Lanie Kerlegon

The board discussed the reappointment of Mr. William Kyle to the board and conducted the election of officers, resulting in the selection of a Chairman and Vice-Chairman.

The Commission welcomed a new board member, David Lopez, as an employee representative. The primary discussion focused on Rule VIII regarding Civil Leave and specific sections concerning leave during severe weather events or acts of God. The Board reviewed proposed rule revisions initiated by the Mayor, which aim to clarify compensation for essential personnel required to work during civil leave periods. The motion to post the proposed revisions for a 30-day period for public review was approved.

The meeting included the adoption of the municipal budget for the upcoming fiscal year and an amendment to the current fiscal year budget. The council authorized a lease agreement for a coffee machine for the wastewater department and approved the appointment of a mayoral designate to the Hopkins Street Economic Development District. Key project approvals included a change order and a certificate of substantial completion for the American Rescue Plan Act roof replacement project. Additionally, the council awarded various supply bids, with modifications to remove certain road materials, and approved a 4% salary increase for municipal classified employees.

The meeting featured public comment regarding animal control operations, focusing on the division of city and parish kennels, as well as suggestions for spay/neuter policies and enforcement. Council members and staff discussed ongoing and upcoming drainage improvement projects, specifically detailing infrastructure upgrades in the Highland area. The discussion covered pipe capacity, flood zone challenges, budgetary planning for these capital projects, and the need for coordination between drainage work and city street repair programs.

The council conducted a budget meeting where various departments presented their financial proposals. Key discussions included a requested 4% increase in the city court budget, fire department plans to refurbish existing fire trucks instead of purchasing new ones, the implementation of mandatory cancer screenings for firefighters, and an update on the police department's crime camera project funded by state grants. The council also addressed general departmental budget adjustments, insurance costs, and potential for future revenue rebates to be reallocated to district projects.