Public Meetings - Baton Rouge, Louisiana

The Metropolitan Council held a zoning meeting on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, with a quorum present. The meeting addressed two rezoning cases, both approved unanimously in a brief session. Consent Calendar - Case 27-26 (3680 and 39/3696 Dalton Street): Rezoning from Single Family Residential A2 to Neighborhood Commercial (NC) on property located on the south side of Dalton Street, west of North 38th Street, Council District 7. Motion to approve carried 7-0. No public speakers on this item. - Second case (address not fully specified, on South Side of Florida Boulevard, east of Criden/Croydon Avenue): Rezoning motion to approve carried 7-0. Motion by Councilwoman Harris, second by Councilman Hurst. No opposition; motion carried. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were offered during the meeting. Discussion Items - No discussion items were recorded beyond the brief motions and votes. Key Outcomes - Case 27-26 was approved unanimously (7-0). - The second rezoning case was approved unanimously (7-0). - A motion to adjourn was made by Councilwoman Adams, seconded by Councilman Hudson, and the meeting adjourned.

The Metropolitan Council of East Baton Rouge Parish met on September 9, 2026, in the council chamber. The meeting opened with a special presentation honoring the Ablaze Youth Choir for their musical achievements and community impact. Following routine business, the council considered numerous consent agenda items, condemnations, contracts, and appointments. Special Presentation - Councilmember presented a certificate of celebration to the Ablaze Youth Choir, based at United Christian Faith Ministries, recognizing their exceptional talent and dedication to inspiring youth through gospel music. The choir, under Minister Mark Ellis Jr., has over 80 members aged 12–22 and recently won a Stellar Award. Minister Ellis expressed gratitude and highlighted the choir's mission to change the narrative for young people in Baton Rouge. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from August 26, 2026, August 31, 2026 (special meeting), and September 1, 2026 (Airport Commission) – motion carried. - Introductions of ordinances (items 2–15) including a cooperative endeavor agreement for the Capitol House, a franchise with Conterra Networks, a library millage rate of 9.5 mills for ten years, and several condemnations – all introduced without opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - No separate public comment period was held. Members of the public spoke on specific items via email: one email opposed item 82, another opposed item 83, and three emails supported Nick Lenata's appointment to the Downtown Development District. No oral testimony was heard from the floor. Discussion Items - Condemnations: The council initially struggled with numbering discrepancies between the printed agenda and the electronic agenda. After corrections, the council approved a schedule for 14 condemnation properties: proceed with items 54, 59, 66; two-week delay on item 65; 30-day delays on items 52 and 53; 60-day delay on item 61; and 90-day delays on items 55, 56, 57, 58, 60, 62, 63, 64. Motion carried. - Contracts and Resolutions: Numerous items were approved unanimously, including: - Item 69: Refund of $291,398 to Walgreen for erroneously remitted sales tax on non-taxable prescription drugs. - Item 70: Refund of $275,672.77 to Cardinal Health 108 LLC for sales tax on a resale exemption. - Item 71: Settlement of $25,450 for Monica Hollands claim. - Item 72: Settlement of $35,000 for Justin Thornton auto accident claim. - Item 73: Settlement of $21,200.65 for sewer backup claim. - Item 74: Rescinding a notice to attend and decision from 2025-2026. - Items 75–77: Airport-related approvals for taxiway F reconstruction, TSA agreement, and FAA grant application. - Item 78: Professional engineering services for Mickins Road capacity project ($1,189,458 addition). - Item 79: Professional services for Westridge Drive subsurface improvements ($236,087). - Item 80: Amendment to asphalt restoration contract ($50,000 addition). - Item 81: Amendment to building maintenance contract ($22,096.80 addition). - Item 82: Additional design services for fire department SARs building ($9,500). - Item 83: Supplemental agreement for Perkins Overpass project ($7,750). - Items 85–91: Community development contract amendments and extensions, including item 87 deleted. - Item 92: Contract with Urban Restoration Enhancement Corporation to build single-family homes on Hollywood Street for $550,000. - Item 93: Waiver of land use regulations to allow temporary housing after a state of emergency. - Appointments: - Item 94: Reappointed Justin Riddle to Brownsfield Fire Civil Service Board. - Item 95: Appointed Nick Lenata to Downtown Development District. - Items 96–100: Reappointed five members to Fire Protection District No. 1 advisory board. - Items 101–105: Deferred DDD appointments to September 23, 2026, pending mayor's recommendations. - Item 106: Deferred Capitol Area Human Services District appointment to October 14, 2026. - Change Orders and Final Acceptances: Approved for BRPD roof, library chiller, and Plank Road corridor projects. - Low Bid Acceptances: Approved for fire alarm replacement ($400,000), Floor Nell Drive sidewalk ($526,540), and Glasgow Avenue sidewalks ($950,089). - Emergency Items: Declared emergency and approved: - Item 115: Corrected Montesano Bayou drainage project amount to $2,399,760.80. - Item 116: Rescinded old resolution for blood products contract. - Item 117: New contract with The Blood Center for EMS blood products not to exceed $235,000. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items, introductions, and resolutions were approved unanimously. - Condemnation schedule was set with various delays as requested by district council members. - All appointments and reappointments were approved, except for DDD (deferred) and Capitol Area Human Services District (deferred). - Emergency items were passed to correct funding amounts and secure a blood products contract for EMS. - The meeting adjourned after the condemnation item was resolved.

This special meeting of the Metropolitan Council was called to order on Monday, August 31, 2026, to consider a single agenda item: authorizing Mayor Pro Tem Brandon Nota to sign Appendix B of the Model Cities Initiative Grant application, which designates official partners for the grant. The Council heard public comment and testimony from the Executive Director of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC), discussed the grant's scope and partner list, and voted unanimously to approve the item. Consent Calendar - (No consent calendar items were presented; only one substantive item was on the agenda.) Public Comments & Testimony - Councilwoman Coleman asked for clarification on why a special meeting was necessary. Chris Sonka, Executive Director of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, explained that his error caused the need: he did not realize until the previous week that Metro Council's signature was required on Appendix B, and a vote was needed rather than a mayoral signature alone. - Councilwoman Amaro asked which agencies would receive funding. Mr. Sonka listed the Baton Rouge Police Department, East Baton Rouge Sheriff's Office, District Attorney's Office, Greater Baton Rouge Economic Partnership (for internship/apprenticeship programs), 100 Black Men, all other municipalities within East Baton Rouge Parish (as named partners), and noted support from Louisiana State Police (not funded), Juvenile Court, and the Public Defender's Office. He stated the draft budget is approximately $125 million over three years, out of a total $300 million pool available for 2–4 cities nationwide. - Councilwoman Coleman asked whether other organizations could participate later. Mr. Sonka confirmed there is room to include grassroots organizations in later phases. - Councilman Harris sought confirmation that grassroots organizations would have an opportunity to participate; Mr. Sonka confirmed that intent. Discussion Items - Council members discussed the grant's purpose and structure. Mr. Sonka described the CJCC as the public safety council for East Baton Rouge Parish, bringing together justice leaders and community partners to coordinate services across policing, re-entry, juvenile pathways, behavioral health, and substance abuse. He emphasized that the grant aims to reduce Baton Rouge's violent crime rate, which he stated is consistently about three times the national average. - Several council members expressed support for the grant and its collaborative model, noting the importance of avoiding silos and redundancies. - Councilwoman Coleman moved to approve the item; Councilman Mock seconded. The motion passed without opposition. Key Outcomes - The Metropolitan Council voted unanimously (motion by Councilwoman Coleman, seconded by Councilman Mock, no opposition) to authorize Mayor Pro Tem Brandon Nota to sign Appendix B of the Model Cities Initiative Grant application. This approval enables the CJCC to submit the grant proposal to the U.S. Department of Justice. - The Council noted that the grant application is currently in Phase 1; if selected, the city will proceed to a formal proposal in Washington, D.C., and later refine the budget and partnership details.

The Metropolitan Council of East Baton Rouge Parish met on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at 4:00 PM in the council chamber. The meeting included recognition of outgoing staff and the American Legion, approval of consent items, and discussion and votes on numerous ordinances, resolutions, contracts, and property matters. Key themes included economic development districts, technology contracts, drainage projects, library landscaping, river center management, and a new healthcare clinic in Scotlandville. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes of the August 12, 2026, regular meeting and the August 19, 2026, zoning meeting were approved by motion (Amarosa/Hearst) without opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - Penny Main Landry spoke on multiple items, expressing opposition to economic development districts (EDDs) as dual taxation, criticizing tech company contracts (Tyler Technologies, Google) for poor delivery, opposing the $100,000 supplement to the library landscaping contract (item 92), questioning the value of consultants for the River Center, and urging transparency for EDD meetings. She also commented on the Cortana Corridor EDD rebate, noting that the original purpose was allegedly a community center, not new businesses. - Gerald Glass read a prepared statement about the dangers of backdoor agreements and expressed confidence in Mayor Edwards regarding the River Center (item 104). - Penny Main Landry also questioned the deletion of the DOTD maintenance agreement (item 98) and requested more detail on state road contracts. - Byron Como (American Legion National Executive Committee) thanked the council and presented certificates and coins to each council member for their support of veterans. - Elaine Branzera (Mayor’s Advisory Council on Veteran Affairs) presented a certificate of commendation from Mayor Edwards to Byron Como. - Mary Stein (Library Director) clarified that the landscaping contract increase was due to an administrative omission of special services in the original request. - Jill Kitter (Visit Baton Rouge) explained the timeline for the River Center management transition RFP. - Constable Terrica Williams spoke on items 106 and 107, thanking state legislators for constable funding. - Paul Sawyer (Amite River Basin Commission) and Fred Rayford (Transportation and Drainage Director) provided details on the Bayou Manchac restoration project (item 110). Discussion Items - Item 85 – Bayou Fountain Economic Development District: Council voted to delete the item after Penny Landry’s comments and one email opposition. Motion by Rocka, second by Hearst, carried. - Item 86 – Noise Ordinance Decibel Thresholds: Council voted to delete the item (Moak/Dunn), carried. - Item 90 – Tyler Technologies Inc. Agreement: $480,000 for maintenance of Munis and Executive Software platforms. Penny Landry criticized tech company performance. Council approved (Moak/Amarosa), carried. - Item 91 – Google Cloud Services Agreement: $220,000 for first six months (migration + cloud) and $224,000 per year for subsequent four years. Approved (Moak/Dunn), carried. - Item 92 – Library Landscaping Contract Amendment: Increase by $100,000 (total $175,659.56) for irrigation, mulching, and special landscaping. After discussion with Mary Stein and Councilman Moak’s questions, Council approved (Dunn/Coleman), carried. - Item 98 – DOTD Maintenance Agreement: Council voted to delete the item after discussion (Coleman/Amarosa), carried. Councilwoman Rocka noted the street list is available in the agenda attachment. - Item 102 – Cortana Corridor EDD Sales Tax Rebate: $2,290,573.11 rebate. Councilman Dunn Jr. explained the district’s three purposes (infrastructure, facade, community center) and reported $2,310,670.45 collected over six years. Council approved as amended (Dunn/Moak), carried. Amendment corrected resolution number to 55878. - Item 103 – XI Mobile Sales Tax Rebate: $285,115.24 to the Redevelopment Authority. Approved as amended (Hurst/Kenney), carried. Amendment corrected the period to December 31, 2025. - Item 104 – River Center MOU with Visit Baton Rouge: Councilwoman Coleman explained the interim management roadmap. Penny Landry requested transparent meetings. Approved (Coleman/Moak), carried. - Item 105 – River Center Professional Services with Total BS LLC: $250,000 for first year, $275,000 for second year. Penny Landry opposed due to non‑compete and consultant costs. Councilwoman Coleman made amendments to correct the funding source (River Center Capital Improvement Fund) and term (2026-2028). Approved (Coleman/Moak), carried. - Item 106 & 107 – Constable’s Office Cooperative Endeavor Agreements: $50,000 and $80,000 for first responder equipment and transport van. Constable Williams spoke. Approved contingent on budget supplement (Kenney/Dunn), carried. - Item 109 – Habitat for Humanity Development Agreement: $250,000 in HOME funds. Approved contingent on grants review (Coleman/Amarosa), carried. - Item 110 – Bayou Manchac Restoration Design: $1,749,968.28 for Arcadis U.S. Inc. design contract. Fred Rayford and Paul Sawyer highlighted 100% federal funding ($29.8 million) and historic regional cooperation. Approved (Dunn/Coleman), carried. - Item 112 – Retirement System Amendment: Amended definitions and employer contribution percentages. Approved (Rocka/Kenney), carried. - Item 115 – Montesanto Bayou Drainage Project: $2,380,868.52 from Louisiana Office of Community Development for retention pond and channel improvements benefiting 50-100 homes. Councilman Hearst discussed dumping issues. Approved (Kenney/Coleman), carried. - Items 117-121 – Move BR Supplemental Engineering Contracts: Totaling nearly $2 million for additional design services. Penny Landry criticized cost. Councilman Dunn noted an oversight in item 120 location. Approved (Dunn/Moak), carried. - Item 124 – Food Sales Threshold Suspension for Perkins Road Overpass: Suspended city requirement during Move BR construction; state requirement remains. Councilwoman Rocka encouraged businesses to contact State Rep. Dixon McMahon. Approved (Rocka/Moak), carried. - Item 142 – Scotlandville Community Center Lease to Baton Rouge General: Emergency item for lease to establish a primary care clinic with mental health, labs, and more. Councilman Kenney and hospital representative Eric Showalter spoke. Approved (Kenney/Moak), carried. Key Outcomes - Approvals: All consent calendar items, introductions, condemnations (with delays), and emergency items passed. Motion to delete items 85, 86, and 98 passed. - Amendments: Items 102, 103, 105, 106, 107, and 109 passed with amendments (typo corrections, funding source clarifications, contingent approvals). - Vote Tallies: All votes were unanimous voice votes; no roll calls were recorded. - Directives: Council directed staff to improve bid accuracy (library contract), ensure transparency for EDD meetings, and follow up on state road maintenance details. - Next Steps: Bayou Manchac design begins; River Center RFP to be issued within a week; Scotlandville clinic lease effective September 1, 2026; Move BR projects continue with supplemental engineering.

The Baton Rouge Fire Police Civil Service Board held its regular meeting on August 24, 2026, with all five members present: Joshua Newville, Bradley Riggs, Antwin Barra, Michael Lemming, and Todd Sterling. The board addressed personnel changes, approved minutes, handled personal action forms, called for examinations, received department notifications, and discussed office relocation and transition to an online personnel action system. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Resignation and Election of Vice Chair: Vice Chair Bradley Riggs announced his resignation effective immediately due to circumstances beyond his control. The board accepted the resignation and nominated Michael Lemming as Vice Chair. Lemming was elected unanimously. - Agenda Approval: The board voted to remove bullet point 4 from agenda item 7 (concerning Charles LeBrine and Ray Rose as substitute appointments) per the fire chief's request. The agenda as amended was approved unanimously. - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from July 27, 2026, were amended to correct the spelling of Todd Sterling's name and to note his presence in the roll call. The corrected minutes were approved. - Personal Action Forms: The board deferred action on the Baton Rouge Fire Department's personal action forms as the department has not yet transitioned to the new online system. The Baton Rouge Police Department's personal action forms were approved unanimously. - Call for Examinations: The board approved a motion to call for examinations for the position of Chief of Hazardous Materials in the Baton Rouge Fire Department. - Department Notifications: The board received informational notifications of three promotions in the Fire Department: Miles Wilkinson to Fire Inspector 1, Roger Jones to provisional Fire Inspector 2, and Joshua Harris to substitute Fire Inspector 1, all effective July 25, 2026. - Board Operations Accommodations: Board member Ricks reported that the Police Department is relocating Second District to a building on Third Street, and the Civil Service office will be co-located there with space for hearings. The expected timeline is end of 2026 or early 2027. - Transition to Online PAS System: Board members discussed the transition from paper to online personnel action forms. Ms. Harris requested a backup period of paper forms for at least six months. The board decided not to mandate this but to discuss the transition timeline with the departments and civil service, planning to invite representatives to the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Bradley Riggs resigned as Vice Chair; Michael Lemming was elected Vice Chair. - The agenda was approved after removing item 7, bullet point 4. - July 27, 2026 minutes were approved with a correction to Todd Sterling's name and attendance. - Fire Department personal action forms were passed without action; Police Department forms were approved. - Examination for Chief of Hazardous Materials was authorized. - Promotions in the Fire Department were noted. - Board will communicate with departments regarding the transition to an online PAS system, with a follow-up at the next meeting. - Meeting adjourned.

The Metropolitan Council held its only meeting of the week on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, to consider several zoning and land use items. The council approved routine items and deferred two contested proposals: a rezoning to allow a restaurant with alcohol sales on Greenwell Springs Road and a conditional use permit for a sand and gravel mining operation on Pettit Road. The meeting drew significant public testimony, especially regarding the restaurant proposal. Consent Calendar - Items 1 & 2 (PA4-26 and Case 23-26, Scenic Highway): Amended the comprehensive land use plan from neighborhood center to industrial and rezoned from heavy commercial to light industrial. Approved 9-0. The property owner, Bar Malenson with SLC, spoke in support, stating the change would allow better use along Highway 61. - Item 4 (Case 24-26, Peeler/Page Street): Rezoned from single-family residential to two-family residential. Approved 9-0. - Item 5 (Case 26-26, O'Hammond Highway): Rezoned from rural to neighborhood commercial. Approved 9-0. Item 3: Greenwell Springs Road Rezoning (CAB1 – Restaurant with Alcohol) This item sought to rezone 9798 Greenwell Springs Road from light commercial (C1) to commercial alcohol beverage restaurant (CAB1), allowing on-premise alcohol sales with a requirement that at least 51% of monthly sales come from food. The applicant, Mr. Benock (also referred to as Kabodi), stated he had invested $3 million of his retirement savings into the property, which was formerly a Taco Bell, and plans to open a sit-down restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner until 10 p.m. He argued the area lacks dining options and needs revitalization. Public Comments & Testimony: - Supporters: The applicant and another business owner expressed support, emphasizing the need for economic development. The applicant noted he had earlier support from the mayor and council. - Opponents: Multiple residents from the Park Forest neighborhood spoke against the rezoning. They cited concerns about increased crime, noise, traffic, and property value decline. They presented a petition with 276 signatures, photos of a nearby after-hours club that caused problems, and noted the proximity of a school (200 students). Some expressed support for a restaurant but opposed alcohol. Opponents also highlighted an adjacent outdoor storage facility that they consider an eyesore. Council Discussion: Planning Director Ryan clarified that CAB1 requires 51% food sales and is subject to ABC enforcement. Councilman Hearst (district 5) supported the applicant, argued the area needs economic development, and noted that 204 online public comments were received (138 in support, 66 opposed). He moved to defer the item for 60 days to allow a public meeting at the Goodwood Library to gather broader community input. Several council members expressed concerns about alcohol and neighborhood opposition, while Councilman Moak argued the item was being judged differently than similar restaurant projects in other districts and made a substitute motion to approve, which lacked a second. Outcome: Motion to defer for 60 days passed; Councilman Moak opposed. Item 6: Pettit Road Sand and Gravel Mining Operation This item (MCUP 1-26) proposed a sand and gravel mining operation at 7740 and 9400-9500 Pettit Road. The item had previously been deferred to August 17 and then recommended for approval by the Planning Commission. Councilman Kenny moved to defer again for 60 days for further due diligence based on inquiries from residents and the applicant. The applicant, Heath Morris of Dirt Co., spoke, explaining that the company had been operating for 12 years under the assumption they had correct permits, but shut down voluntarily in October when they discovered deficiencies. He stated the company wants to be a good neighbor and has obtained signatures from nearby property owners. Outcome: Motion to defer for 60 days passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Items 1, 2, 4, 5: Approved 9-0. - Item 3 (Greenwell Springs): Deferred 60 days to an October meeting; Councilman Hearst will host a public meeting to gather additional input. - Item 6 (Pettit Road): Deferred 60 days to the October meeting for further review.

The East Baton Rouge Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing on August 17, 2026, to consider a consent agenda, six regular agenda items, and receive communication from staff. Key actions included approval of most items, deferral of a rezoning request for further community outreach, and approval of a subdivision amid an ownership dispute. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the July 20, 2026 meeting. - Approved consent items: Item 5 (rezone 7122 Florida Blvd to CAB1), Item 7 (CUP for accessory dwelling at 2340 Tulip St), Item 8 (flylot minor subdivision at 14987 Port Hudson Pride Rd), and Item 9 (deferred by director to October 19). Items 10 and 11 were pulled from consent and heard in regular order. Public Comments & Testimony - Items 2 & 3 (17060 Florida Blvd rezoning): Multiple residents spoke in opposition. Chad Cooper (adjacent property owner) cited flooding risks (100% in AE flood zone), potential environmental issues from underground fuel tanks, and traffic safety. Geraldine Ruez (adjacent resident) raised concerns about drainage, traffic congestion on Old Hammond Highway, and potential for heavier commercial use. Amy Files (Riverview Drive resident) echoed flooding and traffic concerns, noting over 50 homes on Riverview Drive. Scott Schaefer expressed skepticism about the process and flooding history. The applicant, Stephen LeCour, stated the rezoning was to match adjacent commercial zoning. - Item 4 (Dalton St snowball stand): No public opposition. Applicant Durell Hamilton Sr. described plans for a snowball stand and youth mentorship through his organization One Voice, One Dream, One Team. - Item 6 (Pettit Road sand/gravel mining): A petition of support with 13 signatures was submitted. No opposition speakers. - Item 10 (Port Hudson Pride Rd subdivision): Kevin Bennett, claiming 25% ownership, opposed approval, stating he had not received proper notice and that his interest was not resolved. He noted an ongoing succession process. The applicant, Brian Johnson, provided an act of donation and asserted ownership. - Item 11 (Plank Road subdivision): No opposition; a neighbor who initially filed a speaker card clarified it was a mistake. Discussion Items - Items 2 & 3 – PA526 and companion case 2826 (17060 Florida Blvd): The applicant sought rezoning from Rural to Light Commercial (ALC2) to match adjacent uses. Staff recommended approval due to compatibility. After hearing public opposition, Vice Chairman Grout suggested deferral for 30 days to allow the applicant to consider excluding the portion fronting Old Hammond Highway. The commission unanimously voted to defer. - Item 4 – Case 2726 (3680/3696 Dalton St): The applicant requested rezoning from Single Family Residential (A2) to Neighborhood Commercial for a snowball stand and youth gathering space. Staff could not certify the rezoning due to potential change in zoning patterns, but no opposition was heard. Commissioners noted that approval would allow other commercial uses if the original plan fails. Motion to approve carried unanimously. - Item 6 – MCUP126 (Pettit Road sand/gravel mining): The applicant returned after a previous postponement, now with support from neighbors and the council member. Staff certified the request as meeting criteria. The commission approved unanimously. - Item 10 – SS326 (Albert & Mary Bennett property): The applicant sought a residential minor subdivision with three lots. An ownership dispute arose between the applicant and Kevin Bennett, who claimed a 25% interest. Director Holcomb explained the commission does not adjudicate ownership and that the same application was approved in 2018. Commissioner Addison moved to approve, arguing the application met UDC criteria and ownership disputes are civil matters. The motion carried on a roll call vote after two objections were withdrawn. - Item 11 – SS426 (June Hunt Kennedy property): The applicant proposed a six-lot subdivision with a private street. No opposition. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Deferral: Items 2 & 3 (17060 Florida Blvd rezoning) deferred for 30 days to allow the applicant to revise the proposal and consult with the council member. - Approvals: Item 4 (Dalton St rezoning) approved; Item 6 (Pettit Road mining CUP) approved; Item 10 (Bennett subdivision) approved (motion by Addison, seconded by Washington, passed on roll call); Item 11 (Kennedy subdivision) approved. - Next Steps: The item 4 rezoning requires council approval on September 16, 2026. Item 6 is scheduled for council review on August 19, 2026. Upcoming text amendments on commercial zoning restructuring and data center siting were announced. Next planning commission meeting is September 21, 2026.

The Metropolitan Council of East Baton Rouge Parish met on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at the council chamber. The meeting opened with recognitions, followed by a lengthy consent agenda, public hearings, and debate on multiple contract amendments, a new police support specialist program, a public safety plan, and a report on St. George withdrawal liability. Numerous items passed on unanimous or voice votes; several drew public opposition. Recognitions and Presentations - Purple Heart Month: On behalf of Mayor President Sid Edwards (who was absent), Chasen Grant read a proclamation recognizing Purple Heart Day (August 7). Purple Heart recipients were honored, including one identified as a triple recipient. Representative Kelly Hennessy Dickerson presented tokens on behalf of Governor Jeff Landry and legislative leaders. - 808 Day: Councilman Daryl Hearst presented a certificate to Michael A.V. Mitchell, founder of Assignment 808, for community violence prevention work. Certificates were also given to Detroit Montez Draper, Alex Godson Richburg, and Box the Hungry Genius. Assignment 808 donated 108 pairs of shoes to youth and families. - LMA President: Councilman Anthony Kenny recognized Mayor Darnell Waits of Baker, Louisiana, recently elected president of the Louisiana Municipal Association. - Coach Carlos Sample: Councilman Kenny honored retiring Scotlandville High School head basketball coach Carlos Sample, whose record included 482 wins, 83 losses, eight state championships, and six runner-up finishes. Sample has been hired as basketball coach at Baton Rouge Community College. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved minutes of the July 22, 2026 council and zoning meetings and the August 4, 2026 Airport Commission meeting. - Introductions (Items 2–23): Approved by a single motion, including amendments to the Raising Cane's River Center naming agreement, sales tax rebates for the Cortana project and ExxonMobil construction, cooperative Endeavor agreements for constable first responder funding, retirement system contribution definitions, suspension of the fast-food sales threshold during Move BR construction, and numerous condemnation and adjudicated property introductions. - Department of Public Works recommendations (Items 57–75): Proceeded with most items; placed 30-day holds on items 58, 63, and 74; 90-day holds on items 65, 67, 70, 71, and 75; and deleted item 69. Approved on a voice vote. - Routine resolutions and contracts: Items 76–78, 80–84, 86, 88–96, 100, 102–103, 107, 113–118, 120–122, 123–137, and 139–143 were approved, mostly unanimously, including bond and special election resolutions, settlement approvals, appointments, change orders, final acceptances, low bids, and emergency items. Public Comments & Testimony - Penny May Landry (recurring speaker) opposed numerous contract amendments and extensions, arguing they should go out for RFP, criticizing supplemental agreements (items 97, 98, 99, 101, 105, 106), the 10-year police millage renewal (item 79), LAZ parking extension (item 104), library janitorial cost (item 109), legal service amendments (items 110–112), and the Delmont Economic Development District (item 119). She also opposed additional funding for Government Street beautification, stating the plants were dead and the area looked bad. - Reverend Anderson and OlaGaye opposed the police support specialist program (item 108), citing concerns about retired officers with disciplinary histories and the 20-year experience requirement. They urged the council to reject the proposal. - Champagne Rountree raised concerns about sidewalk safety on Sherwood Forest, claiming newly constructed sidewalks are not ADA-compliant and are unsafe for wheelchair users. She said she would not approve new sidewalks until existing ones are fixed. She also praised the Government Street demonstration project. - Matt Adler (Clean Pelican) and Dennis Vedrine (Goodwood Property Owners) presented a Government Street beautification demonstration project, highlighting 45 volunteers and about 1,000 plants installed, and asked the council to consider the coalition for future green space efforts. - Mary Stein (Assistant Library Director) defended the library janitorial contract, explaining it covers the main library, a LEED-certified building open 73 hours a week, and that the contract was competitively procured. Discussion Items - Item 79 – Police Millage Renewal: Public speaker Penny May Landry opposed the 10-year renewal of 0.87 mills for a three-platoon police station, and asked for a five-year term. The council nonetheless approved the resolution. - Items 84–88 – Community Development Contract Extensions: Several one-time extensions for opioid settlement-funded services were approved. Landry opposed them, asking for new RFPs. Councilwoman Amarosa clarified the extensions add no new money but allow entities to complete existing work. Item 85 (Collected Cognitive Behavioral Center) was deleted on a council motion. - Items 97–99 – Move BR Supplemental Agreements: Landry opposed multiple supplemental engineering agreements. Transportation Director Fred Raiford explained that supplements arise from design changes, environmental requirements, and utility issues, and that engineers are selected through a qualifications-based process. Councilman Hearst explained the qualitative selection process. Item 99 (Jones Creek extension) passed after extended discussion. - Item 101 – Waste Pro Debris Hauling: Landry opposed the $85,000 increase. Councilwoman Adams stated the amendment adds budgeted funds at the same $398-per-haul price and that the contract was competitively bid. Passed. - Item 104 – LAZ Parking Extension: Landry and council members criticized LAZ's performance. Councilman Dunn Jr. made a substitute motion to approve only a six-month extension to allow a new River Center manager to shape a future RFP. The substitute motion carried, superseding the one-year extension. - Item 105 – Coral Drive Sidewalk Design: Landry and Rountree opposed additional design spending, citing poor road conditions and unsafe sidewalks. Raiford said the work is finalizing plans for a broader sidewalk project and acknowledged a commitment to inspect Sherwood Forest sidewalks with Rountree. The item passed. - Item 108 – Police Support Specialist Program: After public opposition, Police Chief detailed the program: retired BRPD officers with 20+ years and clean disciplinary records can be hired part-time as police support specialists, performing civilian duties (grant writing, administrative work, cold-case review, minor accident reports) with no arrest powers and no benefits. The council approved it. - Item 109 – Library Janitorial Contract: Landry questioned the monthly cost (roughly $76,000 per month for the main library). Library staff explained the contract is a multi-year total of $916,545.51, covers a large LEED-certified building, and includes specialty cleaning. Councilman Hudson raised concerns about LEED certification costs. Approved. - Items 110–112 – Legal Service Amendments: Landry opposed spending increases. Councilman Dunn Jr. noted that one case (Scott Wilson) had a $40,000 settlement offer but legal fees exceeded $150,000. The council entered executive session for items 110–112 to discuss litigation strategy; items passed afterward, with Dunn voting no on item 111. - Item 119 – Delmont Economic Development District: Landry opposed a new EDD, saying existing districts have not created jobs. Councilman Dunn Jr. defended the Cortana Corridor district's infrastructure and community center goals. The ordinance passed with Councilman Hudson the sole recorded no vote. - Item 136 – Office of Violence Prevention Plan: Staff presented a group violence intervention (GVI) model, citing 48 homicides in the first half of 2026, 83 juvenile homicides over six years, and over 30% of homicides being group-related. Councilman Hearst criticized the model as a 'picture dust' approach, calling for more holistic neighborhood investment. Councilman Hudson asked about funding; staff said previous $445,000 ended June 30, 2026. - Item 138 – CEPERS St. George Withdrawal: Interim administrator Aisha Murza reported that revenue data was delivered to St. George on August 10, starting a 30-day review. She estimated the withdrawal liability at roughly $65 million (8.71% of $752 million UAL). Councilman Moak questioned enforceability of the ordinance on a sovereign municipality and suggested the intergovernmental agreement's dispute resolution may be needed. Key Outcomes - Approved all consent items, with modifications to DPW recommendations (deletion of item 69; 30- and 90-day holds on specified items). - Approved the 10-year police millage renewal (item 79). - Deleted item 85 (Collected Cognitive Behavioral Center contract extension). - Approved the LAZ parking extension for six months instead of one year (item 104). - Approved the police support specialist program (item 108). - Approved the Delmont Economic Development District (item 119) over Councilman Hudson's opposition. - Reconsidered and deleted item 126 after a procedural error; it will be redone. - Approved all change orders, final acceptances, low bids, and emergency items. - Received the Public Safety Plan and CEPERS St. George withdrawal report; no formal action taken on either report.

The Baton Rouge Metropolitan Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at City Hall. The meeting began with two recognition presentations, followed by the regular council agenda which included consent items, public comments, discussion on multiple contracts and ordinances, and several emergency items. Key debates centered on federal Ryan White HIV/AIDS funding, a professional services agreement for interstate mowing, and an emergency resolution authorizing an antitrust lawsuit on contingency. Presentations & Recognitions - Councilwoman Laurie Adams recognized Eagle Scout Jacob Smith for his project installing solar lighting and beautifying a median in the Old Goodwood neighborhood. Smith and GPOA President Ronnie Harris spoke, highlighting community involvement and small-dollar fundraising. - Councilman Aaron Moak recognized Kathy Kelly, retiring after 31 years as legislative assistant for District 4. Former Councilman Scott Wilson joined the recognition. Kelly was praised for her institutional knowledge and dedication. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the June 24, 2026 council meeting and July 7, 2026 Airport Commission meeting were approved. - Introductions of resolutions and ordinances included: revenue anticipation notes for St. George Fire District No. 2; special elections for tax renewals in Pride Fire District No. 8 (15 mills) and Cheneyville Fire District No. 7 (10 mills); a .87 mil police three-platoon tax renewal for the City of Baton Rouge; a 10-year $31.17 million lease agreement with Axon Enterprises for police technology; professional services for the public safety complex; a .6 mil fire tax for St. George Fire District No. 2; canvassing returns for recent special elections; a police support specialist program; and creation of the Delmont Economic Development District. All were introduced and referred to the August 12 public hearing. - Condemnations: Council adopted recommendations from DPW and council members with modifications (30-, 60-, and 90-day deferrals) for 25 adjudicated property items. One public speaker requested and received 30 days on item 85. Item 86 was reconsidered and granted 90 days after a constituent meeting with Councilman Hearst. - Routine approvals were granted for items including: emergency medical services cooperative agreements for Lucas CPR devices with multiple fire districts (items 117–124); Motorola radio lease ($9.2M for 10 years, item 116); library janitorial contract renewal (item 115, deleted as already emergency-approved); Ryan White subrecipient contracts (items 99–113, see discussion); and various change orders and bid acceptances. Public Comments & Testimony - LaShawn DeLapan (item 85) requested more time on a condemnation; granted 30 days. - Penny Landry spoke multiple times: against the volume of Ryan White HIV/AIDS contracts (items 99–113), questioning the need and asking about local matches; opposed expanding board service limits from 2 to 4 (item 114), urging better public notice of vacancies; criticized a supplemental engineering contract for Groom Road (item 128), warning against low-ball bidding; opposed a $137,000 supplemental for airport governance review (item 162); asked for clarity on the antitrust suit (item 167), including that parish attorney review be done before voting; and requested a deferral on the school property acknowledgment (item 168) to identify the leasing entity. - Jennifer Richardson (Keep Tigertown Beautiful) spoke in support of item 166 (United BR), highlighting work by sober-living individuals cleaning streets and drainage, funded by opioid settlement dollars. She emphasized the program provides job skills and reduces homelessness. - Drew Walker (item 149) expressed interest in serving on the Complete Streets Citizens Advisory Committee, citing his experience with Bike Baton Rouge and disability advocacy. - Dr. Jack Londonville (public comment on Ryan White contracts) emphasized that Baton Rouge has high HIV/AIDS rates and that federal funding is needed for life-saving medications and services. Discussion Items - Ryan White HIV/AIDS Contracts (items 99–113): Councilman Moak defended the contracts, explaining they are 100% federally funded with no local match, and that the City-Parish acts as a facilitator. He noted that without these medications, HIV/AIDS rates would spike. Councilwoman Harris questioned the six-month delay in executing contracts; Dr. Zanders and Lisa from the Parish Attorney’s office cited language issues required by state funders. Councilman Kenny added that rejecting federal dollars would hurt local service providers and the economy. Councilman Moak made a motion to approve, seconded by Councilman Hudson. The motion carried. (Councilman Kenny recused from items 104, 111, and 112.) - Board Service Limit Expansion (item 114): Councilwoman Coleman proposed amending Resolution 48064 to allow a person to serve on up to four boards instead of two. Councilman Moak raised concern about broadening for all citizens vs. only council members. After discussion, Councilman Hudson supported the item as written, noting council members may need to serve on multiple boards for district assets. Councilman Dunn Jr. favored a consistent standard. The item passed as introduced. - Interstate Mowing Contract (item A, administrative emergency): The administration sought approval for a $615,752 contract with HO Investments for mowing and litter pickup on interstates, citing the need for timely maintenance. Councilman Dunn Jr. questioned the process, noting the item was not publicly bid but solicited quotes from 140 vendors (only 2 responded). After debate, he moved to approve with an amendment that no work commence until a cooperative endeavor agreement (CEA) with DOTD is executed. Councilwoman Rocka expressed concern about spending city dollars on state property without a CEA. Parish Attorney McClendon initially stated funding exists, but later clarified that work on non-city land requires a CEA. The amendment passed; the item then carried. - United BR/Pivot Workforce Contract (item 166): Councilwoman Coleman and others praised the program using opioid settlement funds to employ sober-living individuals for beautification. Speakers noted the work improves drainage and gives participants job skills. The item passed unanimously (Councilwoman Rocka abstained due to a distant family relation). - Antitrust Lawsuit Authorization (item 167): The council considered an emergency resolution authorizing a contingency-fee contract with Fishman Haygood LLP (removing another firm) to explore an antitrust suit. Former Governor John Bel Edwards, a partner at the firm, explained that the suit is not a class action and involves a prescription deadline. Councilwoman Adams clarified that no taxpayer funds would be used. The item passed as amended. - Historical School Property (item 168): The council acknowledged historic use of a property at 802 Mayflower Street as a school, clearing title issues to allow the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board to lease it to Harvest Commons School, a type one charter. Councilman Dunn Jr. and others supported the clean-up of a nearly century-old conveyance. The item passed. Key Outcomes - Approved: Minutes, consent calendar, condemnations as amended, all routine items (116, 117–124, 125–128, 129, etc.). - Passed: Ryan White contracts (items 99–113); board service limit expansion (item 114); interstate mowing contract with CEA amendment (item A); United BR contract (item 166); antitrust lawsuit authorization with amendments (item 167); historical school acknowledgment (item 168). - Reconsideration: Item 86 (condemnation) was reconsidered and granted 90-day deferral. - Appointments: Jeff Pollard to Board of Appeal; Beverly Clayburn to Housing Authority; Drew Walker and Jamie Blink to Complete Streets Citizens Advisory Committee. - Next Scheduled Meeting: August 12, 2026, with public hearings on introduced items. Note: The meeting included two separate segments—a presentation session followed by the regular council meeting. All votes were recorded as unanimous unless otherwise noted.