The Washington Parish Council held a met on Monday, March 25 in Council Chambers. The first item of business on the agenda was the approval of minutes from March 11.
Next was the adoption of a resolution granting approval to Washington Parish Fire Protection District No. 7 to call and hold a special election on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, to authorize the renewal of the levy and collection of a five (5) mill tax on assessed valuation of all property subject to taxation in the District, for a period of ten (10) years for the purposes of acquiring, constructing, improving, maintaining and/or operating fire protection facilities and equipment in and for the District, including the cost of obtaining water for fire protection purposes and paying charges for fire hydrant rentals and service.
District 7's fire chief Scott Adams addressed the board before it voted to stress the importance of the renewal. The Council was supportive and encouraged Chief Adams to continue to emphasize to voters that this is not a new tax but a renewal. The Council also encouraged the fire district to share with voters how the money is currently allocated and what the district is doing to maintain fire safety. Councilwoman Kim Wagner also suggested that Chief Adams and others go to meetings such as Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, etc. to share with a broader portion of the public. Chief Adams said the fire department is planning a "Community Day" to make folks more aware of the services offered.
Councilman Reginald McMasters reminded Chief Adams that, "We can put this on the ballot, but the residents must vote in favor of the renewal."
Parish President Ryan Seal then called on various departments for reports. Director of Finance Donna Graham noted that she provided the Council with a final copy of the adopted budget for 2024, which is also available on the parish government website. She also shared that her staff is closing out the books for 2023 and that auditors will be in-house early in May for the 2023 audit. Mrs. Graham closed by wishing the retiring Ken Wheat, Public Works Director, her best. She elaborated that she and Mr. Wheat have worked together through tough times and his efforts have assisted in establishing a firm financial foundation for parish government.
Transportation Manager Danny Knight then gave his departmental report. Of note was that 288 bags of trash were collected on 22 roads with 12 signs installed on 12 roads. Crews also completed asphalt work in Bogue Chitto State Park and a smaller project on Greenlaw Street in Franklinton. He closed by reading a farewell to Ken Wheat which included how Mr. Wheat has been a remarkable colleague who exemplified dedication, integrity, and excellence. Mr. Knight explained that Mr. Wheat has been both a mentor and a friend to many of the parish's employees and his legacy will continue to inspire others.
Quality Assurance Officer Alex Sumrall reported that the Hayes Creek Bridge project is complete, and the Cleve Kennedy Road Bridge is next for repairs. He also reported that the recent blood drive for Terry Morgan was a big success with fifty donors. Mr. Sumrall shared his deep appreciation of Mr. Ken Wheat who has accomplished much and that he has always available for advice, knowledge, and friendship.
It was finally Public Works Director Ken Wheat's allotted time to speak. He began by stating that he was at a bittersweet moment --- his last meeting with the parish council. Mr. Wheat has served in parish government for 30 years both as a member of the Council and in an administrative capacity. He reminded the Council that being a public servant is a special "calling" but all his years have been a blessing. Mr. Wheat reminisced about the variety of people he has worked with and learned from, and he is excited about the future of the parish. He also charged everyone to keep the faith --- it will stir a vision to address the needs and quality of life for residents of Washington Parish. He ended with, "This job has made me a better person."
Finally, Parish President Ryan Seal stated that Mr. Wheat has been a blessing everywhere he has been. Starting on the Bogalusa City Council, his military service, and then to his many years in parish government, he has shown humility and faith. President Seal finished with, "He has left everything he's touched better than he found it."
President Seal then announced that Ashley Sumrall has been hired in the permit office and he feels she will help this office tremendously. Landon Thames has been hired as Grant Manager and Danielle Folks will be the administrative assistant to the Parish President. Councilman McMasters then asked if these positions were advertised as openings. Director of Finance Donna Graham responded that they were not.
The meeting ended with each Council member wishing Ken Wheat a wonderful retirement and thanking him for his hard work and dedication to the parish. Councilman Shawn Rice stated, "Mr. Ken, you have made it easy for us --- always so helpful."
Parish Attorney Wayne Kuhn reminded everyone that Ken Wheat has been who the brunt of complaints has landed on, and no one has served the parish better. An audience member informally asked if there will be someone to take over his position? The response was that Mr. Wheat was leaving large shoes to fill. However, Mr. Wheat added, "I am confident that God has the right person for the job."
