Wendy Tassin Marchand

The committee meeting featured a presentation from the assessor regarding the transition from tax sales to a new tax lien process and its implications for the parish and property owners. The discussion included potential legislative impacts on senior tax exemptions and their effect on budgetary planning. An emergency services update was provided, highlighting call volumes and community outreach efforts. Additionally, the committee reviewed a request from a service provider for an upfront payment for a long-standing property demolition project funded by a federal grant.

The board conducted a general meeting covering several key items, including a resolution of respect for a retired bus driver, recognition of students and teachers of the month for April 2026, and a discussion regarding the 'Portrait of a Graduate' initiative, which aims to define and promote common leadership and preparedness qualities across the district. Additionally, there was a project status update regarding construction progress on the career academy and arena, noting delays caused by inclement weather.

The committee discussed financial reports regarding state revenue sharing, occupational licenses, sales tax, and hotel collections. Updates were provided on facility renovations, including painting and flooring projects. The Office of Emergency Preparedness discussed FEMA funding, hazard mitigation plans, and a hurricane preparedness meeting. Road, bridge, and drainage initiatives were reviewed, specifically regarding the Monroe Ford Bridge progress, Little California road grant and infrastructure improvements, and white goods removal.

The Council discussed several operational and administrative matters. Key topics included the addition of a Juneteenth event to the agenda, a briefing on emergency response metrics for the month of April, and approval for a community parade. The City Engineer provided updates on ongoing drainage improvement projects, the demolition of condemned structures, and the investigation of sinkholes. The Council authorized the award of a street improvement project contract contingent upon funding agency concurrence. Additionally, the Council addressed the approval of an amended budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, the selection of an audit firm for a single audit, the renewal of the annual millage rate, and the potential sale of an adjudicated property to an adjoining landowner.

The meeting included a presentation from the emergency medical services regarding call volumes and response times. The board discussed and formally adopted a new comprehensive road priority list for the parish, clarifying that this inventory is intended for managing public infrastructure and the safe movement of goods rather than reflecting current road maintenance conditions. Additionally, the status of library project bids was briefly discussed, noting that further consultation with bidders is required.