The Washington Parish Council held its most recent regular meeting on Monday, October 21. The first item on the agenda was the approval of minutes from the October 7 regular meeting. Next, was the introduction of an ordinance to enter into a contract with Landworks, Inc., for the operation of the Choctaw Road Landfill. A vote will be taken on the ordinance at the next regular meeting on November 4, 2024.
The Council then voted to amend the load rating for the Mt. Pleasant Bridge, as part of the Annual Certification of Compliance with the State of Louisiana Off-System Bridge Replacement Program.
According to Public Works Director Alex Sumrall, the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) recently inspected the bridge. The load rating at that time was 10-15 tons and upon inspection, it was dropped to 5 tons. Sumrall further explained that this is an old bridge. He also speculated that the replacement of pilings could increase the load rating, and this is something to look at for this well-traveled roadway. Meanwhile, trucks over the weight limit will have to use alternate routes.
The final item on the agenda was the approval for Washington Parish President Ryan Seal to enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement with the 22nd Judicial District Attorney. Finance Director Donna Graham elaborated that this is at the request of District Attorney Collin Sims. The money (amounting to $50,000 per year) will be drawn from the Opioid Fund to finance investigations to research opioid deaths beyond being labeled as an overdose.
Sheriff Jason Smith offered further insight into the matter. In previous years, the 22nd Judicial District has not pursued opioid-related deaths beyond the Coroner listing the cause of death as an overdose. However, families want more accountability, and the district attorney will be prosecuting dealers for homicides.
Sheriff Smith added that this is a new program, and none have gone to trial yet. This additional funding from parish government will assist investigators in "connecting the dots" for stronger prosecution cases.
Sheriff Smith also used public participation to report on the status of inmates at the parish jail. Smith readily admitted that the Washington Parish Fair assumed most of his attention in the past two weeks, but he is committed to moving forward on the project to have a satellite jail in Varnado. There are currently 49 inmates over the maximum capacity of the jail. There are also inmates being housed in Tensas, Jackson, and Plaquemine parishes. The proposed site in Varnado could house the 46 female inmates currently housed in Washington Parish. Council member Reginald McMasters added that following his first-time tour of the jail, he supports the sheriff's effort to improve the jail. Smith responded that he is trying to use funds wisely and is "looking into every little thing to save money."
In the President's Report, Director of Finance Donna Graham informed the Council that she and staff are currently working with the parish's sub-agencies to determine budget needs for 2025, and they will begin compiling the 2025 budget in the coming weeks. Council Member McMasters would like reflectors to be purchased to place on lines on parish roads. His constituents have shared that it will help them navigate the rural roadways.
Public Works Director Alex Sumrall reported that projects are now in full force at the Permit Department and the Bogalusa Health Unity. The new ceiling and lighting, along with new fans, really look nice in Courtroom 1 at the Courthouse.
Sumrall and Transportation Manager Danny Knight will be attending a DOTC meeting at Tangipahoa Council Chambers to see if bridges on Old Columbia Road, Cleve Kennedy Road, Mitch Road, and George Jenkins Road will be a priority in 2025.
On Tuesday, October 22, crews will be performing repairs to White Williams Bridge just outside of Bogalusa, and there will be an inspection of the Old Columbia Bridge in Varnado.
During the prior week, crews also repaired the J.W. Riles Bridge by stubbing some piling and working on the headwall. The parish is very fortunate to have crews with the experience they have in repairing these bridges; otherwise, it would cost a small fortune to hire private contractors for the work.
On Friday, October 25, there will be a pre-construction meeting for the Sidewalk Project Segment A. This will be a great asset to the parish, leading from the Courthouse to the fairgrounds.
Parish President Ryan Seal reported that the parish currently has four projects going on and things are busy. He reminded the Council that Riverside Medical Center is conducting a health assessment and encourages all to participate.
The Insurance Commissioner was in Franklinton prior to the fair and discussions are continuing concerning the high cost of insurance. Seal also mentioned several Halloween events taking place.
While there is currently no burn-ban in the parish, Seal is encouraging everyone to be cautious with fires as the weather is dry. He concluded by commending all involved with the Washington Parish Free Fair for a wonderful fair. "Perfect weather, wonderful parade; the heart and soul of Washington Parish."
Council discussion concluded the meeting with all offering special thanks to Fair volunteers, urging everyone to vote in the upcoming elections and be safe and aware during Halloween. Councilman McMasters offered a tribute to recently deceased Frankie Crosby, Sr. "He was an icon in the community and stood for good and right." He lifted him up and offered continued prayers for the family's comfort. Council Chairman Joe Culpepper echoed McMaster's sentiments, and the meeting was adjourned. The next meeting will be held on Monday, November 4, 2024.
