Public Meetings - Lake Charles, Louisiana

The Lake Charles City Council convened to review bids, approve ordinances for infrastructure and demolitions, and discuss public safety matters. A significant public hearing was removed from the agenda due to a resubmission by the requestor to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Council members engaged in discussions regarding traffic studies, animal control capabilities, and existing inter-parish contracts. The meeting concluded with public testimony concerning neighborhood traffic safety and walkability improvements. Consent Calendar - Demolition Ordinances: Ordered demolition for multiple structures at 1517 Fournette St, 1517 Martha St, 2310 North Old Highway 171, 2205 Klein St, 1613 8th St, 1501 Fourth Ave, 1205 14th St, 1621 2nd Ave, 806 Azalea Dr, 518 Labottle St, 210 North Booker St, 1013 Alamo St, 2103 Opaloosa St, 1613 Shaw St, and 1029 Alamo St (owners listed include entities and tax sale properties). - Infrastructure Bids (CP): Accepted lowest responsible bids for Project CP 3237 (WWTP A Basin A0606 Sewer Rehabilitation) and Project CP 3414 (Southwest WTP back up power improvements). - Additional Bids & Agreements: - Project CP 9778 (LCEC ADA railing and seating). - Professional services with Allied Universal for security coverage at City Hall and the Transit Division Building. - Amendment to Ward 3 Marshal's office budget for a Deputy Marshal position. - Professional services agreement with NICE System for digital evidence storage. - Fire hydrant flow testing and maintenance agreement with Utiliser. - Resolutions & Plan Amendments: - Reappointed Elwyn Brent Washington and Brent Cating to the Calcasieu Parish Public Library Board of Trustees (2026–2031). - Accepted CP 3346 (North Beach Asphalt Connector Boardwalk) and CP 3512 (Gosport Park New Pool) as substantially complete. - Authorized advertising for statements of qualifications for an indoor recreation facility and sale bids for Millennium Park Fall Surface Replacement. - Approved amendment to the 2019 action plan to reprogram unspent CDBG-CV funds to Gosport Park Improvement Number 2. - Zoning: Ordinance amending Section 4-205-5AI regarding variance limitations. Public Comments & Testimony - Henry Mancuso (858 Kirby Street): Representing a group of neighbors supporting Tammy Edwards' previous efforts. - Position: Expressed gratitude for the city's rapid deployment of traffic study equipment. - Recommendation: Urge the council to incorporate findings and remarks from Mr. Jeff Speck's previous visit (June/July) into the current traffic study to account for the complex three-lane configuration (two lanes westbound, two lanes eastbound) between Louisiana Avenue and Kirkman. - Context: Noted difficulty in installing stop signs due to the lane arrangement; suggested speed bumps as an alternative; highlighted a demographic shift toward young families in the neighborhood. Discussion Items - Lake Charles Planning and Zoning Commission Hearing: - Action: The council voted to remove the public hearing regarding a major conditional use permit to establish a runway matting manufacturing facility (2925 Industrial Avenue) from the agenda. - Reasoning: Project sponsor Mr. Burger indicated a formal letter had been received pulling the request; the applicant resubmitted the request for a hearing on January 12, 2025. - Council Position: Council members agreed it was permissible to remove the item now to avoid duplication with the upcoming Planning Commission schedule. - Animal Control Capabilities: - Council Member Concerns (Mr. Marks/Mr. Young): Expressed frustration regarding incidents involving a rabid squirrel, an active bobcat, and rampant cats (O Park). Noted that residents are told animal control cannot handle wild animals like bobcats or alligators. - Staff Response: Clarified that normal city animal control does not deal with specialized wildlife; the city must hire external trappers or state officials for such cases. A trapper is currently being deployed for the bobcat. - Deliberation: Council decided to invite the animal control provider to a future meeting (likely next Wednesday's final action meeting or a public presentation) to explain service limitations and steps required for intervention. - Council Member Position: Mr. Bilbo expressed a desire to reduce the bureaucratic steps required for residents to report animals (e.g., requiring evidence of an attack before action is taken), arguing that the threshold for intercession should be lower. - Council Member Position: Mr. Young requested that animal control representatives come to the public meeting to be held accountable for service levels, particularly regarding feral cats. - Inter-Parish Contracts: - Council Member Proposal (Mr. Bilbo): Proposed a review of all existing contracts with the Parish exceeding 10 years to ensure they remain favorable to the city given changes over the last 50 years. - Goal: To renegotiate terms that may be outdated, ensuring the city is not disadvantaged when collaborating with the Parish on streets or other joint efforts. - Project Bids & Updates: - West Salter Street: Council Member Young requested an update on the expansion timeline and bid dates. - School Zone: Council Member Me asked for an update on safety improvements approved for the daycare area on West LaGrange; staff promised an update the following day. - Investigative Building: Council Member Young expressed satisfaction with the exterior of the new building at Enterprise and Third; requested a walkthrough once operational. - Inspector Hiring: Confirmations that two new inspectors (one part-time, one full-time) and a transfer from Public Works have been hired, bringing the total to five staff members (one currently sick). Council agreed to meet with the new staff once fully integrated. Key Outcomes - Agenda Removal: The public hearing for the runway matting facility at 2925 Industrial Avenue has been officially removed from this agenda; the matter is rescheduled for the Planning and Zoning Commission on January 12, 2025. - Directives: - Administration to arrange a public presentation or meeting with the animal control provider to address service capabilities and public education regarding wild animals. - Legal and administrative departments to initiate a review of inter-parish contracts older than 10 years. - Public Works/Planning staff to provide an update on the West Salter Street expansion and West LaGrange school zone improvements. - Approvals: Multiple ordinances regarding demolition, infrastructure projects, security services, and zoning amendments were accepted for final action.

The Lake Charles City Council convened to address public safety infrastructure, zoning amendments for business districts, demolition of severe property damage, and multiple public works procurement bids. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to debating the necessity and scope of private security contracts for City Hall and the transit center, resulting in a motion to restrict the contract scope and defer final approval pending further clarification. The meeting also included updates on short-term rental zoning and appointments to the Convention Visitors Bureau board. Consent Calendar - Appointed a chairman to review bids for Project CP 3414 (Southwest Water Treatment Plant Backup Power Improvements). - Appointed a chairman to review bids for Project CP 9778 (L C E C A D railing and seating) and amend the budget as necessary. - Accepted the lowest responsible bid for a new rear-load refuse truck from Martin Truck ($256,624). - Accepted the lowest responsible bid for an eight-yard dump truck from Martin Truck ($121,240), following an amendment to specify the vehicle type. - Accepted the only bid received for a four-wheel sweeper from Utility Truck and Equipment Company ($378,000). - Accepted bids for traffic control products under a 12-month contract (renewable for 12 months) from Vulcan Incorporated, Trantex Transportation, and Newman Signs. - Accepted the settlement of the claim Hames vs. Union Carbide Corporation et al. (Docket 2024-4641). - Appointed a member to the Southwest Zena Convention Visitor's Bureau Board (see Public Comments section). - Accepted Project CP 2881 (10 Pin Alley Phase Two) as substantially complete and authorized the 45-day lien period. - Authorized advertising for sealed bids for Project DR010 (New Fire Training Facility). - Authorized advertising for sealed bids for Project LC R401 (Lock Park Inclusive Playground). Public Comments & Testimony - Earl Joseph Banks Jr. testified regarding the demolition of a structure at 1901 7th Street, describing the property as having a collapsed roof, collapsed walls, and severe interior, window, and weather damage. He offered photographic evidence and proof of service to the Department of Security. Position: Expressed full support for the demolition ordinance. - James Anderson identified the structure at 1901 7th Street as his mother's home, damaged during a storm. He stated he could not afford to fix it and requested the city demolish it and place it on a payment plan. Position: Expressed support for demolition and asked for a repayment arrangement. - Cullen Washington appeared to contest the Nelly Lutcher District Overlay Standards regarding the installation of horizontal versus vertical Hardi board on his radio station facade. He argued the material is the same regardless of orientation and inquired about variances, noting he installed it vertically based on prior interactions. Position: Expressed strong opposition to the strict horizontal design requirement and requested a variance, arguing the rule change is unfair because it appeared on a previous docket item. - Pastor Lewis Gillary spoke in support of Hardi Plank's durability against hurricanes but acknowledged the city's need for specific design standards (horizontal with a six-inch drop) for the overlay district. Position: Expressed support for the addition of Hardi Plank materials but accepted the requirement for horizontal installation to maintain aesthetic standards. - Miles Brown expressed concern regarding a proposed contract with Allied Universal for security services. He highlighted the limitations of current guards, the potential for liability if rights are violated, and the financial risks to the city. Position: Expressed conditional support for improved security but strong concern regarding the scope of enforcement, liability, and the need for strict accountability and training before contract approval. Discussion Items - Demolition of 1901 7th Street: The Council reviewed evidence of severe structural damage and voted to approve the demolition ordinance. All members noted the agreement that the property is a hazard. - Nelly Lutcher District Zoning Amendment: Council members discussed amending zoning standards to include stucco and Hardi board (Hardy board) on front facades. Cullen Washington raised objections regarding the mandatory horizontal orientation and six-inch reveal. Councilman Fundale and Mayor Bigueras clarified the amendment was added specifically to address concerns like Washington's, but maintained that once a standard is established, all buildings must comply. A suggestion was made to apply stucco paint to the existing vertical Hardi board to meet the aesthetic criteria, though the city inspector noted the ordinance currently mandates horizontal placement for Hardi board specifically. - Allied Universal Security Contract: - Mayor Bigueras explained the current gap in security coverage for the Finance, HR, and Mayor's offices, citing assault risks at the Transit Center and the high cost ($60/hour) and unavailability of reserve marshals, as well as the understaffed nature of the Lake Charles Police Department (23 officers short). - Councilman Harvey expressed a preference for utilizing in-house Lake Charles Police Department personnel rather than hiring an external middleman, arguing the city should assign qualified internal staff despite recruitment shortages. - Councilman Visnos and others raised concerns about the definition of "post-certified" guards, rules of engagement, liability, and the potential for these guards to be tested by activists. They requested clarification on training and insurance coverage. - Councilman Young proposed an amendment to omit the "downtown lakefront" from the contract scope to reduce costs and focus strictly on the high-risk areas of City Hall and the Transit Center. - Councilman Billboard and others supported the amendment and a motion to defer final approval for two weeks to allow for questions regarding the security company's qualifications and insurance. Key Outcomes - Demolition Ordinance (1901 7th St): Passed 7-0. The Council voted to demolish the structure and authorize the agreement for the demolition. - Nelly Lutcher Zoning Amendment: Passed 7-0. The Council approved the amendment to add stucco and Hardi board (with a specific six-inch reveal on horizontal bases) to the allowable facade materials in the district. - Public Works Bids: - Reject and rebid for the three-wheel sweeper (no bids received). - Accepted bids for: Rear-load refuse truck, eight-yard dump truck, and four-wheel sweeper. - Accepted multi-category bid for traffic control products. - Security Contract (Allied Universal): - Amendment Passed 6-1: The contract was amended to provide security only for City Hall and the Transit Center, omitting the downtown/lakefront areas. - Deferral Motion Passed 7-0: Final approval of the contract was deferred for two weeks to allow the Council to review training protocols and insurance details for the "post-certified" guards. - Short-Term Rental Ordinance: Passed 7-0. Short-term rentals are removed from permitted use in residential/neighborhood districts and must now undergo a conditional use process. - Convention Bureau Appointment: Tiffany Celestine was selected to fill the expiring term on the Southwest Zena Convention Visitors Bureau Board (4 votes for Celestine; no votes for Savary or Xavier in the final tally due to procedural clarification). - Public Hearing Scheduling: A date was set for a public hearing regarding the major conditional use permit for the runway manufacturing facility at 2925 Industrial Avenue. - Budget Amendment: The meeting included a budget amendment for the Allied Universal professional services agreement, subject to the two-week deferral.

The City Council of Lake Charles convened for a regular meeting to address public health awareness, approve routine ordinances, discuss significant infrastructure funding issues, and respond to constituent concerns regarding safety, annexation, and neighborhood conditions. The meeting featured a presentation on lung cancer screening rates, followed by executive discussions on the demolition of the Place Vendome property and the status of flood control projects. Consent Calendar - Appointed chairman to review bids for Sewer Rehabilitation (CP 3237), Southwest WTP Backup Power (CP 3414), and LCEC ADA railing/seating (CP 9778). - Authorized the demolition of structures at 1901 7th Street and amended the budget as necessary. - Amended zoning ordinance standards for the Nelly Lecture District Overlay. - Accepted lowest responsible bids to purchase a new rear-load refuse truck, three-wheel sweeper, six-yard dump truck, and four-wheel sweeper for the Public Works Department. - Authorized a 12-month contract (renewable for 12 months) for traffic control products. - Authorized a professional services agreement with Allied Universal for security coverage at City Hall, the Transit Division Building, and the Downtown Lakefront. - Approved the settlement of the claim SMS versus Union Carbide Corporation et al. (Docket 2024-4641) and authorized an executive session to discuss the matter. - Amended Section 12-53 regarding permanent uses. - Appointed a member to the Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau Board. - Accepted project CP 2881 (10 Pen Alley, Phase 2) as substantially complete. - Set a public hearing for a major conditional use permit request regarding a runway matting manufacturing facility at 2925 Industrial Avenue. - Authorized advertising for sealed bids for a new fire training facility (DR010) and Lock Park Inclusive Playground (LCR 401). - Introduced ordinances to amend variances limitations, accept bids for CP 9778, accept bids for Murphil Drive drainage (CP 3224), and renew the joint animal control agreement with the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury. Public Comments & Testimony - Selena Monsagani (University of Holy Cross student, American Lung Cancer Screening Initiative): Expressed full support for increasing lung cancer awareness and screening rates in Lake Charles. She stated that only 2% of high-risk individuals in Louisiana are currently screened, significantly lower than the national average, and urged the council to partner in creating public service announcements. - Mr. Bilbo: Inquired about the flooding on Sixth Avenue near the Capstone at the Oaks apartment complex, expressing concern that a drainage project was delayed. - Mr. Bill: Asked about the annexation process for properties on Carbino Road and areas southeast of Lake Charles, specifically seeking clarity on the steps required to initiate annexation for areas like the Tank Farm and Watercrest II. - Councilman Funds: Thanked the Mayor and Recreation Department for the new Team Center at Macmillan Park and inquired about the timing of hot dog events. - Councilman Vizano: Requested an official update on the erosion and collapsing ditch on West MacNeese and Weaver Road, expressing concern that the issue was worsening and affecting school principals' concerns. - Councilman Harvey (District A): Requested a SWOT analysis of the Downtown Development Authority's (DDA) performance over the last three years. He also expressed strong concern about the safety of children at the Gosport pool regarding the low height of the fence, prioritizing it as a safety hazard over budget constraints. He requested a traffic study at Reed and Kirby streets following a tragic incident where residents lost two pets. He urged for a community meeting update on ditch projects in District A and requested clarification on the Enterprise Extension timeline and the dumping of debris along Railroad Avenue. - Mr. Marks: Questioned the criteria for DDA board appointments, noting a lack of District A residents on the board. He advocated for expanding the definition of "downtown" to include the I-10 corridor and Net Luchiculture. He requested data on sales tax generation by district. - Mr. Marks: Highlighted the inability to effectively manage a tenant running a chop shop at Mr. Lloyd's property, noting the property owner's failure to pay fines and the ongoing frustration of neighbors. - Carrie Withers: Expressed concern that a zoning permit appeal notification sign has not yet been placed in her neighborhood as legally required. - Darrell Robinson: Reported missing streetlights on Monroe Street (south side) and requested immediate repair. - Kevin Franklin: Expressed strong concern regarding increased criminal activity, panhandling, and vandalism (breaking into houses) by individuals in the area around Monroe, Roosevelt, and Fifth Avenue, citing a recent shooting and the presence of homeless individuals loitering near the Walmart gas station. - Louella Franklin: Echoed Kevin Franklin's concerns, stating that residents are being targeted by thieves during the day while working out. - Tammy Palmer Edwards: Advocated strongly for a traffic study and a stop sign at the intersection of Reed and Kirby streets after her dog was killed by a speeding car; she expressed support for the initiative to improve safety for children and pets in the downtown area. Discussion Items - Ditch and Drainage Funding: Councilman Bilbo questioned the delay of the drainage project at Sixth Avenue/Capstone. Mr. Herman reported that state funding from the Louisiana Watershed Initiative was pulled due to project overages in Plaquemines Parish, leaving the city without funds for the estimated $6 million project. The council discussed the need for engineering packages but acknowledged the current lack of immediate resources. - Annexation Process Council: Council members discussed annexation procedures, noting that the process differs for areas with registered voters versus those without, and that water/sewer services may not be immediately available upon annexation. Councilman Marks clarified that the DDA board appointments prioritize business owners in the district, though not necessarily current residents, and the Mayor confirmed an intent to expand the downtown district definition to include the I-10 corridor. - Pool Fence and Safety: Councilman Harvey emphasized that the low fence at Gosport pool is a safety hazard for children, noting it is lower than fences at other pools. The administration confirmed the fence meets current standards due to value engineering but acknowledged funding constraints. Councilman Marks suggested seeking "Lake Charles Rebound" funds for the fencing issue. - Traffic Study (Reed and Kirby): Councilman Harvey and Ms. Edwards discussed the tragic loss of pets at the Reed and Kirby intersection. The Mayor confirmed a request for a traffic study, expected to take a few weeks to complete. - Place Vendome Demolition: Legal and administrative staff discussed the complexity of demolishing the Place Vendome property. It was determined that while some buildings were condemned, others were not, requiring a separate ordinance for their removal. The council authorized the demolition of the condemned buildings immediately while legal vetting occurs for the remainder. - Chop Shop and Illegal Activity: Councilman Marks raised the issue of the unauthorized chop shop at a property owned by Mr. Lloyd. The administration noted that the property owner has not paid fines and that the tenant is the primary actor. Legal options, including injunctions, are being considered, though enforcement is difficult without criminal charges. - Ditch Closure and Education: Councilman Marks suggested that covering ditches can cause flooding in flat areas and advocated for a comprehensive study and public education campaign to explain the necessity of keeping certain ditches open for retention. Key Outcomes - Project Funding Cut: The Sixth Avenue drainage project was confirmed as unfunded due to the withdrawal of state Watershed Initiative funds; the city will proceed with engineering but lacks immediate capital. - Demolition Authorization: The Council approved the demolition of the specific buildings currently under condemnation order at Place Vendome, with a separate ordinance to follow for the remaining structures. - Traffic Study Initiated: A traffic study for the Reed and Kirby intersection was accepted as a priority action item for the administration. - Streetlight Repair: Councilman Bilbo committed to addressing the streetlight repair on Monroe Street. - Neighborhood Patrol: Chief Kirk agreed to review the possibility of increasing neighborhood patrols in the Monroe/Roosevelt area and requested contact information from concerned residents. - Tree Removal: The administration agreed to coordinate with Entergy to trim trees obstructing lighting on Monroe Street. - Ditch Education: The council agreed to drill down on the Brick study findings and develop a Public Service Announcement to educate constituents on the function of ditches versus the desire to cover them. - Sales Tax Data: Legal counsel declined providing taxpayer-specific sales tax data by district due to state confidentiality laws, though general business data by taxpayer name was deemed possible.

The Lake Charles City Council convened on November 19, 2025, to conduct routine business, approve minutes, and debate critical infrastructure grants. The meeting began with a ceremonial presentation honoring the 70th anniversary of the Lake Charles Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Council members voted to defer several agenda items, including the I-10 bridge project discussion, to allow for further deliberation. Significant time was dedicated to the introduction and final action of an ordinance securing a $500,000 state appropriation for the Pre-En Lake Road Pedestrian Bridge, with council members unanimously supporting the safety improvements. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The official minutes of the previous meeting were approved via unanimous consent (7 yes, 4 no). - Resolution Adoption: Resolutions were adopted to accept Project CP 3376 (Chenault Air Force Base 12-inch water loop) as substantially complete and to authorize bids for Project CP 3427 (wastewater treatment plant sludge processing improvements). - Budget Deferrals: Item 1 (general agenda item) was deferred to December 2, 2025; Item 8 (ordinance for Motorola Solutions radios) was discussed and corrected regarding the quantity (20 vs 70), though the transcript notes a correction was made before the vote; Item 10 (I-10 bridge project) was deferred to the next regular meeting after a second was called for further discussion. - Public Works Appointments: Council appointed chairs to review bids for the following Public Works Department equipment: - New rear loader refuse truck (Solid Waste Trash Division). - New three-wheel sweeper (Streets Division). - New six-yard dump truck (Grounds Maintenance Division). - New four-wheel sweeper (Grounds Maintenance Division). - Traffic control products under a 12-month contract (Communications and Traffic Division). Public Comments & Testimony - Delta Sigma Theta Representation: Representatives from the Lake Charles Alumni Chapter attended to celebrate their 70th anniversary and accepted a proclamation from Mayor Marshall J. Simeon Jr. honoring their legacy of sisterhood, scholarship, service, and social action. - Miss Zelda Fry: Identified as the president of the Lake Charles Alumni Chapter, she acknowledged the Council's honor and announced an upcoming anniversary celebration on Sunday, November 23rd. - Council Member Mr. Weatherford: Expressed strong public interest in the Pre-En Lake Road bridge project, highlighting the danger posed by the current structure and referencing a past fatality and numerous close calls involving pedestrians, specifically casino workers crossing at night. - General Public/Community: A council member noted a concurrent community meeting regarding the I-10 bridge project at the Event Center, urging attendance to provide input. Discussion Items - Pre-En Lake Road Pedestrian Bridge (Ordinance Final Action): - Project Facts: The project involves constructing a new pedestrian bridge over Contraband Bayou on Pre-En Lake Road, utilizing a $500,000 line item appropriation from Act 461 of the 2025 regular legislative session as matching funds for a DOTD TAP grant. Total estimated project costs are approximately $4 million with additional state funding. - Support Position: The Mayor and Council members expressed full support for the project, citing the critical safety need to protect pedestrians, including casino workers who often cross the bridge at night in dark clothing. Council Member Mr. Marks noted the safety concerns regarding foggy conditions and pedestrian visibility. - Opposition/Concerns: Council Member Mr. Marks asked about the potential shutdown of the existing bridge during construction; the Mayor indicated uncertainty but noted the new bridge would likely be constructed adjacent to the existing one. Council Member Mr. Harvey raised a concern that while the project was intended to be state-funded, any shortfalls would require the city to cover the costs. - Economic Leverage: Council Member Mr. Herman (speaking for Mr. Stevens) stated that the secured $4 million could serve as leverage funds to attract additional match funds for affordable housing projects in the Mid-City neighborhood. Key Outcomes - Motion to Adopt Ordinance: The ordinance authorizing the cooperative endeavor agreement with the Louisiana Department of Treasury for the Pre-En Lake Road Pedestrian Bridge was adopted by the Council (7 yes, 4 no). - Volunteer Radio Purchase: The ordinance for the purchase of 70 APX N70 XE Mobile Radios for the Fire Department (utilizing Ascension Parish Contract No. 51022) was adopted after correcting an initial verbal error regarding the quantity from 20 to 70 (7 yes, 4 no). - Deferrals: - Item 1 deferred to December 2, 2025. - Item 8 deferred to January 21, 2026. - Item 10 (I-10 bridge project discussion) deferred to the next regular meeting. - Attendance Note: The meeting concluded with an announcement directing the Council and public to attend a community meeting regarding the I-10 bridge project at the Buccaneer Room, starting at 5:30 PM.

The City Council of Lake Charles convened on November 12, 2025, to address a wide range of administrative, public works, and safety items. The meeting featured a detailed presentation from Acadian Ambulance regarding emergency response metrics, training academies, and a proposal for expanded community CPR and AED accessibility. Council members engaged in public comments focusing on neighborhood blight, traffic safety, land acquisition statuses, and requests for organizational transparency regarding city department structures and employee compensation. Several routine appointments and ordinance actions were presented for approval. Consent Calendar - Appointed a chairman to review bids for project number CP 3414 (Southwest Water Treatment Plant Backup Power Improvements). - Appointed a chairman to review bids for purchasing one new rear-load refuse truck for the Solid Waste Trash Division. - Appointed a chairman to review bids for purchasing one new three-wheel sweeper for the Streets Division. - Appointed a chairman to purchase one new six-yard dump truck for Grounds Maintenance Division. - Appointed a chairman to purchase one new four-wheel sweeper for Ground Maintenance Division. - Appointed a chairman to review bids for traffic control products under a 12-month contract (renewable for 12 months) with the Public Works Communications and Traffic Division. - Public hearing and consideration on the alteration of the shoreline of the Calcasieu River at 20 River Road (timber deck, boat slips, bulkhead replacement). - Ordinance authorizing demolition agreements for structures at 3023 General Twining and the Gertrude and Savoy Estate. - Ordinance authorizing a cooperative endeavor agreement with Motorola Solutions for 70 APX N70 XE mobile radios for the Fire Department. - Ordinance authorizing a professional services agreement with Allied Universal for security coverage at City Hall, the Transit Division Building, and the downtown lakefront. - Final action on an ordinance authorizing a cooperative agreement regarding a line item appropriation (Act 461 of 2025) for the Prion Lake Road Pedestrian Bridge. - Resolution accepting project number CP 3376 (Chenault Air Force Base 12-inch water loop) as substantially complete. - Ordinance amending Lake Charles zoning ordinance section 24-5-3071-5A1(i) relative to Nelly Lecher District Overlay Standards. - Ordinance authorizing settlement of the claim Asia Mesh versus Union Carbide Corporation et al. (Docket 2024-4641). - Ordinance amending section 12-5.3 of the City Code relative to permit uses. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Taylor Richard (Acadian Ambulance): Provided an overview of Acadian's operations in Lake Charles, stating they handled over 2,500 emergent calls in September with an average response time of 8 minutes and 39 seconds. He expressed that the National EMS Academy is the second largest producer of EMTs nationally. Regarding community intervention, Mr. Richard expressed a strong position seeking city partnership to implement a city-wide strategy similar to Seattle's model, which includes mass CPR training events and increased access to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). He stated the organization is willing to host events at their facility or community locations and is exploring a mass training event for Spring 2026. - Mayor (via transcript): Expressed agreement to the city's partnership with Acadian, noting a personal testimony of an 11-minute response time during a cardiac event at his church. He positioned himself as supportive of the Seattle model for AED placement in high-traffic areas like downtown and expressed support for the high school explorer program as a recruitment and training tool. - Council Member (Unnamed, likely Councilor Marks or similar based on context of thanks): Expressed gratitude for Acadian's presence at high school football games, noting the service provides peace of mind to the community despite a low frequency of actual medical interventions during games. - Council Member Mr. Weatherford: Expressed appreciation for the traffic group's quick response to a constituent's concerns regarding parking and speeding in his neighborhood. He expressed gratitude towards the state delegation, specifically Jeremy Stein, for funding the Prion Lake Road pedestrian bridge, stating the current bridge is dangerous for pedestrians and casino employees. - Council Member Mr. Bible: Expressed satisfaction with the speed of public works responses. He raised a concern regarding repeat offenders of code violations, specifically asking if the city has a distinct process for handling excessive violations compared to standard ones. He also raised concerns about dumping on Railroad Avenue and a specific road near the truck stop, asking for increased patrols and potentially closing a road to prevent illegal dumping. - Council Member Mr. Young: Expressed high praise for the recent Veterans Day ceremony. He expressed gratitude to public works, planning, and police departments for their cooperation. He relayed constituent concern regarding the timeline of buyouts on Fitzgerald Drive, noting that residents expect to receive formal written notices regarding right-of-way acquisitions soon. - Council Member Ms. Bees: Expressed appreciation for the immediate results seen after constituents contact city departments. She echoed concerns about illegal dumping on the west side of Railroad Avenue near Mount Pilgrim Church. - Council Member Mr. Marks: Expressed interest in the status of Second Harvest's location, noting they have retooled their scope to focus on cooking meals and disaster recovery rather than farmers' markets. He expressed concern regarding contractors leaving rocks on sidewalks at new apartment complexes on Power Center Drive, creating hazards for wheelchair users. He also expressed support for a traffic study at the intersection of Highway 14 and Power Center Drive to address long traffic light cycles. He requested the council be provided with a chain of command for all departments, a current pay scale for all employees (including the council), and a count of non-charter positions with their salaries to understand city operations and justification for wages. - Council Member (Unnamed, regarding 18th Street): Expressed concern about a red-tagged/blue-tagged house at the corner of Fifth Avenue and 18th Street, noting it has been a source of illegal sleeping for three years and requires intervention. Discussion Items - Acadian Ambulance Presentation: The council discussed the current response times, the volume of calls, and the training capabilities of the Acadian National EMS Academy. A specific discussion centered on the feasibility and logistics of a city-wide CPR and AED initiative, with Acadian suggesting a partnership to mimic the successful model in Seattle, Washington. The council discussed hosting a mass CPR event, possibly at the Cajun Dome or community centers, and integrating high school students into the program. - Code Enforcement and Repeat Violations: Council Member Bible requested clarification on the process for handling repeat offenders versus initial violations. The city staff explained that for grass or debris, an affidavit allows the city to abate the violation every 30 days for a year. For excessive, long-term violations, the city can move to an administrative hearing, though they prefer a process where the property owner performs the cleaning themselves to prevent recurrence. The staff noted that if the city cleans it repeatedly, the property owner cannot pay the bill, whereas self-cleaning improves compliance rates. - Public Safety and Infrastructure Issues: Multiple council members raised issues regarding illegal dumping and safety hazards. Specific locations mentioned included Railroad Avenue, a road near the YMCA and truck stop, an alley behind the bus station, and a ditch behind the Housing Authority. Council members requested regular patrols, camera installation, and road closures. A specific item regarding a boat hidden behind trees on Railroad Avenue was noted as being in the process of being moved by the state police. - Traffic and Road Conditions: Concerns were raised about the dangerous condition of the Prion Lake Road bridge (lack of shoulder). Discussions also covered traffic signal timing at Power Center Drive and Highway 14, with a suggestion to contact the state for a study and signal extension. A broken turn signal at the same intersection was noted. - Transparency and Organizational Structure: Council Member Marks requested detailed documentation of departmental hierarchies, employee salary scales, and inventories of non-charter positions to better inform council decisions and address constituent inquiries about budgets and hiring. Key Outcomes - Agreement to Partner with Acadian Ambulance: The Mayor and Council expressed agreement and support to continue partnering with Acadian Ambulance on community CPR training and AED placement initiatives. Acadian will coordinate further regarding the potential for a mass training event in Spring 2026. - Informational Directives: Council Member Marks' request for a departmental chain of command, a full pay scale for all city employees, and a list of non-charter positions has been recorded and will be addressed by administration (implied by the request to be emailed to council). - Action on Road and Dumping Issues: The Council acknowledged specific dumping and safety hazards. Staff noted that the state police are actively moving a hidden boat on Railroad Avenue. Council members requested further investigation into closing specific roads and increasing patrols for dumping zones. - Land Acquisition Status: The Council confirmed that right-of-way acquisitions on Fitzgerald Drive are approaching the appraisal and contact phase, with notice letters to be sent to residents soon. - Second Harvest Status: The Council was informed that Second Harvest has adjusted their project scope to focus primarily on meal preparation and disaster recovery, and they are proceeding with the project. - Voters' Requests: The Council agreed to look into the broken turn signal at Power Center Drive and Highway 14 and the rock removal issue on sidewalks at Power Center Drive. The Council agreed to investigate the blue-tagged house on 18th Street.