Public Meetings - St Charles Parish, Louisiana

Meeting called to order at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers, Courthouse. The board approved the January 20, 2026 minutes, received the Librarian’s Report, approved the 90% estimate for the Hahnville Branch Library project, and passed two resolutions: designation of a Records Officer and a budget amendment for 2025. No public comments were offered. The meeting adjourned without further discussion. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – January 20, 2026: Motion by Ms. Robin, seconded. Passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received during either the scheduled or final public comment period. Librarian’s Report - February 2026 Programming: An after-hours Pokemon program at the East Regional Library attracted 134 patrons. Staff also participated in outreach events at JB Martin Career Day, Alamans Elementary Mardi Gras Parade, and Mimosa Park Elementary STEM Fair. - Summer Reading Program: Staff attended summer reading workshops; the event guide will be mailed to all parish households in May. - Keep Louisiana Beautiful “Get Down and Cleanup” Program: To launch in April during Love the Boot Week and National Library Week. The library will receive 24 cleanup kits (4 per branch) available for two-week checkout. The program is free, with replacement supplies provided at no cost. Patrons are encouraged to register with the parish for credit and to participate in the parish’s Trash Bash. - Staff News: Raven Spazali co-presented “Teen Book Fair: Engaging Teens in Collection Development” at the Louisiana Library Association conference. Librarian noted that none of the current hires are new positions; they fill vacancies created by retirements. - No questions were raised about the report beyond the number of kits and registration procedures. Discussion Items Hahnville Branch Library Project Update – Review and Approval of 90% Estimate - The 90% estimate from Woodward, the construction manager at risk (CMR), was received and reviewed with the design team. The current project budget is $9.2 million, and the estimate is within that budget. - Next steps: architects will provide the 100% design set, Woodward will update the estimate, and the board will give final approval and set the guaranteed maximum price at the next meeting. - Discussion covered assumptions and clarifications: excluded items would be handled via change order or included in the 100% estimate. The estimate includes a 200 kW generator, stormwater pollution prevention plan (already in early release package), and exposed MEP ductwork/pipe/conduit only in back-of-house spaces. No items were deemed necessary to add at this time. - Motion to approve the 90% estimate by Miss Lindsay, seconded by Stephanie. Passed unanimously. Resolution 26-2 – Designation of a Records Officer - The resolution designates the Library Director as the Records Officer for the period July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2027. This is an annual appointment that was inadvertently omitted last year. - Motion by Stephanie, seconded by Charlene. Passed unanimously. Resolution 26-3 – Proposed Amendment to the 2025 Budget - The amendment adjusts budget lines that exceeded their appropriations at year-end. Overruns were covered by transferring funds from lines with remaining balances (electronic services and major repairs). No cuts were made to programs. - Key overruns explained: - Line 264 (maintenance of equipment): $2,080 over due to generator repairs at East Regional Library. - Line 427 (contractual services): $15,852 over due to new Paycom payroll fees (parish’s payroll system) not budgeted in 2025. - Line 280 (professional services): over due to geotechnical engineering, boundary/topography surveys for the Hahnville property, labor attorney fees, and bank service charges. - Line 473 (contribution to retirement system) and Line 857 (transfer indirect cost allocation): over because the parish uses a third-party auditor to determine the library’s percentage; the 2025 charge was $450,000, which is higher than budgeted. The librarian will propose a 2026 budget amendment to reflect this ongoing cost. - Motion by Miss Robin, seconded by Stephanie. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved the January 20, 2026 minutes. - Approved the 90% estimate for the Hahnville Branch Library project, moving toward the 100% estimate and guaranteed maximum price at the next meeting. - Adopted Resolution 26-2 appointing the Library Director as Records Officer through June 30, 2027. - Adopted Resolution 26-3 amending the 2025 budget, transferring funds to cover overruns in several line items. - No further business; meeting adjourned. --- Meeting adjourned shortly after 6:30 PM.

The St. Charles Parish Council met on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 6:10 p.m. in the Council Chambers at the Courthouse in Hahnville. All nine council members were present. The meeting lasted approximately 1 hour 26 minutes, adjourning at 7:36 p.m. The agenda included multiple proclamations, a presentation from the St. Charles Community Health Center, reports from the Parish President, public hearings on three ordinances, two resolutions, and appointments to boards. All votes were unanimous (9-0). Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the regular meeting of March 2, 2026, were approved unanimously. - Deviation from Agenda: The Council unanimously approved a deviation to take up File No. 2026-0094 (In Memoriam: Jacob M. Dufrene, Sr.), a matter not on the original agenda. The memoriam was read and presented to the family. - Special Business (Proclamations): The Council read and accepted the following proclamations without debate: - 2026-0095: Recognition of Justin Paul Taravella as an Eagle Scout. - 2026-0096: United Way of St. Charles 5K Bridge Run Day (March 28, 2026). - 2026-0097: Child Abuse Prevention Month (April 2026). - 2026-0098: Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Financial Literacy Month (April 2026). - 2026-0099: Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month (April 2026). - 2026-0100: Need to Feed Month in St. Charles Parish (April 2026). - 2026-0101: Fair Housing Month (April 2026). - 2026-0092: National Community Development Week (April 6–10, 2026). Public Comments & Testimony - Ordinance 2026-0082 (Large Solar Energy Systems): Jeff Arnold, representing American First Energy Project Louisiana, a nonprofit energy policy group, commented. He commended the parish for opting out of state Act 279 and for taking local control. However, he expressed concern that the proposed 300-foot setback for large solar systems is extreme and may cause developers to bypass the parish, noting that 30 feet is the national standard. He stated that a 300-foot setback could make projects financially non-viable. He also mentioned his involvement in drafting solar ordinances for St. Helena and St. Tammany Parishes. - No other public comments were offered on any agenda item. Reports - St. Charles Community Health Center: Gensey White (Operations Manager), Coretta Lagarde (American Heart Association), and Danielle Barrios (Health Coach) presented. Key initiatives include: - A new lipoprotein(a) blood test for inherited heart disease risk, available in April 2026. The center is one of ten nationwide selected for a three-year cohort on this. - Maternal health kits for new mothers (blood pressure cuff, infant CPR kit, resources) available starting March 19, 2026. - A CDC-recognized Diabetes Prevention Program: a 12-month program with weekly sessions for 16 weeks then monthly follow-ups, aiming for 5–7% weight loss and 150 minutes of weekly activity. Open to all parish residents. - Parish President Remarks/Report: Parish President Matthew Jewell provided updates on: - Ribbon cutting for the Sunset Pump Station Bar Screen Cleaner project (automated bar screens, canal widening, $12.5 million project with $6 million from CPRA; phase two will replace pumps and engines). - Ribbon cutting for the Deputy Jeff G. Watson Road extension (1,270 feet of roadway, lighting, parking for future dog park). - Construction progress on the Montesano (Mosquito) Drainage Project (concrete crossing beams, discharge pipes). - Des Allemands Boat Launch: contractor mobilized equipment and a construction barge for new launch installation. - Evangeline Road: replaced nearly 2,000 feet of culverts with larger sizes to improve drainage. - New Sarpy: replacing aging galvanized pipe with polyethylene pipe on St. Charles Street. - West Bank canal cleaning near Pat's Court. - Tour of Emergency Operations Center by Harry Hurst Middle School students. - Book signing event at animal shelter with Mimosa Elementary second graders. - Reminders: Trash Bash (April 18), Swamp School registration, Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra performance (April 18, $25 tickets, sponsored by IMTT, Shell, Valero, Dow). - Ribbon cuttings for Ballet Images (nonprofit ballet) and Gonzo Smokehouse (relocated to larger space). Discussion Items - Ordinance 2026-0082 – Large Solar Energy System (LSES) Development Standards: The ordinance amends the zoning code to add standards for large solar systems, including setbacks (300 feet), landscaping, and glare regulations. Planning & Zoning Director Michael Albert recommended approval, noting it had passed through the Planning Commission and Legislative Committee. Councilwoman O'Daniels thanked staff for proactive work and for addressing solar between 10 and 75 acres with decommissioning rules. Councilwoman Fonseca acknowledged Mr. Arnold's earlier email that spurred action to opt out of state regulations. After public comment and closed hearing, the Council voted unanimously to enact (Enactment No. 26-3-6). - Ordinance 2026-0083 – Substance Abuse Regulations for Parish Employees: Personnel Officer Dayna Parker presented updates to the policy, last amended in 2020. Changes modernize language, clarify expectations for prescription and over-the-counter medications, strengthen enforcement for safety-sensitive positions, expand authority for fit-for-duty evaluations, and clarify random drug testing and reasonable suspicion procedures. The policy's core intent remains to ensure a safe workplace. No public comment or council discussion; approved unanimously (Enactment No. 26-3-7). - Ordinance 2026-0087 – Purchase/Expropriation of 5.72 Acres for Drainage Canal (Luling): Legal Services Director Corey Oubre explained the need to acquire additional property along an existing drainage canal for widening and maintenance. Public Works Director Miles Bingham stated it is the top priority in the watershed and will increase drainage capacity by 30–40%, serving areas north of the railroad and connecting to the Kinler-Paul Frederick project. Councilwoman Wilson asked about timeline; President Jewell noted they have communicated with main parties and hope for an arm's-length transaction. Councilwoman O'Daniels clarified it is not a quick-take expropriation; the parish will first prove public need and then negotiate value. Approved unanimously (Enactment No. 26-3-8). - Resolution 2026-0091 – FY27 Congressional Funding Request for Des Allemands Bulkhead Project: Grants Officer Carla Chiasson requested authority to submit a funding request for phase three of the bulkhead project to the FEMA Pre-Disaster Mitigation Account. Councilman Comardelle asked if it is the next phase; Chiasson confirmed it is phase three, and they are lining up funding for phase two. Approved unanimously (Enactment No. 6895). - Resolution 2026-0093 – Certification of Bidding Compliance for Des Allemands Boat Launch Project: Chiasson presented the resolution as a required deliverable for the CPRA funding agreement. No public comment or discussion. Approved unanimously (Enactment No. 6896). Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous (9-0) on every item brought to a vote. - Ordinances Adopted: - 26-3-6: Amended zoning to add Large Solar Energy System standards. - 26-3-7: Updated substance abuse policy for parish employees. - 26-3-8: Authorized purchase/expropriation of 5.72 acres for drainage improvements in Luling. - Resolutions Adopted: - 6895: Authorized submittal of FY27 congressional funding request for Des Allemands Bulkhead Project. - 6896: Certified compliance with public bid law for Des Allemands Boat Launch Project. - Appointments Confirmed: - Nick Nassar appointed to the River Parishes Transit Authority (term to expire January 9, 2028). - Steven E. Dorand appointed to the Planning & Zoning Commission as District III Representative (unexpired term to May 31, 2029). - Appointment Deferred: The appointment to the Communications District (EMS representative) was deferred to the April 6, 2026 meeting pending receipt of a nomination. - Next Meetings: The next regular council meeting is Monday, April 6, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. (note three-week lapse). A public meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 20, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. to consider a resolution calling an election on ad valorem taxes for Recreation and Council on Aging.

On Monday, March 16, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers of the St. Charles Parish Courthouse, the Legislative Committee (Council as a Whole) met to discuss proposed code revisions for commercial zoning and data centers. The meeting lasted approximately 58 minutes and featured extensive public comment and council deliberation. No formal votes were taken; the discussions were intended to gather input and inform future ordinance drafting. Public Comments & Testimony - Rick Whitney (Hahnville) urged the council not to rush the commercial zoning revisions and cautioned against over-reliance on "highway frontage" and "spot zoning" designations. He emphasized the need to evaluate property characteristics individually. He also expressed strong opposition to data centers, arguing they would harm the parish's quality of life and water resources. - Canya Markey (Hahnville) raised concerns about the potential impact of data centers on residential neighborhoods, infrastructure (water and electricity), and the lack of public notice for specific projects. - Joey Edwards (Norco) provided firsthand accounts of the negative effects of Meta's data center in Richland Parish, citing traffic, noise, and community disruption. He urged the council to carefully consider the risks. - Debra Bicker (St. Rose) opposed data centers, citing risks to electrical grid stability, toxic water usage, and plummeting property values. She called for thorough research and cautioned against prioritizing money over resident well-being. - George Vance (St. Rose) argued that data centers should be limited to industrial districts (M2) due to pollution and power demands, not placed near residential areas. - Jane Broussard (Montz) highlighted the massive water and electricity consumption of data centers and their potential to strain infrastructure. - Mason Graham (Luling) supported the potential for data centers to bring STEM jobs to the parish and argued that water use can be managed with closed-loop systems. He noted his own difficulty finding local work with a STEM degree. - Janet Zammit (Luling) raised concerns about saltwater intrusion in the river and the need to consider water infrastructure limitations. - Katie Carmouche (St. Rose) urged the council to slow down and craft stringent conditional-use requirements for any data centers. - Wendy Grayson (Destrehan) argued data centers employ few people, create noise and pollution, and risk leaving residents with unpaid infrastructure costs. She called for a pause on all new industrial additions. Discussion Items 1. Commercial Zoning Code Revisions (File 2026-0088) Planning and Zoning Director Michael Albert presented a three-part proposal to modernize use categories, update definitions, and revise supplemental regulations for C2 and C3 commercial districts. Key changes include adding contractor shop standards, consolidating uses, and allowing mini-storage to exceed one story when not adjacent to residential. Councilmembers O'Daniels and Pilié expressed support for the effort but asked for more time and input from the Planning Commission. The committee agreed to hold another meeting to refine the proposal before moving forward. 2. Data Center Code Revisions (File 2026-0089) Director Albert noted that data centers are not currently defined in the code, putting the parish at risk of a by-right interpretation. He recommended starting a regulatory framework. President Matthew Jewell proposed a tiered approach: data centers using less than 50 megawatts could be allowed in M1 with restrictions (setbacks, noise limits, screening), while larger ones would go to M2. He emphasized that St. Charles Parish’s existing water and electrical infrastructure is far more robust than rural parishes. Councilmembers Comardelle and Pilié supported a proactive approach to avoid a regulatory vacuum. The committee agreed to continue discussions and develop detailed standards. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the meeting was purely informational and deliberative. - The committee will schedule additional meetings to refine the commercial zoning and data center proposals. - Councilmembers directed staff to solicit further input from the Planning Commission and internal staff. - The public was thanked for their participation, and the committee emphasized the importance of resident feedback in shaping regulations.

The St. Charles Parish Community Action Advisory Board met on March 11, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers of the Courthouse. The meeting included a call to order, prayer and pledge, recognition of quorum, approval of minutes, old business, new business, and adjournment. Key updates were provided on summer programs, weatherization assistance, and community services. Consent Calendar - Approval of past meeting minutes was moved and seconded; the minutes were approved. - Quorum was recognized via a motion and second. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were recorded. Discussion Items - Old Business: Welcome and introduction of new board member Betty (Elizabeth), who shared her background in accounting and disaster inspection. Alternate designation and board vacancies were noted but no formal action taken. - Director's Report (Ms. Diaz): - Summer programs will run June 1st to the second week of July, Monday through Thursday, including summer food and enrichment programs at Harry Hearst (East Bank) and RK Smith (West Bank) sites. Bus service will be provided; parents can bring children for free meals. - A letter will be sent to United Way for sponsorship to support summer food programs. - Food bank demand has increased; the council provided budget funds for purchasing meat and other staples. - Monthly Program Report: - LIHEAP heating program served 114 clients from February to early March, expending $57,050 and impacting 211 household members. Allocation expenditure stands at 83.80%, with about $18,000 remaining and 36 clients pending, estimated to run through March 23. - Crisis assistance (disconnect) served 19 clients, expending $6,616, with a balance of about $29,000. - Cooling program will start April 15 (state change), with client scheduling beginning April 1 and interviews starting April 20. - Emergency assistance program (local funding) served 12 clients, expending $4,263.61, impacting 20 household members (water and rent assistance). - Community service block grant served 10 clients (3 water, 2 electric, 5 rent), expending $3,700.25, impacting 28 household members. - Share the Month program served 5 clients, expending $2,217, impacting 18 household members. - Second Harvest program assisted 61 clients through food distribution. - HOME program: one house in progress with a change order; another house completed inspection and work order; initial appraisal approved on another. Total HOME expenditure for February: $16,055 (including prior houses). - Hell and Safety program: Labor of Love volunteers completed repairs on 3 homes (back doors, storm doors, locks, rotten wood/flooring). Contractors repaired a hiccup (likely HVAC) and a roof leak. Total February expenditure: $3,688.85. - USDA program: Contractors completed work on multiple homes (window, patio door, heat fan light, heat vac replacement). One project in progress; one awarded to plumber starting in March; final inspections done on 3 homes with payments processed. Three homes pending historical/environmental review. February expenditure: $27,428.34. - United Way grant ($36,875) awarded to Volunteers of America of Greater New Orleans for minor repairs; site coordinator in place. No rent was built in February; four homeowners qualified for rent to be built. - Beauty Community Center: 6 participants for activities (homework, craft), 19 attendees for afternoon activities; computer literacy event (1 participant); adult craft (14 attendees); 5 referrals to other agencies. - New Business: Announcement of new pharmacist Miss Mary opening a pharmacy on the boulevard (former Winn-Dixie pharmacy). Board members encouraged to support her. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were recorded beyond the consent calendar (approval of minutes and quorum). - The board will next meet on May 13, 2026; no meeting in April. - Directors and staff will proceed with summer program enrollment and promotion; United Way sponsorship request to be submitted. - Cooling program timeline adjusted per state guidance: start April 15, client scheduling April 1, interviews April 20. - Meeting adjourned with closing prayer.

The Coastal Zone Advisory Committee (CZAC) met on March 10, 2026, at 12:00 PM in the Council Chambers of the St. Charles Parish Courthouse. The meeting included a presentation by the Pontchartrain Conservancy, a manager’s briefing on recent joint permit applications (JPAs) and coastal zone activities, discussion of three Estuarine Management Units (EMUs), introduction of two new EMUs, and several announcements. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of Previous Meeting’s Minutes: Approved unanimously by voice and digital vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered on any of the three public hearings held during the meeting: - P20260070 – Louisiana River Market, LLC (Coastal Use Permit) - P20260142 – Shell Pipeline Company LP (Exempt) - P20260073 – Karvon Mitchell (Returned for additional info) - No public comments were offered on the update on recent coastal zone activities. Discussion Items - Presentation by Pontchartrain Conservancy (PC): - Executive Director Kristi Trail presented the history of Lake Pontchartrain, human modifications to the landscape, and the evolution of PC’s work from water quality to coastal restoration. Key statistics: PC has planted over 100,000 trees since 2010, monitors water quality weekly (20+ years of data), and successfully advocated for banning clamshell dredging in Lake Pontchartrain. Trail highlighted ongoing projects in St. Charles Parish, including tree planting in the LaBranche wetlands and a community flood monitoring project. She also noted that two freshwater siphon projects (one near Manchac Land Bridge and one east of Bonnet Carré to support LaBranche wetlands) have been submitted to CPRA’s Master Plan 29 and are under feasibility study. - Committee members asked questions about potential siphoning from the Bonnet Carré Spillway to benefit dying cypress marshes; Trail expressed support for spoil bank gapping and noted the Army Corps’ role. Mr. Guillaume shared that a PC educational trip 30 years ago inspired the Wetland Watchers program. - Manager’s Briefing (Mr. Leday): - JPAs Received in Past Month: 6 total. - Three with decisions made: P20260030 (St. Charles Parish Government – exempt), P20260120 and P20260137 (Shell Pipeline Company LP – both approved with no conservation plan needed). - State concerns (still open): P20260070 (Louisiana River Market – proposed 30x30 ft platform for pipeline connection, current recommendation: Coastal Use Permit) and P20260142 (Shell Pipeline – anomaly repair, recommended exempt). - Local concern: P20260073 (Karvon Mitchell – returned for additional info, on hold). - Update on coastal zone activities: Mr. Leday presented a consistency determination request from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the 2026 calendar year maintenance dredging of three Mississippi River deep draft crossings (Fairview, Belmont, Rich Bend) at a depth of -53 feet with three feet of advanced maintenance. No public comments were made. - EMU 12, 13, and 14 Discussion: - These three Estuarine Management Units (Salvador, Cuba Island, Davis Pond) were introduced in February and were brought back for discussion. Mr. Leday noted that these EMUs are already fully developed in the local coastal program and that updated soil maps are being sought from South Central Planning. A committee member asked about improved small boat access in Salvador and Cataouatche; Mr. Leday said no specific projects are on the books. Previous comments on Davis Pond diversion flow rates were noted. - Introduction of EMUs 7 and 11: - Mr. Leday introduced EMU 7 (LaBranche Wetlands) and EMU 11 (Alamans Wetlands). These will be formally discussed at the next meeting. The committee is continuing a process to review all EMUs and then approve them as a batch. - Announcements: - Christmas Tree Pens: Mr. Leday reported that approval was finally received. On March 4, 2026, a field trip (with CZAC members John, Courtney, Lewis) visited Cuba Island to mark the three pen sites (total 450 linear feet). Contractors (By Boat Rentals) were working on installation. Committee discussed declining tree collection numbers; possible future partnerships with other parishes and use of non-invasive maintenance material were mentioned. - CPRA Priority Project List 36 (PPL 36): St. Charles Parish submitted four projects; none were selected. The LaBranche Marsh creation project was deemed outside the coastal zone. - CPRA Master Plan 29: Two freshwater siphon projects from the Bonnet Carré Spillway were submitted. Feedback expected soon; a second solicitation period in July–September 2026. - Upcoming Meetings: - CPRA MP29 Regional Workgroup – Barataria: March 12 (in St. Charles Parish) - CPRA Governor’s Advisory Commission: March 5 (recording available) - CPRA Board Meeting: March 18 - Coastal Day: March 30 Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of previous meeting’s minutes. - No votes on JPAs; public comment periods closed with no input. The Louisiana River Market JPA remains under consideration for a Coastal Use Permit. - EMUs 12, 13, and 14 will be included in the final batch approval after all EMUs have been reviewed. - EMUs 7 and 11 were introduced for discussion at the next meeting. - Christmas tree pen project is being implemented; future outreach to other parishes for tree sourcing is planned. Committee members encouraged continued field trips. - CPRA PPL 36 submission was not successful; LaBranche Marsh creation rejected due to coastal zone boundaries. Other projects will be resubmitted in the next cycle. - Next meeting will include further discussion of EMUs 7 and 11 and other business.

The St. Charles Parish Communications District (911) Board met on Monday, March 9, 2026 (2026-03-09) at 5:02 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the St. Charles Parish Courthouse in Hahnville, Louisiana. The meeting opened with silent prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and adjourned at 5:07 p.m. The board approved the February 9, 2026 minutes, received the Secretary/Treasurer and 9-1-1 Director reports, approved an invoice and a recording-system maintenance agreement, and received an announcement about the 2025 legislative order report. No public comments were made. Minutes Approval - Motion by Chief Dufren, seconded by Lieutenant Milton, to approve the minutes of the February 9, 2026 meeting. The motion carried by voice vote with no opposition stated. Report of Officers, Boards, and Standing Committees Secretary/Treasurer Report - Captain Johnny Bourgeois was absent. - One invoice from the St. Charles Herald Guide was presented: invoice number 118901, dated February 28, 2026, in the amount of $76.26, for the publication of meeting minutes. Motion by Chief Ward, seconded by Lieutenant Melton; approved by voice vote with no opposition stated. - The updated expenditure report was distributed. It covers February only, and the figures were just beginning to come in. 9-1-1 Director Report - Commander Revidel Mixon and Angel Maranto presented the report. - On 2/26, the 700 radio system radio console at the NCIC position was randomly shutting down. Bearcom was contacted, a hard reset was performed, and the issue was resolved. - Three trainees are in the beginning phases of training. Criminal justice students attended the 911 portion of their course from 2/25 to 3/3. - Staffing is at 27 total personnel against 31 authorized as of 2/2. New hire Jody Dewey began on 2/5. - Facilities work included Air Care responding because the back AC was not working; SESOIT replacing a monitor at a call-taker position; replacing the heater at the NCIC console; and repairing the EMS console. Air Care determined that the dorm unit was leaking Freon and needed repair, and that repair occurred on 2/23. - A board member thanked the Director for including and following up on the By Gosh tower item. Unfinished/Old Business - No unfinished old business was reported. New Business - The board approved the annual maintenance agreement for the Higher Ground Recording System with Electronic Business Systems. The agreement provides 24x7 full-service onsite hardware and software support for the term 3/14/2026 to 3/14/2027 in the amount of $10,898.15. A motion was made and seconded by Chief Dufren; the motion carried by voice vote with no opposition stated. Announcements - The 2025 legislative order report required each year has been submitted. - No further announcements were made, and the meeting adjourned at 5:07 p.m. following a motion by Chief Port, seconded by Chief Dufren. Key Outcomes - Approved the February 9, 2026 meeting minutes. - Approved the St. Charles Herald Guide invoice for $76.26. - Approved the Electronic Business Systems maintenance agreement for the Higher Ground Recording System for $10,898.15 for 3/14/2026 to 3/14/2027. - No public comments, no unfinished business, and no other new business were brought before the board.

The St. Charles Parish Planning & Zoning Commission met on March 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers, Hahnville. The Commission considered four cases: a home occupation application, two rezoning requests, and a special permit use for an accessory building. Due to only four commissioners present (two absent, one vacant), the chair offered applicants the option to postpone. The meeting also included approval of the February 5, 2026 minutes. 2026-5-HOA – Home Occupation (Envy Lawn Care) - Applicant: Benjamin Neidballa, 10 Oakley Drive, Destrehan (Council District 3). - Background: The application followed a code violation for operating a business without a permit and storing a large trailer on a residential property. Public objections cited neighborhood appearance, visibility, and sidewalk obstruction. The trailer did not comply with home occupation purpose statements or Appendix A Section 4, General Provisions 8 (no payloads over 2,000 lbs in residential front yards). - Staff Recommendation: Approval with stipulation that the trailer cannot be parked or stored at the residence, and that proof of a zoning-compliant storage location must be provided. - Applicant Statement: Neidballa shared his background, growing up in Destrehan, and explained the business now serves over 45 homes. He accepted the stipulations, stating the business would use the home address only for administrative purposes with all equipment stored off-site. - Public Hearing: No one from the public spoke. - Outcome: Motion to approve with stipulations passed unanimously. The decision is final and does not require council approval. 2026-1-R – Rezoning from C-2 to C-3 (Mimosa Park Subdivision) - Applicants: Yvette and Joseph Wolford, Lot ADV-3, Block A, 12429 Hwy 90, Luling (Council District 7). - Staff Recommendation: Approval based on meeting rezoning criteria 1 and 3: consistency with the comprehensive plan (area designated commercial on future land use map) and no incompatibility with existing zoning (C-3 present adjacent and across the street). No infrastructure concerns. - Public Hearing: No one spoke. - Outcome: Motion to approve passed unanimously. The recommendation will go to the Parish Council for formal action. 2026-2-R – Rezoning from M-1 to R-1M (Pecan Grove Plantation) - Applicant: DNA Real Estate, LLC, Lot 19-A, 12350 River Road, Destrehan (Council District 2). - Staff Recommendation: Approval based on criteria 2 and 3: the rezone adds a small area to an existing R-1M parcel (previously rezoned in 2015 and 2024) to accommodate a larger footprint for the second phase of an RV park, and the use is compatible with the adjacent RV park. No infrastructure impacts. - Applicant Statement: Alan Bryant, representing the owners, explained that power line placement forced a slight relocation of the recreation building, requiring the zoning adjustment. - Public Hearing: No one spoke. - Outcome: Motion to approve passed unanimously. The change will be forwarded to the Parish Council. 2026-3-SPU – Special Permit Use for Non-Residential Accessory Building - Applicant: Peyton Robert, 248 Grand Bayou Road, Des Allemands (Council District 4). - Request: To permit a standalone metal building for personal storage on a lot with no primary use in an Open Land (O-L) zoning district. - Staff Recommendation: Denial. While site-specific criteria (setbacks, etc.) were met, the building did not comply with comprehensive plan criteria (criteria 1 and 2) because the area is established as single-family residential. The department placed more weight on the comprehensive plan criteria. - Applicant Statement: Robert requested postponement to the next meeting (April 2, 2026). He explained a phased approach: build and pay off the storage building first, then construct a home. Letters of support from neighbors were provided. The lot already has a water meter and house plans are ready. - Public Hearing: Not opened due to postponement request. - Outcome: Motion to postpone passed unanimously. The case will be heard at the April 2, 2026 meeting. The applicant also inquired about an appeal process if denied; staff advised the planning department could provide details. Minutes & Adjournment - The minutes of the February 5, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. - The meeting was adjourned.

The St. Charles Parish Council held its regular meeting on Monday, March 2, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. All nine council members were present. The meeting opened with a prayer and pledge, followed by approval of the February 9, 2026 minutes. The council adopted eight proclamations, received departmental reports, passed five ordinances and three resolutions, made several appointments, and unanimously rejected a special use permit waiver after public opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - Six residents of the Almedia Plantation subdivision opposed a proposed fleet services waiver (Item 2026-0081) for GM Elite Co. They cited narrow, substandard roads (approximately 20 feet wide), one-way-in/one-way-out access, flooding of the subdivision, existing traffic hazards (including a recent dump truck that took down nine electrical poles), and concerns that heavy truck traffic would worsen safety and drainage problems. Speakers included Tammy Dennis, Joseph Prescott, Carrie Cook, Debra Pfister, Tina Monica, and Betty Swess. Discussion Items - Parks & Recreation Report (2026-0069): Director Duane Foret highlighted 2025 projects (Bethune Park inclusive playground, East Bank Bridge Park renovations, Keller Street playground, levee bike path benches, Monsanto tennis resurfacing, Munch drainage, etc.), new Little League baseball/softball charter, reduced registration fees through partnerships (saving participants $38,000), Prime Time Seniors expansion with 200 new faces, and 65,000 annual visitors. Upcoming 2026 capital projects include boat launch, dog park, IMTT Park playground, and sand volleyball courts. - Parish President Remarks (2026-0070): Matthew Jewell reported on the CPRA annual plan containing $137 million in projects for St. Charles Parish (including Des Allemands boat launch, Cousins Pump Station, Lake Salvador Shoreline Protection, Buy Design Floodgate, etc.), new regional cooperation with New Orleans Mayor, Mardi Gras cleanup, progress on pump stations, and a record 14.5% sales tax increase in January 2026 ($578,552). - Ordinances Scheduled for Public Hearing: Five items were heard and passed unanimously: - 2026-0043: Change order No. 1 for Raw Water Intake Structure Bridge Pile Replacement – decrease contract by $2,370. - 2026-0059: Polling Place Lease Agreement with The Bible Center Church for Precinct 2-3 ($150 per election). - 2026-0060: Professional Services Agreement with Principal Engineering for West Bank Water Treatment Plant E construction – not to exceed $4,814,099 (estimated total project $50 million). - 2026-0062: Permanent polling place change for Precinct 2-3. - 2026-0066: Contract with Centric Gulf Coast Inc. for EADCC Sand Volleyball Courts – $660,000. - Resolutions Adopted: - 2026-0067: Adopted the St. Charles Parish SHIELD Plan (Stabilizing Habitats through Infrastructure, Ecology, and Land Defense) to prioritize coastal restoration projects. - 2026-0068: Recognized the Floodplain Management Plan to improve FEMA CRS rating (currently Class 7; each grade gives residents 5% flood insurance discount). - 2026-0080: Endorsed a lot line width waiver for ICG Investing/Blake Lorio to correct a setback issue. - Resolution Rejected (2026-0081): After extensive debate, the council unanimously voted down a waiver for GM Elite Co.’s automobile fleet services in a C-3 district on Almedia Plantation Road. Council members expressed concerns about substandard roads, flooding, safety, and that the use was incompatible with the residential neighborhood. - Appointments: - 2026-0016: Appointed Nick Nassar (nominee of River Region Chamber of Commerce) to the River Parishes Transit Authority, term expiring January 9, 2028. - 2026-0045: Appointed Steven Dorand to the Planning & Zoning Commission as District III Representative, term expiring May 31, 2029. - Accepted resignations of Ed Griffin (P&Z Commission) and Huey Marcel (Communications District, EMS rep). - Vacancy announced for the Communications District EMS representative; nominations to be accepted at the March 16 meeting. Key Outcomes - All five ordinances passed unanimously (9-0). - Three resolutions adopted unanimously (9-0): SHIELD Plan, Floodplain Management Plan, lot line width waiver. - One resolution failed unanimously (0-9): Special use permit waiver for GM Elite Co. fleet services. - Nick Nassar appointed to the River Parishes Transit Authority. - Steven Dorand appointed to the Planning & Zoning Commission. - Resignations of Ed Griffin and Huey Marcel accepted. - Next regular meeting: Monday, March 16, 2026, 6:00 PM, Council Chambers.

The meeting was called to order at 4:45 PM on February 26, 2026, with board members Karen Raymond, Timothy Vall, and Pamela Smith present. A public hearing was held but no members of the public addressed the board. The meeting included special recognition of the Employee of the Month, an executive session, approval of prior minutes, medical staff credentialing, quality and financial reports, and a CEO update. Key decisions included unanimous approval of minutes and credentialing recommendations, and the next meeting was scheduled for March 25, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the board during the public hearing. Special Recognition - Gordon, a nurse on the med/surg step-down unit, was recognized as Employee of the Month. He was commended for his expertise, team support, and patient care. Gordon also serves as a nursing professor at Chamberlain University. Discussion Items - Medical Staff Credentialing: Dr. Morales presented the Medical Executive Committee (MEC) report from February 10, 2026. The MEC recommended approval of 10 physicians, 1 advanced practice provider, 3 resignations, 2 provisional reviews, 1 change of category, 1 additional provision, 1 additional privileges, and 25 reappointments. The board approved the credentialing package unanimously. - Quality and Patient Experience Report: The report highlighted 375 days since the last hospital-acquired event. Net Promoter Scores (NPS) showed improvement: HCAP scores reached 65 (up from 50), med practices scored 93 (just below top decile), outpatient and ED scores were in the top decile (93 and 77 respectively), and ambulatory surgery scores also top decile. Clinic quality metrics were mostly green, with a few red items attributed to small January sample sizes. - Financial Report: January 2026 results showed 764 infusion treatments (12% above budget, 25% above prior year) and therapy volumes 1.5% above budget, 10% above prior year. Total operating revenues exceeded budget by 6.6%, resulting in income from operations $610,000 above budget. - CEO Report: - A moment of quality was shared: staff arranged transportation for a patient whose car battery died on a cold morning, allowing her to complete her scheduled procedure without rescheduling prep. - The med/surg department won the Rising Star award for largest NPS growth across all AUC hospital facilities. - New hires: Dr. Catherine Dyer (hospitalist) accepted position starting July 27, 2026; Dr. Jacqueline Atala (rheumatologist) and her sister Dr. Natalie Atala will start July 27, 2026; Dr. Bartholomew (primary care) will start April 2026 at the Luling practice. - Dr. McGee, a new general surgeon, has ramped up and is performing many surgeries. - The lab passed a CAP survey with only three minor findings. - Radiology services (mammography, CT, MRI) experienced significant growth; MRI availability nearly doubled by hiring multimodality techs for cross-training. - The hospital celebrated 375 days without a hospital-acquired event. - An upcoming auxiliary fundraiser aims to support scholarships; last year four scholarships were awarded (up from two). Key Outcomes - Approval of Minutes: Motion to approve the January 28, 2026 board minutes passed unanimously. - Approval of Credentialing: Motion to approve medical staff credentialing as presented passed unanimously. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 2:00 PM. - Adjournment: Motion to adjourn passed unanimously.