Laura B. Blanchard

Key discussions during the meeting included the proclamation of March 2026 as Red Cross Month, honoring the American Red Cross for their humanitarian efforts, including assistance to families, smoke alarm installations, and support for military members. Several agenda items involved the Council meeting as a Board of Adjustment to consider granting exceptions for moving single-family mobile homes onto property zoned I1 light industrial. Additionally, there was deliberation on granting exceptions for Nick and Kayla Dodge Wildflower Estates LLC to build duplexes in an I1 zone. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a rule to show cause hearing regarding a nuisance property (grass, trash, abandoned structures) at 1641 Burton Plantation Highway, which was ultimately deferred to the next meeting pending clarification of property lines following a recent survey adjustment. Finally, an ordinance amending the zoning classification district on a portion of 1471 Old Spanish Trail Highway was introduced for public hearing, drawing substantial public comment regarding concerns over the requested Industrial 3 zoning classification and its proximity to residential areas.

The key discussion centered on Resolution Number 031RS, which concerns the St. Martin Parish government expressing its desire to withdraw from participation in the Acadiana Regional Juvenile Justice District. This resolution declares intent to sever all ties with the district and opposes any imposition of taxes for the acquisition or operation of a detention facility. The council proceeded with a motion and second to vote on the resolution.

The joint committee meeting included a presentation by the St. Martin Parish Director of Tourism, Lacy Laparus, summarizing the significant economic impact of tourism in 2025, including $595,231 in occupancy tax collected and an estimated total visitor spending impact between $36 million and $75 million. Marketing investments totaled $170,000, yielding a return of $4.41 for every dollar spent. The Director also highlighted increased website traffic, international engagement, and hosting of familiarization tours, including hosting nine journalists during an international food, wine, and travel writers conference. Several council members expressed strong commendation for the tourism department's performance and dedication. An educational seminar for local tourism partners was also conducted.

The meeting commenced with the selection of officers, resulting in the election of Vincent Alexander as Chairman and Chris Corville as Vice Chairman of the council, with a 7-2 vote for both positions. Vincent Alexander was also selected as the temporary presiding officer. Key agenda items included the approval of minutes from the December 2nd, 2025, regular meeting. The council acted as a board of adjustment to consider exceptions for moving single-family mobile homes on properties zoned I1 Light Industrial for Talia Duceay, Hayden and Kelsey Arno, and William and Sha Tron. An exception was also considered for Mike Sanders Eminence Automotive LLC to build a dwelling on I1 zoned property. Public hearings were opened for several ordinances, including those reducing servitude rights on drainage channels M32 and L-34G-3E, and an ordinance amending 2025 budgets as mandated by state statute. Another ordinance amended zoning classifications for a portion of Higin Bothotham Road. Resolutions addressed approving the Acadiana Criminalistics Laboratory Budget for 2026, authorizing contracts for a trustee maintenance crew and approving change orders for the Spanish Trail Industrial Park Access Road project and the Henderson Water Level Control Structure Repairs Project. The contract for the Cypress Island JODE drainage system maintenance project phase 2 was awarded to low bidder Down South Construction Services LLC. A public comment was made regarding drainage project scope of work, specifically concerning tree removal and potential future flooding issues, which the Parish President committed to reviewing for future projects.

The meeting included a moment of silence followed by the pledge of allegiance. A key segment involved a candidate, Lee Durio, announcing his candidacy for Brobridge City Court Judge, detailing his qualifications from serving as Parish Attorney, private practice in various legal areas, experience with domestic violence cases, and prior service with the St. Martin Sheriff's Office. He discussed his commitment to the community, especially Ward 4, and proposed improvements for the juvenile court system, such as scheduling sessions after school hours. The council also addressed the appointment of a Register of Voters for St. Martin Parish following interviews conducted in a special session.