Tommy Leonard

The Executive Committee meeting addressed several key agenda items. Discussions included a proposed ordinance to merge Precinct 14A into Precinct 14 for the Town of Fordoche, which is scheduled for a public hearing. Another significant topic was a proposed ordinance pertaining to Battery Energy Storage Systems, which included discussions on permit durations, fees, site safety concerns such as soil conditions, battery lifespan, and emergency response procedures in case of fire involving lithium batteries. The committee also announced the rescheduling of the next regular meeting.

The meeting included the Parish President's report, which detailed financial figures for revenues, expenditures, fund balances, and available funds as of October 31, 2025, and noted one new hire. Introduction of ordinances scheduled for a public hearing on December 9, 2025, included proposals to amend the 2025 Operating Budget and adopt the 2026 Operating and Capital Budgets, create a Fire Prevention Bureau, amend the single board governing all fire districts, and address battery storage systems. The Council conducted a public hearing and adopted an ordinance to merge precinct 14A into Precinct 14 for the Town of Fordoche. Action on the ordinance regarding Battery Storage Systems was deferred to the December 9, 2025 meeting after presentations from NextEra Energy and Pointe Coupee Electric. A public hearing was held regarding the Parish's performance under the FY2023 LCDBG Clearance Program. Resolutions were adopted to name a private road "Doucet Lane" for E-911 purposes, support a funding request for upgrading electronic water and gas meters up to $5.5 million via the Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan program, opt out of state solar power generation facilities site requirements, adopt by-laws for the P.C. Tourist Commission, and approve a liquor license for John LaCour dba The Sandbar.

The meeting featured presentations recognizing employee anniversaries and the retirement of Council Clerk Gerrie Martin, who received a dedicated service award. A proclamation was passed declaring October 2025 as Dysautonomia Awareness Month. The Council unanimously appointed Ms. Courtney Hurst as the new Council Clerk. The Parish President provided a financial report detailing revenues, expenditures, and fund balances as of August 31, 2025, and reported on open positions. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the legality and budget implications of the Parish President creating a Fire Coordinator position, with Councilman Jarreau opposing the unilateral action due to concerns over usurping the Fire District Board's authority and lack of budgeting. The Council also introduced an ordinance regarding roofing permit fees, which will be subject to a public hearing on October 14, 2025. Further actions included accepting the assessor's appraisal of properties, scheduling Board of Adjustments meetings, authorizing the Parish President to sign a grant application with LA DOTD for the Council on Aging Transportation Program, and naming a private road for E-911 purposes.

The council meeting included updates from the Parish President on financial matters, the retirement of employees, and bidding for the courthouse project. Fire Chiefs provided updates on fire protection. The council denied a rezoning request for a therapeutic group home following public comments and legal counsel. Public hearings were held and ordinances were adopted to amend the parish budget and authorize the purchase of property for courthouse parking. A special use permit for a cemetery was approved. The council also authorized the development of a strategic plan for fire services and supported applying for water sector funding to consolidate waterworks districts.

The Jury discussed the recommendations from a Selection Review Committee meeting held October 17, 2017, for the selection of a firm to perform engineering & land surveying services for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program for the August 2016 flood event. The Jury also reviewed a proposal from Blue Cross Blue Shield for group health insurance renewal with an 18.5% increase.