Public Meetings - St Charles Parish, Louisiana

The St. Charles Parish Coastal Zone Advisory Committee met on June 9, 2026, at 12:00 PM in the Council Chambers, Courthouse. The meeting was called to order by the Chair, with all committee members present except Mr. Giatt. Key actions included approval of previous minutes, updates on Joint Permit Applications (JPAs), discussion of EMU (Ecological Management Unit) boundaries, and training updates. The meeting adjourned after committee announcements. (Note: The meeting agenda listed a 12:00 PM start, but the transcribed remarks opened with "Good evening"; the agenda time is used.) Consent Calendar - Approval of May Meeting Minutes: Motion by Mr. Landry, second by Mr. Martinez; passed unanimously. - Motion to Deviate from Agenda: Mr. Leday moved to move two permits (P20260343 – Entergy and P20260456 – Phillips 66) from the open comment section to the determinations section because they received final state authorization. Motion by Mr. Landry, second by Mr. Lambert; passed unanimously. Manager’s Briefing – JPA Updates (Section III) Mr. Leday presented updates. A) Joint Permit Applications with Determinations (10 total including two moved up) - P20260343 – Entergy: Power pole replacements; state determination: Coastal Use Permit (CUP). - P20260456 – Phillips 66: Repair of site three for RB47 (near Evangeline Road); state determination: No Direct or Significant Impact (NDSI). - P20260073 – Karvon Mitchell: Clearing land off East Harding; local program determination: Denial. (No NAJ received; applicant may appeal within 15 days from May 30, or submit a revised application.) - P20260251 – JOE'S RENTALS: After-the-fact permit for rental cabins near Pier 90 marina; local program determination: NDSI. Finalizing building code compliance. - P20260357 – Express Containers: Local determination: NDSI. - P20260261 – SCP Public Works: Five-year maintenance permit for Peterson's Canal; state determination: CUP. - P20260270 – SCP Public Works: (same as above). - P20260280 – SHELL: Anomaly repair to 20-inch delta pipeline (NORCO to W Project); state determination: CUP. - P20260375 – ENTERGY: Upgrade/rerouting of Waterford 3 transmission lines; state determination: NDSI. - P20260417 – Phillips 66: Additional anomaly repair RB47 (site two), sequential with P20260456; state determination: NDSI. Committee clarification: NDSI means the project may proceed without special requirements; a CUP typically requires mitigation. Exemption is for fast land or areas above five feet. B) JPA Open for Public Comment (State Concerns) - P20260428 – SCP Public Works: Drainage improvements at New SARP pump station (expansion with concrete slab, pumps, generator, riprap, etc.); preliminary state determination: CUP. Public hearing: no comments. Committee requested a copy of the application. - P20260453 – ENTERGY: Expansion of Waterford 500 kV substation (clearing 1.3 acres of upland, filling 6.75 acres, with 10,850 cubic yards excavated, 10,310 cubic yards topsoil/dirt, and 11,900 cubic yards crushed limestone gravel); preliminary state determination: NDSI (uplands, not protected wetlands). Public hearing: no comments. - P20260455 – FAA: Excavation for duct bank, new platform, stairs, and control boxes at light stations near levee (using GO Cell); preliminary state determination: CUP. Public hearing: no comments. B2) Local Concerns - P20260326 – MODERN AMERICAN RECYCLING SERVICES, INC. (MARS, INC.): Additional information requested after previous meeting. The Army Corps is evaluating (120-day turnaround). The committee is waiting on cross-section of mean high/low water levels and river impacts. Mr. Landry shared observations from a site visit: no visible established ramp; aggregate material spread but possibly used as a pseudo-ramp. The property is zoned industrial, material staging is allowed. No public comments. The item will return for a future determination. C) Updates on Recent Coastal Zone Activities 1. Training with Department of Conservation and Energy: Mr. Leday attended a wetland value assessment (WVA) training at Blue Bonnet Swamp (East Baton Rouge Parish) with other coastal zone managers. The training helps ensure consistency between local and state programs in assessing ecological value of proposed project sites. The WVA identifies species, canopy, mid-story, and ground coverage, and hydrology. This supports the habitat impact form submitted with NDSI and CUP permits. Mr. Leday noted that current habitat data is from 1988, and the parish is exploring options to update it. 2. Annual Report to Council: Presented by Director Michael Albert. Summary: 10 local permits approved in 2025, an additional 51 processed by the state; cleared a backlog of 60 applications dating to 2016 by digitizing them; re-engaged the state department; made amendments to Chapter 26 of the parish code; re-established the Coastal Zone Advisory Committee (now meeting monthly); assisted with approval of the Shield Plan and a coastal use brochure; and added a mid-year committee meeting for Davis Pond evaluation. Discussion Items IV. EMU 5 and 6 Discussion These Ecological Management Units (the New SARP Swamp and Ormon Swamp) were introduced in May. No additional updates; the committee may accept them as written. Discussion deferred to a future meeting where all EMUs will be considered together. V. Introduction of EMU 8 (Westbank Community) Introducing the largest EMU in St. Charles Parish, covering approximately 39,500 acres, including Luling and most of the West Bank population. The committee will review it over the next month and discuss at the next meeting. Two documents were provided: a summary one-pager and the full text from the local coastal program. Key Outcomes - Motions passed: Approval of May minutes, agenda deviation (unanimous). - Permit determinations: 10 final determinations (2 moved up), 3 open for public comment with preliminary determinations, 1 pending additional info. - Next steps: The Mars Inc. permit remains on hold pending Army Corps evaluation; a site cross-section requested. - EMUs: EMU 5 and 6 to be formally accepted at a future meeting; EMU 8 to be discussed next meeting. - Announcements: CPRA Board Meeting June 17 at the community center; DPAC Mid-Year Meeting June 23 at the Professional Learning Center (times to be emailed). - Committee concern: Mr. Landry raised a safety issue about sand accumulation on River Road from dump trucks exiting the levee (Entergy construction). Mr. Leday will contact Public Works (MS4) and coordinate with DOTD regarding covering requirements. - Adjournment: Motion by Mr. Landry, second by Mr. Cole; passed unanimously.

The St. Charles Parish Communications District (911) met on June 8, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting began with a silent prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. The board approved the previous meeting's minutes, received the 911 Director's report on system outages and staffing, and unanimously approved a five-year maintenance package for dispatch services. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the May 11, 2026 meeting were approved by voice vote (motion by Lieutenant Laverne, second by Chief Dufrent) with no questions or opposition. Reports and Updates - 911 Director's Report: The director reported several technical incidents and resolutions: - On May 15, the Hahnville Tower Site Amplifier failed, requiring all responders to switch to the 800 backup system. The site was repaired on May 19, and responders returned to the 700 system. - On May 19, the VHF fire paging system experienced issues where unication pagers were not receiving tones. Bearcom redirected the controller switch, resolving the issue. - From May 15 at 12:50 to May 19 at 13:45, the Higher Ground audio recorder did not capture any radio traffic while units were on the 800 backup system. Bearcom and Higher Ground have been notified and are working to resolve this. - Training: Two trainees are in the beginning phase. - Staffing: Total of 23 communications specialists with 31 authorized positions. - Other maintenance: Russ Bassett replaced the heater at the EMS console on May 8; SCSOIT replaced the monitor at the spare SO console; on May 28, communications specialist Tyler Kindler transferred to corrections. - The QA report, training report, and generator reports were attached. - A board member thanked the director and staff for their patience and work on the pager issue. New Business - Approval of Priority Dispatch Maintenance Package: The board approved a new annual One Plan Maintenance Package for system license renewal, services, and support for Medical, Fire, and Police. The five-year plan with Priority Dispatch totals $62,520.96. A motion was made and seconded; the board voted unanimously in favor via voice vote (all ayes, no opposition). Announcements - The next meeting will be held on July 13, 2026, at the 911 Center. Key Outcomes - Minutes of the May 11, 2026 meeting approved. - Five-year maintenance package with Priority Dispatch approved (unanimous). - Next meeting scheduled for July 13, 2026 at the 911 Center.

The St. Charles Parish Planning & Zoning Commission met on June 4, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers of the Courthouse. The commission considered three agenda items: a home occupation permit, a minor subdivision, and a special permit use for a modular home. All items were approved unanimously, and the commission also rescheduled the July 2026 meeting to avoid a conflict with the Independence Day holiday. Public Comments & Testimony - 2026-2-HOP (Home Occupation – Cheree Harris): No public comments were offered during the hearing. - 2026-7-MIN (Minor Subdivision – Zachary Hogan): Paul Hogan, the applicant's uncle and adjacent property owner, expressed support for the lot line shift, stating he agreed to the arrangement. - 2026-4-SPU (Special Permit Use – Keith and Sherry Petit): No public comments were offered during the hearing. Discussion Items - 2026-2-HOP – Thrivance Health dba Reflourish Wellness: Applicant Cheree Harris, a board-certified nurse practitioner, requested a home occupation permit to operate a 100% virtual wellness business from her residence at 128 Duhe Drive, Hahnville. She stated that the business would involve only virtual appointments and would not affect the residential appearance or generate extra traffic. Staff recommended approval, noting the business requires oversight from the Louisiana State Board of Nursing, the Department of Health, and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. The commission unanimously approved the request. - 2026-7-MIN – Resubdivision of Lots 9B1 and 9B2: Applicant Zachary Hogan requested a lot line shift to create lots 9B1A and 9B2A at 815 Barber Road, Paradis. The resulting lot 9B2A would be landlocked, lacking direct street frontage, but the applicant submitted a waiver request citing a 30-foot servitude through adjacent lot 9A established during a previous resubdivision. Staff had no objection to the waiver. The commission unanimously approved the subdivision and waiver. - 2026-4-SPU – Modular Home at 214 Wenger Road: Keith and Sherry Petit requested a special permit use to construct a modular home in an R-1A zoning district. The proposed unit is a four-bedroom, two-bath residential modular home to be placed on a permanent foundation. Staff confirmed the request meets all applicable review criteria. The commission chairman (Mr. Keene) noted a direct relative interest and abstained, leaving the chair to Mr. Price. The remaining commissioners unanimously approved the permit. - Rescheduling of July 2026 Meeting: The commission discussed the regular July 2, 2026 meeting date falling on the day before the July 4th holiday. Several members indicated potential conflicts. A motion was made and seconded to move the meeting to July 9, 2026. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved 2026-2-HOP: Unanimous approval of the home occupation permit for Cheree Harris. - Approved 2026-7-MIN: Unanimous approval of the minor subdivision and waiver for Zachary Hogan. - Approved 2026-4-SPU: Unanimous approval of the special permit use for the modular home (with one abstention due to a direct relative interest). - Rescheduled July Meeting: The July 2, 2026 meeting was moved to July 9, 2026. - Approved Minutes: The minutes of the May 7, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Meeting adjourned after approximately 12 minutes.

The St. Charles Parish Council met on Monday, June 1, 2026, at 6:09 pm in the Council Chambers, Courthouse, Hahnville. All nine councilmembers were present. The council approved the May 18 minutes, recognized the Hahnville High School Lady Tigers, proclaimed Juneteenth, created a Department of Engineering, confirmed two department directors, adopted a data center zoning ordinance, approved property sales and resolutions, and set 2027 budget hearing dates. The meeting adjourned at approximately 9:05 pm. Opening and Routine Approvals - Called to order by Chairman Walter Pilié; prayer and pledge led by Pastor Troy D. Smith Sr. of True Vine Baptist Church, Hahnville. - Chairman Pilié expressed condolences on the passing of former council member Richard “Dickie” Duhe and recognized his 24 years of service. - Minutes of the regular meeting of May 18, 2026 were approved 9-0. Special Business and Proclamations - The council recognized the Hahnville High School Lady Tigers for winning the Division I Non-Select state softball championship. The team finished 24-12, defeated Live Oak 6-5 in the final, and was the only team in any division required to win five playoff games. - The council proclaimed June 19, 2026 as Juneteenth National Independence Day in St. Charles Parish. Ryant Price accepted the proclamation on behalf of the St. Charles Parish NAACP. Public Comments and Testimony - Milton Allemand (Hahnville) raised concerns on multiple agenda items. On the engineering department, he questioned past retention of engineering staff and later urged minimum qualifications for the director. On data centers, he called for a moratorium, arguing the proposed buffers and noise limits were unproven. On professional-services contracts, he questioned whether RFQs were being used. On the Lake Salvador IGA, he said responsibility provisions meant someone would never be responsible if the project failed. - Victor Buccola (Destrehan) asked whether the new engineering department would reduce outside-engineer work or add another layer of government, and suggested future duties be subject to a supporting council resolution. - Christopher Schaller (Norco) opposed sale of the Eastern Greenbelt Park lots, citing drag racing on Good Hope Street and the loss of the only play area for neighborhood children. - Michelle Bourg, Vice President of Business and Economic Development for Entergy Louisiana, supported the data center zoning ordinance, citing developer interest from Amazon, Google, and Meta, and said a new Meta partnership would bring about $2.8 billion in benefits to Entergy customers over 20 years. - Flo Dumas, Chair of the River Region Chamber of Commerce, supported responsible data center development as a way to diversify the economy while acknowledging resident concerns. - Claude Adams (Luling) and Mike Nabut (Boutte) supported the Birdies Dustbowl Store alcohol license waiver. Adams said Hope Church offered no objection, and Nabut said the store would improve a blighted property. Reports - Planning and Zoning Director Michael Albert reported the department's 2025 accomplishments, including lowering the parish's Community Rating System rating to 6, which gives a 20% reduction in flood insurance risk premiums; re-establishing the Coastal Zone Advisory Committee; and issuing 763 construction permits. The department is working toward a CRS rating of 5. - Parish President Matthew Jewell reported that the 2026 hurricane season had begun, Diane Pump Station capacity had been increased by 34,000 gallons per minute, sand volleyball courts were under construction at Edward A. Dufren Community Center, and April sales tax collections were up about 1% (5.92% year-over-year). Discussion Items - 2026-0171 – Department of Engineering ordinance: The council unanimously approved a motion to deviate from the agenda order and take up the item early. The ordinance creates a Department of Engineering, requires the director to be a licensed professional engineer, moves engineering out of the Department of Public Works, and does not backfill the assistant public works director position. After public comment and council discussion, the ordinance passed 8-1, with Chairman Pilié voting no. Pilié said he wanted minimum qualifications for the director; President Jewell responded that confirmation by the council provides a check and balance. Enactment No. 26-6-1. - 2026-0186 – Brandon Bernard confirmation: Confirmed 9-0 as Director of the Department of Public Works. - 2026-0187 – Miles Bingham confirmation: Confirmed 9-0 as Director of the Department of Engineering. Bingham described his 40-plus years as a professional engineer, including oversight of major roadway and drainage projects. - 2026-0162 – Eastern Greenbelt Park sale to Shell: Approved 9-0 for two Norco lots for $20,000; the lots appraised at $1,000 because of restrictive covenants and servitudes. Enactment No. 26-6-2. - 2026-0170 – Data Center zoning ordinance: Approved 9-0 as amended. The ordinance adds a definition for data centers, allows them in M-1 and M-2 districts, and adds performance standards. The council adopted amendments changing the noise section's 'notwithstanding' language from 'inconsistent with' to 'less restrictive than' and adding a new adjacency definition. Council discussion included concerns that the 55-decibel noise limit may be too low; Chairman Pilié said further acoustic analysis was needed and President Jewell said the administration would continue reviewing industry practices. No data center applications are pending. Enactment No. 26-6-3. - 2026-0172 – All South Consulting Engineers agreement: Approved 9-0 for surveying services for Milling Drainage Improvements (Project No. P260501) at a lump sum of $85,575. Enactment No. 26-6-4. - 2026-0182 – Subdivision waiver for Glendon Nelson Jr.: Approved 9-0 for a waiver from subdivision block arrangement requirements. Enactment No. 6910. - 2026-0183 – Lake Salvador Shoreline Protection IGA: Approved 9-0, authorizing an intergovernmental agreement with the Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority for engineering and design. The project is a 15-mile shoreline protection effort; funding includes a $3 million CPRA appropriation and $377,781.75 in additional GOMESA funding. Enactment No. 6911. - 2026-0185 – Birdies Dustbowl Store alcohol license waiver: Approved 9-0, waiving the 500-foot distance requirement from a protected organization and allowing a Class B retailer alcohol license at 12590 River Road, Destrehan. The Planning and Zoning Department had recommended denial. Enactment No. 6912. - 2026-0156 – Communications District appointment: Confirmed Lt. Devin Lavergne 9-0 to the St. Charles Parish Communications District representing the Sheriff's Office for an unexpired term ending August 19, 2027. Enactment No. 6913. - 2026-0181 – Arc of St. Charles appointment: Vacancy announced; nominations for an ad hoc health professional member will be accepted on June 15, 2026. No action taken. - 2026-0169 – Official Journal appointment: The council opened a sealed bid from the St. Charles Herald-Guide and appointed it Official Journal for June 2026 through June 2027 at $2.96 per column inch for set type and $2.46 per column inch for scan-ready advertising. Passed 9-0. Enactment No. 6914. - 2026-0163 – Sewerage District No. 1 Eastern Greenbelt Park sale: With the council sitting as the Sewerage District No. 1 governing authority, approved 9-0 the sale of Lots 31, 32, and 33 in Good Hope Subdivision, Norco, to Shell for $80,000. Enactment No. 26-6-5. Combined with the earlier $20,000 sale, the total purchase price was $100,000 against a combined appraisal of $55,000; President Jewell said proceeds would be reinvested in recreation in Norco. - 2027 Budget calendar: Accepted 9-0, setting public hearing dates for the 2027 budget on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 9 am; Thursday, October 22, 2026 at 1 pm; and Monday, October 26, 2026 at 6 pm. Introduced for June 15, 2026 Public Hearing - 2026-0174: Ordinance approving Amendment No. 1 to the GIS Engineering, LLC professional services agreement for the Turtle Pond Pump Station and Upstream Drainage Improvements (Project No. P250901), increasing the contract by $802,095 to a total of $1,411,180.50. - 2026-0184: Ordinance approving a professional services agreement with Royal Engineers and Consultants, LLC, for the Lake Salvador Shoreline Protection Project (Project No. P260502), in an amount not to exceed $3,377,781.75. Notices and Announcements - Upcoming meetings were announced for parish boards and the next St. Charles Parish Council meeting on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 6 pm. - Election reminders for the June 27, 2026 election were read, including early voting dates and a permanent Precinct 2-3 polling place change from Mimosa Park Elementary School to The Bible Center Church, 422 Barton Avenue, Luling. Key Outcomes - All action items passed 9-0 except the Department of Engineering ordinance, which passed 8-1 with Chairman Pilié casting the sole no vote. - Brandon Bernard and Miles Bingham were confirmed as directors of Public Works and Engineering, respectively. - The data center zoning ordinance was adopted with a noise provision making the section supersede less restrictive laws and an explicit adjacency definition. - The council did not adopt Milton Allemand's requested moratorium on data centers; instead it adopted the data center ordinance. - The council approved both parts of the Eastern Greenbelt Park sale to Shell and directed the combined proceeds to Norco recreation. - The next regular council meeting and nomination session is scheduled for Monday, June 15, 2026, at 6 pm.

The Hurricane Protection Projects Committee (Council as a Whole) met on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 5:54 PM in the Council Chambers to receive updates on federal and local hurricane protection and storm damage risk reduction projects. Presentations were delivered by representatives from the Pontchartrain Levee District (PLD), the Lafourche Basin Levee District (LBLD), and St. Charles Parish. The meeting was held on the first day of the 2026 hurricane season. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing. Discussion Items - Pontchartrain Levee District (PLD) Report (Ms. Jane Dufour, Civix): Ms. Dufour highlighted PLD's responsibilities for 118 miles of mainline Mississippi River levee, including daily patrols, maintenance, and serving as non-federal sponsor for Corps projects. The St. Rose Levee Enlargement in St. Charles Parish is nearing completion; levee ramps and access road are slated for completion in mid-to-late June 2026, with turf establishment by mid-to-late July. The Lake Pontchartrain and Vicinity (LPV) Hurricane Storm Damage Risk Reduction System includes earthen levees, floodwalls, drainage structures, and pump stations. The Illinois Central Railroad swing gate near the airport became inoperable in February 2022; interim repairs allow manual closure, and a replacement hinge will be installed after the 2026 hurricane season. PLD has a 35% cost-share commitment for future LPV improvements, including armoring and levee lifts due to subsidence; the next lift for remaining sections is forecast for 2028-2030. The West Shore Lake Pontchartrain (WSLP) project includes 14 construction contracts; 12 have been awarded, with completion targeted by 2030. The Corps estimates total construction by summer 2027. The wetland mitigation component includes the river reintroduction to Maurepas Swamp (Maurepas diversion). - Lafourche Basin Levee District (LBLD) Report (Mr. Donald Ray Henry, Executive Director): Mr. Henry presented the district's master plan, budget, and ongoing projects. He noted that St. Charles Parish provides 66% of the district's millage (3.88 mills). He expressed concern about erosion on the recently completed Sunset levee lift, which is fresh and fragile; washouts from Gulf winds are occurring, and heavy equipment cannot access the area. He suggested barging in material for repairs. The district secured $8 million for engineering and design and $23 million in construction funds for the Upper Barataria Basin (UBB) project. The UBB project is not fully funded; the Corps is proceeding incrementally. Mr. Henry also mentioned a $300,000 project for a water line in St. James Parish, with construction imminent. - St. Charles Parish Report (Mr. Sam Scholle, Senior Projects Manager): Mr. Scholle provided updates on several local projects: Munch 1 Pump Station (estimated completion November 2026) – intake section and MCC building foundation under construction, bar screens due to ship in June. Munch 2 Pump Station – walls poured, with a protective wall system required for deep excavation (minus 14.5 feet) to meet Corps 408 permit requirements. Sunset Pump Station Upgrade – completed in February 2026, including widening of the canal system (removal of 67,000 cubic yards of material) and new electrical feeder system. Cousins T-wall Project – a $16.7 million grant secured (total estimated cost $23 million); the project includes widening the canal, larger box culverts, and a 6+ acre sump. The T-wall is built to +16.5 feet (50-year standard). The excavated clay (70,000 cubic yards) will be stored on site and used for a future levee lift to elevation 8 in the 2029 master plan. Engineers Canal Pump Station – still in engineering phase; design must allow existing station to remain operational during construction. - Council Discussion: Councilman Pilié asked about ultimate completion dates for the East Bank and West Bank hurricane protection levee systems. Mr. Kyle Galloway (GIS Engineering) stated that for the Upper Barataria system, an interim closed system by 2029 is unlikely, with 2030-2031 more realistic. Mr. Scholle noted that the West Shore project is targeted for 2030, but the Upper Barataria project lacks full funding and full engineering. Parish President Jewell raised concerns about erosion on the Sunset levee lift due to ATV and golf cart traffic, and suggested obtaining additional levee servitude to widen slopes for easier maintenance. Councilman Comardelle asked about hydraulic studies for the barge gate, specifically where water would go when the gate is closed. Mr. Galloway responded that the levee district hired Olsen (formerly FTN) to model this; the worst induced flooding on the hurricane side of the interim project was about five inches, and in extreme cases that water would be on top of already flooded areas. Mr. Scholle noted that the Corps gave a best guess of 6-12 inches of additional water for the final project. Mr. Galloway added that the Corps' stacking factor analysis for the Chiefs report did not produce a specific number for the Upper Barataria system. Key Outcomes - No formal action was taken on the report. The committee received the information and discussed the projects. - A motion to adjourn was made by Councilmember O'Daniels, seconded by Councilmember Fisher, and passed unanimously (9-0) at approximately 5:54 PM.

The St. Charles Parish Hospital District Board met on May 28, 2026, to present annual employee awards, introduce a new director of nursing, handle routine approvals, and receive quality, finance, and hospital reports. Note: the meeting metadata gives the date as May 28, 2026, while the transcript's spoken introduction references May 27, 2026. No public comments were offered during the public hearing portion. Special Recognitions - 2025 Betty Protera Support/Clerical Employee of the Year: Carson Berg. Her nominating leader said Berg consistently goes above and beyond for inpatients and outpatients and brings positive energy to the clinic. - 2025 Betty Protera Professional/Technical Employee of the Year: Melissa Landry. A colleague said they did not nominate Landry but would have, calling her fully deserving of the award. - 2025 Nurse of the Year: Catherine, a house supervisor who started in EMS in 1996 and reaches 30 years at the hospital this year; the board praised her support for staff and patients. - 2025 Supervisor of the Year: Josh Nickens, an EMS leader who stepped in as interim EMS leader and served beyond the expected short term. - A second supervisor recognition was announced for 2025; the transcript is garbled, referencing both Jen Neal and Danielle Shaysan, with remarks praising Danielle's flexibility, reliability, and willingness to help throughout the hospital as a house supervisor, infusion support, CAP lab helper, and interim med-surge manager. - Q1 2026 Provider of the Quarter: Dr. McGee, general surgeon, recognized in absentia; nominations came from co-workers, other physicians, clinic staff, and surgery department employees. - Jessica Dufren was introduced as the hospital's new Director of Nursing, a nurse for 19 years and a longtime parish resident, responsible for all clinical areas. - Chairman Mr. Lennon was recognized for nearly 10 years of board service and five years as chairman, with a happy birthday. Public Comments & Testimony - The chair opened the public hearing three times, but no members of the public came forward to address the board. Consent Calendar / Routine Approvals All routine motions passed unanimously by voice vote. - The prior-year audit approval was tabled until the next board meeting (motion by Mr. Biel, second by Ms. Raymond). - The board moved into executive session and later returned to regular session (motions by Ms. Smith, second by Ms. Raymond). - Approved a resolution canvassing the returns and declaring the results of the special election of May 16, 2026 (motion by Ms. Smith, second by Ms. Raymond). - Approved the Board of Commissioners meeting minutes of April 29, 2026 (motion by Mr. Biel, second by Ms. Raymond). - Approved the medical staff executive committee reports from May 21, 2026 (motion by Mr. Biel, second by Ms. Raymond); the report noted the appointment of Dr. Paul Delahousie as future medical director and approval of prep written order guidelines, standing orders, and the 2026 emergency preparedness plan schedule. - Approved the credentialing report: 11 provisional reviews, one change of category, and 42 reappointments, with files reviewed under the medical staff bylaws. Discussion Items & Reports - Quality and patient experience: The CEO reported that the last inpatient quality event was February 12, 2025 — 469 days prior. Patient-experience scores are in the top quartile for inpatient and medical practice and in the top decile for outpatient, emergency department, and ambulatory surgery; the two areas not yet green have plans to reach green by the end of the year. - Clinic quality (Dr. West): Clinic quality metrics improved, with no red scores; most yellow metrics are within 1% of target. New or upcoming providers include Drs. Rayburn and Sisk (OB/GYN), Dr. Bartholomew (primary care), an LCSW social worker in behavioral health, Dr. Natalia Atala (rheumatology, starting in July), and a malignant hematologist expected in July or August. - Finance: Monthly financial statistics were not available because the hospital is converting to a new financial software system; full financials will be reported in June. Epic surgery dashboard data shows surgeries 2% ahead of budget year to date, including general surgery 33% ahead, urology 19% ahead, and podiatry and GYN also ahead. - Hospital report: The CEO expressed sincere thanks to the parish for passing the hospital millage, calling it critically important to continuing operations, expansion, and quality care. The hospital again received the Leapfrog Grade A patient safety award, with the highest score across all Ochsner facilities, and earned a five-star rating on CMS inpatient HCAHPS patient-experience measures. Planned construction includes a flooring project on the hallway to the cafeteria and preparation of the north entrance, new registration, and surgery department. The behavioral health intensive outpatient program recently opened. Six hospital auxiliary scholarships were awarded — three to Hahnville students and three to Destrehan students. Hospital Week celebrations were noted, with thanks to Dr. West. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous; the audit approval was deferred to the next meeting. - The next hospital district board meeting is Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.; the board adjourned until then.

The St. Charles Parish Housing Authority Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on May 27, 2026, at 6:04 PM. The board approved the agenda, prior meeting minutes, and financial reports for April 2026, received updates on property vacancies, the audit, and the RAD/Section 18 conversion, and adopted a resolution to amend the retirement joinder agreement to allow employee loans. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Motion by Commissioner Bailey, seconded by Ms. Diggs, carried unanimously. - Approval of Minutes (April 28, 2026): Motion by Ms. Diggs, seconded by Mr. Joseph, carried unanimously. - Approval of Financial Reports (April 2026): Motion by Mr. Bailey, seconded by Ms. Diggs, carried unanimously. The financial report detailed Section A program balances (beginning $843,503.26, ending $835,813.43) and Low Rent program balances (beginning $1,138,105.31, ending $1,142,691.11). Mr. Allen noted that outstanding checks for the Low Rent program are being processed and should be cleared by the next board meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present during the two public comment periods. Public comment was closed. Discussion Items - Executive Director's Report: Mr. Jackson reported on the April 2026 low rent operations, noting 129 total units with 49 leased, 70 on mod, and 10 vacant. Delinquent rent notices were issued on April 6. The waiting list has 104 applicants, and the two- and three-bedroom waiting list will reopen from May 27-29, 2026. 13 work orders were completed. No admissions or evictions occurred. Since the report, two units have been leased, leaving eight vacancies (two move-in ready, six in process). The HCV (Section 8) report showed 237 vouchers leased, 7 searching, 3 new admissions, and no new landlords. Total HCV income for April was $307,469.68. He also updated that the capital fund grant year 2024 obligations were 100% met by May 5, 2026, and that a new cloud-based security camera system with license plate reader is being installed by July, which may allow sheriff's office direct access. - Audit Update: Mr. Jackson informed that the new auditor (Aprio) began fieldwork on May 27 and is progressing well. The audit is expected to be completed by the end of the week. - Resolution 2605-2601 – Amendment to Heart Retirement Joinder Agreement: The staff presented that the amendment allows vested employees to take loans against their retirement account balances, a feature not originally included. The resolution authorizes the board chair, executive director, or designee to sign the amended agreement. The board passed the resolution unanimously. - RAD Section 18 Conversion Update: Mr. Jackson reported that the environmental review identified that two of three properties lie in a designated floodplain per updated FEMA maps, requiring an eight-step HUD process (est. 45-90 days each for completion and HUD review) to proceed. Raising the properties is not financially feasible. A meeting with HUD is scheduled that Friday to receive guidance. The timeline for construction will be pushed back, but the team is confident that the areas have not historically flooded catastrophically and will seek expedited clearance. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items (agenda, minutes, financial reports) approved unanimously. - Resolution 2605-2601 adopted unanimously to amend the Heart Retirement Joinder Agreement. - The board entered executive session at 6:25 PM to discuss personnel matters and returned at 7:00 PM. - The meeting adjourned at 7:07 PM. Note: The transcripts record the meeting date as Tuesday, May 26, 2026, but this summary uses the provided date of May 27, 2026 as instructed.

The St. Charles Parish Zoning Board of Adjustment met on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers to consider three variance requests. The meeting was called to order with the Pledge of Allegiance. The board took action on two requests, tabled one, and approved the minutes from previous meetings. Public Comments & Testimony - Councilman Willie Camerdale (112 Bayou State South, Des Allemands) spoke in favor of the variance request for the Southern Boat and RV storage project (2026-19-ZBA). He stated that he had walked the property with applicant Evan Schaubhut and neighboring property owner Kelly Candies. He noted that the property is substantially higher than residential properties to the west, and runoff goes into an existing drainage canal. He expressed concern that overly strict elevation requirements could drive businesses out of St. Charles Parish, citing that a competitor in Lafourche Parish built a similar facility in four months without delays. He urged the board to support the variance to keep young businesses in the parish. Discussion Items - 2026-18-ZBA (St. Charles Parish Department of Recreation): Request to waive required tree plantings and permanent dust-free parking for a boat launch at 1541 WPA Road, Des Allemands. The applicant was not present. A motion to table the item was made and seconded. The motion passed unanimously, and the item was tabled until the next meeting. - 2026-19-ZBA (Evan Schaubhut and James A. Roberts): Request to reduce the minimum building elevation from 6 ft. NAVD88 to 12 inches above the centerline of the street for proposed commercial buildings to provide boat and RV storage at 17305 US Highway 90, Des Allemands. The applicant, Evan Schaubhut, explained that they have worked closely with the parish, invested heavily in engineering and drainage plans, and have the support of neighboring property owners. He stated that raising the project higher than surrounding conditions could create more drainage concerns. He noted that the facility is low-impact (no living areas, no restrooms, all electrical components above flood elevation). Councilman Camerdale spoke in support (see Public Comments). The board questioned whether the structure would include living areas (no) and about elevation. The public hearing was opened and closed with no opposition. A motion to accept the variance as written was made and seconded. The motion passed unanimously. - 2026-20-ZBA (Robert & Emily List): Request to reduce the required setback for a generator at 200 Savanna Drive, Luling. The applicant, Robert List, stated they are installing a whole-house generator on the west side of the house, close to the property line. The generator will be on a concrete slab, raised, and the adjacent window will be sealed with plexiglass. Board members asked about carbon monoxide monitors (present), the seal on the window (will be glued in), and exhaust direction (pointing toward the front of the house). A board member with volunteer firefighting experience warned about carbon monoxide risks from soffit vents and advised extending the exhaust away from the house. The public hearing was opened and closed with no speakers. A motion to accept the variance as written was made and seconded. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - 2026-18-ZBA: Tabled to the next meeting due to applicant absence. - 2026-19-ZBA: Approved unanimously. The variance to reduce the minimum building elevation to 12 inches above the centerline of the street was granted. - 2026-20-ZBA: Approved unanimously. The variance to reduce the required setback for the generator was granted. - Minutes Approval: The board approved the corrected minutes from February 19, 2026 (motion by Mr. Bicola, seconded by Mr. Maddox, passed unanimously). The board also approved the minutes from April 16, 2026 (motion by Mr. Maddox, seconded by Ms. Simmons, passed unanimously, with Mr. Maddox noting he was not present for that meeting but voting yes). - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at approximately [time not specified] by a motion from Mr. Maddox, seconded by Father Lambert.

Note: The meeting transcript indicates the date as May 19, 2026, but the official metadata records the meeting as occurring on May 20, 2026. This summary uses the official date. The Library Board of Control met to approve prior meeting minutes, receive the librarian's report, and consider the estimated budget for the Hahnville Branch Library project. The board approved the 100% construction cost estimate for the project. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the March 17, 2026 meeting were approved by a motion from Miss Armstrong, seconded by Miss Toulier. The motion passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were scheduled or presented. Discussion Items - Librarian's Report (Miss Benedict): - Summer Reading Program 2026: The program begins June 1, 2026, with kickoff parties at all branches. The theme is "Plant a Seed Read." Over 240 free programs are planned. Patrons can sign up via the library website or BeanStack app. As of the day before the meeting, 350 patrons had already registered, double the number from the same time last year. The community reading goal is 2,750,000 minutes. Completion prizes include pop-it balls (children), puzzle barrels (teens), tote bags (adults), and grand prizes sponsored by Friends of the Library. - Seed Library: A new seed library will launch in June at the West Regional Library, utilizing an old card catalog and partnering with LSU AgCenter. - Facilities: Phase two of chiller unit replacement at East Regional Library is out for bid; pre-bid meeting May 21, 2026 (Thursday) at 2 p.m., bids due June 4, 2026. Stucco repairs are also planned. Roof repairs and painting have been completed at various branches. - Staffing Changes: Several hires and promotions were reported, including Heather Butera as NORCO circulation supervisor, Michelle Terrabone as full-time circulation assistant, and others. Additional positions are being filled. - Unfinished Business: Hahnville Branch Library Project Update: - The early release package (surcharge and site prep) is underway. An unforeseen condition—a buried swimming pool—was discovered and removed within the approved contingency. - Architect Justin and CMAR representative Lauren presented the 100% construction estimate (Guaranteed Maximum Price, GMP). The total GMP, including the early release package, is $9,042,905, down approximately $114,417 from the 90% estimate of $9,157,322. Key savings came from reducing steel escalation contingency by locking in steel pricing early, and from competitive re-bidding of electrical and other trades. The estimate includes a 2% contingency ($226,000). Additional savings from electrical fixture changes (an estimated $30,000–$40,000) will be applied as a change order. - Board members expressed appreciation for the cost savings achieved through the CMAR process. Key Outcomes - Approval of 100% Estimate for Hahnville Branch: The board unanimously approved the 100% construction estimate (GMP) of $9,042,905. This will proceed to contract preparation and then to the St. Charles Parish Council for final approval. - Approval of Prior Meeting Minutes: Minutes from March 17, 2026, were approved. - Meeting Adjourned: The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.