Public Meetings - St Charles Parish, Louisiana

The Coastal Zone Advisory Committee met on December 9, 2025, at 12:00 PM in the Council Chambers of the St. Charles Parish Courthouse. The meeting included a presentation from the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA), a manager's briefing on recent permit applications and the Christmas tree recycling program, introduction of new committee rules, and discussion of the upcoming Davis Pond Advisory Committee (DPAC) meeting. The committee approved the previous meeting minutes and accepted the introduction of new rules. Consent Calendar - The committee unanimously approved the November 21, 2025 Coastal Zone Advisory Committee meeting minutes. Motion by Mr. Lambert, second by Mr. Landry, carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Clyde Maddox (112 Carries Point West, Zalmans) spoke in support of comments by Captain Lambert regarding the Davis Pond diversion. He argued that the diversion's salinity management destroys aquatic vegetation and the entire ecosystem, and that recovery takes years once the system is damaged. He urged the committee to reconsider the diversion's operation. Discussion Items - Presentation by CPRA – Path of a Project and Funding: Ryan Lazina, CPRA Administrator for Planning and Research, presented an overview of CPRA's mission, funding sources, and project lifecycle. He explained the state's Coastal Master Plan (2023 and upcoming 2029), funding mechanisms including QRPRA (CWPPRA), GOMESA, NERDA, and RESTORE, and the annual planning process. He emphasized that the master plan is not a prioritized ranking and that projects are selected based on available funding. Lazina also discussed monitoring and adaptive management of completed projects. - Committee Questions: Captain Lambert questioned the six-year master plan cycle, suggesting a continuous plan; Lazina responded that state law requires the six-year cycle but CPRA is exploring flexibility after events like Hurricane Ida. Committee members Landry and another member asked about project evaluation and monitoring; Lazina confirmed that all projects are monitored and data is used to adapt future plans. A question about funding percentages of 2023 plan projects was asked; Lazina noted not all are funded but could not provide a specific percentage. - Manager’s Briefing – Mr. LeBay: - One local joint permit application was received: SCP-2025-07 for JBreaux Enterprises (new subdivision off Joe Lewis Lane in Hahnville, wholly on lands five feet or greater above mean sea level) – determined exempt. - One state concern JPA open for public comment: P20250902 Shell Pipeline – placement of temporary wooden mats for a temporary flare on the Norco-Avondale propylene line, affecting 0.06 acres, no excavation. Recommendation: CUP, still open. - Update on Christmas tree recycling program: A new site on the north side of Cuba Island has been identified with help from LDWF. The project will be done in phases (pens 1-3 east, pens 4-5 west if needed). An 8-foot gap will be left for recreational use. A JPA is in progress. Outreach materials for K-3 students are ready with QR codes. Pickup dates: January 5-7, 2025 (set out Jan. 4). Six drop-off locations. - Resolution Adopting Rules for Committee (2025-5-CZAC): Mr. LeBay introduced the proposed rules, highlighting gray areas: meeting time limit (12:00 PM to 2:00 PM) and the ability to limit public speaker time (3-5 minutes). The committee discussed not making changes at this time and accepted the introduction. Motion by Miss Babin, second by Mr. Lambert, carried unanimously. Further discussion to occur at a later meeting. - DPAC Discussion and Recommendations: Mr. LeBay presented salinity monitor data from USGS stations at Betoegree (5 ppt isohaline goal) and Grand Terre (15 ppt goal) for the Davis Pond diversion. Data from the February-March 2025 pulsing period showed salinities at Grand Terre reached 15 ppt and occasionally fell below, with averages above 15 ppt for the year. He noted the 5 and 15 ppt isohaline goals were set by a committee in the mid-to-late 2000s and are not based on historical data. Committee member Captain Lambert expressed strong opposition to the current parameters, stating they are killing the northern estuary (loss of aquatic vegetation, bass, ducks, bait shops) and that the diversion benefits only shrimp and oysters while harming other users. He called for changing parameters to 10-3 ppt or similar. Mr. LeBay agreed that the isohalines may be outdated and suggested the SHIELD program (feasibility study of Davis Pond) could be used to reevaluate them. Mr. Albert recommended drafting a formal resolution to present at the next DPAC meeting. The committee agreed to work on a resolution and consider local salinity monitoring at key locations. Mr. LeBay also noted that Davis Pond cannot backflow when the Mississippi River is low, limiting operations. Key Outcomes - The committee approved the November minutes and accepted the introduction of new committee rules. - The committee will work with staff (Clay and Mr. LeBay) to draft a resolution for DPAC regarding reevaluating salinity isohaline goals and consider local monitoring. This resolution will be brought back for a vote at a future meeting. - The committee discussed using the SHIELD program and environmental management units (EMUs) from the local coastal program to reassess goals for the Davis Pond area. - Announcements: Davis Pond Advisory Committee meeting on December 12, 2025 at 11:00 AM (Flood Protection Authority – East, New Orleans); CPRA Board meeting on December 17, 2025 at 9:30 AM (State Capitol, Baton Rouge, live-streamed). - Meeting adjourned unanimously.

The St. Charles Parish Civil Service Board met on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers of the Courthouse. The board considered personnel updates, approved minutes, created two new job descriptions (Inventory Specialist and Meter Specialist for Waterworks), approved a reorganization of the Economic Development Department (including a new Business Engagement Specialist position and revised descriptions for Market Development Research Assistant and Administrative Assistant), and approved an upgrade for the Deputy Public Information Officer. Public comments were heard from two council members. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the meeting held October 14, 2025, as presented. - Personnel Updates: The Personnel Officer reported three offers made above entry rate: two code clerks in Planning and Zoning and one equipment operator. Performance evaluations are due December 11, 2025, with merit and cost-of-living increases effective December 20, 2025, paid on the first January paycheck (January 9, 2026). A manager training session on conflict and coaching conversations was held in October and was well received; additional training is planned. Public Comments & Testimony - Councilman Walter Pelier (District 3): Speaking on the Inventory Specialist request, he asked whether the position was budgeted for 2026 (yes) and confirmed that it was accounted for in the upcoming year's budget. - Councilwoman Michelle O'Daniels: Speaking on the Economic Development reorganization, she expressed excitement about the proposed changes, particularly the Business Engagement Specialist role. She supported streamlining the administrative assistant function into the Market Development Research Assistant role, noting that technology and partnerships (e.g., River Region Chamber of Commerce) can handle clerical tasks. She emphasized the need for hands-on engagement with small and medium businesses. - Councilman Walter Pelier (again): On Economic Development, he reviewed budget numbers: salaries totaling $308,721 for 2026 (Business Engagement Specialist $70k, Market Development Research Assistant $50k, Administrative Assistant $41k). He expressed hope that the remaining funds cover the director's salary and that the reorganization allows for flexibility in hiring higher-paid staff if needed. Discussion Items - Request for New Job Description – Inventory Specialist (Waterworks): Waterworks Director Greg Gordon presented the justification. The position is needed due to changing procurement functions, increased audit demands, and the need for centralized inventory management (approximately $1 million in inventory). The specialist will manage procurement, fixed assets, and project files. Board members asked about transitioning duties from Purchasing, potential for similar positions in other departments, and whether the position resulted from audit recommendations. The person noted the parish is shifting procurement responsibility to departments. The position was budgeted for 2026. - Request for New Job Description – Meter Specialist (Waterworks): Director Gordon explained that this role replaces one of five Distribution Specialist positions (headcount unchanged). With a $10 million investment in 23,000 fixed-base remote-read meters, meter reading shifted from physical activity to data collection and customer interaction. The new Meter Specialist will focus on technology, billing integration, and customer communication. Salary range remains at level 21, same as Distribution Specialist. The position is a conversion of a retiring employee's slot. - Request to Approve Job Description Changes for Economic Development: New Economic Development Director Patrick Beard presented the reorganization. The department currently has three staff (Director, Market Development Research Assistant, and an Administrative Assistant retiring soon). The proposal adds a Business Engagement Specialist (budgeted for 2026) and revises the Market Development Research Assistant and Administrative Assistant descriptions to better align duties. The Business Engagement Specialist will focus on small and medium-sized businesses, while the director handles large industry. Board members questioned potential duplication of website update responsibilities, clarification of accounting vs. payroll duties, the decision not to immediately fill the Administrative Assistant vacancy, and whether the department risks being understaffed initially. Director Beard and Personnel Officer Dana explained that duties will be absorbed by other roles initially, and the position will be filled if needed later. Council members supported the reorganization. - Request for Upgrade – Deputy Public Information Officer: Communications Assistant Director Francesca Blanchard requested upgrading Gabrielle Rankin from Public Information Specialist to Deputy Public Information Officer. Rankin has 18 months with the parish but 7 years of marketing/communications experience (bachelor's in strategic communication from Southeastern). She currently performs advanced duties (drafting public communications, social media, co-webmaster, emergency ops support). Her performance evaluations show 90% exceeds expectations. Board members asked about qualifications, supervisory experience (she has none yet), and why the position wasn't posted. Blanchard noted that the employee is already performing higher-level duties and that posting would be unfair; the position is a budgeted upgrade, not a new backfill. Rankin briefly spoke about her prior work experience. Board member expressed concern about supervisory readiness but acknowledged potential for growth under leadership. Key Outcomes - Approved New Job Description – Inventory Specialist (Waterworks): Motion passed unanimously. (Approved) - Approved New Job Description – Meter Specialist (Waterworks): Motion passed unanimously. (Approved; converts one Distribution Specialist slot, no net headcount change) - Approved Economic Development Job Description Changes: Motion passed unanimously. This includes: creation of Business Engagement Specialist (new position), revised Market Development Research Assistant, and revised Administrative Assistant descriptions. (All budgeted for 2026; Administrative Assistant will not be filled immediately pending workload assessment) - Approved Upgrade – Deputy Public Information Officer: Motion passed unanimously. Gabrielle Rankin is upgraded from Public Information Specialist to Deputy Public Information Officer. (No backfill planned for her former specialist position; headcount remains unchanged) - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned by motion.

The St. Charles Parish Communications District (911) Board met on Monday, December 8, 2025, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers of the Courthouse. The meeting was called to order with a silent prayer and pledge of allegiance. The board approved the minutes from October 13, 2025, and handled routine reports, new business including a budget transfer, adoption of the 2026 meeting schedule, and election of officers for 2026. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the October 13, 2025, meeting were approved by a motion from Huey, seconded by Chief Ward, with all in favor. - Invoice Approval: An invoice from the St. Charles Harold Guide in the amount of $54.12 for legal advertisements was approved by a motion from Honor, seconded by Chief Dufrin, with all in favor. Reports of Officers, Boards, and Standing Committees - Secretary/Treasurer: Captain Bourgeois was absent. The expenditure report was presented, noting that numbers are in line except for a transfer to be addressed in new business. - 9-1-1 Director's Report: The director reported on the 700 radio system (left headset jack at SO console replaced on 11/28), CAD system (delay resolved with Central Square), phone system (ground cable lines replaced, static resolved), and staffing: 25 total staff with authorized 31. A new hire, Tanya Domino, was noted. A new hire starting on December 15, and an interview in progress for a third potential hire. The director also addressed a question about the ACE performance standards, explaining that daily IPRs provide feedback and that improvements are tracked. The 700 MHz system maintenance went smoothly with only about a one-minute downtime. Discussion Items - Unfinished Business – 700 MHz Redundant System: The board discussed the cost of the 700 MHz redundant system. Originally budgeted at $1.225 million, FEMA contributed about $1 million and the state unexpectedly contributed $932,000, resulting in a shared cost of approximately $632,000 for the district. The reimbursement request will be submitted to parish finance. The chair noted this is half of what was expected, calling it good news. - New Business – Transfer of Funds: A transfer of $23,000 from Account 305 (Office and Communication Equipment) to Account 210 (Advertising, Dues, and Subscriptions) was approved for the annual subscription to CommsCoach AI by GovWorx. The motion was made by Chief Ward, seconded by Chief Dufren, and passed unanimously. - Adoption of 2026 Meeting Schedule: The board adopted the 2026 meeting schedule, with most meetings to be held at the Nom Center. The motion was made by Lieutenant Melton, seconded, and passed unanimously. - Election of Officers for 2026: The board held elections for 2026 officers: - President: Huey nominated himself, seconded by Chief Ward. The nomination was closed, and Huey was elected unanimously. - Vice President: Orman nominated himself, seconded by an unnamed member. The nomination was closed, and Orman was elected unanimously. - Secretary/Treasurer: Huey nominated Captain Johnny Bourgeois (absent). The nomination was seconded by Orman, and is pending Bourgeois' acceptance at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - The board approved the minutes from October 13, 2025. - The board approved a $54.12 invoice for legal advertisements. - The board approved a $23,000 transfer for CommsCoach AI subscription. - The board adopted the 2026 meeting schedule. - The board elected Huey as President, Orman as Vice President, and nominated Captain Johnny Bourgeois as Secretary/Treasurer, pending his acceptance. - The board noted the successful cost savings on the 700 MHz redundant system, with a district share of about $632,000 instead of the originally budgeted $1.225 million. - The meeting adjourned at 5:20 PM. The chair thanked dispatchers and staff for their work in 2025 and wished everyone safe holidays.

Note: The meeting date per instructions is December 4, 2025, while the transcript states December 3, 2025. This summary reflects the transcript content. The St. Charles Parish Hospital District Board met in regular session on December 4, 2025. The meeting began with a public hearing, employee recognition, an executive session, followed by approval of numerous routine items, reports on quality and finance, project updates, and an announcement of a future public meeting regarding a proposed tax election. Public Comments & Testimony - The public hearing was called three times; no members of the public came forward, and the hearing was closed. Employee Recognition - Melissa Landry was recognized as Employee of the Month for October 2025. Speakers praised her dedication to patients, including going out to the parking lot to assist them, and her consistent smile. Tachelle Bailey commended her teamwork and noted that patients often ask to "clone Melissa." Melissa expressed gratitude to the board and staff. Consent Calendar - Approved the designation of the St. Charles Parish Herald Guide as the Official Journal of the Hospital District. (Motion by Vial, second by Raymond; all aye) - Approved the board meeting dates for calendar year 2026. (Motion by Vial, second by Sermon; all aye) - Approved the purchase services contract with Ochsner Health for $1,736,775.12. (Motion by Smith, second by Sermon; all aye) - Approved the establishment of a backup disbursement bank account for the hospital district board. (Motion by Vial, second by Sermon; all aye) - Approved the low bid for the borrower and water upgrades at the hospital. (Motion by Smith, second by Raymond; all aye) - Approved the minutes from the October 29, 2025 Hospital District Board meeting. (Motion by Vial, second by Sermon; all aye) - Approved the November 4, 2025 Medical Staff Executive Committee (MEC) meeting minutes, which included appointments of Dr. Eric West as BHU medical director and Dr. John Seymour as interim vice chief of staff, approval of medical records policies, and standing orders. (Motion by Raymond, second by Smith; all aye) - Approved the credentials report: nine physicians, four advanced practice providers (APPs), five resignations, four provisional reviews, one change of category, one additional provision, and 27 reappointments. (Motion by Vial, second by Smith; all aye) - Approved the board meeting dates for 2026. (This appears duplicated; motion by Vial, second by Sermon; all aye) — noted as a possible duplicate from earlier. Discussion Items & Reports - Quality Inpatient Experience Report (Mr. Rhodes): The hospital has had only one "fallout" incident for the year but has since gone several months without incident, with new measures in place. All patient experience metrics are green. HCAHPS score is 67%, medical practice 89%, telemedicine 84%, med practice 72%, outpatient 94%, ED 74%, outpatient at 92%. The hospital is meeting all metrics. (Speaker expressed pride in progress.) - Patient Experience Update: Seven departments at St. Charles Parish are in the top 10 across the Ochsner health system for top marks and net promoter scores: outpatient lab, infusion center, primary care, OB/GYN, ED, and periop services. - Outpatient Quality Metrics: Both Luling and Destrehan clinics are hitting goals on all eight tracked measures. A new primary care physician, Dr. Bartholomew Mule, will start in early 2026. Unique patients treated increased 17.5% year-over-year to just under 22,000. - Financial Report (Miss Sparnack): October 2025 financial highlights: 814 infusion treatments (23% above budget), 299 surgical cases (21% above budget, driven by GI, orthopedics, and urology). Total operating revenues exceeded budget by 13% and are up 10% year-to-date. Income from operations exceeded budget by $1.1 million for October. - Moments of Quality: Mr. Rhodes shared a story about Gordon, a staff member who spent two hours resolving a pharmacy issue for a recently discharged patient to ensure timely medication. A board member shared two personal experiences: Dr. Seymour and the ED team provided excellent care for her grandson with a broken arm, and later for her granddaughter who was diagnosed with a rare condition (4 in 1 million cases) and transferred to Ochsner's ICU. (Board expressed gratitude.) - Hospital Updates: Progress on the intensive outpatient program for behavioral health (building on north side, projected opening mid-April 2026). Surgery redesign plans are being developed; going out for bid in early 2026. Outpatient registration/entrance project will be part of the surgery project. Two new ambulances are being outfitted and will be on the road shortly. New providers: Dr. Bartholomew Mule (primary care), Dr. Jennifer McGee (general surgery), Dr. Emma Sisk (OB/GYN). Ophthalmology practice in Destrehan will expand to five days a week. - Community Outreach: Thank-you to staff who participated in Thanksgiving food drives with Cocktails and King Cakes (turkey giveaway), Ed Reed Foundation (food delivery), and Matthew 25:35 food pantry (supplied vegetables). Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items and reports were approved unanimously. - The board announced a public meeting to be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at the St. Charles Parish Courthouse Parish Council Chambers to consider adopting a resolution ordering and calling an election for the levy of an ad valorem tax in Hospital Service District No. 1. - The next regular board meeting was set for January 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. - The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote (motion by Vial, second by Smith; all aye).

The St. Charles Parish Planning & Zoning Commission met on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers of the Courthouse in Hahnville, Louisiana. The commission considered four home occupation permits (two approved), three minor resubdivision requests (two approved, one postponed), a consecutive minor subdivision request (approved for further processing), and conducted new business including review of commission rules and election of chair and vice chair. All votes were unanimous. No public comments were made during any of the public hearings. Home Occupation Requests - 2025-7-HOP – Rachel Davis requested a home occupation permit for “Luxe Nursing, LLC” at 232 Sophia Drive, Luling. The business will operate primarily as a home office with patient visits at residences. The applicant is a licensed registered nurse with no code violations. The department recommended approval. The commission approved the request unanimously. - 2025-8-HOP – Frank Graff III requested a home occupation permit for “FG3 Investigations and Legal Services, LLC” at 117 Johnson Street, St. Rose. The applicant is pursuing a license from the Louisiana State Board of Private Investigator Examiners (documentation provided). No property violations. The department recommended approval. The commission approved the request unanimously. Minor Resubdivision Requests - 2025-13-MIN – Abdulrahim Kaplan requested resubdivision of one lot into two at 365 Smith Street, Hahnville (Zoning R-1A(M) and R-1A). The proposed lots meet all minimum area and width requirements. The department recommended approval. No applicant present. The commission approved unanimously. - 2025-14-MIN – John Winters requested resubdivision of four lots into four lots with a waiver of width requirements at 154 St. Charles Place, Hahnville (Zoning R-1A(M), R-2, R-1A). Proposed lot 40A is deficient in frontage (43.89 feet, required 75 feet) due to a two-foot spike strip. The department did not object to the waiver; the remaining lots meet standards. The commission approved the resubdivision with the waiver (motion by Mr. Frangello, second by Mr. Price) unanimously. The waiver will require final approval by the Parish Council. - 2025-15-MIN – Laurie Delaune requested resubdivision of one lot into two at 113 Verdin Lane, Paradis. The applicant submitted a letter requesting postponement to the January 2026 meeting. The commission granted the postponement unanimously. - 2025-16-MIN – Simoneaux Family Land, LLC requested consideration of a consecutive minor resubdivision (third within two years) of a portion of Section 38 (Bayou Gauche Island). The ordinance generally prohibits additional minor subdivisions within two years, but allows exceptions by a majority vote. The department noted no infrastructure concerns and supported continued parcelization for code enforcement benefits. The commission approved (motion by Mr. Keene, second by Mr. Falls) unanimously, allowing the applicant to submit a formal application for the January 8, 2026 meeting. If approved then, a total of six new lots would be created within two years. New Business - Commission Rules Review – The rules require review every four years. Members reviewed the current rules; no changes were proposed. The commission voted unanimously to approve continuation of the existing rules. - Election of Chair and Vice Chair – The commission elected Randy PT to continue as Chair and Jack Keene to continue as Vice Chair. Motion by Mr. Price, second by Mr. Falls, passed unanimously with one member (Yak) recused from voting. - Minutes Approval – The minutes from the November 6, 2025 meeting were not included in the packet. The commission deferred approval to the January meeting. Key Outcomes - All four home occupation and minor subdivision requests on the consent-type agenda were approved or postponed as noted, each by unanimous vote. - The waiver for lot 40A in 2025-14-MIN will be forwarded to the St. Charles Parish Council for final approval. - The consecutive minor subdivision request (2025-16-MIN) was approved, enabling the applicant to submit a formal application for the January 2026 meeting. - Existing commission rules were reaffirmed without changes. - The Chair and Vice Chair positions were renewed for the current members. - The November 2025 meeting minutes will be considered at a future meeting. - Staff provided a brief coastal update regarding the Coastal Zone Advisory Committee’s upcoming meetings.

The St. Charles Parish Council held its regular meeting on Monday, December 1, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers of the Parish Courthouse in Hahnville. Seven council members were present (Mobley, Fonseca, Wilson, Pilié, Comardelle, O'Daniels, deBruler); Councilmembers Skiba and Fisher were absent. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, a proclamation, several reports, introduction of new ordinances, public hearings on previously introduced items, appointments to boards, and adoption of the 2026 meeting schedule and leadership. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the regular meeting of November 17, 2025, were approved unanimously (7-0, with two absent). Reports - River Parishes Transit Authority: Chairman Fonseca announced that a request had been received to defer the 2025 report to the Monday, January 12, 2026 parish council meeting. The deferral was granted. - Department of Economic Development & Tourism: Director Patrick Beard presented a detailed report. He highlighted that St. Charles Parish has the eighth-largest economy in Louisiana by GDP while being the 21st-largest by population, producing approximately $210,000 in GDP per resident. The parish's unemployment rate is 3.7%, well below the state average of 4.2%. Approximately $15 billion in announced capital projects are underway, representing over 500 jobs. Beard outlined plans to hire a business engagement specialist (a “concierge”) to provide a one-stop shop for business support, and announced a business meet-and-greet on December 9, 2025 at River Parishes Community College. Council members discussed the need for proactive support for small businesses and the role of the new position in tracking permits and building relationships. - Parish President Remarks/Report: President Matthew Jewell reported on several initiatives: the Ormond Jack and Bore drainage improvement groundbreaking scheduled for December 2, 2025 at 9 AM; clearing and widening of the CC Road Canal, which has improved drainage; progress on the Montz 1 and Montz 2 pump stations, including reopening CC Road to traffic; and the successful biannual emergency drill for Waterford 3 nuclear plant. He also noted that approximately $60 million in capital improvements (drainage, roads, pump stations, recreation) are either completed, under construction, or out for bid. The Toy and Gift Fund Day event is set for December 13, 2025 at the Edward A. Dufresne Community Center. Ordinances Introduced for Publication / Public Hearing (Scheduled for December 15, 2025) The following ordinances were introduced without opposition and scheduled for public hearing on December 15, 2025 at 6:00 PM: - Change Order No. 1 for Edward A. Dufresne Community Center Chiller Replacement (decrease of $30,990.93) - Two ordinances for Limited Tax Bonds (ARC) in the amount of $3,735,000 (File 2025-0362 was postponed indefinitely from introduction; a substantially identical ordinance, 2025-0367, was introduced) - Budget amendment for 2025 Consolidated Operating and Capital Budget - Change Order No. 1 for East Bank Bridge Park Improvements (time extension of 161 days) - Polling Place Lease Agreements with five volunteer fire departments and United Steel Workers Local 750 - Ordinance to amend fees for copies of documents - Ordinance to amend the 2026 Consolidated Operating and Capital Budget Planning & Zoning Petition (Public Hearing & Vote) - File 2025-0358 – Rezoning from R-1A(M) to M-1 at 180 Almedia Road, St. Rose: The applicant, Karen Abate, requested a zoning change from single-family residential with manufactured homes to light manufacturing. The Planning & Zoning Department and the Planning Commission both recommended denial, finding the proposal met none of the three criteria. Councilwoman O'Daniels, in whose district the property lies, spoke against the rezoning, stating it would eliminate a buffer between existing M-1 and residential areas. The public hearing was held with no speakers. The council voted unanimously (7-0) to deny the ordinance. Ordinances Scheduled for Public Hearing (Introduced at Previous Meeting) – Votes Three public hearings were held; no members of the public spoke on any item. Each ordinance passed unanimously (7-0): - File 2025-0341 – Change Order No. 1 (Final) for Phase 3 Water Main Replacement in Bonnet Carre Spillway: Decreased the contract amount by $35,294. (Enactment No. 25-12-1) - File 2025-0342 – Road and Bridges Capital Program Budget for FY 2026-2028: Required by the Parish Transportation Act for $500,000 annual grant; totals $1.5 million for 2026 and $500,000 for each of 2027 and 2028. (Enactment No. 25-12-2) - File 2025-0351 – Installation of an All-Way Stop sign at Pitre Street, Fairfield Oaks Plantation Subdivision, St. Rose: Sponsored by Councilwoman O'Daniels to address safety concerns at a sharp curve. (Enactment No. 25-12-3) Appointments - Board of Adjustment – District II: Deferred to the December 15, 2025 council meeting. - Board of Adjustment – District IV: Mr. Clyde H. Maddox was confirmed for a four-year term (2025-2029). (Resolution No. 6876) - Board of Adjustment – District V: Mr. John T. Lambert was confirmed for a four-year term. (Resolution No. 6877) - Board of Adjustment – District VI: Mr. David P. Bleakley was confirmed for a four-year term. (Resolution No. 6878) - Housing Authority – Council Ex-Officio: Nominations were accepted; Councilwoman Michele deBruler was nominated by Councilman Comardelle. No other nominations were made, and the nomination was closed. The appointment will be formally confirmed at a subsequent meeting. - South Central Louisiana Human Services Authority Board: The vacancy was announced; nominations will be accepted on December 15, 2025. Special Matters - 2026 Parish Council Meeting Schedule (File 2025-0353): The council adopted the 2026 meeting schedule as amended (moved the July 6 meeting to July 13). The amendment and adoption both passed unanimously (7-0). - Presiding Officer for 2026 – Chairman: Councilman Walter Pilié was confirmed as Chairman for 2026 (unanimous). - Presiding Officer for 2026 – Vice-Chairman: Councilwoman Michele deBruler was confirmed as Vice-Chairman for 2026 (unanimous). Key Outcomes - All three ordinances on the public hearing agenda were enacted unanimously. - The rezoning petition was denied unanimously. - Four Board of Adjustment appointments were confirmed (one deferred). - The 2026 meeting schedule was adopted with an amendment. - Council leadership for 2026 was confirmed: Chairman Pilié, Vice-Chairman deBruler. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:00 PM.

The St. Charles Parish Housing Authority (SCPHA) Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on November 25, 2025, starting at 6:30 PM and adjourning at 6:57 PM. The board reviewed and approved routine items, passed four resolutions, received the Executive Director's report on financial and operational updates, and discussed the ongoing RAD/Section 18 Conversion project. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during either of the two public comment periods. Discussion Items - Correction to October 28, 2025 Minutes: Commissioner Bailey noted that the minutes incorrectly listed Ms. Diggs as absent when she was present. The board approved the minutes with that correction. - Financial Reporting: The board accepted the September 2025 financial report into record. The October 2025 report was deferred to the December 16, 2025 meeting due to scheduling delays with year-end financial work, software issues, and staff turnover. The new finance director, Mr. Arthur Allen, was welcomed. - Executive Director's Report: Mr. Jackson provided updates: - Low Rent Program: October 2025 rent income of $16,281.35; 54 of 59 units leased (4 moving-ready, 1 finalizing repairs); waiting list purge completed; 229 applicants on oldest list, 75 on newest; 13 work orders completed. - Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program: 242 vouchers leased; HAP income $304,762.63, HAP payments $276,107.66; 3 new landlords added; 6 port-outs and 21 port-ins leased up. - PHA Web Implementation: First phase complete; system provides improved functionality; first HAP payments planned through new system. - Audit Firm Change: Mike Estes, LLC requested to end engagement; RFP for audit services issued, closing December 22, 2025; extension expected from state. - Resolutions: Four resolutions were presented, discussed, and passed unanimously: 1. Resolution 25-11-25-01: Ratified emergency contract award to P1 Contractors ($89,660) for repair of metal stairs at the Boutte property after initial RFP received no responses. Five bids were received; P1 was the lowest responsible bidder. 2. Resolution 25-11-25-02: Updated financial signatory authority at First National Bank to include new finance director Arthur Allen. 3. Resolution 25-11-25-03: Adopted the 2026 SCPHA Board of Commissioners meeting calendar. 4. Resolution 25-11-25-04: Authorized submission of the 2025 SEMAP certification to HUD. - RAD/Section 18 Conversion Update: Resident meetings held November 5, 2025 were well attended. The application is being revised for resubmission. Standard is evaluating whether to pursue Project-Based Rental Assistance (PBRA) subsidy instead of Project-Based Voucher (PBV) subsidy. A HUD call is being scheduled to discuss 120% rent requests. - Other Matters: Officer elections will be held at the December 16, 2025 meeting. Offices will close at 12:30 PM on November 26 and remain closed through November 28 for Thanksgiving. A maintenance team member will be on call. We Care donated over 30 turkeys to SCPHA families. Key Outcomes - Approved agenda and corrected minutes from October 28, 2025. - Accepted September 2025 financial report; deferred October report to December 16, 2025. - Passed all four resolutions (25-11-25-01 through 25-11-25-04) unanimously. - Noted the RFP for audit services is open until December 22, 2025. - Scheduled officer elections for December 16, 2025 meeting.

The St. Charles Parish Coastal Zone Advisory Committee (CZAC) met on November 21, 2025, at 12:00 PM in the Council Chambers of the Courthouse. The meeting included officer elections, a presentation on coastal use permitting processes, a manager's briefing on current permit applications and activities, adoption of the SHIELD Plan, approval of 2026 meeting dates, and discussion on the Davis Pond freshwater diversion. Election of Officers - Chairperson: John Rome was unanimously elected as chairperson. - Vice Chairperson: Lloyd Landry was unanimously elected as vice chairperson. Presentation by Office of Permitting and Compliance - Alex Hadski and Mark Hogan from the Office of Permitting and Compliance (formerly DNR/DENR) provided an overview of the coastal use permitting process, including the Joint Permit Application (JPA) system, types of permits (general permits, coastal use permits (CUPs), exemptions), and the use of GIS tools (Sunrise database, GIS reports, and mapping tools). - They demonstrated how to find permits and GIS reports online, and emphasized the importance of the "avoid, minimize, mitigate" approach. - Committee members asked questions about permit extensions, rule changes, and the timeline for review. It was clarified that extensions can be granted up to three times for a total lifespan of five years, and that new rules would apply to extension requests. Manager's Briefing (Clay Leday) - October JPA Applications: - SCP-2025-04 (Boat Ramp Repair): Deemed exempt, authorized concurrence received. - SCP-2025-05 (Bayer CropScience Soil Borings): Deemed exempt, pending authoritative concurrence. - Open for Public Comment: - P20250804 (Entergy Power Plant): Proposed 750 MW natural gas power plant at Waterford Station, including transmission lines. No objection recommended. - P20250727 (Cousins Pump Station T-Wall): Flood protection project involving a T-wall, gate crossing, sump area, and stockpile—recommended as a coastal use permit. - Local Activities: - Attended CPRA board meeting (Oct 15) and BitNEP quarterly conference (Nov 6). - Christmas Tree Program: Six drop-off sites (East/West Bank Bridge Parks, IMTT Field, Monsanto Park, Desalman's Playground) plus curbside pickup Jan 5-7, 2026. Trees will be used for marsh restoration at Cuba Island. Resolution Adopting SHIELD Plan (2025-3-CZAC) - A public hearing was held; no public comments were made. - The SHIELD Plan (Stabilizing Habitats Through Infrastructure, Ecology, Land Defense, Access, and Recreational Use) was presented. It includes projects such as Cuba Island shoreline protection, Bayou Cuba shore protection, Tank Pond shoreline protection, Rock Jetty Extension, Lake Salvador interior marsh restoration, and LaBranch area marsh creation. - Committee discussion: The plan is programmatically consistent with the Louisiana Coastal Master Plan. The parish plans minor updates every five years and major updates every ten years. Monitoring of projects post-construction was discussed, with coordination with CPRA. - Motion to adopt: Made by Mr. Landry, seconded by Mr. Cole. Passed unanimously. Approval of 2026 Meeting Dates (2025-4-CZAC) - A public hearing was held; no public comments were made. - The committee approved the schedule of the second Tuesday of each month at noon, with alternative dates on the third Tuesday as needed. - Motion: Made by Mr. Cope, seconded by Mr. Lambert. Passed unanimously. Announcements and Discussion - Upcoming meetings: CPRA Board Meeting on December 10, 2025 at 9:30 AM (State Capitol, Baton Rouge) and Davis Pond Advisory Committee (DPAC) Meeting on December 12, 2025 at 11:00 AM (New Orleans). - Davis Pond Discussion: Committee member Mr. Lambert emphasized the need for greater involvement in Davis Pond operations to address saltwater intrusion, noting that salinity in Bayou Villien is 22.7 ppt, harming aquatic vegetation and fisheries. He requested that salinity monitors be placed at key locations and that real-time data be made available. Manager Clay Leday agreed to add a Davis Pond update to the next CZAC meeting (December 9, 2025) and to explore additional salinity monitors (e.g., through NOAA). Key Outcomes - John Rome elected chairperson and Lloyd Landry elected vice chairperson (both unanimous). - The SHIELD Plan was adopted unanimously. - 2026 meeting dates were approved unanimously. - The committee directed staff to bring a Davis Pond update and salinity monitoring options to the next meeting (December 9, 2025). - Meeting adjourned unanimously.

St. Charles Parish Zoning Board of Adjustment Meeting - November 20, 2025\n\nThe St. Charles Parish Zoning Board of Adjustment met on November 20, 2025 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers to consider four variance requests and a waiver of buffer fence requirement. The board voted on each item, approving three of the four requests after hearing public testimony on the first case.\n\n Public Comments & Testimony\n- Case 2025-40-ZBA (Anna Vieages): Speakers in favor included Gary Go Bear, who supported lowering the elevation to blend with the existing structure and maintain drainage, and Lawrence Pierce, who stated it would look better lower. Speakers against included Buddy Boone (117 Zachary Drive), who expressed strong opposition citing subdivision covenants and property values, and James Plazons (120 Zachary Drive), who opposed the elevation lowering as a variance and noted potential covenant violations. The board clarified that it does not enforce private covenants and the vote was only on the elevation variance.\n- No public testimony was offered for Cases 2025-41-ZBA, 2025-42-ZBA, or 2025-43-ZBA.\n\n Discussion Items\n- Case 2025-40-ZBA: Anna Vieages requested a reduction in the minimum building elevation from 6 ft NAVD88 to 4 ft NAVD88 for an accessory structure at 101 Zachary Drive, Boutte. The board discussed that the variance pertained only to elevation, not covenants. After a motion and second, the vote initially caused confusion but was clarified as passed by a majority of members present.\n- Case 2025-41-ZBA: Keith Pollet requested a reduction from 7 ft NAVD88 to 12 inches above the centerline of the street for a single-family residence at 140 Michael Drive, Des Allemands. The applicant cited knee troubles of family members and consistency with the neighborhood. The motion passed.\n- Case 2025-42-ZBA: Ray Vanacor (represented by Derek Candies) requested a reduction from 6 ft NAVD88 to 12 inches above the centerline for a single-family residence at 17065 Old Spanish Trail, Des Allemands. The applicant cited medical conditions (cardiomyopathy, back surgeries) and loss of primary home in a fire. Neighbors provided letters of support. The motion passed.\n- Case 2025-43-ZBA: Randy Gaspard for CIG, LLC requested a waiver of the required opaque buffer fence at 559 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway, Luling. The applicant noted adjacent properties have chain-link fences and that Louisiana Cat received a similar waiver a month prior. A revised landscape plan was submitted. The motion passed.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- Case 2025-40-ZBA: Motion to approve the elevation variance passed (majority of members present). Applicant to proceed with planning and zoning.\n- Case 2025-41-ZBA: Motion to approve the elevation variance passed.\n- Case 2025-42-ZBA: Motion to approve the elevation variance passed.\n- Case 2025-43-ZBA: Motion to approve the buffer fence waiver passed.\n- Minutes from the October 16, 2025 meeting were approved as read.\n- Meeting adjourned.