Submitted Photo
Recently Dr. Kazumi Yoshinaga, a family medicine physician, presented a Hello Health seminar on osteoporosis and bone health to the community at Ochsner St. Mary. To learn more about Yoshinaga, visit https://www.ochsner.org/doctors/kazumi-yoshinaga. To learn more about Ochsner St. Mary Community Outreach and how to attend the next seminar, call 985-380-4234.
The Louisiana Department of Natural Resources delegated authority over coastal drilling litigation to a personal injury attorney rather than investigate claims of regulatory violations at the center of the lawsuits.
In an April 2023 deposition, DNR Secretary Thomas Harris admitted under oath that instead of investigating allegations against oil and gas companies before joining lawsuits claiming damage to the coast, he allowed law firms representing parishes that benefit from the case to do the work.
The deposition, exposed by the Pelican Institute through a public records request, involves one of 43 ongoing lawsuits filed against hundreds of oil and gas companies: Parish of Cameron v. Auster Oil and Gas, Inc., et al.
The lawsuit was filed in November 2013 but the DNR did not petition to intervene until April 2016, just months after Gov. John Bel Edwards took office and appointed Harris to lead the DNR. The department, with a budget of more than $60 million that employs over 300, did not have the manpower to investigate the claims, Harris testified.
On April 20, Chevron attorney Michael Phillips asked: “I’m saying you’ve made a choice, rather than the agency taking on the responsibility for enforcing permits under the applicable laws and regulations, you have farmed out that responsibility to private lawyers representing the parishes?”
“Yes,” Harris said. “And really don’t have an option of – basically, I’m faced with the choice of not issuing any new permits and – or taking new enforcement action and dedicating our entire staff to doing this review, or farming it out. And the decision made was the latter.”
Harris confirmed the administrative process requires the DNR to inform oil and gas companies in Louisiana of violations to give them an opportunity to correct course, but he opted instead to join the lawsuit.
Harris acknowledged the decision is “inconsistent because we’re not following the administrative process at all.”
“Secretary Harris’ testimony is concerning,” said Sarah Harbison, general counsel at the Pelican Institute. “It makes you wonder what’s happening every day in the department.”
In October, the DNR revived a stalled $100 million settlement in another related lawsuit involving Freeport-McMoRan Inc. by signing the agreement on behalf of several parishes that refused to participate.
Cameron v. Auster has a trial date set for November.
"The Legislature does have some oversight to investigate the DNR and whether the state continues in the lawsuit,” Harbison said. “Certainly, the next governor could do something about it.”
Research from the Pelican Institute shows the state lost 2,000 jobs two years after the first coastal lawsuits were filed in 2013, resulting in $70 million in lost wages. The policy group estimates between $43 million and $113 million in annual economic losses since the lawsuits were filed, which equates to a $22.6 million loss for state and local governments for schools, roads and other infrastructure.
Harbison contends the “corruption” exposed by the April deposition “is just one of many reasons that Louisiana needs fundamental government reform in order to set the state on the right track – and to ensure Louisiana’s comeback.”
Kemper Williams Park
Aug. 5
Class A
First place, Tim Gilmore (tournament champion), Bayou Vista, 4-1, 55.5; second place, Clyde Landry, Pierre Part, 3-2, 47.5; and third place, Pat Pertuit, Marrero, 3-2, 37.5.
Class B
First, Clay Canty, Morgan City, 4-1, 37.5; second, Neil Whitney, Harahan, 3-2, 34.5; and third, Nancy Woods, Monroe, 3-2, 27.5.
Class C
First, Raymond Robicheaux, Harahan, 5-0, 33.5; second, Julius Lovell, Bayou L’Ourse, 3-2, 27.5; and third, Dale Pearce, Bayou Vista, 2-3, 31.0.
Class D
First, Charles Benoit, Lake Arthur, 5-1, 14.3; second, Louis Gaudet, Lake Charles, 4-2, 24.2; and third, Linda Dodson, Morgan City, 3-2, 12.7.
Benoit defeated Gaudet in a 40 shoe playoff game and claimed the class title.
Class E
First, Artie McMullen, Monroe, 5-0, 15.5; second, Matthew Strickland, Morgan City, 4-1, 19.5; and third, Joseph Thomas, Port Allen, 3-2, 12.0
Class F
First, Elvis Smith, Waggaman, 6-1, 11.3; second, Kevin Kinslow, Morgan City, 4-2, 11.1; and third, Joe Primeaux, Broussard, 4-2, 6.3.
After regulation a 3 way tie was in play. Kinslow drew the bye, then Smith defeated Primeaux and Kinslow in 40 shoe playoff games
To get Louisiana off the bottom of the barrel when it comes to educational reform, nothing is more important than developing a preschool program that builds the foundation for young people to learn. For a number of years, the leading voice on early childhood education was state Rep. Steve Carter from Baton Rouge.
Tragically, Steve passed away in 2021 from COVID complications. To honor his efforts, the Legislature passed into law the Steve Carter Literacy Program, which was to provide for payments of up to $1,000 per student per year for eligible services intended to improve literacy skills.
But passing legislation is one thing. Getting proper funding for it is another. After several years of minor financing, this year’s legislature allocated $51 million dollars for this important program.
Unfortunately, these funds will only cover a small number of kids and will supply only one sixth of the funds that are necessary. There is a need to properly find an additional 130 thousand slots for kids to be in early childhood learning.
Louisiana ranks next to last for overall child well-being, according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s 2023 Kids Count Data Book, with the state’s ranking being near the bottom for economic well-being, health, and family and community. The 2023 report puts Louisiana at 49th out of all 50 states for overall child well-being, coming ahead of only New Mexico. Louisiana had ranked next-to-last in the 2022 report as well.
“Expanding access to child care is a uniquely win-win-win policy,” said Jennifer Roberts, CEO of Agenda for Children.
“High-quality child care offers lifelong benefits to children, enables parents to work and improve their children’s economic security and strengthens our economy through increased workforce participation. Making child care affordable and accessible for all families will have huge rewards for all Louisianans.”
For many years, Louisiana has lamented “Thank God for Mississippi.” This refrain no longer works when comparing early childhood learning in Mississippi to Louisiana. The New York Times reported recently that Mississippi “is lifting education outcomes and soaring in the national rankings. Among children in poverty, Mississippi fourth- graders now are tied for best performers in the nation in reading tests and ranked second in math, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress.” Why the improvement? The Mississippi legislature undertook a major financial commitment to educate preschool kids. “Mississippi is a huge success story, and very exciting,” says David Deming, a Harvard economist and educational expert. “You cannot use poverty as an excuse. That’s the most important lesson.”
High-quality early care and education, particularly for children below age 5, is neither accessible nor affordable for many Louisiana families. That’s why proper funding for pre-K kids is so important. Yet right now, Louisiana spends less than half of 1% of state dollars on early care and education. Over $1 billion in this year’s legislative session was allocated for local projects, some considered “pork barrel.” Apparently, adequately funding preschool education was not all that important. In other states like Mississippi, proper funding is extremely important.
Here’s what Louisiana needs to do. The state should offer high-quality full day programs, with qualified teachers paid at the same rate as elementary school staff members. Many other states are noticing the Magnolia State’s educational success. Louisiana should do the same, and not settle for anything less than offering pre-K education to all of our kids. We can talk all we want to about higher education, and business development opportunities. But until our kids are better educated and start learning at an early age, the Bayou State will continue to be at the bottom of national rankings. We need to do better. Much, much better.
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.jimbrownusa.com. You can also listen to his regular podcast at www.datelinelouisiana.com.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Minutes -July 11, 2023
Council Meeting
City of Patterson, Louisiana
The meeting of the Mayor and Council of the City of Patterson, Louisiana was held on Tuesday, July 11, 2023. The meeting was held at 1314 Main Street in the Council meeting room at 6:00 P. M.
Mayor Rodney Grogan presided over the meeting.
Mayor Rodney Grogan called the Council Meeting to order.
Mayor Rodney Grogan announced a 6:00 p.m. Public Hearing discussion on Ordinance #2023-06, amending the article entitled “Article II. Definitions of the Zoning Ordinance of the Code of Ordinances, City of Patterson, Louisiana, so as to amend, delete, and reorganize the definitions contained therein. Mayor Grogan asks if there was anyone who would like to speak on amending article, no public comment. Mayor made a motion to bring public hearing to a close. The motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle to close the public hearing and seconded by Councilmember Mamie Perry. Council- members DeMale Bowden, Jr., Ray Dewey, Mamie Perry, and Miranda Weinbach and Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle voted yes.
Pastor Lee Condolle with One Faith Fellowship.
Chief Garrett Grogan led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Midge Bourgeois, City Clerk, called roll. Councilmembers De- Male Bowden, Jr., Ray Dewey, Mamie Perry, Miranda Weinbach and Mayor Pro Tem were present.
City Attorney Russel Cremaldi, C. J. Franklin from Providence Engineering and Chief Garrett Grogan were in attendance.
Motion made by Councilmember Miranda Weinbach and seconded by Councilmember Ray Dewey to dispense with the reading and ap- prove the June 6, 2023, minutes. Councilmembers DeMale Bowden, Jr., Ray Dewey, Mamie Perry, and Miranda Weinbach and Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle voted yes.
Motion was made by Councilmember Ray Dewey and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle to accept the submission of the financial statement. Council- members DeMale Bowden, Jr., Ray Dewey, Mamie Perry, and Miranda Weinbach and Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle voted yes.
Mayor asked public if there was anything on agenda they would like to speak about, there were no public comments.
Johnny Olivier, Jr. with Mt. Pisgah Masonic Lodge #40 spoke requested a can shake on Saturday, August 5, 2023, to help raise money for their scholarship funding. Motion made by Councilmember Ray Dewey and seconded by Councilmember Miranda Weinbach to grant a can shake. Council- members DeMale Bowden, Jr., Ray Dewey, Mamie Perry, and Miranda Weinbach and Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle voted yes.
Mayor Grogan announced that Sundrea Butler – LockD’N Travel Ball was unable to make meeting for her daughter was selected last minute for World Series but is requesting a can shake for travel ball team. Motion made by Councilmember DeMale Bowden, Jr. and seconded by Councilmember Lee Condolle to grant a can shake at a later date. Councilmembers De- Male Bowden, Jr., Ray Dewey, Mamie Perry, and Miranda Weinbach and Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle voted yes.
Brodie and Cassandra w/Brodie’s Kitchen came before the council to get temporary permission to ap- prove the municipal license subject. Mayor Grogan stated that Brodie’s Kitchen has acquired the Boiling Mad building to open up a restaurant. They have applied for their liquor license, they have advertised in the paper, but came to council to ask for temporary permission for it will coincide since they already applied with the state. They will have to meet a requirement and the re- quirement is 70% of homeowners’ approval in the proximity of res- taurant. The owners of Brodie’s Kitchen have been given a list and so when the answer comes back from Baton Rouge then the City of Patterson will be ready to move forward to grant permission to sell alcohol given, they have 70% of the agreement of those in the area. Mayor Grogan advised there are several video poker machines in the restaurant and the owners of Brodie’s Kitchen would have to have the permit for this also.
Russel Cremaldi, City Attorney advised council you want to ap- prove license subject to owners satisfying the rules of the adjacent landowner according to the City of Patterson’s rules. License will be approved subject to owners complying with other items to be done. A motion to approve the Municipal License subject to their compliance with adjacent landowners was made by Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle and seconded by Councilmember Mamie Perry. Mayor Grogan did roll call. Councilmembers DeMale Bowden, Jr., Ray Dewey, Mamie Perry, and Miranda Weinbach and Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle voted yes.
Motion made by Councilmember DeMale Bowden, Jr. and seconded by Councilmember Mamie Weinbach on the adoption of Ordinance #2023-06, amending the article entitled “Article II. Definitions of the Zoning Ordinance of the Code of Ordinances, City of Patterson, Louisiana, so as to amend, delete, and reorganize the definitions contained therein. Councilmembers De- Male Bowden, Jr., Ray Dewey, Mamie Perry, and Miranda Weinbach and Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle voted yes.
Mayor Grogan advised council that we received a letter of resignation from Veronica Johnson, Chairperson for the Patterson Housing Authority as of July 31, 2023. Mayor Grogan stated the primary responsibility for the Housing Authority is the board, when ap- pointed to board that board needs to take everything seriously, know what they are getting into, and their responsibility. Mayor Grogan stated for past 13 yrs. since in office he has had to sign off on different items but after having a conversation with Ms. Gibbs of HUD in Baton Rouge, the only responsibility the City of Patterson has with HUD is appointing the board; we were never supposed to be signing off on contracts with the Housing Authority Director, we did not have to vote on anything. This is the primary responsibility of the Housing Auth- ority Board. With the transition since Susie Mendoza left, it has made some of the board members nervous so they would like to depart. Ms. Gibbs with HUD asked that we get the board to calm down and start advertising for a new Executive Director, she asks that the board does not make a hasty decision and put someone in there right now. It was recommended that the current person working there now remain as the Housing Specialist and that no one be appointed until they can get some applications with qualifications for you are dealing with federal funding and more. Mayor Grogan advised that Ms. Gibbs stated that Patterson Housing Authority is not Civil Service. Mayor ad- vised that the only thing that he has to do is appoint the board and the board services at the pleasure of the mayor. The mayor gets the council to vote on the board but according to the Ordinance it states the board serves at the pleasure of the mayor. The board cannot find any of the manuals, books, and other items so Ms. Gibbs with HUD advised us to just move forward. All applications will come to City Hall, and they will be turned over to the board. Ms. Gibbs stated to make sure the board gets someone very qualified for the Executive Director will be dealing with 102 -106 units, Federal grants and so forth. Mayor Grogan stated that you have to have a resident who is living on premises to be on the board, which one of the board members has been blessed by God to move out of the housing authority so she has asked to remain on the board once Ms. Veronica Johnson resigns. Again, as per Mayor Grogan, the board is the one in charge of the Housing Auth- ority. Ms. Veronica Johnson thanks the mayor and council for allowing her to service on the board for 13 plus years, it is a very demanding job. She thanked everyone again.
Mayor Grogan discussed about hiring Alan Taylor as a financial consultant, advised that Mr. Taylor has been with the City of Patterson for years as the auditor with Kold-er Champagne Slaven. When Alan moved to the Broussard area and went with the new company, Wright,Moore,DeHart,Dupuis and Hutchinson, LLC we, the City of Patterson, went with him for we were comfortable. Every day is a new day, as we finished our audit Alan asked that we actual consider hiring him on as a financial consultant and going with back with either Kolder Champagne Slaven or Darnall Sikes Frederick because he feels that with everything coming down the pipe with federal funding and all the other stuff with ARPA we really need to have a financial consultant on board for consulting. Mayor Grogan advised that for years we had David Riggins. Reginald Weary, the CFO, advised that in Alan’s capacity he is our auditor, at times we call him to ask him a general question but as the auditor Mr. Taylor cannot legally be our auditor and guide us. Mr. Taylor will keep stay with Wright, Moore, DeHart, Dupuis as auditor but he will be our consultant and help oversee the CFO on items as we need him to keep us out of the black. Mr. Weary stated now with the new federal funds/regulations, it is alot,so we need an expertise to guide with this plus its less expensive than hiring another CPA firm to consult for us. Mayor Grogan stated with all the funding coming in, if things were to go array, he is the one responsible so at the end of day he is the Chief Executive Officer, he would have to go before the Legislative Auditors and he would be the one found for malfeasance in office although that is not the mayor’s area of expertise.
Mayor Grogan went on to state that we have been blessed for we have so much money coming for we have $1.5 million dollars coming in from the Federal Government for the rehab of the sewer left stations, $5 million coming from the state for the water plant, then $2.395 million coming from the state for the sewer lift station. Mayor Grogan went on to say we only asked for $3 million but we were blessed with the total of $4 million plus we have $451,000 for the completion of the water and gas meters. With this amount of funding coming in, every penny has to be accounted for and has to be used specifically for what it was allocated for, so we definitely need a financial advisor. Reginald Weary, CFO, stated everything is being accounted for now but with these amounts we need to stay in compliance. The auditing took a little longer this year due to the city switching companies. Mr. Weary advised that with the wealth of knowledge Mr. Taylor has, he cannot really advise the way we need him to advise and do the audits. As per Mayor Grogan the monies are trickling down from Washington, D.C. but the rules and policies are changing every day, so you need to use the money then for as months go by, the rules and regulations change. Next month we will decide if we go with Kolder Champagne Slaven, or will it be Darnall Sikes Frederick because we have 3 months to get the Engagement letter signed. Mayor Grogan advised the council that he would like them to meet with Alan Taylor so that they will be able to know more of what he will be doing.
Mayor Grogan stated that at last month’s council meeting it was discussed about hiring a Grant Writer. Mayor Grogan advised that we move forward to advertising and interview for this position. Motion to move forward for advertising for a Grant Writer was made by Councilmember Ray Dewey and seconded by Councilmember Mamie Perry. Mayor Grogan did roll call. Councilmembers De- Male Bowden, Jr., Ray Dewey, Mamie Perry, and Miranda Weinbach and Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle voted yes.
Mayor Grogan advised that Mr. Murray and Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle are working with the National League of Cities, we have gotten grant monies, now they are working on Economic De- velopment. Mayor Grogan stated that Holden Murray, HR, and Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle are in charge of Economic Development for the City of Patterson in which we are now in the big league with Baton Rouge and New Orleans. It was stated that there were 16 cities chosen from the National League of Cities, out of the 16 cities, 3 cities were chosen from Louisiana: Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and the City of Patterson. Holden Murray, HR, and Economic Development ad- vised that he applied for a grant opportunity with the National League of Cities, there is a program called the Southern Cities Economic Inclusion City Cohorts. Out of all the southern cities in the United States, the City of Patterson was one of the cities chosen. Mr. Murray went on to say that during the Covid 19 pandemic, economic decline and systemic racial injustice have all had an impact on cities across the south, with this being said with challenges comes opportunities. The Southern Cities Economic Inclusion City Cohorts help pump life back into the communities of the cities that were selected to bring them up to par with the rest of the cities in the United States. This grant was not funded by the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, but they received funding from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and the Annie E. Casey Foundation. Holden Murray stated that City of Patterson is the smallest city in the Cohort, he and Mayor Pro Tem has been to Atlanta, then New Orleans, they are going back to Atlanta in October to meet with other chosen cities to learn from each other what works or does not work for their cities, this is all about partnership, not just a conference where they have to break down in discussion groups, solve problems, and so forth. With the funding given to the City of Patterson, Mr. Murray and Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle has open up The Office of Economic and Business Opportunities which will serve the citizens of Patterson and the surrounding areas by offering programs and initiatives to guide into financial resilience. With this program, as per Mr. Murray, we will be providing personal financial resources, professional financial resources, personal growth, professional growth, and business opportunities. Within this new program Mr. Murray and Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle are doing, they have 3 innovative programs coming up in the fall. One of the programs called “Shop Patterson” is a loyalty-based reward system to encourage shopping locally, the second program is called Patterson Builds Credit which is designed to increase financial literacy in Patterson through workshops, seminars, and incentives. Last but not least the third program is Incubate Patterson which is designed to develop small businesses and entrepreneurship including resume building, business plan development and seed competitions.
A Resolution of Retirement for Ms. Cathy Eaves was read by Mayor Rodney Grogan. Mrs. Eaves was recognized and presented with a “Key to the City” for 37 plus years of service with the St. Mary/Vermillion Community Action Head Start Agency, she has worked with many adults and children in our community and was a positive and influence person to many people. A round of applause was given to Ms. Eaves. Ms. Eaves thanked the mayor, council, and public for giving her the opportunity to serve. Motion made by Councilmember Mamie Perry and seconded by Councilmember DeMale Bowden, Jr to adopt Resolution of Retirement for Ms. Cathy Eave. Councilmembers DeMale Bowden, Jr., Ray Dewey, Mamie Perry, Miranda Weinbach and Mayor Pro-Tem voted yes.
A Resolution of Respect was read by Mayor Grogan for the late Mr. John “Zeke” Knotts. Motion made by Councilmember Mamie Perry and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle to adopt a Resolution of Respect for the late Mr. John “Zeke” Knotts. Councilmembers DeMale Bowden, Jr., Ray Dewey, Mamie Perry, Miranda Weinbach and Mayor Pro-Tem voted yes.
A Resolution of Respect was read by Mayor Grogan for the late Ms. Lucille Johnson. Motion made by Councilmember Mamie Perry and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle to adopt a Resolution of Respect for the late Ms. Lucille Johnson. Councilmembers De- Male Bowden, Jr., Ray Dewey, Mamie Perry, Miranda Weinbach and Mayor Pro-Tem voted yes.
A Resolution of Respect was read by Mayor Grogan for the late Mr. Wally Griffin. Motion made by Councilmember Mamie Perry and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle to adopt a Resolution of Respect for the late Ms. Bessie Mae Butler. Councilmembers De- Male Bowden, Jr., Ray Dewey, Mamie Perry, Miranda Weinbach and Mayor Pro-Tem voted yes.
C.J. Franklin with Providence Engineering gave his report. Mr. Franklin an- nounced they are working on the sewer lift stations. The PRS has been updated and the city should be receiving a copy if we have not al- ready, they are working on a design and also will need to come with a resolution about exactly where one will be put. Mayor Grogan advised that there is a piece of property south of the rail, he will ask for the piece of property to be donated or the city to purchase to put the new Lucia lift station place for the one on Signe St. is actually in someone’s backyard and they would have to go through two backyards to get to it. Reginald Weary, CFO ad- vised the goal was to get it out of the neighborhood for if we go across from where we are not it would be between 2 houses and an eyesore to neighborhood plus trying to not go through resident’s yards. It was also stated that with new state-of-the-art equipment it will be able to manage growth in the future. Mr. Franklin stated natural gas is the other big-ticket item, he will need complaints, leakages, if there were any multiple re- pairs or have any details on these issues. Mayor Grogan stated project proposals are due by August 31, 2023.
Holden Murray announced that July 22, 2023, will be the Color Run Replay since we got rained out on the first one and also the Corn Hole League is being held on Sundays at the Patterson Community Center. The money raised by joining the league goes back into the Community Development program.
Chief Garret Grogan had nothing to report.
Steve Bierhorst, Public Works Director had nothing to report.
Scott Hutton, Fire Chief had nothing to report.
Mayor Rodney Grogan announced this Thursday, July 13, 2023, the water will be turned off at 10:00 p.m. to repair a water line, water will be turned off approximately 3 hours.
Sharon Gillum, Water Plant Sup- ervisor had nothing to report.
Mayor Rodney Grogan commended Terry Space and Ronald Davis along with their crew working in the heat, he asked they stay hydrated, and notified the public to help the crew in this heat, they will be changing their schedules to 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; this is until the fall. Mayor Grogan also stated that someone will be on call between 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in case something happens.
City Attorney, Russel Cremaldi had nothing to report.
Mayor Rodney Grogan gave an update on the parks. Morey Park is 90% finished so the monies re- ceived from Motel/Hotel taxes and so forth, the city will start on another park in Patterson. This was agreed upon prior to this council that the next park would be Park Street Park. Senator Brett Allain was able to get the city $15,000 as per Mayor Grogan. As per Steve Bierhorst, Public Service Manager stated at this time what is being done is material back the field by chopping it up, put a laser level on field, turtleback the field, they are still working on field, waiting for a good rain to see how it sets. Mayor Grogan advised that after the field is finished the old fence will come down, new fence put up, there will be 15 Elm trees planted to create a green space for shade. We also have another $25,000 that will be available to the city on August 1, 2023. The lights will be moved to the other side of the field and the type of lights that will be put up will project into the Housing Authority area and will provide better lighting. Afterwards where we go next on this park will be a walking trail, restrooms and so forth. As of right now, we are getting ready to restore Park Street Park.
There being no further business to come before the Mayor and Council, Councilmember Ray Dewey made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Lee Condolle. The Council unanimously agreed.
———————
Rodney A. Grogan,
Mayor
———————
Midge Bourgeois,
City Clerk
Adv. Aug. 9, 2023
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PUBLIC NOTICE
ST. MARY
PARISH WATER & SEWER COMMISSION NO. 1
834 WATERWORKS ROAD
P.O. BOX 309
AMELIA,
LOUISIANA 70340
JULY 5, 2023
The Board of Commissioners of St. Mary Parish Water & Sewer Commission No. 1 met in regular session on Monday, July 05, 2023, and was held at the office in Amelia, Louisiana at 6:00 P. M.
The President, Carlo Gagliano, Jr. called the meeting to order.
The Office Manager performed a roll call, all commissioners were present.
Board members present: Kenneth Mire, Leroy Trim, Oscar Toups, Carla Gagliano, and Carlo Gagliano, Jr.
Absent: None
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all present.
Others Present: Brian Tabor, Larry Barras, and Jane Aucoin
Public Comment/Appearances: Kayla Dupre, representing Darnall, Sikes & Frederick.
Others in Attendance: None
Approval of minutes of the meetings held on June 7, 2023 and June 19, 2023.
A motion was made by Kenneth Mire and seconded by Leroy Trim to approve and dispense with the reading of the minutes of the June 7, 2023, regular meeting and June 19, 2023, special meeting. All voted aye. Motion carried.
Executive Session (if necessary): Discussion of pending litigation captioned “In the Matter of the Complaint for Exoneration from or Limitation of Liability of Deloach Marine Services, LLC, as Owner Pro-Hac Vice and Operator of M/V Miss Mollye D,” bearing Civil Action No. 3:22-cv-00416 in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Louisiana in- volving Deloach, LA DOTD and the Commission re- garding the allision into the Bayou Ramos Bridge and the damaged water line.
Unfinished Business:
A. Discussion and action on removing sludge from the plant settling ponds.
Allowed for public comment: None
There was a discussion by the Plant Manager concerning removing the sludge from the ponds.
A motion was made by Kenneth Mire and seconded by Carla Gagliano to get prices on a long reach excavator. All voted aye. Motion passed.
New Business:
A. Discussion and any action on matters discussed in executive session.
Allowed for public comment: None
A motion was made by Kenneth Mire and seconded by Oscar Toups to go into an executive session at 6:14 p.m. All voted aye. Motion passed.
A motion was made by Leroy Trim and seconded by Carla Gagliano to close the executive session at 6:25 p.m. All voted aye. Motion passed.
B. Discussion and action for the 2022 Audit approval presentation, presented by Kayla Dupre.
Allowed for public comment: None
The 2022 Audit was presented to the Board by Kayla Dupre of Darnall, Sikes & Frederick.
A motion was made by Leroy Trim and seconded by Oscar Toups to approve the presentation of the 2022 Audit presented by Kayla Dupre. All voted aye. Motion passed.
C. Discussion and action on acceptance of the 2022 MWWP Audit.
Allowed for public comment: None
The Plant Manager discussed the 2022 MWWP Audit. The Audit report was read by the President.
A motion was made by Kenneth Mire and seconded by Carla Gagliano to accept the 2022 MWWP Audit report. All voted aye. Motion carried.
D. Discussion and action on making a journal entry when receiving advalorem taxes.
Allowed for public comment: None
The Office Manager made a re- quest to stop making journal entries for the advalorem taxes; for now. The journal entries were for funds allocated for future projects; these projects are now taking place.
A motion was made by Kenneth Mire and seconded by Leroy Trim to stop making the journal entry until a later date. All voted aye. Motion carried.
E. Discussion and action to adopt a Resolution of Respect in Memory of Anthony Marcell.
Allowed for public comment: None
The Resolution of Respect was read to the Board by the Office Manager.
A motion was made by Leroy Trim and seconded by Oscar Toups to adopt and accept the Resolution of Respect in Memory of Anthony Marcell. All voted aye. Motion passed.
REPORTS
Engineering Report – None
Managers’ Re- port –
The Plant Manger updated the Board on upcoming projects.
Outstanding Bills
Allowed for public comment: None
A motion was made by Kenneth Mire and seconded by Carla Gagliano to approve the payment of the outstanding monthly bills. All voted aye. Motion carried.
Other Business allowed under Act 861
Allowed for public comment: None
A motion was made by Leroy Trim and seconded by Oscar Toups to adjourn the meeting at 6:48 P.M.
All voted aye. Motion carried.
(S) Carlo
Gagliano, Jr.
Carlo Gagliano, Jr.,
President
(S) Kenneth Mire
Kenneth Mire,
Secretary/Treasurer
Adv. Aug. 9, 2023
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PUBLIC NOTICE
Recreation District No. 3 of the Parish of St. Mary will conduct a proposed budget hearing on Monday, August 28, 2023 at 5:15 pm at the Bayou Vista Community Center, Bayou Vista, Louisiana. The purpose of the hearing is to invite public comment in the budget process on the District’s operations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024.
The proposed budget is available for public inspection in the District’s offices at the Bayou Vista Community Center, 1333 Bellview Street, Morgan City, LA 70380. Interested persons may examine the budget documents during regular office hours, Monday through Friday (9:00 am – 3:00 pm).
Brian Head,
President
Recreation District No. 3 of the Parish of St. Mary
Adv. July 21, 26, 28, Aug. 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18 and 23, 2023
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PUBLIC NOTICE
The St. Mary Parish School Board Office of Special Education has Multidisciplinary Evaluations and IEP’s dated through June 30, 2019 for students who have not received services since that time or may not have received services at all. Al- though no longer needed for education services, the records may be needed by parents and/or the student for Social Security benefits or other purposes. If the parent or student would like to obtain these records, please come by the Office of Special Education, 402 Iberia Street, Franklin, LA, between August 01 through August 31, 2023, or send a written request for the records to the St. Mary Parish School Board, Office of Special Education, P.O. Drawer 580, Franklin, LA 70538-0580. Be sure to include your current mailing address in your request. Office hours are Monday-Friday, 8:00-4:00. If the records are not claimed by August 31, 2023, they will be destroyed.
Adv. July 26, Aug. 2 and 9, 2023
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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the St. Mary Parish Council in accordance with law that vacancies exist on the Board of Commissioners of Fire Protection District No. 3 (Amelia area).
The St. Mary Parish Council will receive applications for the filling of these vacancies from this date until August 17, 2023, at Noon.
Qualifications for submitting of an application will be in compliance with Part I Chapter 7 Title 40 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, Section 40:1495 and 40:1496.
Applications may be mailed or personally submitted Monday-Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and Noon and 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk of the Council, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana 70538.
The St. Mary Parish Council will meet in regular session on August 23, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana to fill these vacancies.
Adv. July 26 and Aug. 9, 2023
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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the St. Mary Parish Council in accordance with law that vacancies exist on the Personnel Board for the Parish of St. Mary.
The St. Mary Parish Council will receive applications for the filling of these vacancies from this date until August 17, 2023, at Noon.
Qualifications for submitting of an application will be in compliance with Home Rule Charter for the Parish of S.t Mary, Section 4-08. De- partment of Personnel – D.
Applications may be mailed or personally submitted Monday-Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and Noon and 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk of the Council, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana 70538.
The St. Mary Parish Council will meet in regular session on August 23, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana to fill these vacancies.
Adv. July 26 and Aug. 9, 2023
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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the St. Mary Parish Council in accordance with law that vacancies exist on the Board of Commissioners St. Mary Parish Planning and Zoning Commission.
The St. Mary Parish Council will receive applications for the filling of these vacancies from this date until August 17, 2023, at Noon.
Qualifications for submitting of an application will be in compliance with Ordinance No. 1569.
Applications may be mailed or personally submitted Monday-Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and Noon and 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk of the Council, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana 70538.
The St. Mary Parish Council will meet in regular session on August 23, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, Franklin, Louisiana to fill these vacancies.
Adv. July 26 and Aug. 9, 2023
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PUBLIC NOTICE
Public Meeting Notice
August 4, 2023
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the St. Mary Parish Council will meet in Regular Session at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, in the Parish Council Meeting Room, Fifth Floor Courthouse, 500 Main Street, Franklin, Louisiana.
The current meeting agenda can be viewed on the St. Mary Parish Council site at http://www.stmary parishla.gov/agendas-and-minutes and the St. Mary Parish Council Meeting can be viewed on the St. Mary Parish Council Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/St-Mary-Parish-Council-10259531585 5923/
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact Lisa C. Morgan, Clerk of the Council at 337-828-4100, Ext. 505, describing the assistance that is necessary.
Your attendance will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO,
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Adv. Aug. 9, 2023
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Three candidates are in the running for St. Mary sheriff after the first day of qualifying for the Oct. 14 primary election.
Also, former Councilman Peter Soprano of Franklin, who qualified early Tuesday to run in Parish Council At-Large District 10, is now on the secretary of state's list as running in District 3.
In District 10, incumbent Gwendolyn "Gwen" Hidalgo of Bayou Vista, is being challenged by Angelena Brocato, currently a member of the Hospital Service District No. 2 board. Both qualified Tuesday.
Former state Rep. Sam Jones qualified to run for parish president, a post that will be open because incumbent David Hanagriff is term-limited.
In the race for sheriff, the first-day qualifiers are current Chief Deputy Gary Driskell of Morgan City, Jason Granger of Franklin and Kenny Scelfo of Franklin.
Qualifying continues Wednesday and Thursday. The first-day St. Mary qualifiers are:
State Senate District 21
--Robert Allain, R-Franklin
--Henry C. “Bo” LaGrange, R-Patterson
--Stephen Swiber, R-Gibson
State House District 50
--Vincent St. Blanc III, R-Franklin (incumbent)
State House District 51
--Beryl Amedee, R-Gray (incumbent)
Sheriff
--Gary Driskell, Morgan City
--Jason Granger, Franklin
--Kenny Scelfo, Franklin
Clerk of Court
--Greg Aucoin, Morgan City
Assessor
--Jarrod K. Longman, Morgan City
Coroner
None
Parish President
--Sam Jones, Franklin
Council District 1
--Herbert “H.B.” Bell, Baldwin
--Craig A. Mathews, Jeanerette (incumbent)
Council District 2
--J Ina, Franklin (incumbent)
Council District 3
--Peter Soprano, Franklin
Council District 4
--Javon Charles, Bayou Vista
--David W. Hill, Bayou Vista
Council District 5
--Leslie “Les” Rulf, Patterson (incumbent)
--Douglas Streety Jr., Patterson
Council District 6
--Patrick J. Hebert, Morgan City (incumbent)
Council District 7
--James “Hammer” Bennett Jr., Morgan City (incumbent)
--James "Jimmy" Davis Jr., Morgan City
Council District 8
--Mark A. Duhon, Amelia (incumbent)
At-Large Council District 9
None
At-Large Council District 10
--Angelena Brocato, Patterson
--Gwendolyn “Gwen” Hidalgo, Bayou Vista (incumbent)
At-Large Council District 11
--Dean Adams, Morgan City (incumbent)
Click on the link below to download a .pdf version of the agenda.
Click on the link below to download a .pdf version of the agenda.
Physical education coach Mike Glatter helps students board a bus at Morgan City's Julia B. Maitland Elementary School on Tuesday, the first day of classes for the 2023-24 year for St. Mary public schools. Tuesday was also the first day for Central Catholic.
The Review/Bill Decker
The following are the radio dispatch logs from the Morgan City Police Department. To report unlawful or suspicious activity, call the police department at 985-380-4605.
Monday, Aug. 7
6:34 a.m. 700 block of Belanger Street; Suspicious person complaint.
8:19 a.m. 200 block of Franklin Street; Theft complaint.
9:14 a.m. Wren Street; Medical.
11:05 a.m. Morgan City Police Department Jail; Arrest.
11:14 a.m. 1000 block of David Drive; Medical.
11:26 a.m. 900 block of Willard Street; Medical.
1:57 p.m. 1100 block of Birch Street; Civil.
2:43 p.m. 7300 block of La 182; Alarm call.
2:52 p.m. U.S. 90 West; Stalled vehicle.
4:13 p.m. 700 block of Justa Street; Complaint.
4:15 p.m. La. 182 East/Amelia; Assistance.
5:18 p.m. 600 block of Maine Street; Welfare check.
6:32 p.m. 200 block of Bowman Street; Animal complaint.
7:20 p.m. 700 block of Martin Luther King Boulevard; Alarm.
9:20 p.m. 7300 block of La. 182; Reckless driving.
9:50 p.m. Morgan City; Building checks.
9:56 p.m. Sixth/Willow streets; Suspicious person.
10:28 p.m. 1700 block of McDermott Drive; Patrol request.
10:40 p.m. 900 block of Spruce Street; Alarm.
Tuesday, Aug. 8
12:49 a.m. 7400 block of La. 182; Complaint.
1:19 a.m. 2000 block of Railroad Avenue; Suspicious person.
2:59 a.m. Seventh/Freret streets; Suspicious person.
Franklin Banner-Tribune
P.O. Box 566, Franklin, LA 70538
Phone: 337-828-3706
Fax: 337-828-2874
Morgan City Review
1014 Front Street, Morgan City, LA 70380
Phone: 985-384-8370
Fax: 985-384-4255