The East Baton Rouge Parish Metropolitan Council met on October 8, 2025, in the afternoon and evening to address a wide-ranging agenda. The meeting opened with several community recognitions, proceeded through consent items and ordinances, and featured extended debate on a new private booting ordinance. Council also heard updates on airport parking rate changes, the Communications District's 911 system, and a presentation from the new CEO of St. Vincent de Paul.
Great afternoon, Baton Rouge. Here we are. And yes, I am Carolyn R. Coleman Councilwoman in District 10. And this is the 10th month of the year, so this is really my month. And so we shall begin first here with our mayor, Mayor President Sid Edwards, and he's going to recognize Whitney Hoffman Sayer, who is the director of Downtown Development District for her outstanding leadership and dedicated service. So good afternoon, everybody. So first off, this is kind of a surprise, I'm sure. But on behalf of Mayor President Sid Edwards, we are honored to recognize a leader in our community, Miss Whitney Sayall, Executive Director of the Downtown Development District. Under her visionary leadership, the DDD and the East Baton Ridge Parish have secured several grants that funded vital public spaces and enhance bicycles and pedestrian infrastructures, including the downtown Greenway and River Road Projects. Many of these initiatives have received recognition and awards at the local, state, and international levels. Our downtown area stands as a vibrant space where the community gathers, connects, and grows. A reflection of Miss Whitney's dedication and leadership. Her legacy will continue to shape the heart of Baton Ridge for years to come. Today we proudly honor Miss Whitney for her outstanding service, vision, and commitment to making downtown Baton Ridge a place we all can be proud of. We just want to thank you for your leadership and we appreciate you so much. So thank you. Come on up wave now. I told you you were number one last night. All right. And yes, these are the ladies in red. So come on up, ladies. So today we want to honor and recognize the best sorority known to man. We celebrate your 25 years of sisterhood, scholarship, and service, a legacy that continues to make an impact in Baton Ridge and beyond. Since it's chartering, the Alpha Tal chapter has embodies Delta Sigma Theta's core values, public service, academic excellence, and the empowerment of the African American community. The Spring 2000 line has continued this mission with grace and determination, carrying the torch of sisterhood through their careers, families, and community service. Members of this line have served in leadership roles across education, government, health care, business, and civic engagement. Their efforts have strengthened local communities through mentoring programs, youth outreach, and social action initiatives that align with Delta's five programmatic thrifts. Twenty-five years of service is not just a milestone. It's a testament to enduring commitment, shared purpose, and love for the community. The spring 2000 line's unity and dedication exemplify the best of what Delta Sigma Theta represents. Intelligence, compassion in women who lead with integrity. Today we congratulate each member of the Alpha Tal Chapter Spring 2000 line for your contributions to the progress of Baton Rouge and the betterment of our people. Your example continues to inspire future generations of women like myself to lead, serve, and uplift others. Congratulations on this anniversary anniversary, and we thank you for your continued service and sisterhood. Thank y'all so much. Would anybody like to say anything? Oh, my bad, y'all. We also want to honor um their three beloved line sisters who passed away, Miss Lauren Robertson, uh, Dr. Cazetta Shannon, and Miss Jackson. So again, we just thank you all so much for everything you do. Tracy Found. And also Miss Tracy Founder. So thank y'all so much. If y'all would like to say anything, y'all can come to the mic. Thank you. I think you've covered most of it, so I won't be repetitive. So good afternoon, Mayor President Edwards, City Council members, and honored guests. On behalf of my beloved line, Spring 2000 of Alpha Tow Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, we are deeply honored to accept this proclamation celebrating 25 years of sisterhood, service, and social action. Our journey began at Southern University, AM College, where we were not only educated but shaped as leaders.