Notice

Publication Date

2022-10-12

Subcategory

SEPTEMBER 14, 2022

NEW IBERIA, LOUISIANA

IBERIA PARISH COUNCIL

The Parish Council of Iberia Parish, Louisiana met in Regular Session in the Parish Council Chambers, Main Courthouse Building, New Iberia, Louisiana, on Wednesday, September 14, 2022, at 6:00 p.m.

The following members were recorded as PRESENT:

Francis “Tommy” Pollard, Sr., Michael R. Landry, Marcus “Bruce” Broussard, Lloyd Brown, Warren P. Gachassin, Jr., Natalie Broussard, Paul G. Landry, James P. Trahan, Scott Ransonet, Eugene A. Olivier, Sr., Brian P. Napier, Lady Fontenette Brown (entered the meeting at 6:22 p.m.), Scott Saunier, and Chad Maturin.

OTHERS IN ATTENDANCE:

Legal Counsels Andy Shealy and Ian Alpha

Parish President M. Larry Richard

CAO Milton “Bo” Belanger, III

Director of Finance Kimberly Segura

Director of Public Works Dexter Miguez

Executive Secretary Cynthia Provost

The Parish Council of the Parish of Iberia, State of Louisiana, was duly convened as the Governing Authority of the Parish of Iberia by Mr. Warren P. Gachassin, Jr., its Chairman, who announced that the Council was now ready to conduct its business.

A motion was made by Mr. Francis “Tommy” Pollard, Sr., seconded by Ms. Natalie Broussard, that the Council recess its Regular Session and convene in a Public Hearing to hear comments from the public at this time.

This motion having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

YEAS: Francis “Tommy” Pollard, Sr., Michael R. Landry, Marcus “Bruce” Broussard, Lloyd Brown, Warren P. Gachassin, Jr., Natalie Broussard, Paul G. Landry, James P. Trahan, Scott Ransonet, Eugene A. Olivier, Sr., Brian P. Napier, Scott Saunier, and Chad Maturin.

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSENT AT VOTING: Lady Fontenette Brown.

And the motion was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

1. Comments from the General Public on Agenda Items included Ms. Cynthia Elmer addressed the Council and announced that September 2022 is National Suicide Awareness Month and invited everyone to the Acadiana Out of the Darkness Walk to be held on November 12, 2022. Ms. Elmer also noted that persons can call 988, instead of 911, for persons needing mental health assistance. She also noted that 211 can be used to seek resources by entering your zip code.

2. Persons being considered for appointment to Parish Boards/Commission that addressed the Council included: (a) Ms. Aquicline Rener-Arnold and Mr. Lynn Minvielle, both applicants for the Hospital Service District No. 1, (b) Mr. Thomas Leblanc, applicant for the Airport Authority, (c) Ms. Latifah Gray, applicant for the Mosquito Abatement District, and (d) Mr. Ronald Sovine and Ms. Tammy Gordon, both applicants for the Tourist Commission.

A motion was made by Mr. Michael R. Landry, seconded by Mr. Francis “Tommy” Pollard, Sr., that the Council recess its Regular Session and convene in a Public Hearing to hear comments from the public at this time.

This motion having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

ABSENT AT VOTING: Lady Fontenette Brown.

And the motion was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

COMMUNITY EVENTS AND PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS

1. Mr. Thomas Falgout, Director of the Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce, addressed the Council to provide an update on the Chambers and announced the 32nd Annual World Championship Gumbo Cookoff to be held on October 8-9, 2022 in Downtown New Iberia.

Chairman Warren P. Gachassin, Jr. noted that Councilman Lady Fontenette Brown was now present at this meeting.

REPORTS (FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION):

1. The Balance Sheets for July 2022 were emailed to the Council members.

2. The Budget Reports for July 2022 were emailed to the Council members.

REPORTS (PARISH OR OTHER GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES):

1. Mr. Pat Norris, Chairman of the Iberia Parish Airport Authority, addressed the Council to provide an update on the airport. Chairman Norris addressed the Council and explained that he had prepared a presentation, but is unable to show it due to technical difficulties with the computer.

Chairman Norris discussed their hangar capacity at this time at both Acadiana and Jeanerette LeMarie airports and noted that they maxed out their capacity at both airports and have a waiting list for those wishing to utilize these airports. He noted the expansion at UL, the changes forthcoming with Avex, and a new FBO that took over in February. The current FBO will be gutted, an addition to the present building will be completed, they will have 48 parking spots, awnings and a drive up will be completed in the front, and they will completely renovate the inside of the building, which is estimated to be a $4 million investment.

Chairman Norris stated that they are looking at ways to request funding to build three box hangars and one large corporate hangar. The corporate hangar would be a 12,000 square foot that would handle a G5 aircraft, while the box hangars that would handle other 8 to 10 aircraft or other aircraft. He stated that the funding request would be approximately $2.5 million and said funding is not available through the FAA.

COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS

1. Councilman Eugene A. Olivier, Sr. announced the PJA Executive Board met and has hired an Executive Director for the Louisiana Infrastructure Technical Assistance Program, which will assist parishes in writing grants.

2. Councilman Olivier announced that he attended the Region 8 PJA Meeting in Winn Parish and plans to attend another regional meeting in Clairborne Parish on September 20th.

3. Council Olivier announced that the Grand Marais Association will be sponsoring Bar-b-que Chicken and Pork Dinners on October 2, 2022 for $10 per dinner.

4. Councilman Scott Ransonet thanked everyone for attending the Town Hall recently held in Loreauville.

5. Councilman Paul G. Landry announced that Infrastructure Workshops have been held on Tuesdays and they are working on compiling proposed projects that could be presented to the grant writers in the future.

6. Councilman Warren P. Gachassin, Jr. stated that he felt that the cold mix repairs are not holding up when doing road repairs and will propose something different in FY 2023.

PARISH PRESIDENT ANNOUNCEMENTS

1. Parish President M. Larry Richard stated the Town Hall meeting held by Councilman Scott Ransonet was a very good meeting.

2. President Richard announced that he had cataract surgery and will have CAO Bo Belanger to make his announcements.

3. CAO Bo Belanger announced that qualification statements for engineering services for the Sewerage District No. 1’s Water Sector Grant were received on September 1, 2022 and that it was awarded to Domingue, Szabo, and Associates.

4. CAO Belanger announced that a Pre-Design Meeting for the South Lewis Street Widening is scheduled for October 4, 2022 at 10:00 a.m.

5. CAO Belanger announced that Preliminary Plans are 95% complete for the Louisiana Roads Safety Program Signing and Stripping Project and should be bid out next year.

6. CAO Belanger announced that meetings with Department Heads on the Fiscal Year budgets have been completed and also commended Director of Finance Kimberly Segura for her efforts during the budget process.

7. President Richard thanked Mr. Michael Broussard for his service while serving as his Interim Chief Administrative Officer.

8. President Richard announced that the Litter Abatement Program collected 90 bags of litter from Blackline, Marshfield, and Gondron Roads.

CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS FOR PUBLIC HEARING AND ADOPTION:

Chairman Warren P. Gachassin requested if there were any items to be removed from the Consent Agenda at this time. The following requests were heard at this time:

1. Councilman Natalie Broussard requested that Resolution Summary Nos. 143 and 145 be removed at this time in order that they may be discussed prior to being considered for adoption.

Hearing no further requests for removal of items, a motion was made by Mr. Lloyd Brown, seconded by Mr. Eugene A. Olivier, Sr., that the following be adopted:

MINUTES:

Regular Meeting of August 24, 2022

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-144

A RESOLUTION OF CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY OF DR. MELVIN P. JONES, FATHER OF MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT DIRECTOR HERFF JONES, WHO PASSED AWAY ON AUGUST 14, 2022.

WHEREAS, it is with profound sorrow that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby acknowledge the recent passing of Dr. Melvin P. Jones, father of Mosquito Abatement District Director Herff Jones, who passed away on August 14, 2022; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Jones was a son, husband, brother, uncle, father, and grandfather to his family; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Jones served his community over the years and established a practiced dentistry for over fifty years; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Jones will be deeply missed by his friends, his family, and the community.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby express its sincere condolences to the family of Dr. Melvin P. Jones, father of Mosquito Abatement District Director Herff Jones, who passed away on August 14, 2022.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall be forwarded to the family of Dr. Melvin P. Jones.

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall become effective immediately upon adoption by the Iberia Parish Council and approval by the Parish President in accordance with Section 2-13 of the Iberia Parish Home Rule Charter.

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-146

A RESOLUTION REQUESTING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FROM THE STATE OF LOUISIANA UNDER THE FISCAL YEAR 2022-2023 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AND COMMUNITY WATER ENRICHMENT PROGRAM.

WHEREAS, the Louisiana Legislature has appropriated funding for the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Local Government Assistance Program (LGAP) and Community Water Enrichment Fund (CWEF) Program; and

WHEREAS, the Local Government Assistance Program offers grants to eligible municipalities and parishes for a wide range of projects to improve public health, public safety, living conditions and for economic development purposes; and

WHEREAS, the Community Water Enrichment Fund Program offers grants to eligible municipalities and parishes for rehabilitation, improvements and new construction projects for community potable water systems; and

WHEREAS, it is deemed necessary and proper to submit applications to the Louisiana Office of Community Development under the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Local Government Assistance Program and also the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Community Water Enrichment Fund Program.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Iberia Parish Council that Parish President M. Larry Richard is hereby authorized to sign and submit an application to the State of Louisiana, Office of Community Development under the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Local Government Assistance Program and also execute any and all documents should this grant be funded.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Iberia Parish Council that the Parish President is hereby authorized to sign and submit an application to the State of Louisiana, Office of Community Development under the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Community Water Enrichment Fund Program and also execute any and all documents should this grant be funded.

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the Resolution shall become effective immediately upon adoption by the Iberia Parish Council and approved by the Parish President in accordance with Section 2-13 of the Iberia Parish Home Rule Charter.

These items having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And these items were declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

A motion was made by Ms. Natalie Broussard, unanimously seconded by Ms. Lady Fontenette Brown, and Messrs. Francis “Tommy” Pollard, Sr., Michael R. Landry, Marcus Broussard, Lloyd Brown, Warren P. Gachassin, Jr., Paul G. Landry, James P. Trahan, Scott Ransonet, Eugene A. Olivier, Sr., Brian P. Napier, Scott Saunier, and Chad Maturin, that the following be adopted:

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-143

A RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 4-11, 2022 AS SUICIDE PREVENTION WEEK IN IBERIA PARISH.

WHEREAS, suicide is the 12th leading cause of death in the United States, the 3rd leading cause of death among children and teens aged 10 to 19 and the 2nd leading cause of death among individuals aged 20 to 34; and

WHEREAS, in the United States over 45,000 people died by suicide in 2021 (Centers for Disease Control;

WHEREAS, suicide rates have increased 30% over the last two decades, with suicide rates finally decreasing 2.1% between 2020 and 2021 and decreasing 2.9% between 2020 and 2021;

WHEREAS, it is estimated that in 2020, there were 1.2 million suicide attempts;

WHEREAS, in 2021, suicide was the 14th leading cause of death in Louisiana (Centers for Disease Control);

WHEREAS, in 2021, 642 people died by suicide in Louisiana (Centers for Disease Control);

WHEREAS, over 90% of the people who die by suicide have a diagnosable and treatable mental health condition, although often that condition was not recognized or treated;

WHEREAS, organizations such as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention are dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide, through research, education, advocacy, and resources for those who have lost someone to suicide or who struggle, and urge that we:

1. Recognize suicide as a preventable national and state public health problem and declare suicide prevention to be a priority.

2. Acknowledge that no single suicide prevention program or effort will be appropriate for all populations or communities.

3. Address the disparity in access to mental healthcare for underserved and under represented groups, and advocate for ending these disparities.

4. Fund new suicide research to support culturally-informed and evidence-based mental health care and services.

5. Encourage initiatives based on the goals contained in the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention and the Louisiana 2022 Suicide Prevention Plan.

6. Promote awareness that there is no single cause for suicide, and that suicide most often occurs when stressors exceed the coping abilities of someone struggling with a mental health condition.

7. Develop and implement strategies to improve and increase access to quality mental health, substance abuse, and suicide prevention services and programs.

8. Continue advocacy to ensure we can reimagine a comprehensive suicide, mental health, and substance use crisis response system that builds on the historic new 988 number for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby proclaim the week of September 4-11, 2022 as in Iberia Parish.

“SUICIDE PREVENTION WEEK”

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all citizens are encouraged to participate in activities which will bring awareness to the prevention of suicides.

This Resolution having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And the Resolution was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-145

A RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO MR. DEAN WATTIGNY, WHO SERVED AS LEGAL COUNSEL TO IBERIA PARISH GOVERNMENT, AND RECENTLY RETIRED FROM THE 16TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT OFFICE.

WHEREAS, Section 9-01 of the Iberia Parish Home Rule Charter provides that the District Attorney of the judicial district serving Iberia Parish shall serve as the legal advisor for Iberia Parish Government; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Dean Wattigny has established his law practice in New Iberia and served the citizens of Iberia Parish and the surrounding areas; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Wattigny has worked in the District Attorney’s Office for eleven years; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Wattigny has served as the Legal Counsel to Iberia Parish Government and its Parish Boards and Commissions for several years.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby express its appreciation to Mr. Dean Wattigny, who has served as Legal Counsel to Iberia Parish Government for several years.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby congratulate Mr. Wattigny on his recently retirement and wish him the best in his retirement.

This Resolution having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

Brian P. Napier, Lady Fontenette Brown, Scott Saunier, and Chad Maturin.

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And the Resolution was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

A motion was made by Mr. Paul G. Landry, seconded by Mr. James P. Trahan, that the following be adopted:

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-147

A RESOLUTION APPOINTING ONE MEMBER TO THE IBERIA PARISH AIRPORT AUTHORITY FOR A FIVE YEAR TERM, TO FILL A VACANCY CREATED BY THE EXPIRATION OF TERM FOR MR. THOMAS LEBLANC, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES ON NOVEMBER 25, 2022.

WHEREAS, the Iberia Parish Council is desirous of appointing one member to the Iberia Parish Airport Authority to fill a vacancy created by the expiration of term for Mr. Thomas Leblanc, whose term expires on November 25, 2022; and

WHEREAS, an application of interest for appointment to this position has been received from Mr. Thomas Leblanc; and

WHEREAS, the Iberia Parish Council does hereby waive Section 2-42 (e) of the Iberia Parish Compiled Ordinances requiring the submission of two applicants for said appointment.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby appoint Mr. Thomas Leblanc as a member of the Iberia Parish Airport Authority for a five year term to fill the vacancy created by the expiration of term of Mr. Thomas Leblanc.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that said term shall commence on November 26, 2022 and shall terminate on November 25, 2027.

This Resolution having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And the Resolution was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

The following persons have submitted their applications of interest for appointment to the Hospital Service District No. 1 for a four year term to fill the vacancy created by the expiration of term for Ms. Aquicline Rener Arnold, whose term expired on November 25, 2022. Applications on file from: (a) Ms. Emily Breaux, (b) Mr. Lynn Minvielle, and (c) Ms. Aquicline Rener Arnold.

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-148

The Chairman requested ballot voting for the appointment of one member to the Hospital Service District No. 1. The voting was recorded as follows:

BREAUX: None.

MINVIELLE: None.

RENER ARNOLD: Francis “Tommy” Pollard, Sr., Michael R. Landry, Marcus “Bruce” Broussard, Lloyd Brown, Warren P. Gachassin, Jr., Natalie Broussard, Paul G. Landry, James P. Trahan, Scott Ransonet, Eugene A. Olivier, Sr., Brian P. Napier, Lady Fontenette Brown, Scott Saunier, and Chad Maturin. (14 VOTES)

The Chairman declared that Ms. Aquciline Rener Arnold has been appointed as a member of the Hospital Service District No. 1 for a four year term to fill a vacancy created by the expiration of term for Ms. Aquicline Rener Arnold, whose term expires on November 25, 2022. The term for this appointment shall commence on November 26, 2022 and shall terminate on November 25, 2026.

And the Resolution was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

The following persons have submitted their applications of interest for appointment to the Hospital Service District No. 1 for a four year term to fill the vacancy created by the expiration of term for Mr. Lynn Minvielle, whose term expired on December 27, 2022. Applications on file from: (a) Ms. Emily Breaux, (b) Mr. Lynn Minvielle, and (c) Ms. Aquicline Rener Arnold.

Chairman Warren P. Gachassin stated that Ms. Rener Arnold’s name would be removed from consideration since she was appointed in the previous Resolution.

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-149

The Chairman requested ballot voting for the appointment of one member to the Hospital Service District No. 1. The voting was recorded as follows:

BREAUX: None.

MINVIELLE: Francis “Tommy” Pollard, Sr., Michael R. Landry, Marcus “Bruce” Broussard, Lloyd Brown, Warren P. Gachassin, Jr., Natalie Broussard, Paul G. Landry, James P. Trahan, Scott Ransonet, Eugene A. Olivier, Sr., Brian P. Napier, Lady Fontenette Brown, Scott Saunier, and Chad Maturin. (14 VOTES)

The Chairman declared that Mr. Lynn Minvielle has been appointed as a member of the Hospital Service District No. 1 for a four year term to fill a vacancy created by the expiration of term for Mr. Lynn Minvielle, whose term expires on December 27, 2022. The term for this appointment shall commence on December 28, 2022 and shall terminate on December 27, 2026.

And the Resolution was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

A motion was made by Mr. Lloyd Brown, seconded by Mr. Michael R. Landry, that the following be adopted:

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-150

A RESOLUTION APPOINTING ONE MEMBER TO THE HOSPITAL SERVICE DISTRICT NO. 1 BOARD FOR A FOUR YEAR TERM, TO FILL A VACANCY CREATED BY THE EXPIRATION OF TERM FOR MR. RORY ROMERO, TERM EXPIRES ON DECEMBER 29, 2022.

WHEREAS, the Iberia Parish Council is desirous of appointing one member to the Iberia Parish Hospital Service District No. 1 to fill a vacancy created by the expiration of term for Mr. Rory Romero, whose term expires on December 29, 2022; and

WHEREAS, an application of interest for appointment to this position has been received from Ms. Emily Breaux; and

WHEREAS, the Iberia Parish Council does hereby waive Section 2-42 (e) of the Iberia Parish Compiled Ordinances requiring the submission of two applicants for said appointment.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby appoint Ms. Emily Breaux as a member of the Iberia Parish Hospital Service District No. 1 for a four year term to fill the vacancy created by the expiration of term of Mr. Rory Romero, whose therm expires on December 29, 2022.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that said term shall commence on December 30, 2022 and shall terminate on December 29, 2026.

This Resolution having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And the Resolution was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

A motion was made by Mr. Eugene A. Olivier, Sr., seconded by Mr. Michael R. Landry, that the following be adopted:

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-151

A RESOLUTION APPOINTING ONE MEMBER TO THE MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT BOARD, REPRESENTING THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY, FOR THE REMAINDER OF A FIVE YEAR TERM, TO FILL A VACANCY CREATED BY THE RESIGNATION OF MR. ALBERT MOORE, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES ON JANUARY 25, 2024.

WHEREAS, the Iberia Parish Council is desirous of appointing one member to the Iberia Parish Mosquito Abatement District, representing the Business Community, to fill a vacancy created by the resignation of term for Mr. Albert Moore, whose term expires on January 25, 2024; and

WHEREAS, an application of interest for appointment to this position has been received from Ms. Latifah Gray; and

WHEREAS, the Iberia Parish Council does hereby waive Section 2-42 (e) of the Iberia Parish Compiled Ordinances requiring the submission of two applicants for said appointment.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby appoint Ms. Latifah Gray as a member of the Iberia Parish Mosquito Abatement District, representing the Business Community, for the remainder of a five year term to fill a vacancy created by the resignation of Mr. Albert Moore.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that said term shall commence on September 29, 2022 and shall terminate on January 25, 2024.

This Resolution having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And the Resolution was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

A motion was made by Ms. Natalie Broussard, seconded by Mr. Scott Saunier, that the following be adopted:

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-152

A RESOLUTION APPOINTING ONE MEMBER TO THE IBERIA PARISH TOURIST COMMISSION, AS NOMINATED BY DELCAMBRE DIRECT SEAFOOD, FOR A THREE YEAR TERM, TO FILL A VACANCY CREATED BY THE EXPIRATION OF TERM FOR MS. TAMMY GORDON, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES ON DECEMBER 31, 2022.

WHEREAS, the Iberia Parish Council is desirous of appointing one member to the Iberia Parish Tourist Commission, as nominated by the Delcambre Direct Seafood, for a three year term, to fill a vacancy created by the expiration of term for Ms. Tammy Gordon, whose term expires on December 31, 2022; and

WHEREAS, the Delcambre Direct Seafood has nominated Ms. Tammy Gordon to serve as in this position; and

WHEREAS, the Iberia Parish Council does hereby waive Section 2-42 (e) of the Iberia Parish Compiled Ordinances requiring the submission of two applicants for said appointment.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby appoint Ms. Tammy Gordon as a member of the Iberia Parish Tourist Commission, representing Delcambre Direct Seafood, for a three year term to fill a vacancy created by the expiration of term for Ms. Tammy Gordon.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that said term shall commence on January 1, 2023 and shall terminate on December 31, 2025.

This Resolution having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And the Resolution was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

A motion was made by Mr. Brian P. Napier, seconded by Mr. Michael R. Landry, that the following be adopted:

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-153

A RESOLUTION APPOINTING ONE MEMBER TO THE IBERIA PARISH TOURIST COMMISSION, AS NOMINATED BY FRIENDS OF THE JEANERETTE BICENTENNIAL MUSEUM, FOR A THREE YEAR TERM, TO FILL A VACANCY CREATED BY THE EXPIRATION OF TERM FOR MS. JOYCE BULLER, WHOSE TERM EXPIRES ON DECEMBER 31, 2022.

WHEREAS, the Iberia Parish Council is desirous of appointing one member to the Iberia Parish Tourist Commission, as nominated by the Friends of the Jeanerette Bicentennial Museum, for a three year term, to fill a vacancy created by the expiration of term for Ms. Joyce Buller, whose term expires on December 31, 2022; and

WHEREAS, the Friends of the Jeanerette Bicentennial Museum has nominated Mr. Ronald Sovine to serve as in this position; and

WHEREAS, the Iberia Parish Council does hereby waive Section 2-42 (e) of the Iberia Parish Compiled Ordinances requiring the submission of two applicants for said appointment.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby appoint Mr. Ronald Sovine as a member of the Iberia Parish Tourist Commission, representing the Friends of he Jeanerette Bicentennial Museum, for a three year term to fill a vacancy created by the expiration of term for Ms. Joyce Buller.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that said term shall commence on January 1, 2023 and shall terminate on December 31, 2025.

This Resolution having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And the Resolution was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

A motion was made by Ms. Natalie Broussard, seconded by Mr. Michael R. Landry, that Resolution Summary No. 154, which is Resolution appointing one member to the Robert B. Green Memorial Building Advisory Board, be adopted at this time.

A substitute motion was made by Ms. Natalie Broussard, seconded by Mr. Michael R. Landry, that this item be tabled until the September 28, 2022 Iberia Parish Council meeting.

This motion to TABLE having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And the motion to TABLE was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

A motion was made by Mr. Eugene A. Olivier, Sr., seconded by Mr. Scott Saunier, that the following be adopted:

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-155

A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE 2022 GENERAL FUND BUDGET IN THE AMOUNT OF $13,000 TO APPROPRIATE FUNDING FOR NEW WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT FOR IBERIA PARISH GOVERNMENT AND ITS AGENCIES, ALL TO BE FUNDED FROM THE FUND BALANCE - PREVIOUS YEARS.

WHEREAS, Iberia Parish Government currently maintains a website that was development in 2018; and

WHEREAS, said website is in need of being updated and a proposal by Firebly Marketing Solutions, LLC has been received by the Administration; and

WHEREAS, there is a request to amend the 2022 General Fund Budget in the amount of $13,000 to appropriate funding for new website development for Iberia Parish Government and its agencies; and

WHEREAS, it is necessary to amend the 2022 General Fund Budget in the amount of $13,000 to facilitate said funding for the development of a new website.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby amend the 2022 General Fund Budget in the amount of $13,000 to appropriate funding for new website development for Iberia Parish Government and its agencies, as follows:

ACCOUNT NO. ACCOUNT TITLE BUDGET ADJUSTMENT

4990000 0000 0000 0000 Fund Bal-Prev Yrs $1,220,826 $13,000

5540000 6420 0000 0000 Adv, Dues, & Subs $34,400 $13,000

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this funding shall be funded from the Fund Balance - Previous Years.

This Resolution having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And the Resolution was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

A motion was made by Ms. Natalie Broussard, seconded by Mr. Scott Ransonet, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby Suspend the Rules as this item was not considered by the Joint Committee.

This motion to Suspend the Rules, having been submitted to a vote, the for thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And the motion to Suspend the Rules was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

A motion was made by Ms. Natalie Broussard, seconded by Mr. Scott Ransonet, that the following be adopted:

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-156

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF A TRANSFER SWITCH AT THE WARD 8 FACILITY FOR USE AS AN ADDITIONAL EMERGENCY SHELTER LOCATION, ALL TO BE FUNDED THROUGH THE 2022 RECREATION AND PLAYGROUND COMMISSION FUND BUDGET WITH AN APPROPRIATION FROM THE 2022 PUBLIC BUILDINGS MAINTENANCE FUND BUDGET AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING THE PARISH PRESIDENT TO EXECUTE A COOPERATIVE ENDEAVOR AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE RECREATION AND PLAYGROUND DISTRICT AND IBERIA PARISH GOVERNMENT FOR THE OPERATION AND USE OF SAID FACILITY AS AN ADDITIONAL EMERGENCY SHELTER LOCATION.

WHEREAS, Iberia Parish Government is proposing to utilize the Ward 8 Facility as an additional emergency shelter location; and

WHEREAS, it is necessary to purchase and install a transfer switch in order to utilize said facility as an additional emergency shelter facility; and

WHEREAS, an appropriation for $18,394 will be funded form the 2022 Recreation and Playground Commission Fund Budget, with an appropriation from the 2022 Public Buildings Fund Budget, to facilitate the purchase and installation of a transfer switch at said facility.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby authorize the purchase and installation of a transfer switch at the Ward 8 Facility, which is proposed to be utilized as an additional emergency shelter location.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this funding shall be from the 2022 Recreation and Playground Commission Fund Budget, with an appropriation from the 2022 Public Buildings Fund Budget to facilitate the purchase and installation of a transfer switch at said facility.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Parish President is hereby authorized to execute a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement to effect this Resolution.

This Resolution having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And the Resolution was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

A motion was made by Mr. James P. Trahan, unanimously seconded by Ms. Natalie Broussard and Lady Fontenette Brown, and Messers. Francis “Tommy” Pollard, Sr., Michael R. Landry, Marcus “Bruce” Broussard, Lloyd Brown, Warren P. Gachassin, Jr., Paul G. Landry, Trahan, Scott Ransonet, Eugene A. Olivier, Sr., Brian P. Napier, Scott Saunier, and Chad Maturin, that the following be adopted:

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-157

A RESOLUTION REQUESTING PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSIONER MIKE FRANCIS TO ATTEND A COUNCIL MEETING TO PROVIDE (A) AN EXPLANATION OF HOW RATES ARE STRUCTURED FOR UTILITIES, (B) AN EXPLANATION OF INFRASTRUCTURE STORM RESTORATION CHARGES, AND (c) TO DISCUSS RECENT HIGH UTILITY BILLS.

WHEREAS, constituents have been contacting Council members with questions regarding how rates are structured for utilities, to explain the infrastructure storm restoration charges, and to discuss recent high utility bills; and

WHEREAS, it is being requested that Public Service Commission Mike Francis be invited to attend a future meeting of the Parish Council to answer questions constituents have regarding these matters.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby request Public Service Commissioner Mike Francis to attend a Council meeting to provide (a) an explanation of how rates are structured for utilities, (b) an explanation of infrastructure storm restoration charges, and (c) to discuss recent high utility bills.

This Resolution having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And the Resolution was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

A motion was made by Mr. Eugene A. Olivier, Sr., seconded by Mr. Michael R. Landry, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby Suspend the Rules as this item was not considered by the Joint Committee.

This motion to Suspend the Rules, having been submitted to a vote, the for thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And the motion to Suspend the Rules was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

A motion was made by Mr. Eugene A. Olivier, Sr., seconded by Mr. Michael R. Landry, that Resolution Summary No. 158, which is to authorize travel expenses for the 2022 Gulf States Counties and Parishes Caucus, be adopted at this time.

A substitute motion was made by Mr. Eugene A. Olivier, Sr., seconded by Mr. Michael R. Landry, that the following be adopted:

RESOLUTION NO. 2022-158

A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PAYMENT OF TRAVEL EXPENSES FOR COUNCIL MEMBERS TO ATTEND THE 2022 GULF STATES COUNTIES AND PARISHES CAUCUS TO BE HELD IN CORPUS CHRISTI, TX FROM SEPTEMBER 22-24, 2022, AT AN ESTIMATED COST OF $495 PER PERSON FOR LODGING EXPENSES.

WHEREAS, the 2022 Gulf States Counties and Parish Caucus will be hosting its annual conference at the Residence Inn in Corpus Christi, TX; and

WHEREAS, said conference will be convening with NACo’s Resilient Counties Advisory Board from September 22-24, 2022; and

WHEREAS, travel expenses for this conference are estimated to be $1,300 per person; and

WHEREAS, Council members have expressed an interest in attending said conference and have requested the payment of two nights of lodging, which is approximately $495 per person.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby approve the payment of travel expenses for Council members to attend the 2022 Gulf States Counties and Parishes Caucus to be held in Corpus Christi, TX from September 22-24, 2022, at an estimated cost of $495 per person, which is the payment of two nights of lodging.

This Resolution having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

YEAS: Francis “Tommy” Pollard, Sr., Michael R. Landry, Marcus “Bruce” Broussard, Lloyd Brown, Warren P. Gachassin, Jr., Paul G. Landry, James P. Trahan, Scott Ransonet, Eugene A. Olivier, Sr., Lady Fontenette Brown, Scott Saunier, and Chad Maturin.

NAYS: Natalie Broussard and Brian P. Napier.

ABSENT: None.

And the Resolution was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

ORDINANCES INTRODUCED FOR PUBLICATION:

None.

A motion was made by Mr. Lloyd Brown, seconded by Ms. Natalie Broussard, that the Iberia Parish Council does hereby adjourn.

This motion having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

NAYS: None.

ABSENT: None.

And the motion was declared adopted this 14th day of September, 2022.

Chairman Warren P. Gachassin then declared the meeting adjourned at 7:54 p.m.

I HEREBY CERTIFY THE FOREGOING TO BE EXACT AND TRUE:

_____________________________

Clerk of the Council