Patrick Beard

The meeting agenda included several proclamations and special business items. Key discussions involved a warning about the dangers of flushing non-flushable wipes in the sewage system, leading to maintenance issues. Proclamations recognized French Language and Heritage Day, acknowledged Vicky Carter's service on the Board of Adjustment, declared March as Disability Awareness Month and Arkfest in St. Charles Parish, and recognized retired teachers. The Council also proclaimed March as Lions Month and National Kidney Month/World Kidney Day, and March 2026 as Problem Gambling Awareness Month. The meeting also included a call to order with prayer and pledge of allegiance.

The report focused on hurricane preparedness efforts, detailing two recent emergency drills conducted by the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, including an assisted evacuation drill involving over 75 volunteers simulating a worst-case scenario. A tabletop hurricane scenario drill was also conducted to refine procedures. The Parish is preparing to publish a hurricane preparedness guide this summer. Additionally, the report covered the changing of command for the Corps of Engineers, involving discussions on hurricane protection projects and levee needs on the West Bank. Information was provided regarding the upcoming availability of the St Charles Parish Water Quality report, with instructions on how to access it online or request a paper copy. Finally, the retirement of the Chief Operator, Rusty Walker, after five years of service was announced, and his replacement, Bobby Donaldson, the new Chief Operating Officer, was named.

The session featured remarks from the Parish President, including the introduction of the new Executive Director of the River Parishes Tourist Commission, Mr. J Robicheaux, following the departure of Mr. Buddy Beau. The outgoing director provided an overview of the commission's work, including rebranding efforts and investments in projects like the 1811 Slaver Vote Trail and the Headwaters project, despite challenges posed by COVID-19. The Parish President provided updates on Tropical Storm Claudette, noting that the parish was largely spared significant weather impact. An announcement was made regarding the launch of a new, customizable weather alert system called SCP Alerts. Further topics included an announcement for the annual Independence Day celebration on July 3rd, updates on the Veterans Memorial Plaza groundbreaking (including a $100,000 donation from Phillips66), progress on the West Bank Trailhead construction, and information on the Summer Food Service Program. Additionally, the parish announced job openings and recent Public Works projects, such as ditch cleaning on Saint Rose Avenue and pipe upgrading on River Oaks Drive. Safety updates included crew participation in traffic flagger training and an upcoming chainsaw training course.

The meeting commenced with prayer and the pledge of allegiance. Special business included proclamations recognizing Councilwoman Holly Fansa for her service as 2025 Council Chairman and Councilman Walter Pilak as 2025 Council Vice Chairman. A proclamation was also issued recognizing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and another for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated Founders Day, acknowledging the service of the River Parishes Alumni Chapter. The River Parishes Transit Authority (RPTA) presented its report, detailing ridership data, service area, funding sources (including the forthcoming depletion of ARPA/CRISA funds), and operational challenges. The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) department reported on the successful implementation of a new, more secure, and efficient GIS system in the new data center, including the launch of a GIS monitor tool for better diagnostics.

The meeting commenced with a prayer and pledge of allegiance. Key discussions included the approval of minutes from the July 8th regular meeting, and the presentation of a proclamation declaring August 2024 as Vehicular Heat Stroke Awareness Month, which was accepted by the St Charles Women's Club. Reports from the Ark of St Charles detailed accomplishments such as property acquisition, vehicle purchases, and the positive impact of their programs, including support for individuals with developmental disabilities, self-advocacy efforts, and career exploration through summer camp. The Department of Community Services provided an overview of its mission, which focuses on safety net services, youth at risk programs, homeowner occupied rehabilitation, and seasonal energy assistance (LIHEAP), noting that over $300,000 was dispersed to families through the LIHEAP program.