville, Charenton, St. Peter Street) – 2 Vacancies
Willie Scott – Present Member, Anthony R. Dar-den, Camile J. Punch, Herbert Bell, Henry “Ray” J. Pontiff, Marie L. Cole, Carla Stewart Davis
Mr. Ina moved that Carla Stewart Davis be appointed to Water & Sewer Commission No. 4. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried.
Dr. Rink moved to table the re- maining vacancy to the February 25, 2026 meeting. Mr. Ina seconded the motion, which carried.
C. Referred from January 28, 2026, Council Meeting - Discussion and action relative to collection fee en- forcement at the boat landings re- garding Ordinance No. 2355. (Mr. Hebert)
Mr. Hebert stated that people are not paying to launch their boats and no enforcement is being done. He informed that the board was abolished and has spoken with the Sheriff, who said he will enforce the parking/launch fee.
Mr. Duhon stated that he has re- ceived complaints and has removed tires and trash from the Amelia Boat Landing himself. He also purchased a weed eater for a neighbor to use at the boat landing.
After discussion, Mr. Hebert moved that the Council recommend the Sheriff Department enforce the current ordinance. Mr. Ina seconded the motion, which carried.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. We received the following financial statements:
-St. Mary Parish Clerk of Court – year ended June 30, 2025
-Gravity Sub- Drainage District No. 1 of Gravity Drainage District No. 2 – year ended September 30, 2024
-Recreation District No. 7 – year ended September 30, 2025
-West St. Mary Parish Port, Harbor, and Terminal District – year ended December 31, 2024
B. 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 De- cember 31, 2025.
C. Appointments to the 16th Judicial District Children and Youth Planning Board for the Parish of St. Mary:
Education Representative – Rachael C. Sanders, Ed.D. – Present Member
Criminal Justice Representative – Anthony J. Saleme, Jr.
Mr. Hill moved that Rachael C. Sanders be reappointed as Education Representative to the 16th Judicial District Children and Youth Planning Board and Judge Anthony J. Saleme, Jr. be appointed as Criminal Justice Representative to the 16th Judicial District Children and Youth Planning Board. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
D. Discussion and action pertaining to Opioid Distribution Settlement. (Mr. Ina)
Mr. Ina withdrew this item.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Mr. Hill seconded the motion, which carried.
s/g Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
s/g Lisa C. Morgan
Lisa C. Morgan,
Clerk

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PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING REPORT
FEBRUARY 11, 2026
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, J Ina, Rodney Olander, David W. Hill, Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. Absent were Leslie Rulf, Jr., Dean Adams, Chief Ad- ministrative Officer, Paul J. Governale, and Finance Director, Desiree Gros.
The purpose of the Public Hearing was to receive written and/or oral comments relative to the following Ordinances:
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, DIVISION 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearings, Section 5.4.3 Specific Use Permits granting a Specific Use. (Bryan Rock)
An Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2410 regarding public comment during Parish Council Meetings.
Tina Billiot Rainey, Bayou Vista resident, ap- peared before the Council in opposition to a Specific Use for Bryan Rock to allow chickens and a rooster in an Existing Neighborhood Zoned District. She stated that her rear property is adjacent to Mr. Rock’s property and her complaint is the smell, waste draining into her yard when it rains, and the noise of the rooster crowing all times of the day. She also played a recording of the rooster crowing for the Council to hear.
There were no written and/or oral comments were received regarding the above ordinances.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
s/g Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
s/g Lisa C. Morgan
Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk
Adv. March 4, 2026

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PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING REPORT
FEBRUARY 11, 2026
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 Mat-hews, J Ina, Rodney Olander, David W. Hill, Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. Absent were Leslie Rulf, Jr., Dean Adams, Chief Administrative Officer, Paul J. Governale, and Finance Director, Desiree Gros.
The purpose of the Public Hearing was to receive written and/or oral comments relative to the following Ordinance:
An Ordinance of the St. Mary Parish Council condemning the im- provements consisting of the Plantation Inn Hotel, situated at 815 Highway 90, Parcel ID No. 2984281045.00-2984281004.00, as a result of same being in a dilapidated and dangerous condition which endangers the public welfare and ordering the demolition and re- moval of said improvements by the owner thereof within sixty days from the effective date of this Ordinance.
There were no written and/or oral comments were re- ceived regarding the above ordinances.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
s/g Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
s/g Lisa C. Morgan
Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk
Adv. March 4, 2026

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