LMR May 2018

Louisiana Municipal Review
PUBLISHED BY THE LOUISIANA MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION
VOL 83, NO. 5
MAY 2018
New Orleans
Tricentennial
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New Orleans!
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Editorial offices: Louisiana Municipal Association, 700 North 10th Street, Suite 400, Post Office Box 4327, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-
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President – Lawrence Henagan – Mayor, DeQuincy
First Vice President – Harry Lewis – Mayor, Rayville
Second Vice President– Jimmy Williams – Mayor, Sibley
Immediate Past President – Barney Arceneaux, Mayor, Gonzales
District A Vice President – Tommy Davis, Mayor, Minden
District B Vice President – Eugene Smith, Mayor, Arcadia
District C Vice President – Paxton Branch, Mayor, Tallulah
District D Vice President – Rick Allen, Mayor, Leesville
District E Vice President – Nathan Martin, Councilman, Pineville
District F Vice President – Purvis Morrison, Mayor, Scott
District G Vice President CALL –(225) Greg Jones, 344-5001 Mayor, Crowley
District H Vice President – Michael Chauffe, Mayor, Grosse Tete
District I Vice President – Donald Villere, Mayor, Mandeville
2017-18 LMA EXECUTIVE BOARD (non-affiliate, non-advisory)
LaMATS
District J Vice President – Rodney Grogan, Mayor, Patterson
LMA Past President – Glenn Brasseaux, Mayor, Carencro
LMA Past President – Carroll Breaux, Mayor, Springhill
LMA Past President – Vern Breland, Mayor, Sterlington
LMA Past President – David Butler, Mayor, Woodworth
LMA Past President – David Camardelle, Mayor, Grand Isle
LMA Past President – Clarence Fields, Mayor, Pineville
LMA Past President – Norman Heine, Councilman, Baker
Vice President at Large – Jennifer Vidrine, Mayor, Ville Platte
Vice President at Large – Mark Piazza, Mayor, Abbeville
Vice WWW.LAMATS.NET/SERVICES
President (< 1K) – Clarence Beebe, Mayor, Hornbeck
Vice President (1K – 2.5K) – Kathy Richard, Mayor, Arnaudville
Vice President (2.5K – 5K) – Kenneth Stinson, Mayor, Vinton
Page 2
LMR | May 2018

Inside the LMA
Director’s Viewpoint
FULL STEAM AHEAD!
BY JOHN GALLAGHER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
I want to start out by extending my sincerest sympathies
on behalf of the LMA Executive Board and staff to the
family of Mayor Eugene Smith and the Town of Arcadia
who are mourning the loss of their beloved mayor. I have
many fond memories of Mayor Smith and his wife, Billie,
over my nearly 20 years at the LMA. Mayor Smith always
had kind words for everyone, and always advised and
encouraged me. I will miss my friend and I will always be
grateful for his presence in my life.
As winter gives way spring, the sunny days and beautiful
blue skies remind us that we should cherish the time
that we have with family and friends. I encourage you to
experience one of the many festivals held each weekend
in municipalities throughout the state. We try our best
to mention them in the ‘Hometown Happenings’ section
of the Louisiana Municipal Review, and I apologize if we
miss any!
Spring also means the Louisiana Legislature is running
full steam ahead. This has been one of the most unusual
sessions in my memory - a thought that is shared by
many “old timers” who lurk the halls of the state capitol.
The session has been virtually non-stop, with sometimes
as many as 12 committees convening simultaneously.
The governor and legislative leadership have indicated
that there will be an early adjournment mid to late May
to convene a special session to address the looming
budget deficit. At the time of this writing, the Senate is
considering the recently-adopted budget by the House
for FY 2019, and all indications are that it either will
not survive, or will be significantly altered by the upper
chamber. All of which means that the sixth special
session in two years is almost a certainty.
A big thank you to everyone who attended the 41st
Annual Municipal Day at the Capitol. This is always a
popular event with our membership and it was great
to see so many municipal officials visiting with their
senators and representatives on important municipal
issues. I cannot overemphasize the importance of
legislators hearing from our municipal officials as
support for the efforts of our legislative team at the
capitol.
Planning for the 81st LMA Annual Convention is in full
swing. The convention will be held July 31 through
August 2 in Lake Charles – please note the Tuesday
through Thursday schedule this year. Lake Charles Mayor
Nick Hunter will host our membership, and Calcasieu
Parish mayors will co-host this
exciting event. Delegate registration
opened May 1 and we encourage
you to make your hotel reservations
early. It promises to be another great convention and
an opportunity to network with your colleagues from
around the state.
Speaking of the convention, I encourage our member
municipalities to consider entering the Community
Achievement Award competition. This is like the
LMA “Oscars,” where municipalities have a chance to
be recognized for projects that have benefited their
communities and citizens. Last year’s Best of Show
winner was the City of Rayne, whose innovative device to
clear clogged drainage pipes and culverts was designed
and built by the mayor and city employees. Rayne
Mayor Charles Robicheaux has been travelling the state
educating, training, and even manufacturing devices
for municipalities. You could be the 2018 Best of Show
Winner, but first, you must enter. The deadline for entries
is June 14 at 5 p.m.!
LMA District Meetings are just around the corner,
beginning the first week of June. I hope that you
will attend your meeting to network with your fellow
municipal officials and elect your District Vice President,
who will help guide the LMA into 2019.
I and the LMA staff stand ready to assist you. When you
are in Baton Rouge, please stop by the office for a visit.
If you are coming to the capitol to visit your legislator
during the remainder of the session, feel free to park
at the LMA building and we will be happy to provide
transportation to and from your capitol meeting.
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LMR | May 2018 Page 3

President’s Message
IT’S SUMMERTIME AND THE LIVING IS…BUSY!
BY MAYOR LAWRENCE HENAGAN, CITY OF DEQUINCY, LA
Last month we lost a great man
and I lost a dear friend. Mayor
Eugene Smith was someone I
admired and respected deeply,
and he will be dearly missed. Della and I ask that you
join us in keeping his wife Billie and their family in your
prayers.
Spring has come and is marching on to a fast
approaching summer. Many of us have invested a little
time in sprucing up the yard and planting the garden
and now we look forward to the blooms and fruits of
our labors that will come when the temperatures will
surely be warmer. Summer’s a comin’ … let’s see what
all is in store.
As you read this message, the LMA has entered a
busy season starting with the 41st Annual Municipal
Day, on May 2nd at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Baton
Rouge. The day-long event affords municipal leaders
an opportunity to meet with elected officials to
discuss issues of importance. The conference serves
to facilitate conversations surrounding passage of
laws relevant to state and local governments. The
day always includes a visit to the State Capitol where
attendees witness the Legislature at work and meet
State Legislators. The grand finale is the annual
Municipal Day Crawfish Boil, an event that is highly
anticipated and well attended each year. What better
way to end a day of lobbying and policy discussion
than to indulge in an evening of food and fellowship
with friends and associates, old and new? In addition
to “passing a good time”, it’s another opportunity to
“talk shop”, but in a more relaxed setting. We would
love to hear from you to find out how much you
enjoyed this year’s event.
As the Regular Session of the Legislature continues to
meet, our legislative team is hard at work monitoring
the progress of bills that impact local and state
governments and maintaining a strong presence and
active voice on behalf of our membership. I encourage
each of you to engage in the legislative process
by contacting your Legislators to apprise them of
the issues and initiatives of which you are in favor
or opposed. They need to hear from us and most
welcome the interaction.
In addition to attending the Legislative Session, the
staff is working with Vice Presidents of each District
to finalize plans for upcoming District Meetings to be
held during the month of June. During each meeting,
nominations are presented for election of District Vice
Presidents, and State 1st and 2nd Vice Presidents. You
will want to attend so that your municipality can be
represented in the vote. In addition to nominations,
these meetings provide an opportunity for Mayors,
Council Members, Clerks and Police Chiefs in each
municipality to discuss pertinent issues, challenges and
successes unique to their locales.
Following closely on the heels of the District Meetings,
the 81st Annual Convention will take place in Lake
Charles, LA from July 31 – August 2. For the first
time, this convention will be held on Tuesday through
Thursday, rather than the traditional late week and
weekend. This three day event offers a chance to view
exhibits and resources offered by a variety of providers.
You will also hear addresses by state leaders and have
the opportunity to attend educational workshops all
carefully chosen to appeal to everyone whether you
represent a large or small municipality. During the
Annual Meeting, elections are held and new officers for
the coming year are installed. Mark your calendars and
begin making your plans now to attend.
With all that said, my best wishes to you and yours for
a safe, productive and happy summer. And while we
are on the subject of summer, let’s be sure to include
in our prayers a request that Mother Nature doesn’t
provide any additional excitement! Looking forward to
seeing you all soon!
Page 4
LMR | May 2018

Inside the LMA
Governor’s Column
WE CAN AND WILL DO BETTER
BY JOHN BEL EDWARDS, GOVERNOR OF LOUISIANA
As we head into the month of May, we are beyond
the halfway point of the current regular legislative
session. Although this isn’t a fiscal session, the state
budget is certainly center stage. There is no denying
that the version of the state budget approved by the
House is riddled with drastic cuts that will negatively
and directly impact the elderly, poor, those with
disabilities, health care, public safety and TOPS- our
college students. Simply put, it is irresponsible and
is not worthy of the people who have entrusted us to
effectively represent them.
The Revenue Estimating Conference initially
determined the fiscal cliff to be $994 million, and has
since reduced it to $648 million. That’s due to federal
tax changes and improved state tax collections. While
the fiscal cliff is less, it still poses a significant problem
that must be addressed. By not replacing a portion of
the expiring revenue, the state will be forced to impose
cuts to essential and life-saving services that many of
our constituents rely on.
Let me be very clear, a budget that causes the
widespread pain that the House budget would cause
will not become law. Under the House plan, more than
46,000 elderly and citizens with disabilities could
lose access to health care, 80 percent of whom are in
nursing homes. Cuts to the Louisiana Department of
Health are more than $550 million and when coupled
with the federal match total $2 billion. The TOPS
program is $58 million dollars short of us keeping
our promise to students and their families. Partner
hospitals are threatening to leave putting thousands
of jobs and care in jeopardy. My plan for fixing this
problem has been on the table since last year and is
a reasonable and balanced approach that will provide
adequate funding for our critical priorities.
The legislature refused to deal with this problem during
the fiscal session in 2017 and again during the special
session in February 2018. Now, some of the same
lawmakers who voted for the current House budget are
advocating for a special session to deal with the fiscal
cliff. The Senate cannot fix this budget because of the
size of the shortfall. There is far too much angst over
the harm that these cuts could pose to our people.
That’s why a special session is necessary.
I along with the House Speaker and Senate President
have stated on several occasions that we believe we
should adjourn in mid-May and
immediately begin the special
session that would conclude by
June 4, which is when the regular
session is set to end. Not only will this give us the time
necessary to craft legislation to resolve our fiscal crisis,
but that special session will come at no additional
expense to the taxpayers. We all acknowledge the
need to replace a portion of the revenue that is
expiring. Keep in mind that even if we address the
$648 million dollar gap using the plan I have outlined,
the people of Louisiana would see a $400 million net
tax reduction and the state budget will be cut by more
than $120 million in state general fund expenditures
next year.
Your help is crucial. We can and will do better. My
team and I are working every day with every state
lawmaker to find a solution. Please join us in helping all
of them understand the urgency of this situation.
In closing, I want to take a moment to honor one of
your own who recently passed away, Mayor Eugene
Smith of Arcadia. He was an exceptional leader who
served as mayor for 16 years and was also a member
of the LMA executive board. He was dedicated to
helping the people of this state have a better quality
of life. Eugene and his wife, Billie, were married for 64
incredible years and were a formidable team. Let us
keep her and their family in our prayers. God bless you
all, and I look forward to our continued relationship.
LMR | May 2018 Page 5

Legal Briefs
A LEGACY OF LEGAL GIANTS
BY KAREN DAY WHITE, EXECUTIVE COUNSEL
As we join New Orleans in celebrating its tricentennial,
it is worth making note of the great legal minds who
have called the city home over the years. There are so
many that this article does not afford sufficient room
to discuss them all – from W.C.C. Claiborne to Chief
Justice Bernette Johnson, advocates from the Big Easy
have made history, not just for their beloved city, but for
the state and the nation. Here are just a couple of the
lawyers who have left an indelible historical mark.
Chief Justice Edward Douglass White, Jr. was one such
figure. Born in Thibodaux, he graduated from Tulane
University (then known as the University of Louisiana in
New Orleans) and began practicing in 1868. He rapidly
became a renowned attorney, earning an appointment
to the Louisiana Supreme Court in 1879, and a
subsequent election to that position in 1888. He served
as a Louisiana Supreme Court justice for seven years
total, interspersed with service in the Louisiana Senate,
during very tumultuous times in the Reconstruction
era. Ultimately, he was nominated by President Grover
Cleveland to be an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme
Court in 1894. He served in that capacity until 1910, when
became the 9th Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
Chief Justice White was part of the pivotal decision
in Plessy v. Ferguson, which advanced the “separate
but equal” doctrine under the Fourteenth Amendment
until it was overturned in 1954 in Brown v. Board of
Education. However, Justice White actually wrote the
majority opinion in the 1915 case Guinn v. United States,
wherein the Supreme Court struck down Southern
states’ grandfather clauses that favored white voters and
disenfranchised minority voters. Justice White’s legacy
lives on today through his promulgation of the “Rule of
Reason” standard in antitrust law.
Another history maker was Justice Revius Ortique, Jr.
An African-American born in New Orleans in 1924, he
served in World War II, then earned a B.A. from Dillard
University, a M.A. from Indiana University, and a juris
doctorate from Southern University Law School (in
1956). He oversaw the peaceful desegregation of public
facilities in New Orleans while serving as President of
the Community Relations Council. Indeed, he possessed
great skill when it came to rational negotiations and
conflict resolution.
His abilities garnered him several federal appointments,
including seats on the Federal Hospital Council, the
President’s Commission on Campus Unrest, and the
Legal Services Corporation. He became the first African-
American justice of the Louisiana Supreme Court in 1992,
and was named as an alternate to the United Nations
General Assembly by President
Clinton in 1999. A tireless advocate
for civil rights, Justice Ortique’s
collaboration with the Louisiana
State Bar Association has provided a model for pro bono
legal work in Louisiana.
As these profiles demonstrate, New Orleans lawyers have
helped to shape the landscape of the practice in Louisiana.
From legislation to judicial review, it is the contributions
of Crescent City counselors, along with those from legal
advocates statewide, that provide the legal framework that
governs the lives of Louisiana’s citizens.
Editor’s Note: the information provided in this column is not a
replacement for consultation with your own municipal attorney, and
it should not be considered legal advice for any particular case or
situation. You are encouraged to use the contents of this column as a
platform to have meaningful discussions with your municipal counsel
regarding possible litigation issues.
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Page 6
LMR | May 2018

Inside the LMA
Personal Finance Disclosure
requirements for all elected officials
IMPORTANT REMINDER… FOR ELECTED OFFI-
CIALS AND BOARD AND COMMISSION MEMBERS
Please be advised that Personal Financial Disclosure
forms are due to the Ethics Commission by May 15, 2018
for the 2017 calendar year. This applies to those elected
officials who were in office/elected position in 2017 and
Board and Commission members that have authority
to spend more than $10,000. Please ensure all
are aware of this important issue.
• Tier 2 - Population of election district over
5,000
• Tier 2.1 - Board and Commissions that
spend more than $10,000
• Tier 3 - Population of election district under
5,000
You may also go to the Ethics Commission website
at http://ethics.la.gov/PersonalFinancialHome.aspx,
and fill them in online. Should you have any questions,
please contact the State Ethics Commission
at (225) 219-5600, or the LMA (225) 344-5001.
Calendar of Events
MAY
13 On behalf of the LMA, Happy Mother’s Day!
23 The LMA Executive Committee Meeting will be
held at 10:00 a.m. in the LMA office building in
the first-floor meeting rooms of the LMA office
building, 700 North 10 th Street, Baton Rouge,
70802.
28 The LMA office will be closed on Memorial Day,
May 28th.
JUNE
The 2017 LMA District Meetings begin on 7th
and continue through June 28th. Please review
the complete meeting schedule and additional
information in this issue.
4 Regular Session Ends. The Louisiana State 2018
Regular Legislative Session adjourns at 6 p.m.,
Thursday, June 8, 2017.
13 LMGA Executive Board Meeting will be held at
10:00 a.m. in the first-floor meeting rooms of the
LMA office building, 700 North 10th Street, Baton
Rouge, 70802. The meeting will be immediately
followed by the LMGA Board of Directors
Meeting.
17 On behalf of the LMA, Happy Father’s Day!
LMR | May 2018 Page 7

Louisiana Municipal Association
81 st Annual Convention
July 31 – August 2, 2018 • Lake Charles Civic Center
Tentative At-A-Glance Agenda
TUESDAY, JULY 31
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Registration & Exhibits
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Eats & Exhibits
Sponsored by:
2:00 p.m.
■ Louisiana Municipal Clerks Association Executive Board
Meeting
■Louisiana Municipal Black Caucus Association Workshop
4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Opening General Session
6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Reception
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1
8:00 a.m.
Registration and Exhibits Open
8:15 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Prayer Breakfast
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Workshop Sessions [4]
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Last Chance! Exhibit Viewing
11:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
Policy Committee Meetings
12:00 p.m.
Exhibits Close
12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Luncheon
■ Lieutenant Governor’s Beautification Awards
■ LED Development Ready Community Awards
1:45 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Workshop Sessions [4]
3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Workshop Session [1]
4:15 p.m.
Nominations Committee Meeting
Meetings of Affiliate and Related Organizations
Louisiana Municipal Clerks Association
Louisiana Association of Municipal Secretaries and Assistants
Louisiana Conference of Mayors
Louisiana Municipal Black Caucus Association
5:00 p.m.
Registration Closes
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Host City Reception and Dance
THURSDAY, AUGUST 2
8:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Registration
■ Distribution of Voting Credentials
9:00 a.m.
Spouses’ Program Tour
9:00 a.m.-10:15 a.m.
Workshop Sessions [4]
10:30 a.m.-11:45 a.m.
Workshop Sessions [4]
12:00 p.m.
Delegates Luncheon
■ Honorable John Bel Edwards, Governor, State of
Louisiana
■ Salute to the LMA President
■ President’s Address
■ Presentation of LMA Service Awards
■ President’s Award Presentation
Immediately following luncheon
Annual Business Meeting
■ Election of LMA 2018-2019 Officers
6:30 p.m.
Annual Banquet Reception
7:00 p.m.
Annual Banquet
■ Introduction of LMA 2018-2019 Officers and District
Vice Presidents
■ Presentation of LMA 2017 Community Achievement
Awards
■ Closing Dance
This is a tentative convention agenda, subject to change.
Detailed information on events, dates, and times will be provided as
activities are confirmed.
Page 8
LMR | May 2018

Inside the LMA
Reservations process opens for
LMA’s 81st Annual Convention
July 31 – August 2, 2018
Lake Charles Civic Center
City of Lake Charles
CONVENTION HOTELS
To secure a hotel reservation, you must give the reservation clerk
your name, title, and name of municipality. No more than 10
rooms per municipality are allowed. State law allows an exemption
from sales tax on sleeping rooms reserved by officials representing
government entities. When making reservations, it is your
responsibility to inform the hotel of your tax-exempt status and
submit the required form to claim the exemption.
Rates cited are nightly, exclusive of taxes.
Hotels are listed alphabetically with complete address
and contact information.
For property website information,
please visit https://www.visitlakecharles.org/hotels-lodging/
Courtyard Lake Charles
2995 L’auberge Boulevard
Lake Charles, LA 70601
(337) 477-5020
$119.00 Flat Rate
Group Code: LA Municipal
Association 2018
Golden Nugget Hotel
& Casino
2550 Golden Nugget
Boulevard
Lake Charles, LA 70601
(337) 508-7777
$169.00 Single/Double
+ $6.99 Resort Fee
Group Code: Louisiana
Municipal Association
Hampton Inn Lake Charles
3175 Holly Hill Road
Lake Charles, LA 70601
(337) 480-6443
$119.00 Flat Rate
L’Auberge Casino Resort
777 Avenue L’Auberge
Lake Charles, LA 70601
(337) 395-7777
$139.00 Flat Rate
Group Code: SLAMA18
TownePlace Suites
2985 L’Auberge Boulevard
Lake Charles, LA 70601
(337) 477-5824
$119.00 Flat Rate
Wingate by Wyndham
1731 West Prien Lake Road
Lake Charles, LA 70601
(337) 502-5112
$99.00 Flat Rate
Details:
Questions regarding
the hotel reservation
procedure should be
referred to
LMA Events Director,
Nikki Samrow
(225) 344-5001,
(800) 234-8274,
nsamrow@lma.org
Amendments to the LMA
Bylaws are due June 18th
LMA members are encouraged to review the LMA Bylaws
and consider amending them for the betterment of the Association.
If a LMA member is interested in proposing an
amendment, they must follow the proper procedures.
Article 17 of the LMA Constitution states that it “may be
amended at any meeting of the Association by a vote
of at least two-thirds of the municipal corporations
present, provided such amendment has been submitted
in writing to the Executive Director at least 30 days prior
to the date of the meeting. It shall be the duty of that
officer to immediately notify the Executive Board of the
proposed amendment.”
Therefore, any amendment(s) proposed by a municipality for
consideration by the LMA membership which will meet on
Monday, July 30th, in Lake Charles – must be in writing and
received by the LMA office no later than 5:00 p.m. Monday,
June 18th, and sent to:
Executive Director John Gallagher
Louisiana Municipal Association
P.O. Box 4327
Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4327
Officials of all member corporations are entitled to attend
the LMA Annual Business Meeting on Monday,
July 30th. This meeting occurs immediately after the
LMA Delegates’ Luncheon. A municipality’s elected officials
do not have to register for LMA’s 81st Annual Convention
if they wish to attend the LMA Annual Business
Meeting in Lake Charles.
LMR | May 2018 Page 9

Louisiana Municipal Association
81 st Annual Convention
July 31 – August 2, 2018
REGISTRATION FORM
Please print or type all information legibly:
DELEGATE OTHER [Delegate is an elected/appointed official or municipal employee.]
Name: _______________________________________ Title______________________________
Lake Charles Civic Center
900 Lakeshore Drive
Lake Charles, Louisiana
TO AVOID HIGHER ON-SITE FEES,
REGISTER NOW!
MAKE YOUR
HOTEL RESERVATIONS BY JULY 9!
REGISTER ONLINE AND PAY WITH
YOUR CREDIT/DEBIT CARD AT
WWW.LMA.ORG/CONVENTION
Complete one form per delegate.
Payment of convention registration fees must accompany
registration forms. The LMA will not bill for registration fees.
No faxed or emailed registrations will be accepted.
Louisiana Municipal Association
Annual Convention Registration
Post Office Box 4327
Baton Rouge, LA 70821
Telephone: (800) 234-8274 (225) 344-5001 www.lma.org
First name/nickname to appear on badge: _____________________________________________________
Municipality: ___________________________________________________________________
Mailing Address: _____________________________ City/Zip: ___________________________
Work Phone: ________________________ E-mail: _____________________________________
Is this your first LMA Convention? Yes No
SPOUSE/GUEST INFORMATION:
Name:
First name to appear on badge: _______________________
Registration Information:
! The registration fee includes one Spouse or Guest.
! Spouse/Guest cannot be an elected/appointed official or municipal employee.
EARLY BIRD REGULAR LATE & ON-SITE
NOW THRU JUNE 28 JUNE 29 – JULY 19 BEGINS JULY 20 TOTAL
Delegate $200.00 Delegate $250.00 Delegate $300.00 Delegate $_______
Other $245.00 Other $325.00 Other $375.00 Other $_______
REFUND POLICY:
An administrative fee of $75 will be charged for all cancellations,
including medical emergencies. No refunds will be given after July 17
(two weeks prior to the start of event). Refunds will be issued only if the
LMA office receives your cancellation request in the form of a letter
on your official letterhead mailed, emailed, faxed, or delivered to
our office with a postmark date no later than Tuesday, July 17,
2018. Telephone requests for refunds are not acceptable. There will be
no exceptions to this policy.
LMA’s Community Achievement Award Competition
The LMA is now accepting submissions for the
Community Achievement Awards Competition. These
prestigious awards recognize municipalities for starting
or completing an outstanding project or accomplishment
during the 2017 calendar year. Each municipality may
enter only one project per year. There are four population
categories in which your municipality will fall. Each entry
should be within one of these three categories:
• Basics Services - Water, sewer, streets, drainage,
municipal buildings, fire, police, emergency services,
municipal management, solid waste management,
recycling, communication systems.
• Community Development – Public transportation, citizen
participation, public buildings, main street improvements,
development plans, parks and recreation, beautification,
promotion of community projects, strategic planning,
cultural enrichment.
• Economic Development – Industrial development,
industrial parks, location/expansion of business and/
or industries, tourism, community promotion, workforce
development.
In addition to the winners of each category per
population, there is a Best of Show award given to
most notable and impressive community achievement
submission. Last year, the City of Rayne garnered the
LMA 16th Best of Show award for its “Phase II Drainage
Improvements (Culvert Angioplasty)”, a project that
accomplished more in six months than had been
accomplished in decades past! This project involved a
new method of thoroughly clearing out drainage culverts
along nearly 15 miles of open ditch streets and the tools
and methods required to implement this project were
conceived, designed, fabricated, and executed entirely by
city employees.
All Community Achievement Awards applications
are to be submitted by June 14th at 5:00 p.m. These
entry forms can be submitted electronically by email,
or mailed to the LMA’s physical address. Faxed entries
will not be accepted. Info: Nikki Samrow, LMA Events
Director, nsamrow@lma.org, (225) 344-5001; LMA Office,
Attention: Nikki Samrow, P.O. Box 4327, Baton Rouge, LA
70821. Please visit www.lma.org or see your mailed packet
for more detailed information about this competition.
Page 10
LMR | May 2018

Municipalities
In Remembrance
Eugene Smith, LMA District B Vice
President, Mayor of Arcadia passed
away on April 23, 2018 at age 84.
The LMA has suffered a tremendous
loss. Mayor Smith was one of
the longest serving District Vice
Presidents in LMA history and was
the Immediate Past President of
LaMATS. He served the Town of
Eugene Smith
Arcadia as mayor for 15 years and
leaves behind a legacy of growth
and development that will live on for generations.
Never afraid to be innovative, he brought big ideas and
economic development to Arcadia. His district meetings
were some of the most well attended and always
entertaining.
There are countless stories about how Mayor Smith’s
friendship and leadership has affected so many people
- both personally and professionally. His impact can be
felt all over the state, but especially in District B where
he will be sorely missed.
Last fall, at a meeting of the LaMATS Board of
Directors Mayor Smith received special recognition
for his five years of service as President of LaMATS.
Incoming LaMATS Board President, Mayor Carroll
Breaux of Springhill and new Vice President, Pineville
Mayor Clarence Fields, presented Smith with a plaque
commemorating his outstanding leadership.
“Eugene has been instrumental in moving LaMATS
into a new era of services and programs for the LMA
membership,” said Breaux.
Mayor Smith gave remarks at the meeting saying, “I have
truly enjoyed serving as the president of LaMATS and
look forward to continuing my service on the Board of
Directors. LaMATS provides invaluable services that help
countless municipalities every day. I’m proud of what we
have accomplished and set in motion for the future.”
Our sincerest condolences and prayers are with Billie, his
wife of 64 years, and the entire Smith family as well as
the Town of Arcadia.
* * *
Jonie Foster, wife of Denham Springs
Building Official and President of
BOAL, Rick Foster, lost her battle to
cancer on April 18, 2018.
Clarence James
Fultz
Former Mayor
Clarence
James Fultz
of the Village
of Tangipahoa
passed away on
April 11th.
Charles Daniel
“Danny” Hebert,
64, passed
away on April 11,
2018. Hebert was
a long-time Crowley City Inspector
and first-term Acadia Parish Police
Juror.
Alderwoman Irene Jefferson Wiley,
Town of Clayton, died on April 1,
2018.
Jonie Foster
Jonie Foster
Charles Daniel
“Danny” Hebert
LMA Past President, and former
Brusly mayor, Charles Rodney “Rod”
Prejean, Sr., passed away peacefully
at his home surrounded by his family
on Good Friday, March 30, 2018.
LMR | May 2018 Page 11

Hometown
Happenings
Louisiana Pirate Festival,
May 1st–13th, Lake Charles
www.louisianapiratefestival.com
Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival,
May 4th-6th, Breaux Bridge
www.bbcrawfest.com
Little Red Church Food and Fun Festival,
May 4th-6th, Destrehan
www.scblittleredchurch.org
OLPS Tomato Festival,
May 4th-6th, Chalmette
www.olpsschool.org
Rayne Frog Festival,
May 10th-12th, Rayne
www.raynefrogfestival.com
Cochon de Lait Festival,
May 10th–13th, Mansura
www.cochondelaitfestival.com
Zwolle Loggers and Forestry Festival,
May 11th-12th, Zwolle
www.zwolleloggersandforestryfestival.
com
Bayou Cajun Fest,
May 11th-13th, Larose
www.bayoucicicclub.org
Starks Mayhaw Festival,
May 17th-19th, Starks
www.mayhawfest.com
Plaquemines Parish Seafood
and Heritage Festival,
May 18th-20th, Belle Chase
www.plaqueminesparishfestival.com
Krotz Springs Sportsmen’s Heritage Festival,
May 25th-28th, Krotz Springs
www.kssportsmensheritagefestival.com
Dual Officeholding
Opinion: 17-0191 The provisions of the Dual Officeholding and Dual
Employment Law do not prohibit a member of the Bogalusa City
Council from serving as a member of the board of directors of the
Washington Council on the Aging, Inc. Opinion Released: 3/22/2018
Lawrason Act
Opinion: 17-0190 The Mayor of Folsom may not replace the municipal
attorney unless the removal of the previous attorney was confirmed
by the Board of Alderman. The new municipal attorney must
also be both appointed by the Mayor and approved by the Board of
Alderman. Opinion Released: 3/26/2018
Opinion: 17-0154 To the extent that Harahan Municipal Code Section
2-231 authorizes the Council to do more than provide funding for a
contract, these provisions infringe on the Mayor’s statutory authority
in La. R.S. 33:404(A)(1) and (4). Opinion Released: 4/5/2018
Opinion: 17-0187 When a chief of police of a Lawrason Act municipality
moves outside of the district from which he is elected, and
is no longer an elector of the municipality, he no longer meets the
qualifications of office. Opinion Released: 4/3/2018
Ad Valorem Taxes
Opinion: 18-0001 Any agricultural equipment, whether leased or
owned, which meets the definition of “agricultural machinery and
other implements used exclusively for agricultural purposes,” as defined
in La. R.S. 47:1707, is exempt from ad valorem taxation under
La. Const. art. VII, §21(C)(11), given that any requirements of La. R.S.
47:1705 are met. Opinion Released: 3/28/2018
Prohibited Donations
Opinion: 18-0004 St. Tammany Parish Fire Protection District No. 3
may purchase “work-related clothing and equipment” for use by
its firefighters and may enter into written agreements authorizing
payroll deductions for reimbursement of those items, as long as
the items remain the property of the District until the District is
reimbursed in full. The District may also pay for its new firefighters
to attend fire recruit school, as this expenditure does not violate La.
Const. art. VII, §14. Opinion Released: 3/28/2018
Opinion: 17-0025 The Town of Oak Grove may not provide free drinking
water to its citizens because doing so would violate Article VII, §
14 of the Constitution. Opinion Released: 4/5/2018
Public Records
Attorney
General’s
Opinions
BY JEFF LANDRY,
ATTORNEY GENERAL
Opinion: 17-0056 Addresses several questions posed by the Calcasieu
Parish Sheriff’s Office relative to Louisiana’s Public Records Law.
Opinion Released: 4/2/2018
Page 12
LMR | May 2018

Municipalities
Inaugural Mayor’s Court Conference a Success
BY JAN MCDONALD, CLERK OF COURT, CITY OF WALKER
On April 20, the City of Walker hosted the inaugural
Mayor’s Court Conference in Walker, Louisiana. This event
received an overwhelmingly positive response, boasting
high attendance from mayors, counsel, magistrates,
clerks, and police department staff. It was clear from
the attendance and overall participation that networking
on this subject matter was much needed. Although this
initial conference was limited to a single day, it is our goal
to evolve this initial effort into future conferences that
provide even more education, uniformity, and guidance
for the Louisiana mayor’s court staff members.
The conference featured a diverse group of speakers
who addressed attendees on a variety of topics.
Magistrate Todd Caruso of Walker spoke regarding the
multiple diversion programs available for sentencing;
Ashley Spiers from the Office of Motor Vehicles provided
insight into DMV rules and regulations that apply to
Louisiana Mayor’s Courts; and Myra Streeter, the City
Clerk for Walker, provided information about mandatory
retention schedules and how they apply to the court
and the municipality itself. We were also joined by Dan
Panagiotis, Magistrate for Carencro, and Michael Chauffe,
Mayor of Gross Tete, who spoke about the importance of
checks and balances systems in mayor’s courts. Caroline
Hutchinson, a clerk from Ward II/City Court in Denham
Springs, provided an outline on bond forfeitures when
individuals fail to appear for court. The conference
attendees received extensive information at this year’s
conference, so we very much look forward to future
educational opportunities.
Thank you to all who participated for being a part of this
inaugural event, and for being a part of this educational
initiative on the ground floor. I look forward to seeing
this event expand and develop for years to come.
LMR | May 2018 Page 13

Spring 2018 Election Results
State Representative
• 86th Representative District: Nicholas Muscarello, Jr.
• 93rd Representative District: Royce Duplessis
Abbeville
• Mayor: Mark Piazza
Bunkie
• Alderman, District 2: Lem Thomas
Colfax
• Mayor: Gerald Hamilton
• Aldermen: Zelda Harrison Baines, Alan D. Futrell, Lourain
Lacour, Cora Reed, and Lorraine Sapp
Covington
• Councilman, District C: “Joey” Roberts
DeRidder
• Mayor: Misty Clanton
• Councilmen at Large: Vincent Labue and
Michael D. Harris
• Councilman, District 1: Kimaron Haynes Moore
• Councilman, District 2: Julian “Pee Wee” Williams
Franklin
• Mayor: Eugene P. Foulcard
Kenner
• Councilman, District 1: Gregory W. Carroll
Leesville
• Mayor: Richard “Rick” Allen
• Councilman, District 3: Nicole Ybarra
• Councilman, District 4: Anthony “Tony” Shapkoff
Mansfield
• Mayor: John H. Mayweather, Sr.
• Alderman, District A: Mary Jones Green
• Alderman, District B: Christopher “Washington” Thomas
• Alderman, District C: Mitchell “Mitch” Lewis
• Alderman, District D: Joseph Hall, Jr.
• Alderman, District E: Kervin D. Campbell
Marksville
• Alderman, District 3: Mary E. Sampson
• Alderman, District 5: Clyde “Danny” Benson
Merryville
• Aldermen: Dale Reinhardt, Alison Page Robberson,
Sara Barnes Sellers, Shelia Lanier Smith, and Darrell
Thompson
Natchez
• Mayor: Rosia Slate Humphery
• Aldermen: Amos R. Bradley, Shelia Forest Johnson, and
Monique Sarpy
New Llano
• Mayor: Denis Jordan
• Councilmen: Charlotte McHenry Cooper, Lesley Poteat,
Terry Speicher, Carolyn H. Todd, and Ervin Wilson, Sr.
Oak Grove
• Mayor: Adam T. Holland
• Councilmen: “Richie” Allen, “Mike” Gammill, Todd Nevels,
Cherry Rye, and Garland C. Walker
Rayville
• Mayor: Harry Lewis
• Aldermen: Valerie Allen, Paula Buie Cumpton, Jerry
Gordon, Debra K. James, and Timothy Tennant
St. James Parish
• Councilman, District 6: Vondra Dee Etienne-Steib
St. Martinville
• Mayor: Melinda “Mel” Narcisse Mitchell
• Councilman, District 1: Michael “Mike” Fuselier
• Councilman, District 2: Craig Prosper
• Councilman, District 3: Dennis Paul Williams
• Councilman, District 4: Juma A. Johnson
Slidell
• Mayor: “Greg” Cromer
• Council Members at Large: “Bill” Borchert, Jr. and
Glynn Pichon
• Council Member, District A: Leslie Denham
• Council Member, District B: David Dunham
• Council Member, District E: “Kenny” Tamborella
• Council Member, District F: Kim Baronet Harbison
• Council Member, District G: Cindi E. King
Sulphur
• Mayor: Mike Danahay
• Councilman, District 1: Drusilla “Dru” Ellender
• Councilman, District 2: Michael “Mike” Koonce
• Councilman, District 3: Melinda D. Hardy
• Councilman, District 4: Joy Abshire
• Councilman, District 5: Mandy Thomas
Tallulah
• Mayor: Paxton Branch
• Council Member, District 2: Martez Robinson
• Council Member, District 3: Andrew Sims, Sr.
• Council Member, District 5: Michael Whitney
West Monroe
• Aldermen: James “Sonny” Bennett, James Brian, Thomas
“Thom” Hamilton, Trevor Land, and Ben Westerburg, Jr.
Winnfield
• Mayor: George Moss
• Council Member, District 1: LaWanda Holden
• Council Member, District 4: Michael M. “Matt” Miller
Winnsboro
• Mayor: John C. “Sonny” Dumas
• Councilman, District 1: Tyrone Coleman
• Councilman, District 2: Golden Keith Berry
• Councilman, District 3: Eddie Joe Dunn
• Councilman, District 4: Jerry Johnson
Page 14
LMR | May 2018

Municipalities
Connecting Municipalities to Project Funds
BY CLAIRE SHAW, LMA MEMBERSHIP SERVICES ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Do you struggle to identify new funding sources for
programs or projects in your municipality? Does the
lack of time limit your ability to submit grant requests?
Do you lack a grants strategy for 2018? If you answered
yes to any of these questions, GrantStation can be your
solution.
LaMATS has partnered with GrantStation.com, Inc.,
an online tool that offers government agencies,
nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions
the opportunity to identify potential funding sources
for their programs or projects. GrantStation also
provides resources to mentor organizations through
the grant-seeking process. According to Ellen Mowrer,
GrantStation’s President and Chief Operating Officer,
“With a GrantStation membership, you have the tools to
locate new grant sources, build a strong grant seeking
program, write winning grant proposals, and win grant
awards to fund your mission.”
Mowrer detailed that the GrantStation database allows
you to search through thousands of grant opportunities,
featuring all private grant makers including: independent,
family, community, and corporate foundations; corporate
giving programs; faith-based grant makers; giving
circles; and other associations with grant programs. All
database members are active and accepting proposals in
the coming year. Categories of interest for municipalities
include civic affairs, community/economic development,
environment/animal control, and social services. Grants
can be written to target specific populations including
children/youth, minorities, people with disabilities,
seniors/aging population, veterans/military affairs,
women/girls, and the LGBTQ community. For example,
there are 69 grant makers under the Louisiana/
Community Development/General category and 134
nationally, all of whom accept unsolicited letters of
inquiry.
Cliff Palmer, LaMATS Executive Director, says
“GrantStation is a powerful research tool that can
identify several grant opportunities for every size
municipality. Contact the LaMATS staff to receive your
free one-year subscription today. “
To access this grant seeking and writing assistance,
simply go to www.grantstation.com. Through the
GrantStation website, you may sign up to receive both
weekly and/or monthly email announcements outlining
available grant opportunities. GrantStation will also
provide valuable information designed to assist you
through all the steps of the grant seeking process,
from identifying grant opportunities, to the awarding
of dollars for your grant proposal. You can also take
advantage of online educational opportunities to
learn the ABC’s of grant writing and receive technical
assistance to guide you in the development of
successfully-funded grants. In addition, archived grant
webinars are available on the LMA website by clicking on
the Events tab and scrolling down to Archived Webinars.
An example of one such webinar is the link for OCD
Community Block Grant Funding for the Great Flood
of 2016. For additional information, please contact Cliff
Palmer at cpalmer@lamats.net.
LMR | May 2018 Page 15

Living Up to Creole Values:
An International Cover Story
Congratulations to Mayor Purvis
and Mrs. Mary Morrison for being
featured as the cover story in the
May edition of the international Kreol
Magazine!
The magazine is published by
Rila Publications Ltd in London
and according to the editor, Kreol
Magazine features role models and
spotlights accomplished individuals
who have demonstrated success
in personal character and industry.
It also features Creole individuals
who shine as examples locally and
globally, lifting up the profile of
Creole people for the entire world to
recognize, honor and applaud.
The Morrisons are featured in a
piece titled, Purvis & Mary Morrison
– Governing the Boudin Capital and
Living Up to Creole Values, where
readers get a glimpse into the
Morrisons’ early years, life, career
and family. The article is insightful
and inspiring and includes a
message of hope for a brighter
future.
The story can be found online at
https://kreolmagazine.com.
Page 16
LMR | May 2018

Partner Insight
Treasury Notes
WE MUST REFORM THE STATE’S CAPITAL OUTLAY SYSTEM NOW
BY STATE TREASURER JOHN M. SCHRODER
As Louisiana’s banker, part of my
job is to tell you what you need
to hear about the state’s finances.
Unfortunately, it may not always
be what you want to hear. It’s not
always fun talking about sticking to a budget or pinching
pennies, but it’s important if we’re ever going to get out
of our current financial mess.
I am often asked to provide recommendations to fix
the state’s budget. I respond that you can’t really point
to one thing that will solve it. It’s going to take a lot of
different things that will eventually add up to make a
difference.
One place we can start is the state’s capital outlay
system. The current process is broken. The governor
and the administration use it to reward or punish
legislators depending on lawmakers’ level of cooperation
on various bills.
For example, if you toe the line on a governor’s agenda,
your town may receive funding for new playground
equipment. If you go against the administration, you
LRWA 33rd Annual Conference
BY: PAT CREDEUR, LRWA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Louisiana Rural Water Association’s 33 rd Annual Conference is
rapidly approaching. The dates are July 16-19, 2018, at the Lake
Charles Civic Center (900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA). “Have
you registered for the conference?” If not, you still have time.
The certification courses are designed for you to become certified or
advance your level of certification. The technical training will be the
same as in year’s past where you can choose the session you would
like to attend (water, wastewater, management, or industrial). The
following classes will be offered during the conference:
32 Hour Water Certification Levels 1 & 2 (Production,
Treatment, & Distribution)
32 Hour Water Certification Levels 3 & 4 (Production,
Treatment, & Distribution)
32 Hour Wastewater Certification Levels 1 & 2 (Treatment
& Collection)
32 Hour Wastewater Certification Levels 3 & 4 (Treatment
& Collection)
24 Hour Technical Training
The Louisiana Department of Health, Certification Department will
be administering the Operator Certification Exam on Friday, July
20, 2018 at the Civic Center. You must submit an application to
Baton Rouge 30 days prior to the exam date. The days of walking
in to take an exam are gone; you must be pre-approved. Contact
may not get the funding you need for your drainage
project.
As municipal officials, you may have had firsthand
experience with the capital outlay system. In fact, you
may have received funding over the years through the
process. But I’m here to tell you the system is corrupted,
and in order to fix it, we have to take the politics out of it.
Rep. Phillip DeVillier from District 41 has authored a
capital outlay reform bill this session. House Bill 122 has
passed the House of Representatives and is pending
a hearing in the Senate Revenue and Fiscal Affairs
Committee. The legislation is one way to ensure high
priority projects like roads, bridges and drainage receive
necessary funding. The bill would:
• Prohibit non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from
receiving any capital outlay dollars. Millions of dollars
would no longer flow to NGOs.
• Reduce the amount of money the state could spend in
capital outlay.
the Operator Certification Office for more
information regarding exams or certification
licenses at 225-342-7508.
Don’t forget about the other events we
provide for all attendees and their families:
Exhibit Hall with many vendors
providing information on their
products and services
Welcome Address
Annual Water Taste Test
Annual Fish Fry
Exhibitor Meet/Greet
SEE TREASURY, PAGE 18
Las Vegas Night (card games or bingo-children welcome)
Awards Luncheon Ceremony (luncheon ticket required)
Family Movie Night (Wednesday-children welcome)
As you can see, we have a week packed full of educational opportunities,
time to socialize with other attendees, visit with old friends,
and make new acquaintances. You also have the opportunity to
share operational experiences and build relationships.
For detailed information (registration, schedule, hotel information,
etc.) regarding the conference, please visit LRWA’s website (lrwa.org).
You can also contact our office at 800-256-2591 to request information.
LMR | May 2018 Page 17

Rural Development
RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE IS VITAL TO THE FUTURE OF LOUISIANA
BY USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT STATE DIRECTOR DR. CARRIE CASTILLE
Modern and reliable water systems are a necessity -- not
an amenity -- for any community to thrive. Water and
wastewater infrastructure that provides cleaner, more
efficient water and waste disposal systems help to create
stronger, more sustainable communities.
Rural municipalities still lack access to clean drinking
water and are relying on antiquated water systems that
are beyond and costly to repair. Clean, and safe water is
essential and cannot be disregarded.
Approximately 58% of water systems in Louisiana
are over 50 years old and challenged with increased
maintenance costs, inadequately funded, and repairs or
replacement are critical to protect public health.
USDA Rural Development offers a variety of programs
including loans and loan guarantees and some grants– to
help build or improve water systems that are struggling
economically and for those that have health and safety
concerns.
At Rural Development, we collaborate with the La. Rural
Water Assoc., and other federal and state agencies to
address ongoing issues with declining public water
systems in rural communities.
Since 2009, USDA Rural Development invested $234.5
million in loans and grants to build new or improved
infrastructure that helped 277,842 residents improve the
quality of life in rural communities throughout the state.
In Louisiana, we have helped many rural communities
address water and sewer challenges and have staff ready
and able to work with you.
The Water and Environmental Program (WEP) Loan
and Grant supports communities with 10,000 or fewer
residents by providing financing for clean drinking
water, sewerage systems, and storm water drainage
infrastructure. These funds are available to public bodies,
community-based non-profit organizations, and federally
recognized tribes
Innis Water Corporation received a loan for $1,571,000
and a $1,004,000 grant to construct a six-inch water
main to serve the three communities of New California,
McCrea and Jacoby. The water main was interconnected
to the existing water mains to boost system pressures
and flows. A deep water well and hydro pneumatic pump
station were constructed.
The City of Patterson received $3 million to improve
an existing water system that included upgrading and
relocating the intake structure, adding an accelerator
unit, media filters, and constructing a new control
building.
Regular upgrades and improvements
to water systems are critical. Wells
can go dry and failing wastewater
treatment systems can harm
Dr. Carrie Castille
rural rivers. Homes, schools and
businesses all suffer when they lack
a reliable source of clean water. Without water, economic
progress in rural communities comes to a halt.
Please visit www.rd.usda.gov/la for contact information.
At Rural Development, we are proud of the progress
we’ve made with the support of our partners, and we
look forward to continuing to work together to support
water projects that improve public health, encourage
business development and protect the environment.
Over the next several months, I will be conducting
roundtable discussions to address challenges in rural
communities. If you have any suggestions, feel free
to contact me at carrie.castille@la.usda.gov or (318)
473.7921.
I look forward to partnering with you as we work to
transform infrastructure throughout rural Louisiana.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17: TREASURY
• Change the way the state allocates cash lines of
credit. Under the current law, local governments and
NGOs receive 25 percent of cash lines of credit. In the
proposed legislation, local governments would receive
the full 25 percent of funding. This includes 15 percent
for highways, bridges and flood control/prevention, and
10 percent distributed on a pro-rata basis.
• Provide at least $3 million for each DOTD highway
district for deferred maintenance and no less than 50
percent of the remaining cash lines of credit for highway
and bridge projects.
• Require increased transparency around capital outlay
debt and how it impacts state debt overall.
When I first arrived in the Legislature, I recognized
capital outlay reform was a necessity in our state. I still
believe that today. Several bills to reform the process
have made it out of the House three or four times but
have never made it through the Senate.
HB 122 would take direct aim at a broken system, and I
agree with Rep. DeVillier that his bill would put priorities
over politics. I am also working on a plan to get more
money to locals for their infrastructure needs.
Page 18
LMR | May 2018

Partner Insight
Parks Park, No Longer Dark
The Village of Parks is soon to be a brighter spot on the
bayou.
LaMATS Executive Director Cliff Palmer and Procurement
Consultant Paul Holmes, along with Musco Sports
Lighting representative Randy Alvarez, recently attended
a meeting of the Parks Council to present a solution to
the village’s need to illuminate its community ballfields.
Mayor Kevin Kately and Alderpersons Yvonne Narcisse,
Eva C. Potier and Harold Robertson learned about the
Sports Lighting Purchase Program created and provided
by LaMATS Purchasing Services (LPS) and partner Musco.
After considering a competing offer for the lighting
contract, the Parks Council moved
to endorse the purchase and
installation of a fully-automated,
six pole light-structure system with
Green Generation Lighting® metal
halide technology through the LPS
program.
“This lighting will mark a huge improvement to a popular
public space in Parks,” said Mayor Kately of the approved
installation. “The cost savings up front and over time are
much appreciated by our community.”
Musco Sports Lighting, a global
manufacturer, has partnered with
LaMATS to offer lighting products
and installation to local government
at their lowest prices. One of several
turnkey installation programs offered through LPS,
the Sports Lighting Purchase Program costs less than
$150,000 and does not require a Public Works bid nor
outside design and engineering services.
As explained by Holmes, local government is allowed
to negotiate directly with one or more contractors to
complete relatively small projects like the Parks ballfield
lighting. LPS helps insure local government receives top
rated products and full-service installation by reputable
distributors at discounted
pricing.
Infographic detailing 10 year cost savings of lighting fixtures, courtesy Musco Sports Lighting
Village of Parks ballfields in aerial view, image courtesy Google Maps
Cliff Palmer is excited for
Parks to receive the high
quality, attractive lighting
system its local sports
fans deserve. In addition
to increasing overall park
utility, the new system
will reduce energy and
maintenance costs by 50%
to 85% over typical 1500W Village of Parks Mayor Kevin Kately
metal halide lighting.
presiding over April 10 Council
Musco’s valuable product meeting
assurance and warranty
program covers materials and onsite labor, eliminating all
maintenance costs for a decade of worry-free use.
Being able to provide the same standard and quality of
sports lighting to local parks as they do to the world’s
largest stadiums has been a goal of Randy Alvarez.
According to Alvarez, Parks’ citizens will be delighted and
proud of their brilliant new ballfield.
Louisiana’s villages and towns are often effectively denied
access to quality technology and products due to high
costs and the multiple design-bid-build rules applicable
to larger projects. By teaming with
LaMATS Purchasing Services, smaller
municipalities now have more options
available—and a brighter future for local
residents across the state.
For more information about turnkey
purchase programs, expert procurement
consultation and other services provided
by LPS, visit: www.lamats.net/lps or call:
225 344-5001.
LMR | May 2018 Page 19

LAMSA Spring Conference Welcomes Lt.
Governor and Elects New Officers
BY MARLAINE PEACHEY, LAMSA CONFERENCE COORDINATOR
The Louisiana
Association of
Municipal Secretaries
and Assistants
held their spring
conference at the
Paragon Casino
Resort in Marksville, March 21-23, 2018. A special visit
by Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser kicked off the event
on Wednesday. In keeping with his “Louisiana: Feed
Your Soul” theme and promotion of “Staycations”,
LAMSA volunteers set up Staycation Stations within
the conference hall, representing 8 areas in the state
to visit. Presentations were given to the assembly
by Courtney Tell and Deidra Williams of the Town of
Haynesville, Charlene Savage, Lafayette Consolidated
Government, Tory Acker, City of Slidell, Lisa Bryant, City
of New Roads, Wendy Watkins and Danielle Honor, St.
Charles Parish, Yvonne Lewis, City of Tallulah, Lynn Hebert Tourism
and Sue Thomas from Terrebonne Parish Consolidated
Government and Myra Streeter, City of Walker. Lt.
Governor Nungesser enjoyed the event and spoke to the
members on his current promotions of Louisiana Tourism.
Closing out the day was a session given by LaMATS’ Cliff
Palmer, who also sponsored, as well as graciously donated
10 scholarships this year to LAMSA members to be used
toward their certifications.
On Thursday, the conference formally opened with a
welcome by President Hilda Edwards. Fourteen first
timers were recognized and 80 attendees. Conference
sponsors were also thanked for their generosity. LMA
Attorney Karen White gave an LMA update to the
members and then led a mandatory class on prevention
of sexual harassment. After a brief break, Karen
concluded with an overview of what a victim is to do if
harassed. Participants were then addressed by Senator
Gerald Long who filled in for Senator Eric LaFleur and
gave a state of the state review. The conference then
convened for lunch and LAMSA’s annual business
meeting.
The business meeting was conducted by President
Edwards and election of new officers were held.
President Myra Streeter, City of Walker, Vice President
Patricia Gaudet Thibodaux of Brusly and Secretary
Yvonne Lewis of the City of Tallulah were all elected
unopposed. Treasurer Joan Methvin, Village of Maurice
who has a life term, continued her post. Directors at large
Jamie Liner, Town of Golden Meadow and Constance
Barbin, City of St. Gabriel also ran unopposed. Nominees
Lisa Bryant, City of New Roads, Roxanna Richard, Town of
Lt. Gov. Nungesser addressees
LAMSA members on Louisiana
President Myra Streeter presents
certification of appreciation to
outgoing President Hilda Edwards.
LAMSA members in conference.
Senator Gerald Long and President
Hilda Edwards.
LAMSA Secretary Yvonne Lewis of
Tallulah and Tina Johnson, Director
of Tourism for Madison Parish with
Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser.
Page 20
LMR | May 2018

Partner Insight
Gueydan and Angie Dugas, Town of Grand Coteau were
elected by default, as no one else was nominated and
they completed the board roster. Past Presidents Penny
Simmons of the City of DeRidder (retired), Lori Spranley
of the City of Mandeville and Hilda Edwards of the City of
Ville Platte will remain to serve as well.
Four LAMSA members were honored by achieving
certification. They are: Maranda Washington, Town of
Rayville, Yvonne Lewis, City of Tallulah, Latoicha Jones,
City of Shreveport and Benita Augustine, Town of
Mansura. Seven received their recertifications: Hilda
Edwards, City of Ville Platte, Lisa Bryant, City of New
Roads, Leseley Smith, Town of Lutcher, Patricia Gaudet
Thibodaux, Town of Brusly and Earlene Breaux, Lafayette
Consolidated Government.
Outgoing board members received certificates of
appreciation for their service, including Donna Carlin and
Paula Kidder, Lafayette Consolidated Government and
Danielle Honor Young, St. Charles Parish. LAMSA was also
proud to give a $500 donation to CBIB, Compassionate
Burials for Indigent Babies. Receiving the check was Lise
Naccari, founder, who spoke to the group on the nonprofit’s
mission of burying children for families that could
not afford burial, whether they were indigent, aborted,
miscarried or found discarded by law enforcement.
Members were truly touched by her talk. President
Edwards closed the business meeting and the conference
reconvened in session with Ron Anderson who spoke on
“Code Red: Negativity in the Workplace.”
On Friday morning members were briefed by The Mayors
Panel, including Mayor Kenneth Pickett of the Town of
Mansura, Mayor Leslie Draper of the Town of Simmesport,
Mayor Timmy Lemoine of the Village of Moreauville and
Mayor Jermarr Williams of the Town of White Castle.
After a brief break, speaker Steve Morgan gave a talk on
Clerk’s Corner
Wendy Watkins and Danielle Honor Young of St. Charles Parish at their
Staycation Station
the Challenge of Change, which was enjoyed by all. After
dispersing with hospitality gifts, a scholarship drawing,
evaluation forms and attendance certificates, newly
elected President Myra Streeter closed the conference,
reminding everyone we would meet again in the fall at the
Embassy Suites in Baton Rouge.
LAMSA’s mission is to provide a forum where networking
can take place, to enhance professionalism, and to be an
educational resource for its members. Since 1989, LAMSA
has offered its members scholarships, certification
programs, and educational opportunities through their
annual spring and fall training conferences throughout
Louisiana. For more information, call Marlaine Peachey
at 985-630-1798.
BY DOUGLAS SCHMIDT, LCMC, MANDEVILLE CITY CLERK, LMCA PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER
I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter!
Spring is in the air and Summer Vacations
are fast approaching! Lots of festivals are
in full swing throughout the state and one
should take advantage of all Louisiana
has to offer. Additionally, there are some
upcoming events LMCA members need to
remember and make every effort to attend.
The IIMC, International Institute of Municipal
Clerks, will have its annual convention May 20-23 in
Norfolk, Virginia. This is a great opportunity offering
many educational classes and extensive networking with
clerks from other states and countries. LMA District
meetings will be held in June and the LMCA encourages
clerks to attend your respective district meeting. These
meetings enhance the LMCA experience by
allowing us to inform Mayors and Council
members about our organization and
our objectives, particularly the Technical
Assistance Program. Likewise, the LMA
Convention will be in Lake Charles July
30 – August 1, 2018. As in past years, the
LMCA will have a booth set up and will be
seeking members to assist working the
table throughout the convention. Hope to see a large
contingent of clerks in attendance!
LAGNIAPPE – May is Physical Fitness Month and
National Burger Month. What a contradiction! So, keep
healthy and exercise, but every once in a while, enjoy a
good burger!!
LMR | May 2018 Page 21

Happy 300th Birthday New Orleans!
“As we approach
2018, we honor
our city’s history
and her place
in the world.
New Orleans is a
resilient city, as
history has proven
many times over.
We have faced
Mitchell J. Landrieu
and overcome
the challenges of
rebuilding a great city after fire, war and
disasters – both natural and manmade.
With the Tricentennial, we now have
the opportunity to celebrate the hard
work of generations of New Orleanians
who have made us one of the world’s
most authentic and beloved cities and
to remember the fullness, richness and
diversity of our history as it should have
always been remembered. I invite you to
join us.” - Mitchell J. Landrieu, Mayor
Before the founding of the City, Native
Americans of the Woodland and
Mississippian cultures lived in the
area that is now Greater New Orleans.
Explorers passed through in the 16th
and 17th centuries, but it was not until
1718 that Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne, Sieur
de Bienville founded New Orleans on
high ground 100 miles from the mouth
of the Mississippi River.
The original City was centered around
the Place d’Armes, which is now Jackson
Square. A hurricane destroyed most
of the young City in 1722. It was after
this that the streets were laid out and
rebuilt in a grid pattern, creating what
we now call the French Quarter. The
colonists who populated New Orleans in
those early days contended with many
adverse circumstances, such as illness,
swamp land, and intermittent supplies.
The colonists also brought with them
the practice of slavery, and enslaved not
only the local indigenous population,
but also imported slaves from Africa.
The French ruled over the city until
From top clockwise: View of the Central Business District and Mercedes-Benz Superdome, an RTA
Streetcar passing through Uptown New Orleans, a view of Royal Street in the French Quarter, a
typical New Orleans mansion off St. Charles Avenue, and the St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square
1763, when they ceded the territory to
the Spanish. Another 40 years later, the
French regained control of the colony in
1803, and shortly thereafter sold it to the
United States in the Louisiana Purchase.
By the middle of the 19th century, New
Orleans had grown to a population of
170,000, became the wealthiest city in
the United States, and was a bustling
port of strategic importance. The city
was also home to many free people of
color, a business and property owning
population, unique in the United States.
Page 22
LMR | May 2018

CONSULTANTS
Membership Directory
In 2005, the city was hit by Hurricane Katrina and Federal
levee failures devastated vast areas of the city with
flooding. However, in the years that have passed since that
event, the city has rebuilt and recovered, its culture and
attractions more vibrant than ever. As the city approaches
the Tricentennial, it celebrates the resilience and
resourcefulness of its people.1
To cap the rich 300-year history, in November 2017, the
people of New Orleans elected the first woman to serve
as mayor. LaToya Cantrell’s swearing in on May 7, 2018
represents a new chapter in the city’s story. “I am honored
to stand at this point in history and not only reflect on the
last 300 years, but also to chart the course for the next
300. New Orleans is a beautiful place, but her heart and
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forces only a year into the conflict. During Reconstruction, Our culture, customs, food, and music
New Orleans was still a vital port and economically
have influenced the world and we look
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Fax: (352) 331-3525
music. As the birthplace of early jazz in the 1900s, New forward to the future.”
, &Bellemin Orleans became a cultural beacon throughout the United Tricentennial Events:
AD COPY LaToya Cantrell
States as jazz music swept the nation in the next few
10/13/2017 - 06/30/2018: The Church
for use in the decades. following issues: The city also expanded LWR-R0018its footprint using new in the Crescent: Three Hundred Years of
technology to drain swamps and wetlands. After Authorized World War Signature: Catholicism in New Orleans
II, the city became a tourist destination and remains so to
This exhibit shares the story of the St. Louis Church from its beginnings as a
this day, drawing millions for events such as Mardi Date: Gras and
small wooden church to its present-day iconic edifice.
the Jazz and Heritage Festival.
Artwork Contact:
10/16/2017 - 07/31/2018: Women of New Orleans: Builders and
Rebuilders
Presented by Nola4Women. Various events which honor generations of
women who have played a prominent role in the city’s history through
exhibits, performances, and lectures.
02/27/2018 - 05/27/2018: The Historic New Orleans Collection’s
(THNOC) exhibition “New Orleans, the Founding Era”
A multifaceted exhibit exploring the city’s first few decades and earliest
inhabitants featuring a vast array of rare artifacts from THNOC’s holdings
and from institutions across Europe and North America to tell the stories of
the city’s early days.
03/08/2018 - 09/02/2018: Salazar: Portraits of Influence in Spanish
New Orleans, 1782-1802
Tells the story of Josef Francisco Xavier de Salazar y Mendoza (c. 1750-
1802), whose career spanned most of the
Spanish administration of New Orleans.
04/12/2018 - 07/07/2018: Newcomb Art
Museum Exhibit: Clay in Transit
Explores the history of people and place
through an exhibition with a museum-wide
immersive three-part art installation
featuring historic records, artifacts, and art
all culled from the various cultural objects in
Tulane’s care.
04/20/2018 - 07/08/2018: Recovered
Memories: Spain, New Orleans and the
American Revolution at the Cabildo
This magnificent exhibition features hundreds
of historic artifacts, documents and
works of art exploring Spain’s influence on
the development of New Orleans, its support
of the American Revolution and Spain’s
lasting legacy on American culture.
05/06/2018: New Orleans Jazz Fest
Closing and Tricentennial Fireworks
Show
8/21/14 8:33 PM
LMR | May 2018 Page 23
707693_Thornton.indd 1

05/23/2018 - 05/27/2018: New Orleans Wine & Food Experience
The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience is one of the premier events
in the Big Easy. In its 26th Anniversary year, the festival has become one
of most incredible culinary events in the nation, attracting over 7,000
gourmands and connoisseurs.
06/01/2018 - 06/30/2018: Nola4Women Global Summit on Women
and Girls
The summit will shine a spotlight on New Orleans as a thought leader in
the global conversations about women and girls.
06/16/2018: Unveiling of the 527 Conti Street Historic Marker
The event will include a Forum at the Historic New Orleans Collection
Williams Research Center, with an unveiling of the marker on the original
Tribune building immediately following.
09/01/2018 - 01/31/2019: Newcomb Art Museum: Empire
Celebrating the New Orleans tricentennial, EMPIRE is an art installation
by Los Angeles based artists Fallen Fruit (David Allen Burns and Austin
Young) commissioned and presented by Newcomb Art Museum, A Studio
in the Woods, and Pelican Bomb.
10/26/2018 - 01/27/2019: New Orleans Museum of Art Duke of
Orléans Exhibit (The Orleans Collection)
An exhibition of selections from the magnificent collection of the city’s
namesake, Philippe II, Duke of Orléans (1689-1723).
11/17/2018: Tricentennial Fête des Fromages
A festival celebrating cheeses from around the world.
12/01/2018 - 12/31/2018: Luna Fête Presented by Arts Council
A visionary initiative that features unusual art installation and a festival
of lights employing the city’s iconic architecture as the canvas for largescale
and inspiring contemporary light and video mapping technology.
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Page 24
LMR | May 2018