Amanda Istre

The meeting included the formal welcome of a new board member and an administrative secretary. Reports from the Director, Center Operations, and Systems were accepted, covering topics such as personnel updates, facility maintenance including fire sprinkler and generator inspections, and a potential cellphone fee increase awaiting legislative signature. A presentation was provided regarding an outreach program for public safety professionals interacting with individuals with special needs. The Board held a discussion concerning a social media post made by a board member, which was ultimately tabled, and a resolution was passed to commend an employee for her 48 years of service to the government.

The board reviewed plant operations and maintenance reports, discussed the Water Treatment Plant Rehabilitation Project schedule, and considered change order impacts. The Executive Director provided updates on lead service line inventory requirements, upcoming tank inspections, and budget availability for valve replacements. The board also voted to approve a resolution accepting the donation of the Coteau Ridge Subdivision Phase 3 water system from the developer and held a discussion regarding a potential waterline extension to service the Ravenwood Subdivision.

The Council discussed departmental reports on planning, zoning, and public works. The Parish President provided updates on a new drainage master plan and flood control infrastructure projects involving the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority. Additionally, the Council addressed the hiring of new personnel, the appointment of a new member to the Iberia Parish Tourist Commission, and the consideration of a cooperative endeavor agreement for home buyer grant programs. A resolution regarding courthouse lighting improvements was deferred to a future meeting, and the Council approved a budget amendment for the parish-wide drainage maintenance fund.

The board reviewed several zoning cases. It approved an expansion request for a dental office at 2301 Old Jeanerette Rd. to accommodate an additional partner. Additionally, the board moved to delete three other agenda items regarding private road length variances, private road acceptance, and a timing variance for a private road, as these matters were addressed during the planning phase.

The commission reviewed a request for the reclassification of property located at 2709 Captain Cade Rd from R-2 (Mixed Residential) to R-4 (Mobile Home Parks). The property owner, represented by a surveyor, requested that the existing zoning designation remain unchanged, noting that the property currently contains mobile homes. An attorney provided clarification regarding the grandfathered status of the existing structures and the restrictions on replacing them. The commission ultimately voted to deny the reclassification request, citing incompatibility with the surrounding area.