Public Meetings - St Charles Parish, Louisiana

The St. Charles Parish Hospital District Board held its regular meeting on October 29, 2026, at 4:30 PM. The board approved multiple routine items, received reports on quality, patient experience, and finances, and heard the CEO's update on physician recruitment and community outreach. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of 2027 Board Meeting Dates: The board approved the schedule of hospital district board meetings for the year 2027. - Payment to Ochsner Health System: Approved a payment of $6,236,118.39 for purchased services. - Surplus Property List: Approved the surplus property list as presented. - Publication of Public Notice and Bid Process: Authorized moving forward with the public notice and bid process for the hospital's official journal. - Approval of Minutes: Approved the minutes of the September 30, 2026 Hospital District Board meeting. - Medical Staff Report: Accepted the Medical Executive Committee (MEC) recommendations, including approval of the October 22, 2026 MEC meeting minutes, 12 physicians (one with waiver), five advanced practice providers, five resignations, 14 provisional reviews, two category changes, and 45 reappointments. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public came forward to address the board during the public hearing. Discussion Items - Special Recognition: Linda Thider was recognized as the Team Member of the Month for August. Her supervisor Blair highlighted her seven years of service, teamwork, and willingness to fill in for others. - Quality and Patient Experience Report: The hospital reported 623 days since the last reportable patient harm event (zero harm events). Patient experience scores: inpatient NPS scores thriving, ER at top decile, ambulatory surgery in top quartile, and outpatient at top decile compared to the system. Clinic quality: Destrehan clinic all green; improvements in smoking quit rate; opportunities in blood pressure control, statin therapy, and colorectal cancer screening. Unique patient volume exceeded 22,000, a 6.31% year-over-year increase, serving residents across the parish. - September Financial Report: Inpatient volumes were strong with 1,076 total patient days (exceeding budget and prior year), driven by behavioral health and med-psych units. Infusion completed 917 treatments in September, with year-to-date volumes 20% over budget. Total operating revenue was 2.5% ahead of budget; income from operations exceeded budget by $300,000 for the month. Year-to-date total net income is $10.5 million. - CEO Report: Dr. Khan highlighted moments of quality including the Battle for the Paddle event (rehab services team placed second) and Team Member Appreciation Week. Physician recruitment: Dr. Bryant King (joint surgeon) signed to backfill retiring Dr. Howard Hirsch; Dr. Charles Long (sports medicine) signed; Dr. Natalie Atala (rheumatologist) and Dr. Michael Stanley (primary care) started. Community outreach: Destrehan High School Workforce Expo, blood drive, and upcoming Thanksgiving food drive (November 7). Dr. Khan noted the process to backfill the full-time CEO is underway, with an announcement expected by the next meeting. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous and carried as presented. - The next hospital district board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 2, 2026, at 2:00 PM.

The St. Charles Parish Housing Authority Board of Commissioners held its regular meeting on October 27, 2026, at 6:03 PM in the Council Chambers, Courthouse. The meeting lasted approximately 16 minutes and covered financial reports, a resolution to opt out of state civil service, and updates on the RAD/Section 18 conversion. All agenda items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda as presented. - Approved the September 22, 2026 board meeting minutes. - Accepted the August 2026 Low Rent and Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) financial reports and deferred the September 2026 financial reporting to the November 24, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present to comment during either public comment period. Discussion Items - Executive Director’s Report: The Executive Director reported on September 2026 operations. Key figures: $17,646.08 in rent collections for Low Rent; 129 total units, 70 on mod status pending demolition/disposition, 59 available for lease with 56 leased and 3 vacant. For the HCV program: 241 vouchers leased, 18 voucher holders searching, 32 port-ins leased up, 9 port-outs leased up, $257,682.66 in HAP payments, and $296,989.30 in income. The agency received a projected HAP shortfall notice from HUD, prompting cost-saving measures and a grant application. VMS reports for July–September 2026 were included in board packets. - Resolution 26-10-27-01 – Opt Out of Louisiana State Civil Service: Staff recommended adoption of a resolution to opt the housing authority out of Louisiana State Civil Service, authorize terminal leave payouts up to 300 hours for eligible employees, and prepare a revised personnel policy. The transition is tentatively scheduled for December 11, 2026. The policy will be presented for board approval before that date. The motion passed unanimously. - RAD/Section 18 Conversion Update: The inventory removal application has been submitted into the PIC system and is under review by a Special Application Center reviewer. Staff are working with Standard and the field office to submit environmental reviews and plan to submit a tax credit application to the Louisiana Housing Corporation in January 2027. The submission of the inventory removal application was noted as a significant milestone. - Other Matters: The agency will be closed on Election Day (November 3, 2026) as a state holiday. Key Outcomes - All motions were approved unanimously: agenda, minutes, financial reports, and Resolution 26-10-27-01. - The board directed staff to continue the RAD/Section 18 conversion process and report back at future meetings. - The September 2026 financial reporting will be reviewed at the November 24, 2026 meeting.

The Industrial Development Board of the Parish of St. Charles, Louisiana, Inc. met on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 11:30 AM in the Council Chambers, Courthouse, Hahnville, LA. The meeting included a prayer and pledge, approval of prior minutes, review of financial statements, and action on three resolutions. Key decisions included approval of a Payment in Lieu of Tax (PILOT) arrangement for Rio Morando, LLC, a property conveyance, and adoption of a public records fee schedule. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (July 27, 2026): Motion by Mr. Raymond, second by Mr. Bosco. Unanimously approved. - Review of Financial Statement (January 1, 2026 – September 30, 2026): The board received the statement as requested by auditors. No vote required; noted in minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Resolution No. 2026-3 (PILOT and bond resolution): The chair opened a public hearing. No members of the public spoke. Patrick (parish representative) provided an overview; Andrew Marcus was present as a principal of Adriacos/Rio Morando, LLC, and Philip Sherman as board counsel, but they did not testify. - Resolution No. 2026-4 (Property conveyance): Public hearing opened; no public testimony. - Resolution No. 2026-5 (Public records fee schedule): Public hearing opened; no public testimony. Discussion Items - Resolution No. 2026-3 – Approval of lease agreement and PILOT for Rio Morando, LLC: Patrick explained the proposed 10-year, 50% reduction on improvements (building only, not land), resulting in a net 40% tax reduction from current taxes. The resolution includes bond language required by IDB enabling legislation, but no actual bond issuance, borrowing, or credit backing by the parish is intended. The board approved the resolution unanimously following a motion by Mr. Bosco and a second by Mr. Young. - Resolution No. 2026-4 – Conveyance of property from Rio Morando, LLC to the IDB: The resolution authorizes the transfer of real property at 2030 Rue Sucre, Suite 150 (agenda) / Suite 120 (transcript) in Luling, LA, to facilitate the PILOT. Note: The agenda lists suite number as 150, while the transcript says suite 120; this discrepancy was not addressed during the meeting. The board approved the resolution unanimously following a motion by Mr. Raymond and a second by Mr. Elliott. - Resolution No. 2026-5 – Adoption of St. Charles Parish Council’s public records fee schedule: The board established its official fee schedule for public records requests by adopting the Parish Council’s existing schedule, as codified in St. Charles Parish Code of Ordinances Section 2.2, which may be amended automatically from time to time. A board member asked whether future amendments would require a new resolution; the response confirmed that the resolution’s language applies amendments automatically. The board approved unanimously following a motion by Mr. Bosco and a second by Mr. Raymond. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of July 27, 2026 (unanimous). - Approved Resolution No. 2026-3 authorizing a PILOT arrangement and bond documents for Rio Morando, LLC (unanimous). - Approved Resolution No. 2026-4 authorizing conveyance of property from Rio Morando, LLC to the IDB (unanimous). - Approved Resolution No. 2026-5 adopting the Parish Council’s public records fee schedule with automatic amendment provision (unanimous). - Adjourned at approximately 11:45 AM (estimated).

The St. Charles Parish Council held a Regular Meeting and Budget Hearing on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers of the Parish Courthouse in Hahnville. The meeting included a prayer by Father Lance Campo, approval of previous meeting minutes, special recognitions, departmental reports, a public hearing on the FY2027 budget with multiple amendments, approval of a rezoning postponement, and resolutions for contracts and agreements. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Unanimously approved the minutes of the Regular Meeting on October 12, 2026. - In Memoriam: Proclamation 2026-0336 honoring Monica Ann Williams, a retired parish employee of over 33 years, was read and accepted. Her sisters attended. - Eagle Scout Recognition: Proclamation 2026-0338 recognized Daniel Sam Broussard as the 74th Eagle Scout from Troop 370. Councilmember Fisher, also an Eagle Scout, congratulated him. - Resolution 2026-0339: A resolution endorsing a waiver from subdivision regulations for Mark Mohon was approved unanimously after a brief explanation from Planning & Zoning. - Resolution 2026-0344: A resolution authorizing a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Louisiana Department of the Treasury for $200,000 for the Des Allemands Bulkhead was approved unanimously. - Appointment 2026-0314: Mr. Noble J. Benoit was reappointed to the River Parishes Tourist Commission for a four-year term ending October 31, 2031, by unanimous vote. Public Comments & Testimony - On Rezoning Petition 2026-0340: Multiple residents spoke against the proposed rezoning of Esperanza Plantation from C-3 to M-1/M-2. - Mr. Allemand (a farmer) expressed concern about losing prime agricultural land and questioned the suitability of heavy industrial zoning near schools and recreation. He noted this could be the largest loss of agricultural land since the 1960s. - Becca Hilburn (40 Melrose Drive) asked for deferral or denial, citing that the rezoning does not align with the Future Land Use Map (which designates the area for homes, shops, wetlands, and town center, not industry). She noted the parish’s own drainage plan requires a new pump station costing nearly $11 million, which is not budgeted; the applicant’s budget for drainage is zero; and no sewer line exists. She also pointed out that M-2 zoning allows data centers with on-site power plants per rules passed in June, and requested conditions to exclude M-2 and require a drainage study. - Mr. Bell (spoke after Hilburn) questioned the rush to rezone if there is no end user, and referred to a previous eight-month moratorium on data centers that did not pass. He noted that five councilmembers waived the waiting period while three kept it. - Robert Lee (369 Rosedale Drive) expressed opposition, stating he does not want a data center with jet turbines in St. Charles Parish, which he called a “Parish of Plenty.” He noted that seven out of ten Americans support a one-year moratorium on data centers. - On Budget Ordinance 2026-0173: One speaker (Mr. Allemand) commented on the budget, asking for drainage capital outlays for District 1, clarification on pump stations funded under Fund 123, and whether the engineering department’s budget includes money for hiring more engineers to save costs. He also noted that the parish budget has increased by 28% over nine years while population has declined by about 2,000 residents, and commended councilmembers for adjusting their budgets to fund community programs. - On Change Order 2026-0318: Mr. Allemand questioned the large time decrease (141 days) for a relatively small cost reduction ($34,677), but accepted the explanation. Discussion Items - Planning and Zoning Petition 2026-0340 (Esperanza Land Rezoning): The Parish President requested indefinite postponement and referral back to the Planning Commission due to confusion from a TikTok video containing “completely fabricated and false accusations.” After public testimony, the council discussed the matter. Councilmember Comardelle noted that the property is inherited and no one wants to farm sugar cane, and that M-2 zoning exists nearby (e.g., concrete plant, Barrier Construction). He argued the rezoning is about property rights, not an end user. Parish President Jewell emphasized that the application came from a property owner exercising rights, and the council is required to process it. The motion to postpone indefinitely passed unanimously. - Budget Ordinance 2026-0173 (FY2027 Budget Hearing): The public hearing included a series of amendments proposed by councilmembers to reduce their district budgets and reallocate funds. - Amendment (O’Daniels): Reduce District 5 budget by $31,500; add $15,750 to health/safety rehab home repairs and $15,750 to community services food bank. Passed unanimously. - Amendment (O’Daniels): Add $63,000 to Recreation Fund 113 as a placeholder for Parquet Park restrooms (re-categorization of existing funds). Passed unanimously. - Amendment (Wilson): Reduce District 1 budget by $6,610; transfer to Recreation for Prime Time Seniors educational/recreational programs. Passed unanimously. - Amendment (deBruler): Reduce general fund account for sheriff feeding/prisoners by $100,000; add to Fortified Roof Program. Passed unanimously. - Amendment (Fonseca): Increase grant revenues by $50,000 (cybersecurity grant); reduce Division B budget by $35,000; total $85,000 added to Home Elevation Grant Program. Passed unanimously. - Amendment (Fonseca): Reduce 2026 general fund transfer to Roads and Drainage Fund 112 by $250,000 to begin raising required minimum fund balance to $10 million over six years. Passed unanimously. - Amendment (Fisher): Reduce District 6 budget by $35,500; add $25,000 from general fund surplus; total $60,500 added to Home Elevation Grant Program. Passed unanimously. Councilmember Daniels thanked Fonseca for the elevation program addition, noting its importance for cost-sharing in his district. The budget as amended was then approved unanimously. - Change Order 2026-0318 (Kinler Lift Station): Engineering staff explained the decrease of $34,677 and 141 days resulted from removing planned asphalt patching because a subsequent drainage and paving project (Kinler and Paul Frederick) will cover the entire road. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 2026-0347 (Willowdale Blvd. Overlay and Widening Contract): This resolution authorized a $1,005,483 contract with Madden Gulf Coast, LLC. Councilmembers discussed the shift from ordinance to resolution for contract approval. Councilmember O’Daniels emphasized the need for consistent timelines and transparency, noting that the notice of intent to award was issued August 27, 2026. Councilmember Fonseca appreciated the administration’s posting of the council agenda on its Facebook page but requested continued newspaper publication for residents not on social media. The resolution passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Rezoning Postponed: File 2026-0340 (Esperanza Land) was postponed indefinitely and referred back to the Planning Commission for further review. - FY2027 Budget Approved: Ordinance 2026-0173 was approved as amended. The final general fund balance after amendments is $7,250,000. Councilmember Fonseca announced she is working on an ordinance to raise the required minimum general fund balance to $10 million over six years. - Change Order Approved: Change Order No. 1 (Final) for Kinler Lift Station approved, decreasing contract by $34,677.75 and 141 calendar days. - Waiver Endorsed: Resolution 2026-0339 (subdivision block arrangement waiver for Mark Mohon) approved. - Cooperative Endeavor Agreement Approved: Resolution 2026-0344 for $200,000 toward Des Allemands Bulkhead approved. - Contract Awarded: Resolution 2026-0347 for Willowdale Blvd. Overlay and Widening (Project P240602) awarded to Madden Gulf Coast, LLC for $1,005,483. - Tourist Commission Reappointment: Noble J. Benoit reappointed to the River Parishes Tourist Commission for a term ending October 31, 2031. - Next Meetings: Upcoming meetings include Housing Authority (10/27), Hospital Service District (10/28), Planning & Zoning Commission (11/5), and next Parish Council meeting (11/9). Early voting for the November 3 election continues through October 27.

(Note: The meeting agenda and transcript state the convening time as 6:00 PM local time, differing from the system recorded timestamp of 11:45:00+00:00. The date October 26, 2026 is used for this summary.) The St. Charles Parish Council convened for a Regular Meeting and FY2027 Budget Hearing. Actions included approving proclamations, receiving departmental reports, postponing a controversial rezoning request following public comment, adopting the annual budget with multiple amendments, and authorizing contracts and appointments. All final votes were unanimous unless otherwise noted. Special Business & Proclamations - The council posthumously honored Monica Ann Williams, a parish employee of 33 years, with a memorial proclamation. Family members accepted the tribute. - Eagle Scout Daniel Sam Broussard was recognized for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout with Troop 370. Councilman Bob Fisher, also an Eagle Scout, offered congratulations. Departmental Reports - Public Works (Brandon Minard): Reported maintenance accomplishments including sweeping 96,000 feet of ditches, replacing 15,000 feet of culverts, completing over 90 asphalt repairs, replacing 550 street signs, and cutting over 3,000 miles of grass. The drainage heavy equipment group completed projects adding over 1 million gallons of storage capacity. A new flow meter system increased a pump's efficiency by 26%. - Engineering (Mr. Bingham): Presented the first annual report for the department established June 1, 2026. The department managed $131.5 million in capital projects since the start of the previous year. Council discussed the need for standard engineering requirements and a formal document delineating responsibilities between Engineering and Public Works. - Parish President Jewell: Reported the Ormond Drainage Center project is 35% complete with a full completion anticipated in early 2027. Announced the annual Veterans Luncheon on November 5th. Recapped the 50th anniversary ceremony for the George Prince Ferry disaster. Noted over 300 seniors attended the Primetime Seniors fall festival. Reminded the public of election day on November 3rd, featuring a recreation millage renewal and a Council on Aging millage consolidation proposal. Public Comments & Testimony - On the Esperanza Rezoning (2026-0340): - Mr. Allemand expressed concerns about heavy industrial zoning near schools and the loss of farmland. - Becca Hilburn requested a deferral or denial, citing non-compliance with the Future Land Use Map, lack of a drainage study or budget for the required $11 million pump station, and the potential for data centers under M-2 zoning. - Ms. Ravel questioned the schedule, noting a proposed data center moratorium failed to pass and asked, "what's the rush?" - Robert Lee voiced opposition, stating a data center "is not St. Charles Parish. St. Charles Parish is not struggling." - On the FY2027 Budget (2026-0173): - Mr. Allemand criticized the disparity in drainage capital outlay for District 1, questioned the lump-sum funding for pump stations, and noted the parish's budget had increased 28% over nine years while the population declined. He commended council members for redirecting their district funds. Discussion Items - 2026-0340: Esperanza Plantation Rezoning: Parish President Jewell requested the item be postponed indefinitely and referred back to the Planning Commission to address confusion. Councilman Comardelle supported the postponement, emphasizing the property owners' rights and the challenges of maintaining agricultural use. The council voted unanimously to postpone. - 2026-0173: FY2027 Budget Adoption: The council reviewed and unanimously passed a series of budget amendments before adopting the final budget. - Amendments included: - District 5 (O'Daniels): Reduction for Parc du Park restrooms ($63,000). - District 1 (Wilson): Reduction for Primetime Seniors ($6,610). - deBruler: Shift from Sheriff feeding to Fortified Roof Program ($100,000). - Fonseca: Established a Home Elevation Grant Program ($85,000) and increased cybersecurity grant revenue recognition ($50,000). - Fisher: Added funds to the Home Elevation Grant Program ($60,500). - Fonseca: Initiated an increase to the minimum General Fund balance from $7M to $10M over six years, starting with a $250,000 reduction to the Roads and Drainage fund transfer. - 2026-0347: Willowdale Blvd. Contract: Discussion centered on shifting contract approvals from ordinances to resolutions for efficiency. Council members stressed the need for consistent transparency measures, including newspaper publication, within the new process. Key Outcomes - 2026-0340 (Esperanza Rezoning): Postponed indefinitely and referred back to the Planning Commission. Passed unanimously. - 2026-0173 (FY2027 Budget): Adopted as amended. Passed unanimously. - 2026-0318 (Kinler Lift Station Change Order): Approved. Passed unanimously. - 2026-0339 (Subdivision Waiver): Resolution endorsing a waiver for Mark Mohon. Passed unanimously. - 2026-0344 (Des Allemands Bulkhead CEA): Authorized agreement with Louisiana Treasury for $200,000. Passed unanimously. - 2026-0347 (Willowdale Blvd Contract): Authorized contract with Madden Gulf Coast, LLC for $1,005,483.00. Passed unanimously. - 2026-0314 (Tourist Commission Appointment): Confirmed Noble J. Benoit to the River Parishes Tourist Commission. Passed unanimously. - Adjournment: Passed unanimously.

The St. Charles Parish Council held the second of three public hearings on Ordinance 2026-0173, which adopts the FY2027 Consolidated Operating and Capital Budget. The hearing took place on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the Council Chambers. Department heads and agency representatives presented their proposed budgets, and the council considered multiple amendments to the 2026 and 2027 budgets. No public comments were offered. The final public hearing and adoption are scheduled for Monday, October 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing portion of the meeting. Discussion Items - District Attorney’s Office: Representative Joel Shassall presented a budget with minimal changes from the prior year; no questions were raised. - Registrar of Voters: Brian Champagne noted a $1,900 increase in postage (from $8,000 to $10,000) due to a supplemental voter canvass by the state. He also updated that the state is still reviewing voting machine vendors, with a decision expected by year-end; local costs for new machines would be billed to the parish. - Sheriff’s Office: Sheriff Greg Champagne reported that the per-diem inmate contract rate ($30/day) remains unchanged but may need an increase next fall. Crime and inmate numbers have dropped significantly—50% fewer than 10–15 years ago. The FY2027 budget proposal is $1.168 million for inmate per diem, down from the FY2026 projection of $1.3 million; actual FY2026 spending may be just over $1 million. - Coroner’s Office: Barry Minick presented a stable budget with salary adjustments. Councilmember O’Daniels asked about a $25,000 line item for food and clothing; Minick explained it was for hazmat suits and protective gear for investigators. - LSU Ag Center: Tracy Adams requested a standstill budget and thanked the council for support. - Council District 2 Amendment: Councilmember Skiba moved to reduce the 2026 District 2 budget by $39,000 across various line items (e.g., printing, postage, travel) and to add $10,000 to the Fortified Roof Program and $29,000 to tutoring services at community service centers. The motion passed unanimously. - Agency Presentations: - Ark of St. Charles: Noted cost increases for gas and insurance; progress on new property construction is delayed by elevation and tax issues. - Library: Leanne Benedict presented a budget reflecting the ongoing Hahnville construction project; insurance costs for retirees increased due to recent retirements. - Council on Aging: April Keller introduced new finance manager Destiny Brown; the only change is adding a canopy to the building. - St. Charles Housing Authority: Jedi Jackson reported that HUD has accepted the budget; it is fiscally prudent and based on past trends. - St. Charles Community Health Center: Chia Hurton stated that millage revenue supports clinics in Luling and Norco, which serve about 30,000 encounters and 8,500 unique patients annually (56% parish residents). - 911 Communications: Director Zinner reported a healthy fund balance ($5.5M) but plans to spend about $2 million on a new cloud-based ESInet system (AT&T) for call-taking, video, and photo reception. Text-to-911 is now operational. - St. Charles Parish Hospital: Brianna Sparnak presented the adopted FY2026 budget; the FY2027 budget will be considered by the hospital board on December 2. - Council District 1 Amendment: Councilmember Wilson moved to reduce the 2026 District 1 budget by $27,000 and reallocate $9,000 each to health and safety rehabilitation, emergency food assistance, and tutoring at the Colonna Community Center. The motion passed unanimously. - Drainage Project Amendment: Councilmember Wilson also moved to transfer $75,000 from the general fund to the drainage fund for the Bamboo Street/LaPlace drainage improvements project. Councilmember Fisher clarified that the funds came from a $100,000 reduction in Economic Development professional services approved previously. The motion passed unanimously. - Grant Amendment: Finance Director Grant Dussom moved to increase FY2027 Fund 112 revenues and expenditures by $137,200 for a hazard mitigation grant for the Ormond Oaks Channel Improvement Project. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All amendments (Districts 2 and 1, drainage transfer, hazard mitigation grant) were approved unanimously by the council members present (Councilmember Comardelle was absent for one vote; Councilmember Fonseca absent for several; Councilmember Skiba absent for earlier votes but present for her own amendment). - The FY2027 budget ordinance (2026-0173) was advanced to final public hearing and adoption on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM. - No further council discussion or public comment was received; the meeting was adjourned.

The St. Charles Parish Council held a final budget hearing on Thursday, October 22, 2026, beginning at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers at the Parish Courthouse in Hahnville, Louisiana. The hearing addressed Ordinance 2026-0173, the appropriation for the FY2027 Consolidated Operating and Capital Budget, and included presentations from parish departments, boards, and agencies. Councilmembers adopted additional budget amendments, and the ordinance was announced for public hearing at the October 26, 2026, 6:00 PM council meeting. No written minutes were available; this summary draws from the agenda and transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - The public hearing was opened twice during the meeting; no members of the public came forward to speak, and the hearings were closed. Department and Agency Budget Presentations - District Attorney’s Office: Joel Shassell reported very little change from the prior year other than minimal insurance increases and offered his CPA to answer technical questions. - Clerk of Court: Lance Marino said the budget was a standstill compared with the prior year, except for a $1,900 postage increase to $10,000, driven by rising postage rates and an anticipated state supplemental voter canvass mailing. - Registrar of Voters: Mr. Champagne said election-day voting machines are aging and that the state is still negotiating with vendors; a final decision is hoped for by the end of the year. He noted the parish receives the bill for election costs, including machines, labor, warehousing, and movement of equipment. - Sheriff’s Office: Sheriff Greg Champagne said the parish pays a per diem of about $30 per day for parish inmates under a 20-year contract. He reported that 2025 per diem costs totaled $839,000, 2026 was projected to end just over $1 million, and the 2027 proposal is $1,168,000. He said the inmate population is about 50% lower than 10–15 years ago and did not request an increase now, but warned one may be needed next fall. - Coroner’s Office: Barry Minnick presented a mostly stable budget with salary/classification adjustments for administrative staff. In response to a question from Councilmember O’Daniels, he said a $25,000 food and clothing line would buy hazmat and reusable protective gear for investigators; the office was down from six to five investigators. - LSU Ag Center: Tracy Adams, administrative coordinator, presented a budget standstill and thanked the Council for its continued support. - Ark of St. Charles: Victoria Bryant cited increases in gas, transportation, and insurance costs and introduced new CFO Ashley Jordan. She said the new property project had not yet broken ground because of elevation concerns and tax issues with the contractor; she hoped construction would begin within the next month. - Library: Leanne Benedict said the proposed 2027 budget will go to the Library Board of Control in November, with increases tied mainly to the Hahnville construction project. She also cited retiree insurance costs, driven by three retirements this year and a number of employees eligible for retirement. - Council on Aging: April Keller introduced finance manager Destiny Brown and said the main new item was adding a canopy to the building. - St. Charles Housing Authority: Executive Director Jedadiah Jackson said the FY26–27 operating and HCV budgets are fiscally prudent, were approved unanimously by the Board of Commissioners on September 22, 2026, have been accepted by HUD, and an operating fund grant was submitted to ensure funding on January 1, 2027. - St. Charles Community Health Center: Access Health Louisiana representatives presented a budget reflecting parish millage revenue used exclusively at Luling and Norco clinics. They reported about 30,000 encounters per year, approximately 8,500 unique patients, and about 56% of patients residing in the parish; the budget was prepared on a calendar-year basis even though their fiscal year runs March through February. - 911 Communications: The presenter said increases were mainly for personnel and intergovernmental expenses because sheriff’s raises affect the shared-personnel budget. He said text-to-911 is now operational after seven years, voice calls are still preferred, and a planned public-information blitz will follow the new year. The office is researching a new ESInet (AT&T) 911 call-taking/infrastructure system costing about $2 million; the $5.5 million fund balance would drop to about $3 million. The system is used by about 2,000 agencies and would support video/photo transmissions to patrol cars, fire, and EMS. - Hospital Service District: Brianna Sparnak presented the adopted FY2026 budget, saying the hospital is on target to meet budget this year. The FY2027 budget will be presented to the hospital board on December 2. Amendments - The agenda’s legislative history included 12 amendments recorded at the October 20, 2026 public hearing. Those amendments shifted funding among district/office accounts and toward drainage improvements, Fortified Roof grants, rental assistance, Summer Feeding, relocation of the Des Allemands Veterans Memorial, and projects such as the Ormond Canal articulating block mat and Fairfield/Oakland micro-drainage study. All listed recorded votes were unanimous or near-unanimous, with Councilmember Skiba absent for some votes and Councilmember Fonseca absent for later votes. - Additional amendments were adopted during the October 22 hearing: - District 2 (Skiba): Reduce the District 2 2026 budget by $39,000 and add $10,000 to Fortified Roof Program grants and $29,000 to tutoring services at community service centers. The amendment passed; Councilmember Comardelle was absent. - Division A (Mobley): Reduce the Division A 2026 budget by $41,000 and transfer $41,000 to Fund 113 Recreation: $20,500 to Prime Time Seniors educational recreation and culture and $20,500 to food and clothing. Passed unanimously with members present. - District 1 (Wilson): Reduce the District 1 2026 budget by $27,000 and add $9,000 to Health and Safety Rehab maintenance, $9,000 to community services emergency food assistance, and $9,000 to tutoring at the Killona Community Center. Passed unanimously. - Bamboo Street drainage (Wilson): Transfer $75,000 from the General Fund to Fund 112-420260 for Bamboo Street/Low Plantation drainage improvements. Councilmember Jewell and Councilmember Fisher clarified the funding came from $100,000 removed from the economic development budget and placed in the General Fund. Passed unanimously. - Ormond Oaks hazard mitigation grant (Dussom): Increase Fund 112 roads and drainage revenues by a $137,200 hazard mitigation grant and increase the Ormond Oaks Channel Improvement Project architectural/engineering appropriation by $137,200 for 2027. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - The public hearing on Ordinance 2026-0173 was opened and closed with no public comments. - All amendments offered during the hearing were adopted, with no recorded no votes. - Ordinance 2026-0173 was announced for publication and public hearing at the Council meeting on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers, Hahnville. - The hearing was adjourned by a unanimous vote.

On Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., the St. Charles Parish Council held a final budget hearing in the Council Chambers at the Parish Courthouse in Hahnville to consider Ordinance 2026-0173, appropriating funds for the 2027 Consolidated Operating and Capital Budget. Parish President Matthew Jewell delivered the budget message; department heads and judges presented their proposed budgets; and the council made a series of line-item amendments. No public comments were offered. The ordinance was not adopted at this hearing; it remains scheduled for public hearings on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. and Monday, October 26, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. Budget Message - President Jewell summarized the proposed 2027 budget, which includes $256.4 million in governmental fund expenditures, $149.9 million in projected revenues, and a $131.5 million beginning fund balance carried forward from 2026. - Major allocations include $74.3 million for levee protection, $33.3 million for public works, and $3.2 million in grant funding for drainage projects; more than $136.3 million is dedicated to public-works and levee-related capital projects. - The parish’s total millage rate is projected to drop from 118.41 mils to 100.9 mils, the lowest since 1992. Assessed property values are expected to rise to $2.605 billion, ranking St. Charles Parish seventh statewide. - The budget includes a 3% cost-of-living adjustment and merit-based raises, funding for an East Bank gymnasium, recreation improvements, and continued drainage-master-plan implementation. Public Comments & Testimony - The council opened the public hearing on Ordinance 2026-0173 three times during the session, inviting anyone to speak for up to three minutes. No members of the public came forward, and each public comment period was closed without testimony. Departmental Budget Reviews - Courts: District Court judges, including Chief Judge Rochelle Farrag, Judge Oquen, Judge Lauren Rogers, and the Division D judge, presented court and grand jury budgets; council members had no questions. - Parks and Recreation: Dwayne Foray presented recreation, Prime Time Seniors (formerly RSVP), summer camp, and capital project budgets. He noted that merging Prime Time Seniors into recreation produced staffing efficiencies while continuing 72 meal services per year, and that summer camp’s approximately $80,000 increase is due to contracted AMPM/summer-camp staff. Killona Park improvements are awaiting an Entergy grant; Booty Park has $77,000 for field and pavilion improvements. - Public Works and Engineering: Brandon Bernard and Miles Bingham presented transportation, roads and drainage, flood control, paved streets, sidewalks/crosswalks, and drainage budgets. They reported $500,000 in state road funding, $250,000 budgeted for Spillway Road maintenance, and an $800,000 total for the Kendler/Paul Frederick Road improvement project scheduled for bid in December. The new engineering department consists of five staff, with no additional hires planned in 2027. The West Bank Bike Path remains stalled because the Corps of Engineers has not moved forward. - Flood Protection and Utilities: Sam Scholle noted a $16.7 million grant, the Montz 340 pump station expected to start in late January, and a $5.5 million grant for the Sunset engine upgrade. Waterworks Director Greg Gordon attributed budget increases to fuel, chemicals, and meter equipment; solid waste does not include a monthly River Birch route on Old Spanish Trail. - Other departments: Council reviewed budgets for council districts, parish president, public information/cable TV, purchasing, personnel, legal, planning and zoning, coastal management, ICC/codes, information technology, GIS, government buildings, risk management, grants/elevation grants, Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, animal control, community services, economic development, and workforce investment. Personnel is adding one internal communications/engagement specialist; government buildings required a reclassification amendment; and economic development’s professional services line was corrected downward by $100,000. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 2026-0173 remains pending; no final appropriation vote was taken at this hearing. The next public hearings are October 22 at 1:00 p.m. and October 26 at 6:00 p.m. - Amendments that were brought to a vote passed unanimously among members present. Councilwoman Skiba was absent; Councilwoman Fonseca left before the later votes. - Chairman Pilié’s proposed amendment to reduce his 2026 District 3 budget by $41,000 and reallocate funds to 2027 accounts was deferred so staff could prepare the motion in proper format. - General government buildings amendment passed: moved $15,200 for ADS fire access control, $23,000 for certified lab water treatment, $88,550 for chillers, and $52,000 for Tiger Tech generators from acquisition of motor vehicles to improvements other than buildings. - Economic development professional services were reduced by $100,000; a related $50,000 reduction from economic development grants was redirected to fortified roof program grants. - Councilwoman deBruler’s amendment redirected $60,000 from 2026 District 7 and dog park rainbow bridge funds to $50,000 for fortified roof program grants and $10,000 for community services rental assistance. - Councilwoman O’Daniels’ amendment moved $350,000 from Monsanto Linear Park recreation improvements to architectural and engineering for the Fairfield Oakland Microengineering Drainage Project. - Councilman Carmadelle’s amendment moved $14,000 from his 2026 District 4 budget to summer feeding and recreation for relocating the Veterans memorial. - Councilman Fisher’s amendments: - $243,099 from East Bank Bridge Park Gymnasium architectural/engineering to drainage improvements for the articulating block mat/Homeless Canal at Armand Condominiums parking lot. - $36,000 from Hill Heights drainage improvements to the same articulating block mat project. - $45,000 from a Carriage/HOMA drainage structure to cleaning cross culverts from Homeless Canal to Ormond Weir and Lake 1 bank stabilization, distributed as $25,000 to improvements, $10,000 to architectural engineering, and $10,000 to other fees. - $250,000 from Destrehan 2 pump station access bridge repair; $120,000 added to articulating block mat, $120,000 added to the cross culverts project, and $5,000 each to architectural engineering and other fees as placeholders. - Finance Director Grant Dussom’s amendment reduced CPRA grant revenue in Fund 112 by $1,845,000, increased Des Allemands bulkhead improvements by $310,000, and reduced New SARP culvert improvements by $2,155,000; the SARP culvert project is expected to be funded in 2028.

The St. Charles Parish Council convened a public hearing and work session on October 20, 2026, to review the proposed 2027 Consolidated Operating and Capital Budget. Parish President Matthew Jewell delivered the budget message, outlining $256.4 million in proposed expenditures and $149.9 million in projected revenues. The hearing featured line-by-line review of departmental budgets and the adoption of numerous amendments reallocating funds across various infrastructure and community programs. Fiscal Overview & Budget Message - Parish President Matthew Jewell stated the proposed budget includes $256.4 million in governmental fund expenditures. Major allocations include $74.3 million for levee protection, $33.3 million for public works, and $3.2 million in grant funding dedicated to drainage projects. - Projected revenues total $149.9 million, with a $131.5 million beginning fund balance carried forward from 2026. - The total millage rate was reduced from 118.41 mils to 100.9 mils, the lowest since 1992. - Sales tax represents 33% of revenues. Assessed property values are expected to reach $2.605 billion, ranking seventh in the state. - Key investments include the Turtle Pond Pump Station, drainage master plan implementation, an East Bank gymnasium, and a 3% cost-of-living adjustment for employees. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided testimony during the three public hearing opportunities held throughout the session. Discussion & Departmental Reviews Infrastructure & Drainage Projects - Drainage (Fund 112): Public Works Director Brandon Bernard discussed East Bank land acquisition for retention anticipated in 2028. Engineering fees for the Hornville to Watershed Jacking Board project were noted. River Park drainage improvements will be conducted in-house. - Flood Protection: Sam Scholey reviewed the flood protection budget. The Cousins to Wall levee project has $16.7 million in grant support. The Montz 340 pump station is set to start in late January 2027. Work is planned to replace pipeline crossings on the West Bank levee. - Cross Bayou: $3.5 million was received initially, with $1 million annually for maintenance from the Ponchartrain Levee District. - Transportation/Roads: $500,000 from the state is included. $800,000 is allocated for the Kindler/Paul Frederick roadway, scheduled for bid in December 2026. - West Bank Bike Path: Parish President Jewell stated the project remains stalled, as the Corps of Engineers has not prioritized it. Community Services & Quality of Life - Recreation: Director Dwayne Foray presented the budget. The Prime Time Seniors budget was reduced through personnel consolidation. $77,000 is allocated for Booty Park improvements. A veteran memorial will be relocated to a recreational site. - Community Services: Gina Diaz reviewed several programs. The Health and Safety program discontinued roof repairs, focusing on handicap adaptations. The food bank and summer feeding programs face rising demand and costs. - Homeland Security: Jason Toste allocated funds for obsolete radio replacement in the MCU truck and annual EOC AV upgrades. Administration & General Government - Personnel: Dana Parker added a new Personnel Communications and Engagement Specialist to improve employee engagement. - Public Information: Samantha DeCastro presented the budget. She confirmed the department is working to resolve audio/visual issues in the council chambers. - Economic Development: Patrick Beard proposed a successful amendment reducing his professional services budget by $100,000. - General Government Buildings: An amendment reclassified $178,750 in equipment to correct a system error. - Waterworks: Greg Gordon noted an increase in equipment and tools for the new automated meter reading system. Distribution costs increased due to fuel and chemicals. - Legal Services: Corey Ober confirmed no new staff are being added, focusing on promotions. Key Amendments & Fund Transfers Several council members proposed and adopted amendments reallocating funds: - District 3 (Toute): Moved $41,000 in unused funds from 2026 to the 2027 budget. - District 5 (O'Daniels): Moved $350,000 from Monsanto Linear Park to the Fairfield Oakland Micro Drainage Study. - District 6 (Fisher): Moved approximately $580,000 total from East Bank Gymnasium fees, Hill Heights drainage, Carriage Homa Canal, and Destrehan 2 Pump Station repairs to fund articulating block mat and cross culvert cleaning at Homeless Canal and Armand Weir. - District 7 (DeBruyer): Moved $60,000 from district funds and park projects to the Fortified Roof Program and Rental Assistance. Moved $50,000 from Economic Development to the Fortified Roof Program. - District 4 (Carmadell): Moved $14,000 to Recreation for a veteran memorial relocation. - Finance (Dewson): Reduced CPRA grant revenue in Fund 112 by $1.8 million, added $310,000 for the Des Allemands bulkhead, and deferred the New Sarpy culvert project to 2028. Key Outcomes - The budget ordinance was formally introduced for publication. - A final public hearing and adoption vote is scheduled for Thursday, October 22, 2026.