RSS Feed

President Donald Trump faces four different criminal trials in the coming months. Should each of these trials be televised for the public to watch and judge?

The Supreme Court has stood steadfastly against letting the public watch the cases argued before them, even though the court’s decisions can often have major implications for every American.

The Constitution guarantees that trials are public and open to everyone.

So what could be more public than televising the former president’s criminal trials for the whole world to see?

The criminal justice system could use some help.

A majority of Americans feel that justice often does not prevail.

A nationwide poll by the respected Rasmussen Reports found that 45% of Americans feel that the justice system is unfair.  

Only 34% felt that the system is unbiased. 

That’s a lot of cynicism.

Maybe more public trials would help skeptics gain more confidence in a system where many feel over half the time that justice is not served.

America has a strong tradition of public trials.

In early colonial America, courthouses were the centers of community life, and most citizens regularly attended criminal trials.

In fact, trials frequently became community events.

Citizens were knowledgeable about trials, and there was wide participation in the process,especially in rural America where prosecutions were often scheduled on market day, when local farmers came to town for supplies.

Many courtrooms were built to accommodate 300 or more observers.

Back then, citizens closely observed the defendants, knew when judges issued ridiculous rulings, and saw firsthand whenever justice was perverted.

Whatever happened, the citizens were there, watching. 

The court system belonged to them.

The televising of criminal trials would merely be an extension of this direct review by the average citizen.

Would televising criminal trials create a circus atmosphere?

There’s no reason to think that they would. In fact, many of our most sacred ceremonies, including church services and inaugurations, are televised without dignity being lost.

Judge Burton Katz said it well: “We should bring pressure to bear on all judges to open up their courtrooms to public scrutiny. Members of the judiciary enjoy great entitlements and wield enormous power. They bear close watching by an informed public. I guarantee that the public would be amazed at what goes on in some court rooms.

The trials of the former President would garner huge TV ratings, just like the Watergate

Hearings and the O.J. Simpson trial. Over 150 million viewers, 57 % of the country, watched the live verdict of the Simpson trial.

Back in 1997, when I was a practicing attorney in Louisiana, I participated in the state’s first televised trial before the Louisiana Supreme Court.

A state senator was opposing my authority to impound the automobiles of uninsured drivers. 

I was the elected state Insurance Commissioner at the time, and represented the state in our effort to uphold the impound law.

The issue was important to the vast majority of Louisianans, and I strongly felt that the public was entitled to hear the arguments and watch the trial in progress. 

No one pandered to the cameras, and the entire courtroom procedure was straightforward and dignified.

Despite a strongly emotional and controversial issue at stake, the proceedings were televised without a hitch.

Harvard law professor and criminal defense attorney Alan Dershowitz put it this way: 

“Live television coverage may magnify the faults in the legal system and show it warts and all. But in a democracy, the public has the right to" see its institutions in operation, close-up. 

Moreover, live television coverage generally brings out the best, not the worst in judges, lawyers,and other participants.  The video camera helps to keep the system honest by keeping it open.”

America prides itself in being an open society that protects and encourages the public’s right to know.

Too often, courtrooms have become bastions of secrecy where the public has little understanding of how the system works and how verdicts are reached.

The video camera serves as a check and balance. 

We can better keep the system honest by keeping it open and easily available to the public. 

It’s time to turn on the cameras.

Peace and Justice
Jim Brown

Jim Brown’s syndicated column appears each week in numerous newspapers throughout the nation and on websites worldwide. You can read all his past columns and see continuing updates at http://www.jimbrownla.com. You can also listen to his regular podcast at www.datelinelouisiana.com.

Glenda Gaudet, 46, a resident of Morgan City, passed away Thursday, Sept. 14, 2023.
She was born March 14, 1977, the daughter of Charles “Roger” Gaudet and Betty Perkins Gaudet.
She is survived by her father and wife “Momma Jo”; four siblings, Beverly Gaudet Hunt, Brenda Gaudet, Roger Gaudet II, and Chad Gaudet; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her mother, her maternal grandparents, her paternal grandparents, her aunt and her uncle.
Visitation was Monday at Twin City Funeral Home. The funeral was at noon Monday at Twin City Funeral Home, with Pastor Brian Head officiating. She will be buried at Morgan City Cemetery at a later date.

PUBLIC NOTICE
PROCEEDINGS OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERWICK, STATE OF LOUISIANA TAKEN AT A REGULAR MEETING HELD ON TUESDAY
September 12, 2023
The Mayor and Council of the Town of Berwick, State of Louisiana, met in regular session at their regular meeting place, the Town Hall, Berwick, Louisiana, Tuesday September 12 2023, at six (6:00) o’clock p.m.
There were present: Council members Colleen As- kew, Kevin Hebert, Raymond Price, James Richard, and Lud Henry.
Absent: None
Pastor Matt Ledet from Lighthouse Community Church led the prayer.
Councilman James Richard led the Pledge of Allegiance.
The Mayor and Council of the Town of Berwick, State of Louisiana were duly convened as the governing authority of said Town, led by the Honorable Duval Arthur Jr, Mayor, who then stated that the Mayor and Council were ready for the transaction of business.
The minutes of the previous meeting were approved without reading upon motion James Richard and seconded by Kevin Hebert.
The Treasurer’s report, having been reviewed, was approved without reading upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Kevin Hebert.
The Beacon did not shine on anyone this month.
Guests for the September 2023 meeting were Ms. Beverly Domen-geaux from St. Mary Council on Aging and Mr. Javon Charles. Mr. Charles stated that he is a candidate for St. Mary Parish District 4. He addressed the mayor and council and asked for their support.
Police Chief David Leonard presented the police report for the month August, 2023. He also stated that the department recently conducted a DWI checkpoint where they screened 360 vehicles, resulting in 7 arrests. He publicly thanked all of outside agencies that assisted with the checkpoint. The department has also im- plemented a traffic enforcement detail to help increase public safety on our roadways. Chief Leonard is also the Executive Director of the Berwick Housing Authority Board. He stated that the housing authority currently has 128 units, 4 units are currently undergoing renovations, and there is 1 vacancy, with a total of 220 residents. After no further comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, Fire report.
Assistant Fire Billy Chapman presented the fire report for August, 2023. Assistant Chief Chapman stated that the fire department re- sponded to 10 emergency calls. There were 1 in- vestigation, 1 structure fire, 3 medical assists, 2 motor vehicle accidents, 1 trash fire at the dump, 1 weather related, and 1 good intention calls. Assistant Chief Chapman also reported the department currently has 38 highly qualified members and have logged 228 hours of training since July. Assistant Chief Chapman also announced that the Marine Corps League honored Captain Marty DeHart as Firefighter of the Year for his dedication, never missing a call, and for leading the department as interim chief during the transition. Captain DeHart started with the department 23 years ago at the age of 16 years old as a junior firefighter. After no further comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, the Public Works re- port.
Public Works Director Rafael Lopez presented the public works report for August, 2023. Mr. Lopez stated that town crews are working on many projects at this time. Crews are repairing streets and sidewalks, repairing water leaks, cutting grass on the highways and other projects. He also reported that they are still in contact with En- link in regards to installing a bypass meter at the main supply station that will allow more gas pressure in the event that power goes out and generators start putting a heavier load on the gas system. They are hoping to have the meter installed in the next few weeks. After no further comments, the Mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, consulting engineer’s report.
Town Engineer Mr. Reid Miller reported that the funds to pave 6th Street have been received. They are working on the design, preliminary drawings, and environmental clearance. They are still waiting on the state to approve the application that in- cludes the updated cost for the Country Club Estates Drainage Project. After no further comments, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, committee reports.
The Planning and Zoning, Recreation, and Economic Development committees had nothing to report.
The Historical Committee reported that they will be having the town market on September 16, 2023. They began installation of the Christmas lights at the Brown House Museum, as well as are in the process of planning the skeleton yard that begin on October1, 2023 and end with Trick-R-Treating on October 31, 2023. They are also working on listing a table of contents of their website that would list each document by name, description, and accession number to help with the process of searching the item.
The Public Safety Committee recently met to begin making plans to prepare for the Lighthouse Festival that will be taking place November 3 through November 6, 2023.
The Lighthouse Festival Committee have been working hard to organize this year’s festival. They are looking for sponsors. If you are interested in sponsoring the event, please contact town hall. After no further committee reports, the mayor moved on to the next item on the agenda, Public Hearings.
The Public hearing was called to order at 6:15pm.
Item No. 1 under Public Hearing – Adopt Ordinance No. 741 – Amend 2022-23 Consolidated Budget. After no comments from the council or audience, Mayor Arthur closed the public hearing.
Item No. 2 under Public Hearing – Discuss – Amendment to Ordinance No. 742 - Consolidate Budget 2023-24. The budget was amended to include the hiring of an additional patrol officer at a cost of $79,398.00 and remove the purchase of a new department vehicle at the cost of $50,000.00 to balance the budget. Councilman Henry asked where the additional $29,398.00 would come from. Town CAO, Newell Slaughter stated that there are contingencies built into the budget and it will come out of that. After some discussion among the council and no comments from the audience, Mayor Arthur closed the public hearing.
Item No. 3 under Public Hearing – Ordinance No. 742 – Consolidated Budget 2023-24. After no comments from the council or audience, Mayor Arthur closed the public hearing.
Item No. 4 under Public Hearing – Ordinance No. 743 – Ordinance to repeal section 10-31. Section 10-31 included verbiage regarding a service charge for collection when a collectomatic container is used. The town does not use these containers, so the verbiage is irrelevant to the ordinance. The town is working to clean up the ordinance book and remove any verbiage that is no longer relevant. After no comments from the council or audience, Mayor Arthur closed the public hearing.
Item No. 1 under Ordinances Introduce/Adopt – Adopt Ordinance No. 741 – Amend 2022-23 Consolidate Budget. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Kevin Hebert, the ordinance was adopted by a unanimous roll call vote.
Item No. 2 under Ordinances Introduce/Adopt – Amend Ordinance No. 742 – Consolidated Budget 2023-24. Upon motion by Kevin Hebert and seconded by Raymond Price, the ordinance was amended by a unanimous roll call vote.
Item No. 3 under Ordinances Introduce/Adopt – Adopt Ordinance No. 742 – Consolidate Budget 2023-24. Upon motion by Kevin Hebert and seconded by Colleen Askew, the ordinance was adopted by a vote of 4 to 1. Lud Henry voted no.
Item No. 4 under Ordinances Introduce/Adopt – Adopt Ordinance No. 743 – Ordinance to repeal section 10-31. Up- on motion by Lud Henry and seconded by Colleen Askew, the ordinance was adopted by a unanimous roll call vote.
Item No. 5 under Ordinances Introduce/Adopt – Introduce Ordinance No. 744 – Water Rates for Commercial Customers. The town recently underwent a water rate study and it was the recommendation that we increase the current water rate for commercial and industrial customers. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Colleen Askew, the ordinance was in- troduced by a un- animous roll call vote.
Item No. 1 under Resolutions/Proclamations – Resolution No. 16-23 – Certification and authorization that Mayor Duval H. Arthur, Jr. has authority to sign documents pertaining to State Project No. 50-M24-21-02, Water Meter Re- placement. Upon motion by Lud Henry and seconded by James Richard, the resolution was approved by a unanimous roll call vote.
Item No. 1 under New Business – Approve Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire 2022-2023. Upon motion by Raymond Price and seconded by James Richard, the questionnaire was approved un- animously.
Item No. 2 under New Business - Approve 2023-24 Holiday Schedule. Upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Lud Henry, the schedule was approved unanimously.
Item No. 3 under New Business – Colleen Hammond – Roots & Ribbons Organization. Ms. Leslie Smith and Ms. Dee Hymel would like to invite everyone to participate in upcoming event “Puttin on the Pink – 2023” 5K run and 2-mile walk promoting breast cancer awareness, support, and survivorship. The event will take place on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at 4:00pm at Morey Park in Patterson, Louisiana. Roots & Ribbons is a non-profit corporation dedicated to serving St. Mary Parish residents who are undergoing screening and treatment for breast cancer.
Item No. 4 under New Business – Homecoming Parade Permit – Berwick High School – September 28, 2023. Mr. Jude Tarver stated that Berwick High School Homecoming week will take place September 24 through September 30, 2023. They would like approval to have the annual parade on September 28, 2023. Upon motion by Raymond Price and seconded by Colleen Askew, the permit was ap- proved unanimously.
Item No. 5 under New Business – Bo LaGrange – State Senate District 21. Mr. LaGrange addressed the mayor and council, stated his qualifications for the job, and asked for their support.
Item No. 6 under New Business – Tim LeBlanc – St. Mary Parish President Candidacy Announcement. Mr. LeBlanc an- nounced his candidacy for St. Mary Parish President. He addressed the mayor and council, stated his qualifications for the job, and asked for their support.
Item No. 7 under New Business – Amend Ordinance No. 742 in order Add a new officer to the police de- partment at a cost of $79,398.00 and remove the purchase of a new department vehicle at the cost of $50,000.00 to balance the budget. There were no comments from the council or audience.
Item No. 8 under New Business – Angelena Brocato – St. Mary Parish Council at Large – District 10. Mrs. Brocato addressed the mayor and council, stated her qualifications for the job, and asked for their support.
Item No. 9 under New Business – Reginald Weary – St. Mary Parish Council at Large – District 10. Mr. Weary addressed the mayor and council, stated his qualifications for the job, and asked for their support.
Councilman Henry would like to see if there is anything the town can do to address the large rock pile that is building up on a piece of property located on Sandra Street across from Baldwin Redi-Mix. The pile is constantly getting higher and sometimes causing rocks to spill into the drainage system. Mayor Arthur stated that he will look into getting in touch with the land owner to discuss the possibility of giving some of the rocks to the town in order to continue building up the river front.
There being no further business to come before the Council, upon motion by James Richard and seconded by Lud Henry, the motion to adjourn was approved unanimously.
———————
Duval H. Arthur Jr –
Mayor
———————
Jamie Keith –
Town Clerk
Adv. Sept. 20, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
This ordinance was introduced with first reading on August 8, 2023. Published on August 16, 2023. Public hearing was held on September 12, 2023. James Richard offered the following ordinance, who moved for its adoption. Kevin Hebert seconded the motion.
Ordinance
Number 741
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERWICK, LOUISIANA, to appropriate funds and authorize expenditures, and to amend 2022-2023 budget.
BE IT ORDAIN-ED by the Mayor and Council, the governing authority of the municipal corporation of the Town of Berwick, Louisiana, that this appropriation and expenditure ordinance with amendments to 2022-2023 budget is enacted as follows:
1. For the fiscal year starting October 1, 2022 and ending September 30, 2023 the following appropriations, expenditures and budget amendments are now enacted, in addition to previous authorization:
a. Increase capital outlay Parks & Recreation – Pickle Ball Courts, - $ 160,000
b. Increase capital outlay Police – 2 Police Cars, 110,000
c. Increase capital outlay Administrative-Town Hall Renovation, 525,000
d. Increase capital outlay Fire equipment, 200,000
e. Increase capital outlay Fire truck, 50,000
f. Increase capital outlay Gas truck, 52,000
g. Increase capital outlay Parks & Recreation truck, 25,000
h. Increase capital outlay Parks & Recreation sidewalks, 275,000
i. Increase capital outlay Parks & Recreation roof repair, 100,000
j. Increase capital outlay Parks & Recreation drainage improvement, 25,000
k. Increase capital outlay Parks & Recreation dock repair/Crappell, 47,500
l. Increase salaries Police for overtime for training/traffic detail, 100,000
m. Increase Police retirement, 40,000
n. Increase Police health insurance, 30,000
o. Increase Streets power, 30,000
p. Increase Streets health insurance, 25,000
q. Increase transfers to General Fund-Liquid & Solid Waste, 300,000
r. Increase legal/auditing expense, 75,000
s. Increase Salaries Liquid/Solid Waste, 60,000
t. Increase Sewer Treatment Fees Liquid/Solid Waste, 50,000
u. Increase Health Insurance Liquid/Solid Waste, 25,000
v. Increase Municipal Retirement Liquid/Solid Waste, 20,000
w. Increase Offroad Fuel Expense Liquid/Solid Waste, 10,000
x. Increase Garbage Pickup Fee Liquid/Solid Waste, 50,000
y. Increase Transfers to General Fund – 1% Sales Tax, 200,000
z. Increase Capital Outlay Liquid/Solid Waste, 100,000
aa. Increase Capital Outlay Liquid/Solid Waste – Knuckle boom, 200,000
bb. Increase capital outlay Water for water meters, 70,000
All other ordinances, or parts of ordinances, in conflict with this ordinance, are hereby repealed. Should any section, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase be declared unconstitutional, invalid, or repealed for any reason, the re- mainder of the ordinance shall not be affected. All provisions of this ordinance are de- clared to be severable and the invalidity of any part of this ordinance shall not affect other provisions, items or applications of this ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid provisions, items, or applications of this ordinance.
The vote thereon was as follows:
Ayes: James Richard, Kevin Hebert, Colleen Askew, Raymond Price, and Lud Henry
Nays: None
Absent: None
This ordinance was read and votes received for introduction on August 8, 2023. The proposed ordinance was ordered published in accordance with the requirements of the Charter of the Town of Berwick, Louisiana. A public hearing and vote on whether to adopt the ordinance will be held in accordance with requirements of the Charter of the Town of Berwick, Louisiana.
Certified, ap- proved and adopted on September 12, 2023
Delivered to Mayor Arthur on September 13, 2023 at 1:00 PM.
———————
Duval Arthur –
Mayor
———————
Jamie Keith –
Town Clerk
Adv. Sept. 20, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
This ordinance was introduced with first reading on August 8, 2023. Published on August 16, 2023. Public hearing was held on September 12, 2023. Kevin Hebert offered the following ordinance, who moved for its adoption. Colleen Askew seconded the motion.
Ordinance No. 742
AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING AN OPERATING BUDGET OF REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2023 AND ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2024.
BE IT OR- DAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL, the governing auth- ority of the municipal corporation of the Town of Berwick, Louisiana, in regular session convened the 8th day of August, 2023, that:
SECTION 1: The estimate of Revenues for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2023 and ending September 30, 2024 be and the same is hereby introduced to serve as an Operating Budget of Revenues for the Town of Berwick during the same period.
SECTION 2: The estimate for Expenditures by departments for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2023 and ending September 30, 2024, be and the same is hereby introduced to serve as a budget of Expenditures for the Town of Berwick during the same period.
SECTION 3: The introduction of this Operating Budget of Expenditures is and the same is hereby declared to operate as an appropriation of the amount therein set forth within the terms of the budget classification.
All other ordinances, or parts of ordinances, in conflict with this ordinance, are hereby repealed.
Should any section, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase be declared unconstitutional, invalid, or repealed for any reason, the remainder of the ordinance shall not be affected. All provisions of this ordinance are de- clared to be severable and the invalidity of any part of this ordinance shall not affect other provisions, items or applications of this ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid provisions, items, or applications of this ordinance.
The votes thereon were as follows:
Ayes: James Richard, Kevin Hebert, Colleen Askew, and Raymond Price
Nays: Lud Henry
Absent: None
This ordinance was read and votes received for introduction on August 8, 2023. The proposed ordinance was ordered published in accordance with the requirements of the Charter of the Town of Berwick, Louisiana. A public hearing and vote on whether to adopt the ordinance will be held in accordance with requirements of the Charter of the Town of Berwick, Louisiana.
Certified, ap- proved and adopted on September 12, 2023
Delivered to Mayor Arthur on September 13, 2023 at 1:00 PM.
———————
Duval Arthur –
Mayor
———————
Jamie Keith –
Town Clerk
Adv. Sept. 20, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
ADDENDUM
NO. 1
BID FOR EMERGENCY POWER REVISIONS
NOTICE OF ADDENDUM:
This Addendum shall be considered part of the Bid Documents for the above-mention-ed bid, as though it had been issued at the same time and incorporated in- tegrally therewith. Where provisions of the following supplementary data differ from those of the original Bid Documents, this Addendum shall govern and take precedence.
NOTICE TO BIDDERS:
Item No. 1: Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference
The date for the Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference has changed from Tuesday, September 12, 2023 to Wednesday, September 13, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. at the project site.
Adv. Sept. 1, 6, 13 and 20, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
This ordinance was introduced with first reading on August 8, 2023. Published on August 16, 2023. Public hearing was held on September 12, 2023. Lud Henry offered the following ordinance, who moved for its adoption. Colleen Askew seconded the motion.
ORDINANCE NUMBER 743
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERWICK, LOUISIANA, to repeal Ordinance Section 10-31. Service charge for collection when collectomatic containers used., recognizing it is no longer necessary as an ordinance.
BE IT ORDAIN-ED by the Mayor and Council, the governing authority of the municipal corporation of the Town of Berwick, Louisiana, that Section 10-31. Service charge for collection when collectomatic containers used. is hereby repealed in its entirety. The section number shall remain and be left blank intentionally.
The votes thereon were as follows:
Ayes: James Richard, Kevin Hebert, Colleen Askew, Raymond Price, and Lud Henry
Nays: None
Absent: None
This ordinance was read and votes received for introduction on August 8, 2023. The proposed ordinance was ordered published in accordance with the re- quirements of the Charter of the Town of Berwick, Louisiana. A public hearing and vote on whether to adopt the ordinance will be held in accordance with requirements of the Charter of the Town of Berwick, Louisiana.
Certified, ap- proved and adopted on September 12, 2023
Delivered to Mayor Arthur on September 13, 2023 at 1:00 PM.
ATTEST:
———————
JAMIE KEITH,
TOWN CLERK
———————
DUVAL ARTHUR, JR.
MAYOR
Adv. Sept. 20, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
It was moved by Lud Henry and seconded by James Richard, that the following Resolution be adopted:
Resolution
No. 16-23
A Resolution providing certification to the State of Louisiana, Facility Planning and Control.
WHEREAS, the Town of Berwick is the recipient of state funding for State Project No. 50-M24-21-02, Water Meter Re- placement Project, St. Mary Parish, and,
WHEREAS, the State of Louisiana Facility Planning and Control re- quires certification and verification that Mayor Duval H. Arthur, Jr. has the authority to sign the contract for this project, and,
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town of Berwick designates that Duval H. Arthur, JR., has the authority to sign the contract for this project, and
WHEREUPON the motion was put to a vote and the vote thereon was as follows:
Yeas: James Richard, Kevin Hebert, Colleen Askew, Raymond Price, and Lud Henry
Nays: None
ABSENT AND NOT VOTING: None
And the Resolution was declared adopted on this 12th day of September, 2023.
* * * * * *
I, Jamie Keith, Clerk of the Town of Berwick, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of a Resolution adopted by the Mayor and Town Council of the Town of Berwick, at a meeting held on the 12th day of September, 2023, at which meeting a quorum was present and voted and that said Resolution is now in full force and effect.
WITNESS MY HAND AND SIGNATURE this 12th day of September, 2023.
———————
Duval H. Arthur, Jr. –
Mayor
———————
Jamie Keith –
Town Clerk
Adv. Sept. 20, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF INTRODUCTION OF
ORDINANCE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN in compliance with the provision of Section 2-10 of the Charter of the Town of Berwick, State of Louisiana, that the following entitled ordinance introduced at the regular meeting of the Council of the Town of Berwick, State of Louisiana, held on September 12, 2023 in my office complete in the form in which it will be offered for adoption by the Council of said Town, is open to public inspection and will so remain at least seven (7) days prior to the final adoption, which is scheduled for October 10, 2023.
Proposed Or- dinance Number 744
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF BERWICK, LOUISIANA, CHANGE THE WATER RATES FOR COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL CUSTOMERS.
That the said ordinance, complete in the form in which it is to be finally passed, is on file with the Clerk of the Council for public inspection and that the said ordinance is to be taken up on final passage, after public hearing by the Council of the Town of Berwick, State of Louisiana, on October 10, 2023 at 6:15 P.M.
Jamie Keith
Town Clerk
Adv. Sept. 20, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
INVITATION TO BIDDERS
The Town of Berwick, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, acting through its Mayor, Duval H. Arthur, Jr., will receive sealed bids. Sealed bids will be received on SEPTEMBER 26, 2023, by the Town of Berwick, at Berwick Town Hall, 3225 Third Street, Berwick, Louisiana until 10:00 a.m. (local time). Any bids delivered should be delivered to Newell “BUBBA” Slaughter, Chief Administrative officer for the Town of Berwick, 3225 Third Street, Berwick, Louisiana, no later than 10:00 a.m. (local time), at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for the furnishing of item/items listed below. Bids re- ceived after the time set forth above for opening of bids will not be considered and will be returned un- opened.
After the opening, the bid/bids will be evaluated by the appropriate party/parties and will be presented to the Mayor & Town Council at their first meeting after receiving the bids for awarding, rejecting, or holding for further advisement and/or evaluation.
This project consists of the new building addition which includes framing and construction of new building foundation, piers and raised floor, framing, decking, roofing, sheathing, trimming, doors, plumbing, electrical and air condition in main room, bathrooms, walkways, hallway, storage area, flooring, walls, ceilings, new accessible ramp, concrete path and tree removal.
Project Name: The Town of Berwick Addition to The Brown House
Specifications and proposal forms are on file in the office of the Chief Administrative Officer, Berwick Town Hall, 3225 Third Street, Berwick, Louisiana. Copies of the bidding documents may be obtained from the office. upon receipt of $100.00 for each set during normal business hours (8:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. Monday – Friday). Checks for Bidding Documents shall be made payable to “Town of Berwick”. In accordance with La. R.S. 38:2212 D, deposits on the first set of documents furnished bona fide prime bidders will be fully refunded upon return of the documents and deposits on any additional sets will be refunded less the actual cost of reproduction. Re- funds will be made upon return of the documents un- marked and in good condition if within ten days after receipt of bids.
If bids are mailed, they shall be addressed as follows: Mr. Newell “BUBBA” Slaughter, Chief Administrative officer, Town of Berwick, P.O. Box 486, Berwick, Louisiana 70342, and must arrive no later than 10:00 a.m. (local time) on September 26, 2023. The envelope shall be clearly marked – “Bids” –The Town of Berwick Addition to The Brown House
Please contact Mr. Newell “Bubba” Slaughter, 985-384 8858, for any clarifications.
A mandatory pre-Bid Conference will be held on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. (local time) in the Conference Room, Town Hall, 3225 Third Street, Berwick, Louisiana 70342.
Evidence of authority to submit a bid shall be required in accordance with R.S.38:2212 (A) (1) and R.S. 39:1594 (C) (4), (D).
Each bidder shall be a licensed Contractor in ac- cordance with La. R.S. 37:2150 -2163 for the classification of GENERAL CONTRACTING -COMMERCIAL BUILDING LICENSE or re- lated classification.
Bid/bids shall be accompanied with a Certified Check, Cashier’s Check, or Bid Bond with Power of Attorney (Money Or- ders or Letters of Credit WILL NOT be accepted), made payable to the Town of Berwick, in the amount not less than five (5) percent of the amount of the proposal. Failure to do so will result in the bid/bids being declared irregular and shall be cause for rejection.
The LOWEST qualified bid will be the one determined to offer the best advantage to the Town of Berwick. Successful bidder shall be required to provide a certificate of insurance for liability and workman compensation, performance and payment bond upon award of the bid. The Town of Berwick reserves the right to reject bids for just cause in the best interest of the Town of Berwick.
Successful bidders must register with the Town of Berwick and the St. Mary Parish and Use Tax De- partment for tax purposes.
/s/ Duval H. Arthur, Jr.
Duval H. Arthur, Jr. –
Mayor
Town of Berwick
Adv. Aug. 30, Sept. 6 and 20, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION
MEETING OF THE HOSPITAL SERVICE
DISTRICT #2 OF THE PARISH OF ST. MARY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS HELD ON
AUGUST 2, 2023
A regular monthly business meeting of the Board of Commissioners of the Hospital Service District #2 of the Parish of St. Mary was held on Wednesday, August 2, 2023 at 6:00 P.M. in the Media Room of the Morgan City Harbor & Terminal District Building located at 7327 Highway 182, Morgan City, LA 70380.
PRESENT: Dr. William A. Cefalu, Jr., Gary Stansbury, Sr., Donald Stephens, Kendra Thomas, Angelena Brocato, Jackie Cheramie and William McCarty
Also present: William E. Bourgeois, Counsel for Hospital Service District #2
Dr. Cefalu called the meeting to order.
Dr. Cefalu lead in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll call was taken. Those Board Members present and those absent listed above.
Upon motion of Mr. Stansbury, second by Mrs. Brocato and unanimously carried, the Board ap- proved and signed the Minutes of July 5, 2023 and July 11, 2023.
Dr. Cefalu open-ed the floor for Guest/public comments, to which there were none.
Mrs. Cheramie presented the Financial Report for the period ending June 30, 2023. Upon motion of Mrs. Thomas, second by Mrs. Cheramie and unanimously carried, the Board ap- proved the financials/payables as presented.
Upon motion of Mr. Stephens, second by Mr. Stansbury and unanimously carried, the Board voted to retire into Executive Session to discuss strategic planning pursuant to LA R.S. 46:1071, et seq. The meeting room was cleared with the exception of the Board Members and Counsel/staff.
Upon resuming from Executive Session and the public allowed to returned into the meeting room, upon motion of Mr. Stephens, second by Mrs. Thomas and unanimously carried, the meeting was called back to order by Dr. Cefalu. Dr. Cefalu opened the floor for discussions or any action on rescinding the resolutions for the October 14, 2023 tax and ballot initiatives. Attorney Bourgeois read aloud the Resolution. Upon motion of Mrs. Cheramie, second by Mrs. Thomas and unanimously carried, the Board adopted the following resolution:
RESOLUTION
A resolution cancelling the special election previously called by Hospital Service District No. 2 of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana.
BE IT RESOLV-ED by the Board of Commissioners of Hospital Service District No. 2 of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana (the “Governing Auth- ority”), acting as the governing authority of Hospital Service District No. 2 of the Parish of St. Mary, State of Louisiana (the “District”), that:
The District does hereby ap- prove and authorize the cancellation of the special election previously called by the District, which would have been held on October 14, 2023.
* * * * * * *
At this time Dr. Cefalu gave a brief update on Community Outreach as the Coordinator Dwan Naverre was unable to be present this date. He advise that a second “Safe Sitter” class was held with more in attendance and that Ms. Naverre was still working on the details of holding a “big wellness event.” Mrs. Brocato stated that she had attended the parish wide “Back to School Bash” at the Berwick Civic Center and made a few comments. Dr. Cefalu further stated that all were looking forward to the “big wellness event” and that a lot of thought and planning is being put into said event. Dr. Larry Nelson questioned the Board regarding the funds previously paid for the promotion of the hospital tax millage and Dr. Cefalu/Attorney Bourgeois gave a brief re- sponse.
Dr. Cefalu then gave his Chairman’s Report. He stated that with the Resolution for canceling the proposition for a hospital tax millage from the October 14th ballot it would allow the Board and Ochsner to regroup/reset and realign their efforts in developing a along term plan to provide a well maintained/managed facility and services lines requested by and for the community. He stated that the HSD #2 and Ochsner’s goals are basically the same and that we would be working more closely with Ochsner (Pete November) to achieve those goals. The purpose of the postponement is to get us where we need to be to work together with Ochsner to achieve our goals. Dr. Cefalu stated there is an uptick in COVID cases but not life threatening and that the flu is appearing early.
With no other business to come before the Board, on motion of Mr. Stephens, second by Mrs. Thomas and unanimously carried, the meeting was adjourned.
———————
Dr. William A. Cefalu, Jr.,
Chairman
———————
Jackie Cheramie,
Secretary/Treasurer
Adv. Sept. 20, 2023

mmm,

PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
PHASE 2 REROOFING AT FRANKLIN SR HIGH SCHOOL
Franklin, LA
Sealed Bids for the construction of PHASE 2 RE- ROOFING AT FRANKLIN SR HIGH SCHOOL, Franklin, Louisiana - for the St. Mary Parish School Board; will be received until 10:30 A.M., local time, on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, in the School Board Maintenance Dept Meeting Room, behind the St Mary Parish School Board Central Office Complex, 474 Hwy 317, Centerville LA, 70522, after which the Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Bids may also be submitted electronically, and Contractors can post their electronic bids at www.centralbidding.com. Any Bids received after the above- mentioned time will not be considered.
This project consists of the replacement of approx 1,175 Squares of existing SBS flat built-up roofing, on 9 different roof levels, together with miscellaneous general construction and associated work on the main school buildings at Franklin High School on Cynthia St in Franklin. The work will be bid in a Base Bid and Additive Alternate Bids.
All Contractors desiring to bid on this project shall attend the Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting noted below.
Contractors can obtain bid related materials from the Architect and from www.centralbidding.com. Contractors desiring to bid on this project are requested to take out a hard copy of the plans and specifications, but if not, shall notify the Architect of their interest in bidding prior to the Pre-bid Meeting to facilitate dissemination of Addenda and other pertinent information to bidders that may occur prior to that meeting. Copies of the plans and specifications and related contract documents are on file in the St. Mary Parish School Board Maintenance Office located at the rear of the St. Mary Parish School Board Central Office Complex, 474 Hwy 317, Centerville LA, and at the office of Firmin Architects, Ltd, 530 Third Street, P.O. Box 972, Morgan City, Louisiana, (985/384-3094), and are open for inspection at each of these offices without charge. Contractors can obtain a paper copy of the plans and specifications from the Architect by making a deposit of $100 which will be fully refundable upon return of the plans in good condition. Complete Bid Documents for this project are available in electronic form and may be obtained without charge and without deposit from the Architect.
All bids shall be accompanied by bid security in an amount of five percent (5%) of the sum of the base bid. The form of this security shall be as stated in the Instructions to Bidders included in the Bid Documents for this project.
The successful Bidder shall be required to furnish a Performance and Payment Bond written as des-cribed in the In- structions to Bidders included in the Bid Documents for this project.
A MANDATORY PRE-BID MEETING WILL BE HELD at 9:45 AM on October 2, 2023, at The Round Bldg at Franklin Sr High School , Main St @ Cynthia St, Franklin LA
Bids shall be accepted from Contractors who are licensed under LA. R.S. 37:2150-2192 for the classification of Building Construction. Bidder is required to comply with provisions and requirements of LA R.S.38:2212 (A)(1)(c). No bid may be withdrawn for a period of forty-five (45) days after receipt of bids in accordance with LA. R.S. 38:2215.
Any person re- quiring special accommodation shall notify the School Board of the type(s) of ac- commodation re- quired not less than seven (7) days before the bid opening.
The Owner reserves the right to reject bids for just cause in accordance with LA. R.S. 38:2214. In accordance with La. R.S. 38:2212 (A) (1)(b), the provisions and re- quirements of this Section, those stated in the advertisement bids, and those required on the bid form shall not be waived by any public entity.
Dr Buffy
Fegenbush,
Superintendent
St. Mary Parish School Board
Adv. Sept. 15, 20 and 27, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
St. Mary Parish Consolidated Gravity Drainage District No. 2A
Regular Monthly Meeting
Tuesday, August 8th, 2023
Call to order 6:00 P. M.
Roll Call: Leroy Trim, Charlie Solar Jr., Tim Matthews, Larry Aucoin (Absent), and Don Hicks
Guests: Glen Thibodeaux, Sid Moffett, Robert Karam, and Tim Tregle.
Pledge of Allegiance by Mr. Trim
Motion for ap- proval of minutes from the July 11, 2023 meeting made by Mr. Trim. Second by Mr. Hicks. All were in favor. Motion carried.
Public Comment: None
Motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report for DD6 area, DD2 area and DD2A was made by Mr. Hicks. Second by Mr. Matthews. All were in favor, motion carried. Ms. Senette also updated the board on the Workers Comp audit.
Guests: Robert Karam gave an update on Station 9. He said a meeting would be held the following Wednesday to discuss how they would be moving forward.
Maintenance re- ports were given by Sid Moffett, Chuck Billodeau (Absent), and Glen Thibodaux.
New Business: No new business.
Old Business: No old business.
Motion to Ad- journ was made by Mr. Matthews. Second by Mr. Hicks. All were in favor. Motion carried. Meeting ended at 6:12 pm.
Adv. Sept. 20, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
The Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana is seeking Re- quests for Proposals for a Fiber Optics Expansion Project. Interested firms may visit the Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana’s website at http://www.chitimacha.gov/announcements to download the published RFP. The deadline for submissions is Friday, October 6, 2023, by 4:30 p.m., Central Time.
Adv. Sept. 13, 15, 20, 22, 27 and 29, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
INVITATION
TO BID
ST. MARY PARISH GOVERNMENT EMERGENCY POWER REVISIONS
Separate sealed bids for Emergency Power Revisions will be received by ST. MARY PARISH
GOVERNMENT in the Conference Room of St. Mary Parish Government Courthouse, 5th Floor, 500 Main St., Franklin LA 70538, until 2:00 P.M. (Central time), Tuesday, September 26, 2023. Sealed bids will then be publicly opened and read aloud in the Conference Room Any bid received after the specified time and date will not be considered.
Bids shall be accepted only from contractors who are licensed under LA-R.S.37:2150- 2163 for the classification of ELECTRICAL.
Contract Documents may be obtained from:
ADG
ENGINEERING
3909 W CONGRESS STREET, SUITE 201
LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA 70506
Printed copies are not available from the Designer, but arrangements can be made to obtain them electronically. Send request to adginc@adginc.org.
A Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held at 9:00 AM on September 12, 2023 at the project site.
The OWNER re- serves the right to reject any or all bids for just cause; such actions will be in accordance with Title 38 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes.
In accordance with R.S. 38:2212(8)(1), the provisions and re- quirements stated in the bidding documents shall not be considered as informalities and shall not be waived.
The successful Bidder shall be required to furnish a Performance Bond and Payment Bond, in an amount equal to 100% of the Contract amount, written by a surety or insurance company meeting the requirements noted in R.S. 38:2219.A.( l )(a), (b) and (c).
Each Bidder must deposit with his/her bid, security in the amount of at least five percent (5%) of the total bid price, provided on the specified form and subject to the conditions provided in the Information for Bidders.
Sureties used for obtaining bonds must appear as acceptable on the U.S. Department of the Treasury Circular 570.
Bidder shall show the Contractor’s license number and name of the project on the Bid envelope as required by Louisiana Revised Statutes 37:2163.A.(l ).
In accordance with in R.S. 38:2215. A., no Bidder may withdraw his bid within forty-five (45) days after the actual date of the opening.
Any person with disabilities requiring special accommodations must contact the Owner no later than seven (7) days prior to bid opening.
ST. MARY
PARISH
GOVERNMENT
500 MAIN ST.
FRANKLIN, LA 70538
Adv. Aug. 30, Sept. 6, 13 and 20, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
HEBERT
RENTALS
PHONE:
985-395-2055
STORAGE SHEDS &
RENTAL HOMES
In accordance with the provisions of the Laws of the State of Louisiana for the purpose of satisfying the lean of the undersigned for charges incurred for storage des-cribed below, notice is hereby given that such property will be sold at public auction by Hebert Rentals at its storage facilities at:
1306 Belleview Street, Bayou Vista, LA
2027 Hwy 182 E, Bayou Vista, LA
The auction will start at 1306 Belleview St. Bayou Vista LA 70380 on October 2, 2023 at 10AM.
The following includes a general description of the property and unit number:
BAYOU VISTA – BELLEVIEW
Dieshea Mouton
Misc, Personal, Household Items, Boxes, Bags, etc.
Unit 62 BEL
Denise Mason
Misc, Personal, Household Items, Boxes, Bags, etc.
Unit 77 BEL
BAYOU VISTA – OFFICE
Faydashia Austin
Misc, Personal, Household Items, Boxes, Bags, etc.
Unit 47 BV
Leah Ruffin
Misc, Personal, Household Items, Boxes, Bags, etc.
Unit 48 BV
The undersigned reserves the right to bid on the property. Sale subject to prior cancellation in the event that the storage fees are paid by the occupant prior to the sale. Reservations are re- quired.
Patrick J. Hebert @ Hebert Rentals 985-395-2055
Adv. Sept. 20, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
BERWICK-
BAYOU VISTA JOINT WATERWORKS
COMMISSION
POST OFFICE BOX 322
BERWICK, LA 70342
(985) 384-8990
Chairman – Herb Mashburn, Vice Chairman – N.A. Hensgens, Jr., Vice Chairman – Troy Lombardo, Vice Chairman – Paul T. Tholen
A regular meeting of the Berwick – Bayou Vista Joint Waterworks Commission was called at the Berwick Civic Center, 300 Patti Drive, Berwick, La. At 5:30 P.M., August 10, 2023.
Board Members Present: Herb Mashburn, Paul Tholen, N.A. Hensgens, Jr and Troy Lombardo.
Others Present: Jacob Dupuy, Tori Henry, Joel Miller of Miller Engineering and Glen Duncan, Quality Engineering & Surveying.
The meeting was called to order by Herb Mashburn.
It was moved by N.A. Hensgens, seconded by Troy Lombardo and un- animously agreed to accept the minutes from the July meeting.
It was moved by Paul Tholen, seconded by N.A. Hensgens, Jr., and unanimously agreed to accept accounts payable & treasurer’s re- port for the month of July. It was moved by N.A. Hensgens, Jr., seconded by Paul Tholen and unanimously agreed to add Troy Lombardo as a signee to banking agreements, replacing John Tholen.
It was moved by Troy Lombardo, seconded by Paul Tholen and unanimously agreed that the Daily Review be the official Journal of the Commission.
Jacob Dupuy reported we are waiting on delivery of the backup backwater pump; the generator at the intake “failed to start” so had fuel relay and battery changed out; and the valve job is completed and hole is filled in.
Joel Miller presented Contractor Application for Payment No. 1 and Change Order No. 1 for Frisco Industrial Contractors. It was moved by Troy Lombardo, seconded by Paul Tholen and unanimously agreed to pay Application No. 1 with the August invoices and approve Change Order No. 1. He also reported that he will present the invoice for backup backwater pump for reimbursement to the Parish from the Community En- richment Grant funding.
Glen Duncan presented possibilities of funding for future projects to the Commission.
Herb Mashburn was pleased to report that the Plant is in the highest tier in the state for quality of water. He reiterated that it is due to the hard work of the employees and the Commission.
There being no further business to come before the Board, it was moved by Troy Lombardo, seconded by Paul Tholen and unanimously agreed that the meeting be adjourned.
———————
Chairman
Adv. Sept. 20, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
The St. Mary Parish School Board adopted the General Fund and Special Revenue Fund Budgets of the School Board for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023, and ending June 30, 2024, on September 14, 2023, after a public hearing at 5:15 P.M. on the same date.
Alaina L. Black
President
Buffy S.
Fegenbush, Ed. D.
Superintendent
Adv. Sept. 20, 2023

mmm

PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE TO
BIDDER
Notice is hereby given by St. Mary Parish Drainage District No. 1 that sealed bid will be received by the St. Mary Parish Government Purchasing Department until, Thursday, October 5, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. on the Fifth Floor Courthouse, 500 Main St. Franklin, LA 70538 for the following:
“USED HYDRAULIC CRAWLER EXCAVATOR”
Then and there bids will be opened and read aloud. Bids received after the specified time and date will not be opened or recognized. Specifications and contract documents for the above can be obtained upon request from the St. Mary Parish Purchasing De- partment on the Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, LA 70538 and can be downloaded from Central Bidding at www.centralbidding.com Bids may be submitted electronically at Central Bidding or mailed to the office of St. Mary Parish Government Purchasing Department.
ENVELOPES MUST BE MARKED AS FOLLOWS:
“BIDS FOR USED HYDRAULIC CRAWLER EXCAVATOR”
ST. MARY PARISH GOVERNMENT PURCHASING DEPARTMENT
500 MAIN ST. FIFTH FLOOR COURTHOUSE
FRANKLIN, LA 70538
St. Mary Parish Government re- serves the right to reject any and/or all bids to wave informalities in any/or all bids, and to award the contract in the best interest of St. Mary Parish.
Thus Done and signed at Franklin, Parish of St. Mary, Louisiana on this 20th day of September, 2023
s/n Chad
Gianfala
–––––––––––––––
Chad Gianfala
President
St. Mary Parish Consolidated Gravity Drainage District
No. 1
Adv. Sept. 20, 22, 27 & 29, 2023

mmm

The Port of Morgan City will receive $3.3 million in federal funding for cargo loading equipment, the office of U.S. Rep. Clay Higgins announced Tuesday.

The $3,320,000 grants comes through the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration is “for the procurement, delivery, and assembly of cargo transloading equipment,” according to the press release from Higgins, R-Lafayette.

The United States Marine Highway Program funding, which is made available through regular appropriations, will provide the port with a 220-ton crane and 25-ton forklift that will be utilized to improve the efficiency and safety of the port transportation service, the congressman said.

“This funding is welcome news,” Higgins said in the press release. “The Port of Morgan City is home to a thriving maritime industry that promotes industrial growth in St. Mary Parish.

“In times of great economic uncertainty, ensuring that our ports run in an efficient and effective manner is crucial to better serving our community and this great nation.”