Paul J. Governale

The council adopted resolutions of respect and congratulations, discussed amendments to the parish ordinance regarding stray animal feeding, and received updates on the Save Our Children Mentoring Program. Additionally, the council reviewed progress reports on various pump stations and nuisance property concerns, approved a specific use permit for a dirt pit, and introduced multiple ordinances regarding the Home Rule Charter and property donations. Resolutions were passed to authorize special elections for water and sewer commissions, and a certificate of substantial completion was accepted for facility improvements. Finally, the council handled appointments to various boards and commissions and reviewed several financial statements.

The council adopted resolutions of respect in memory of two community members and proclaimed an annual awareness day for inflammatory bowel diseases. Representatives from Bayou Bend Health System provided updates on physician specialties, new construction, and partnership initiatives. Zoning and development approvals were granted for several subdivisions and a specific use request. The council also addressed ordinances concerning the management of adjudicated properties and property tax levies for the public library and criminal justice system. Further actions included authorizing a contract for a new fire station, relocating a polling place, and calling a special election to vote on an amended home rule charter. Additionally, the council selected an official journal, accepted resignations from various board and commission members, and made new appointments to local drainage, fire protection, and recreation districts.

The public hearing was held to receive comments regarding two ordinances: one levying and imposing a tax for the maintenance and support of the St. Mary Parish Public Library and its branches, and another levying taxes for parochial purposes and the support of the Criminal Justice System of the Parish of St. Mary for the year 2026.

The Council discussed funding and operational needs for the Save Our Children Mentoring Program, adopted a proclamation for Black Maternal Health Week, and heard an announcement regarding a fundraiser cook-off. Members also discussed the Home Rule Charter revision process, local employment challenges, and infrastructure needs for housing development. Ordinances were introduced and adopted concerning property tax millages for the public library and parochial government, as well as specific land use permits and zoning map amendments. Additionally, the Council authorized an agreement with Belle of Orleans, LLC, addressed a residency variance request for a liquor permit, discussed concerns regarding DOTD-installed street signs, and appointed a member to the Board of Adjustments.

The Council meeting agenda includes discussions on updates to stray animal ordinances, the proclamation of an Awareness Day for IBD/Crohn's and Colitis, and a presentation by the Bayou Bend Health System. Planning and zoning matters involve multiple subdivision and development approvals for various properties. The council will introduce ordinances related to adjudicated property sales and specific use permits, and will consider the adoption of tax-related ordinances for public library maintenance and criminal justice system expenses. Resolutions include honors for deceased citizens, compliance questionnaires, infrastructure contracts for a fire station, election-related polling place leases, and a call for a special election on the Home Rule Charter. New business items involve reviewing financial statements, addressing a vacancy for a Justice of the Peace, selecting an official journal, accepting several board resignations, and processing appointments for various parish boards and commissions.