Russell Miller

The meeting commenced with the Mayor reading a statement regarding meeting decorum. Agenda items were modified to include designating an official journal, approving the hiring of two Fire Fighter Recruits (Aaron Graff and Hunter J. Richard), and replacing the City Attorney's Report with a discussion on possible street repairs for Merrill Street. Announcements included a COVID-19 update, a presentation on upcoming museum events, and detailed information regarding 2026 property tax payment deadlines and procedures. The Council accepted the Property Tax report as presented. In committee appointments, Alderwoman Chasity Warren was nominated as Mayor Pro-Tempore for 2026, and the committee appointments for Budget, Personnel, and General Services were approved, along with the retention of Kolder, Slaven & Company as the Auditing Firm and Morgan Goudeau & Associates, Inc. as the Engineering Firm for 2026. The financial report for December 2025 showed net profits across the General, Water, and Sewer Funds. The Engineer's Monthly Status Report detailed several water infrastructure projects, including the I-49 North Service Road Water Main Installation and upgrades to the Water Treatment Facility. Under new business, a final contract change order for the Bridge Replacements and Upgrades Project was approved, and the request for Conditional Use by KP THIND, LLC to construct a Convenience Store was approved following a positive recommendation from the Planning Commission. The consent agenda included accepting retirements, confirming police promotions/hirings, and accepting resignations for several personnel within the Police and Fire Departments.

The Opelousas Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) aims to create a transportation system that supports the city's growth and enhances the quality of life for all residents. It focuses on improving mobility, supporting economic development, promoting environmental sustainability, and enhancing the overall well-being of residents by creating a safe, reliable, and enjoyable transportation system.

The resolution orders and calls for a special election to authorize a new sales tax levy and collection in the City of Opelousas. The tax is set at a rate of one percent (1%) beginning September 1, 2025, and expiring August 30, 2075, with estimated first-year collections of $5,961,244.00. Revenues from the tax will be dedicated to constructing, improving, and maintaining streets, sidewalks, bridges, sewers, and waterworks facilities, as well as acquiring and maintaining police and fire stations and equipment. The resolution also includes making application to the State Bond Commission for approval.

The council meeting included a discussion on meeting decorum, COVID-19 updates, police and museum presentations, and a recognition of the J.S. Clark Leadership Academy Girls' Basketball Team. Reports were given on the audit, monthly finances, public works, and engineering projects. Key decisions included approving budget amendments for the Bernice Street Lift Station relocation, denying a variance request for senior/veteran housing, and approving conditional use permits for a church and daycare. Other actions involved denying a variance for a laundromat, approving a variance for transitional housing, accepting a wastewater treatment plant project as complete, awarding a sewer collection system rehabilitation contract, and adopting an ordinance declaring junked property a public nuisance. Personnel actions included decisions on police officer administrative leave, appointments, and confirmations, as well as a retirement approval. Public hearings were held on property condemnations/demolitions and the junked property ordinance.

The council meeting addressed various topics, including the approval of changes to the agenda, which involved accepting resignations from fire department personnel and approving their final payments. Announcements included a plaque presentation, a COVID-19 update, and presentations from representatives of a non-profit organization and the Opelousas Museum. Reports were given by the Budget Committee, which discussed former police officer time sheets and City Hall improvements, and the Public Works Director. The Engineer's report covered sewer and bridge projects. The council approved payment to a former police officer for unused leave and compensatory time. A presentation was made regarding outstanding code enforcement liens. Discussions and actions were taken on annexation and zoning requests, a variance request, and condemnation/demolition of properties. Ordinances were introduced and adopted, including one repealing Ordinance No. 6 of 2023 regarding alcohol sales and consumption. A resolution was adopted to designate March 19, 2024 as Main Street Day. Finally, personnel items were approved from the Consent Agenda, and an executive session was held.