The Washington Parish Council met most recently on October 24. The meeting was held in the upstairs courtroom at the Washington Parish Courthouse because voting machines for the November 8 election were housed in the Council chambers. The meeting was preceded by two public hearings concerning authorizing an Act of Establishment of Servitude of Passage or Way for a school bus turnaround and an ordinance authorizing the purchase of property in Angie, Louisiana. There being no one from the public with concerns or questions, the Council began its regular meeting.
Ms. Jackie Tate, bus driver for the Washington Parish School System, had expressed concerns to the council earlier in the year and made a request for aid in securing a turnaround for her school bus on Delta Lane. There being no adequate space for the turnaround, children were forced to exit the bus further from their homes. This occurring during inclement weather made the matter more pressing. Delta Lane is part of the Green Valley Subdivision off Penton Road.
The Council approved an ordinance allowing Parish President Richard Thomas to execute an Act of Establishment of Servitude of Passage or Way for a safe turnaround on Delta Lane. During his President's Report, President Thomas thanked Ms. Tate for bringing the matter to the attention of Parish Government and the Council for addressing the situation. He is pleased that the safety of the children riding Ms. Tate's bus was a priority to the Council.
In other business, the Council approved the appointment of Freddie Jefferson and Willie Peters to the Board of Directors of Fire District 5 and the appointment of Kay Kay Warner and Richard Moody to the Board of Directors of Fire District 6. The terms for all four appointees are two years, expiring on December 31, 2024.
Director of Finance Donna Graham presented the Council with a proposed, amended budget that will be discussed at a public hearing on November 14.
Kenneth Wheat, Public Works Director, reported that he is wrapping up the application for a capital outlay project grant that will address the establishment of a parish event center.
Director of Quality Assurance Alex Sumrall informed the board that he met with the Department of Transportation and Development and the parish is in full compliance concerning bridges. He also thanked the board for continued funding which along with the DOTD funding helps keep parish citizens safe.
Parish President Thomas reminded the Council that early voting will take place from October 24 to November 1. Councilman Rusty Fornea reiterated comments made by Parish President Thomas when he congratulated the Washington Parish Free Fair Association and its hundreds of volunteers for a wonderful fair. Councilman Fornea was especially complimentary of the citizens and businesses who "showed off the community" at its best. Councilwoman Kim Wagner reminded the Council that there are events taking place in Cassidy Park in Bogalusa for the public including the "Boo Parade."
The meeting was then adjourned.
