Publication Date
2025-02-04
Subcategory
LEGAL NOTICE
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL OF THE PARISH OF ST. MARY, STATE OF LOUISIANA
JANUARY 8, 2025
FRANKLIN, LOUISIANA
The St. Mary Parish Council met on this date in Regular Session with Chairperson Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo presiding and the following members present: Rodney Olander, David W. Hill, Leslie “Les” Rulf, Jr., Patrick Hebert, James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr., Mark Duhon, Dean Adams, and Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. Absent were Rev. Craig Mat-hews, J Ina, and James “Jimmy” Davis, Jr.
The Invocation was pronounced by Mr. Olander and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Hill.
Nominations were opened for Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the Council for the year 2025.
Mr. Olander moved to nominate Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D., Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo, and Dean S. Adams for Chairperson of the Council. Mr. He- bert seconded the motion, which carried.
Voting to elect Dr. Rink for Chairperson was Mr. Rulf.
Voting to elect Mr. Adams for Chairperson were Mr. Duhon, Mr. Adams, and Dr. Rink.
Voting to elect Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo for Chairperson were Mr. Olander, Mr. Hill, Mr. Hebert, and Mrs. Hidalgo.
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo was elected Chairperson of the Council for the year 2025.
Mr. Adams mov-ed to nominate Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. as Vice Chairperson of the Council for the year 2025. Mr. Hill seconded the motion, which carried. Mr. Adams moved to closed nominations.
Voting to elect Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. for Vice Chairperson were Mr. Olander, Mr. Hill, Mr. Rulf, Mr. Hebert, Mr. Du- hon, Mr. Adams, Dr. Rink, and Mrs. Hidalgo.
Kristi Prejeant Rink, M.D. was elected Vice Chairperson of the Council for the year 2025 by an 8-0-0-3 Roll Call vote.
Theresa Boykin, Louisiana Ultimate Woman Plus Miss America ap- peared before the Council to discuss the upcoming event for the 13th Annual “Rock the Runway Fashion and Talent Show” to support Lydia Cancer Association on January 18, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Bayou Bend Health Center. She informed that Beverly Domen-geaux is someone that has walked the cancer journey and has been an inspiration to the community and will be honored at the event. To buy tickets or make donations, call 337-578-1618.
Beverly Domen-geaux, Executive Director, St. Mary Council on Aging appeared before the Council to discuss their Annual Financial and Activities Report.
Mrs. Hidalgo recognized Jake Benoit, Regional Representative for Senator John Kennedy’s Acadiana area office. Mr. Benoit introduced himself and stated that his contact number is 337-250-6879.
Randy Tisdale appeared before the Council re- garding his rezone request at 1092 Lake Palourde Road in Amelia from Heavy Industrial Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood Zoned District to place a manufactured home. Mr. Tisdale stated that he had resided on this property since 2013 but the manufactured home is no longer there. He also informed that currently the property still has those utilities connected from that manufactured home.
Mr. Duhon stated that Mr. Tisdale gave him information that states the parish does not want residential in existing industrial areas and that his property is zoned industrial.
Mr. Tisdale read information relative to residential and industrial areas and ex- pounded on adjacent property.
Stephen Swiber, representing the Carline Buff Properties, stated that this property is adjacent to Mr. Tisdale’s property. He stated that the properties are actively in commerce and ex- pounded on zoning laws and the liabilities relative to activities from adjacent businesses.
In response to Mr. Duhon’s inquiry regarding a buffer zone, Mr. Swiber stated that the manufactured home will be leas-ed to a tenant and will be placed on the fence line.
Mr. Duhon stated that residents of a trailer park appeared before the Council years ago to sue Petroleum Helicopters, Inc. (PHI) due to vibration noise.
In response to Mrs. Hidalgo’s inquiry, Mr. Tisdale stated that someone is currently residing on the property.
Mr. Hebert mov-ed that the reading of the December 18, 2024 meeting be dispensed with and that the same be approved. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried.
Parish President, Sam Jones informed that a comprehensive report will be given in February.
Chief Administrative Officer, Paul J. Governale, submitted his report for a three (3) week period, ending January 8, 2025.
In response to Mr. Duhon’s inquiry regarding the jetta equipment, Mr. Governale stated that he still has not located it. Mr. Duhon stated that it is at the Berwick Landfill and will call Mr. Governale to discuss.
In response to Mr. Duhon’s inquiry relative to the shoulder/road repairs in Amelia, Mr. Governale re- quested specific locations. Mr. Duhon thanked Norris Boudreaux Contractors for digging ditches and canals in Morgan City to aid in drainage.
Per Dr. Rink’s inquiry relative to CPRA (Coastal Protection and Restoration Auth- ority) funds for Drainage District No. 2A, President Jones stated that the contract is being prepared and funds should be received in a few weeks.
Per Dr. Rink’s inquiry relative to CPRA funds that was mentioned at the Drainage District meeting in Patterson, President Jones stated that he is not aware of this. Mr. Duhon stated that CPRA funds take a few years to re- ceive after it is re- quested.
Planning & Zoning Director, Mandi LeBlanc, presented the following items as recommended by the Planning & Zoning Commission at their December 16, 2024 Regular Meeting.
a. Recommend Rezoning
Name: Randy Tisdale, Jr.
Address: 1092 Lake Palourde Rd., Amelia, LA
Parcel Id# 3524261015.00 - Lot B Templet - Bayou Boeuf - Giroir and Aucoin - Shell Road Acq. 334 324674
PURPOSE: to rezone from Heavy Industrial (HI) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District to place one (1) manufactured home on the property.
Mr. Duhon recommends denying the Rezone re- quest. Mr. Adams seconded the mo- tion.
In response to Dr. Rink’s inquiry regarding the Planning & Zoning Commission’s vote, Mrs. LeBlanc stated that two (2) members voted against the rezone. Mrs. LeBlanc stated that once the original mobile home moved off of the property, it lost the six month grandfather clause to be replaced by another one. She also stated that they did not discuss subdividing that portion of the property.
Several Council Members discussed whether any public attended in opposition to the rezone request.
Per Mr. Adams’ inquiry regarding whether a sign was posted on the property and property owners notified, Mrs. LeBlanc stated that a sign was posted on the property and letters were mailed certified return receipt to property owners within 200 feet. She stated that she received three (3) signed certified back and one (1) was re- turned without a signature.
Mr. Adams stated that his concern is that if the shipyard is sanding and painting then it will be a liability.
In response to Dr. Rink’s inquiry relative to rezoning a portion of the property, Mr. Tisdale stated that he currently has a camp to the rear of the property, a concrete slab in the front where the manufactured home used to be, electricity and water hookups that are still in service.
Several Council Members discussed the property still currently having utilities and the grandfather clause.
In response to Dr. Rink’s inquiry, Mrs. LeBlanc stated that Mr. Tisdale can request a Subdivision of the property, but will probably need to requests variances to meet setback requirements, and then ask for a rezone again.
Mr. Duhon recommends denying the Rezone re- quest. Mr. Adams seconded the mo- tion, which failed by the following 4-1-3-3 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Olander, Hebert, Duhon, and Adams
NAYS: Hidalgo
ABSTAIN: Hill, Rulf, and Rink
ABSENT: Mathews, Ina, and Davis
After discussion, Dr. Rink moved to return the request back to the Planning & Zoning Commission for reconsideration. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion, which carried. Mr. Hebert voted no.
Dr. Rink moved that the Public Hearing Report, December 18, 2024 – 5:45 p.m. be adopted. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion, which carried.
Mr. Adams stated that repairs to the Bayou Ramos Bridge will begin soon. Mr. Duhon stated that the fiber optic lines have to be moved before repairs begin.
Mr. Hebert re- ported on the open house for the 16th Judicial District Attorney that he and Mr. Olander attended.
Clerk of the Council, Lisa Morgan stated that no action can be taken on Item 13A, “FOR INTRODUCTION - An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, Chapter 5 Procedures, Division 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearing, Section 5.4.2 Re- zonings (Zoning Map Amendments). (Randy Tisdale),” due to the Council denying the rezone re- quest.
Lisa Morgan informed that Item 13B, “FOR INTRODUCTION – An Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2341 – DIVISION 1.3 Permitted; Limited; Specific; and Prohibited Uses, Table 1.3.4 Industrial, Agricultural, and Special Uses; DIVISION 1.4 Limited and Specific Use Standards Sec. 1.4.8 Solar Farms; and DIVISION 9.3 Use Definitions Sec. 9.3.8 of the St. Mary Parish Unified Development Code,” was withdrawn.
Mr. Olander moved that the following Ordinances be adopted. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried by the following 8-0-0-3 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Duhon, Adams, Rink, and Hidalgo
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Ina, Davis, and Mathews
ORDINANCE
NO. 2383
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, Chapter 5 Procedures, Division 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearing, Section 5.4.2 Re- zonings (Zoning Map Amendments).
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR RE- VIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
EXHIBIT “A”
Name: Huey Borel, Jr.
Address: 139 Martin Rd.
Franklin, LA
Parcel Id# 2534481064.00 Lot Por No 1 Lanclos Est Part Per Plat 126 295867 Situated in Sec 49 T15S R10E Acq. 127 295908.
PURPOSE: to rezone from Agricultural (AG) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District.
ORDINANCE
NO. 2384
An Ordinance in compliance with Ordinance No. 1973, Chapter 5 Procedures, Division 5.4 General Procedures for Public Hearing, Section 5.4.2 Rezonings (Zoning Map Amendments).
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR RE- VIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
EXHIBIT “A”
Name: Neil Thibodaux
Address: 9080 Hwy 90 W Frontage Rd.
Franklin, LA 70538
Parcel Id# 2474501018.00 3.56 Ac Por 5.00 AC Tract ABCDA Per Plat 103 292410 Situated in Sec 37 T15S R10E Acq 232 310395
PURPOSE: to rezone from Light Industrial (LI) Zoned District to Existing Neighborhood (EN2) Zoned District to continue to utilize the property as residential.
PENDING: Preliminary and Final Subdivision approval on December 11, 2024
Mr. Adams moved that the following Ordinance be adopted. Mr. Rulf seconded the motion, which carried by the following 8-0-0-3 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Olander, Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Duhon, Adams, Rink, and Hidalgo
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Davis, Mathews, and Ina
ORDINANCE
NO. 2385
An Ordinance amending and re-enacting Section I of Ordinance No. 2152, establishing training for board members.
THIS ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR RE- VIEW IN THE PARISH COUNCIL’S OFFICE
This Ordinance was returned to the Clerk of the Council on this the 13th day of January 2025 at the hour 3:51 p.m.
Mr. Adams moved that the following Resolution be adopted. The Council seconded the motion, which carried by the following 8-0-0-3 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Hill, Rulf, Hebert, Du- hon, Adams, Rink, Hidalgo, and Olan-der
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Davis, Mathews, and Ina
RESOLUTION OF RESPECT
WHEREAS, the Lord Almighty in His Infinite mercy and goodness has seen fit to remove from our midst Dr. Robert Paul Blereau, and
WHEREAS, Dr. Blereau was a man of boundless generosity, unwavering dedication, and an enormous heart for his family and his countless patients, and
WHEREAS, he was described as being a brilliant physician, boss, teacher, and en- courager, and
WHEREAS, Dr. Blereau was a loving and devoted doctor, husband, father, and grandfather, and
WHEREAS, the members of the St. Mary Parish Council wish to acknowledge publicly your sorrow and sympathy to the family of Dr. Robert Paul Blereau, and
WHEREAS, the St. Mary Parish Council hopes that his family will find comfort in the thought that your grief and sorrow are shared by their friends.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the St. Mary Parish Council through the unanimous adoption of this resolution that they solemnly deliberate with sincere condolences, sympathy, and understanding during this time of grief.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 8th day of January 2025.
APPROVED:
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO,
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
ATTEST:
S/G LISA C. MORGAN
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
Mr. Adams moved that the following Resolution be adopted. Dr. Rink seconded the motion, which carried by the following 8-0-0-3 Roll Call vote:
YEAS: Rulf, He- bert, Duhon, Adams, Rink, Hi- dalgo, Olander, and Hill
NAYS: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Davis, Mathews, and Ina
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the St. Mary Parish Council request the relocation of the Polling Place for Precinct No. 34, and
WHEREAS, this relocation would move the Polling Place for Precinct 34 from Hilton Rebardi, Sr. Fire Station to the Berwick Housing Authority office, and
WHEREAS, the Berwick Housing Authority office is a public facility located within the boundaries of Precinct 34.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby recommend the relocation of the Polling Place for Precinct 34.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLV-ED, that the St. Mary Parish Council does hereby request that the relocation change be submitted to the U. S. Department of Justice and the Secretary of the State of Louisiana.
ADOPTED AND APPROV-ED by the St. Mary Parish Council in regular session convened on this the 8th day of January 2025.
APPROVED:
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO,
CHAIRPERSON
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
ATTEST:
S/G LISA C. MORGAN
LISA C.
MORGAN,
CLERK
ST. MARY PARISH COUNCIL
OLD BUSINESS:
A. Referred from the December 18, 2024, Regular Meeting - Appointment to the following Boards and Commissions:
Fire Protection District No. 1 (Cypremort Point) – 2 Vacancies
Dawn Schouest – Present Member, Vickie A. Frederick - Present Member
Mr. Olander moved that Dawn Schouest and Vickie A. Frederick be reappointed to Fire Protection District No. 1. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
Mosquito Control District No. 1 (Cypremort Point) – 2 Vacancies
Kimberly Simon – Present Member, Michael S. Trosclair
Mr. Olander moved that Kimberly Simon be reappointed and Michael S. Trosclair be appointed to Mosquito Control District No. 1. Mr. Hill seconded the motion, which carried.
B. Referred from the December 18, 2024, Regular Meeting - Discussion and action pertaining to Ordinance No. 2354 relative to the Solar Farm Specific Use extension. (Adm.)
Mr. Hebert mov-ed to grant the Solar Farm Specific Use Extension. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried.
C. Referred from the December 18, 2024, Regular Meeting - Discussion and action relative to creation of a committee to reduce the number of Boards and Commissions. (Mrs. Hidalgo and Dr. Rink)
After discussion, the Council decided to not create a committee.
Mrs. Hidalgo re- quested that a Special Meeting be held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 5:00 p.m., 5th Floor Courthouse, Franklin.
NEW BUSINESS:
A. Discussion and action relative to appointment of Advisory Budget/Finance Committee Chair and Vice-Chair.
Mr. Hill moved that Rev. Craig Mathews be reappointed as Chairperson of the Advisory Budget/Fin-ance Committee and Mr. J Ina be reappointed as Vice-Chairperson of the Advisory Budget/Finance Committee. Mr. Olander seconded the motion, which carried.
B. Jeffery B. LaGrange has written to resign from the Wax Lake East Drainage District effective immediately.
Mr. LaGrange will be sent a letter thanking him for his service and the vacancy will be advertised.
C. Discussion and action relative to Recreation District No. 1 board members including possible
removal. (Mr. Duhon)
Mr. Duhon made a motion to remove all five (5) board members of Recreation District No.1. Mr. Adams seconded the motion, which carried.
There being no further business, Mr. Olander moved for adjournment. Mr. Hebert seconded the motion, which carried.
S/G
GWENDOLYN L. HIDALGO
Gwendolyn L. Hidalgo,
Chairperson
S/G LISA C.
MORGAN
Lisa C. Morgan,
Clerk
Adv. Feb. 5, 2025