LMR_January_FINAL

Louisiana Municipal Review 

PUBLISHED BY THE LOUISIANA MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION 

VOL 84, NO. 1 

JANUARY 2019

Don’t leave procurement to chance! 

Let LPS manage every aspect of your local 

government purchasing needs, large or small. 

SEALED BIDS 

REVERSE AUCTIONS 

SURPLUS PROPERTY SALES 

PUBLIC PROJECT FINANCING 

EXPERT CONSULTATION 

LAMATS.NET/LPS | 225.344.5001 

The Louisiana Municipal Review, the official publication of the Louisiana Municipal Association, serves as a medium for the exchange 

of ideas and information for municipal officials in Louisiana. With a circulation of over 3,200, this publication is read by employees of 

Louisiana municipal governments, sheriffs, parish presidents, state government officials, and members of the state legislature and 

Congressional delegation, among others. Subscription rate: $24 per year; Single copy: $2. Louisiana residents, add 9% sales tax. Rates 

for display, professional-listing, and classified advertising available upon request at editor@lma.org. 

Statements or expressions of opinions appearing herein are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the Louisiana Municipal 

Association. Publication of any advertisement shall not be considered an endorsement of the product or service involved. No 

material from this publication may be reprinted without the express permission of the editor. 

Editorial offices: Louisiana Municipal Association, 700 North 10th Street, Suite 400, Post Office Box 4327, Baton Rouge, LA 70821- 

4327, editor@lma.org, www.lma.org, (225) 344-5001, (800) 234-8274, FAX (225) 344-3057. 

LOUISIANA MUNICIPAL REVIEW 

MUNICIPAL REVIEW STAFF 

(USPS 832-560) (ISSN 0164-3622) 

Executive Director: John Gallagher jgallagher@lma.org 

3 rd class postage paid at Baton Rouge, 

Managing Editor: Karen Day White kwhite@lma.org 

Louisiana. 

Editor: Anita Tillman atillman@lma.org 

Postmaster – Send address changes to: 

Production Coordinator: Baton Rouge Press, Inc. 

LOUISIANA MUNICIPAL REVIEW 

Post Office Box 4327 

Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4327 

2018-19 LMA EXECUTIVE BOARD (non-affiliate, non-advisory) 

President – Harry Lewis – Mayor, Rayville 

District J Vice President – Rodney Grogan, Mayor, Patterson 

First Vice President – Jimmy Williams – Mayor, Sibley 

LMA Past President – Glenn Brasseaux, Mayor, Carencro 

Second Vice President– Michael Chauffe – Mayor, Grosse Tete LMA Past President – David Butler, Mayor, Woodworth 

Immediate Past President – Lawrence Henagan, DeQuincy 

LMA Past President – David Camardelle, Mayor, Grand Isle 

District A Vice President – Peggy Adkins, Mayor, Sarepta 

LMA Past President – Clarence Fields, Mayor, Pineville 

District B Vice President – Vacant 

LMA Past President – Norman Heine, Councilman, Baker 

District C Vice President – Vacant 

Vice President at Large – Derrick Johnson, Mayor, Cheneyville 

District D Vice President – Rick Allen, Mayor, Leesville 

Vice President at Large – Jennifer Vidrine, Mayor, Ville Platte 

District E Vice President – Nathan Martin, Councilman, Pineville Vice President (< 1K) – Johnnie L. Natt, Mayor, Mangham 

District F Vice President – Vacant 

Vice President (1K – 2.5K) – William D'Aquilla, Mayor, St. Francisville 

District G Vice President – Kenneth Stinson, Mayor, Vinton 

Vice President (2.5K – 5K) – Robert Hardey, Mayor, Westlake 

District H Vice President – David Toups, Mayor, Addis 

District I Vice President – Donald Villere, Mayor, Mandeville 

Page 2 

LMR | January 2019

Inside the LMA 

Director’s Viewpoint 

GREAT THINGS TO COME IN 2019 

BY JOHN GALLAGHER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 

I hope that all of you enjoyed a wonderful holiday season 

with family and friends as we said goodbye to 2018 

and welcomed 2019. We are launching into the new 

year by preparing to welcome our membership to our 

Mid-Winter Conference on February 19 and 20 in Baton 

Rouge. Planning is well underway for our 82nd Annual 

Convention, which will be held August 1-3 in Monroe. 

Upon the request of our membership, we are returning 

to the Thursday through Saturday schedule. We are 

also lining up an exciting schedule of informative and 

educational webinars in which we encourage everyone to 

participate. 

Municipal governments statewide saw a larger than 

normal change in leadership due to retirements and other 

factors. We welcome our newly-elected officials and are 

eager to share how the LMA can assist in their efforts, 

and discuss the services provided by our subsidiaries, 

Risk Management, Inc. (RMI) and the Louisiana Municipal 

Advisory and Technical Services Bureau (LaMATS). The 

2019 Mid-Winter Conference is designed to empower 

both newly-elected and veteran officials with the tools 

to start the year off right. During 2018, many members 

vocalized the need for financial assistance to help with 

infrastructure and related issues. We were pleased that 

the diligent efforts of the LMA Legislative Team, in 

partnership with other local government stakeholders, 

resulted in the legislature appropriating $10 million for 

the Louisiana Governmental Assistance Program (LGAP) 

and the Community Water Enrichment Fund (CWEF) 

in the state’s FY19 budget. The Office of Community 

Development reports that they have received quite a 

number of applications for these funds, and we appreciate 

all the work OCD is doing to connect our members with 

this much-needed assistance. It is making a difference. 

So, to further facilitate access to a variety of funding 

resources, the first day of our February conference will 

focus on funding sources, including an “all-star” lineup to 

discuss both state and federal programs that will help to 

address water and sewer infrastructure, transportation 

issues, and the need for economic development initiatives 

such as broadband, main street programs, and more. 

The second day will return to the basics of operating a 

municipal government, serving as a quick primer for our 

new officials and a refresher for the experienced. More 

information on the conference is available in this issue of 

the Louisiana Municipal Review, but please also check our 

weekly e-newsletter for continuing updates and speaker 

announcements. 

I am very pleased to announce 

several new projects and 

publications that will assist our 

members in 2019. 

Mayor – Police Chief Relations Handbook: Approved 

during the December LMA Executive Board Meeting, 

this handbook provides guidance to mayors and police 

chiefs, whether elected or appointed, broken down by 

subject areas such as personnel issues, budgets, and 

operations and gives relevant case law and Attorney 

General opinions. With input from the LMA Executive 

Board and the Louisiana Chiefs of Police Association, the 

LMA staff worked hard to develop this valuable resource. 

The handbook is available for download for free from the 

LMA website, or you may purchase a bound copy from 

the LMA offices or at Mid-Winter. 

Mayor’s Court Training: The LMA has secured a 

commitment from the Louisiana State Supreme Court, 

through the Judicial College, to provide an intensive oneday 

Mayors Court training session for mayors, magistrates, 

and clerks. This training will give those that preside over 

mayors’ courts and administrative staff the tools to run 

an efficient, legally-compliant court. I urge key personnel 

to attend the training which is tentatively scheduled for 

March 25 in Baton Rouge and March 26 in north Louisiana. 

Stay tuned for more information in the coming weeks. 

Congratulations, You’ve Been Elected. Now What?: We 

are excited that, this month, we are unveiling a publication 

that covers the basics of municipal government 

operations. Entitled “Congratulations, You’ve Been 

Elected. Now What?,” this short guide not only introduces 

you to the programs and services available through the 

LMA and its subsidiaries and affiliates, but it also covers 

basics including open meetings, public records, lanes 

of authority for elected officials, the Local Government 

Budget Act, and the passage of ordinances and 

resolutions. The guide is meant to introduce municipal 

officials to the perennial issues faced in governance 

and encourage further exploration through the myriad 

of materials available through the LMA, such as the 

Municipal Handbook. A copy of the guide will be mailed to 

2019’s newly-elected officials and will be available for free 

download on the LMA website. 

Lastly, LMA is working to enlarge its social media presence 

SEE GREAT THINGS PAGE 4 

LMR | January 2019 Page 3

President’s Message 

HAPPY 2019 

BY MAYOR HARRY LEWIS, TOWN OF RAYVILLE 

As we say goodbye to 2018, we 

welcome 2019 with new goals, ideas 

and determination. We believe this 

year will be extraordinary and filled 

with positivity. We will build on the 

successes of 2018 and work together to ensure that 2019 

is a stellar year. 

The success and growth of our dear LMA is a testament 

of the strength of its membership. We would not be the 

awesome organization we are without the relentless 

support of our members. Our LMA leadership and staff 

appreciate your commitment and dedication. 

We are well aware that we face many new challenges, 

including opioid addiction, homelessness, cyber-attacks, 

natural disasters and a multiplicity of issues with 

infrastructure. Tons of work needs to be done in our cities, 

towns and villages. We can only resolve our issues by 

networking with others; therefore, it is imperative that you 

increase your communication with your local and federal 

legislators, attend legislative sessions, and share ideas 

with each other. Encourage your constituents to do the 

same. 

We congratulate our newly elected officials who won in 

the recent run-off elections. Please plan to join us in Baton 

Rouge for our Mid-Winter Conference. This conference 

will give you an opportunity to meet your LMA leadership 

and staff. In addition, you will hear presenters give 

information on topics of interest to your community and 

you. It is a great place to make new friends and share 

experiences. We look forward to seeing you there. 

I believe this will be a great year! Let us resolve to 

volunteer more. There are many organizations in our 

communities that can use our assistance and talents. Let 

us resolve to keep our community clean. Let us resolve 

to have a positive attitude - it opens the mind to new 

possibilities. Let us resolve to serve our communities with 

kindness and patience. 

Be blessed with good health, peace and love beyond 

measure! Happy 2019. 

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3: GREAT THINGS 

in 2019. We will soon develop podcasts and will undertake 

a video production project that will spotlight our members 

throughout the state. We are also proud to introduce a 

recurring feature in our monthly publication that highlights 

the innovative projects and accomplishments of our towns 

and villages. The first segment of “Small Towns, Big Ideas” 

premiers in this edition of the LMR and features our 2018 

Community Achievement Awards Best of Show winner, 

the Town of Jean Lafitte, along with the remarkable tale 

of how the Village of Grand Cane rehabilitated their main 

street and, in turn, are reaping the rewards. If you have a 

project in the works or have completed a project that you 

feel will help put your municipality on the map, please 

contact the LMA so we can show the world that your small 

town has big ideas. 

As you can see, we are very excited about the promise 

that 2019 brings. 

On behalf of the LMA executive officers, LMA Executive 

Board members, and the staffs of the LMA, RMI, and 

LaMATS, HAPPY NEW YEAR and best wishes for a 

prosperous 2019. 

Page 4 



Governor’s Column 

NEW YEAR, NEW BEGINNINGS 

BY JOHN BEL EDWARDS, GOVERNOR OF LOUISIANA 

As we embark upon a new year, I am excited about the 

possibilities ahead for our state in 2019 and hope that 

all of you share my enthusiasm. This new-year will be 

filled with many opportunities, and I’m looking forward 

to continuing the great partnership between the 

Louisiana Municipal Association and my administration 

to help make things better for the great people of 

Louisiana. 

Education remains at the forefront of my agenda for 

the upcoming legislative session in April. Since 2004, 

Louisiana has reported teacher shortages in nearly 

every subject area, in fact, fewer people are becoming 

K-12 educators and over a third of our students are 

being taught by uncertified or out-of-field teachers. 

We are not only failing to recruit qualified teachers, 

but we are not meaningfully supporting the thousands 

of underpaid teachers who care for and nurture our 

children. Teachers and school support personnel 

deserve a pay raise. It has been more than a decade 

since they have seen an increase in salary, which is 

why raising their pay is my top legislative priority this 

year. Teaching is an honorable profession and should 

be viewed as such. It is the one that teaches all other 

professions. Pay increases will help recruit strong and 

talented teachers by shortening the wage gap between 

teaching and other comparable professions. They hold 

an essential role in strengthening our communities and 

molding the future of our state. We must guarantee 

that they are supported with a fair wage that represents 

how vital they are to moving Louisiana forward. 

Every year since taking office, I have fought to establish 

a state minimum wage and implement equal pay for 

equal work. An overwhelming number of Louisianans 

support both efforts, but the legislature has failed 

to act. That is why I will continue fighting for the 

working people of this state. In a state as great as ours, 

there is no excuse for having the highest gender pay 

Searching for the right fit? 

THAT IS OUR SPECIALTY. 

Comprehensive Executive Recruitment 

focused on matching professional skills, 

management style and core values to fit your 

organization’s specific requirements. 

waters-company.com 800.899.1669 

gap in the country. We need to 

eliminate pay secrecy by prohibiting 

employers from retaliating against 

employees who inquire, share or 

disclose their wages with other 

employees. This year, we saw other conservative states, 

Arkansas and Missouri, increase their minimum wage. 

When our neighbor, Arkansas, has a more workerfriendly 

environment by providing a living wage for 

all citizens, Louisiana suffers. For the past two years, 

I have asked the legislature to establish a modest but 

meaningful increase to the minimum wage starting at 

$8.00 per hour and increasing to $8.50 after one year 

of implementation. In order for Louisiana’s economy 

to be strong and competitive, all of our workers must 

know they can survive and support their families while 

positively contributing to their communities. 

Just as important as a living wage, it is essential that 

all Louisianans have access to affordable and effective 

healthcare. I am committed to ensuring that every 

citizen who seeks health insurance will have access to 

coverage no matter their health status or pre-existing 

condition. My administration will fight to protect the 

nearly 850,000 Louisianans who are at risk of losing 

their coverage, because a healthy Louisiana is a strong 

Louisiana. 

It has been an honor to have a front row seat 

watching the incredible work of the LMA. You are all 

responsible for so many things that are great about 

your communities, parishes and our beautiful state. 

Thank you again for the dedication and commitment 

that you have to preserving the quality and prosperity 

of Louisiana. Donna and I wish you and your family 

and Louisianas across the state many blessings in the 

New Year. 

Hometown Happenings 

Louisiana Fur and Wildlife Festival 

Jan 11-12, Cameron 

www.lafurandwildlifefestival.com 

King Cake Festival 

Jan 27, New Orleans 

www.kingcakefestival.org 


LMA Salutes Retiring Past Presidents 

The end of 2018 also marked the beginning of new 

chapters in the lives of three outstanding LMA leaders. 

Though these past presidents come from diverse 

backgrounds, had distinct leadership styles, and brought 

range of skills to the LMA Executive Board, they share 

similar tenures as former mayors and members of the 

LMA Executive Board. 

Vern Breland was born in Pomona, 

California, but was raised in Spencer, 

Louisiana from the age of two. He 

graduated from Sterlington High 

School in 1980 and joined the Navy, 

where he served two tours of duty 

before receiving an honorable 

discharge as a Signalman, First 

Class. Upon his return to Louisiana, 

he began a 12-year career in law 

enforcement including service in the Vern Breland 

Monroe Police Department, Union 

Parish Sheriff’s Office, Monroe City Marshal’s Office, 

and the Sterlington Police Department. When physical 

injury mandated a career change, Mr. Breland enrolled in 

college at the age of 39. Three years later, he graduated 

from ULM with a bachelor’s degree in history. While in 

college, he served as a councilman and Mayor Pro Tem 

for the Town of Sterlington, and simultaneous with his 

college graduation, he was elected as the town’s first fulltime 

mayor in 2006. In 2008, Mr. Breland was elected to 

serve as District C Vice President for the LMA and served 

three consecutive terms in that position. Then in 2011, Mr. 

Breland was elected 2nd Vice President, leading to his 

ultimate service as President of the LMA Executive Board 

from 2013 to 2014. As a member of the LMA Executive 

Board, Mr. Breland brought a wealth of knowledge and 

a unique perspective to the challenges faced by LMA 

members. He was also a Board member for the LMA’s 

wholly-owned subsidiary LaMATS, where his support 

enabled the success of new member services such as 

LaMATS Purchasing Services, a program focused on 

assisting LMA members in their procurement needs at no 

cost. Mr. Breland has been accredited as a wastewater 

specialist and serves as the LMA’s designee on the 

Louisiana Wastewater Operator Certification Advisory 

Committee. That skill is serving Mr. Breland well since, 

in the wake of his decision to not seek re-election as 

mayor of Sterlington, he has accepted a position as 

Assistant Superintendent in the Water Department for 

the Alexandria Utility System. Mr. Breland was awarded 

the LMA President’s Award by Mayor Lawrence Henagan 

during the 81st Annual LMA Convention in August of 

2018. 

Another recipient of the 2018 LMA President’s Award who 

is retiring from public office is longtime mayor of the City 

of Springhill, Carroll Breaux. As a licensed plumber, Mr. 

Breaux epitomizes the hard-working, 

humble, problem-solving mentality 

that creates and grows communities. 

Since he is originally from Larose, 

Louisiana, he also brings a spirit of 

statewide solidarity that served the 

LMA membership so well. Mr. Breaux 

is known for enjoying the simple 

pleasures in life such as fishing and 

spending time with his family, yet he 

possesses the sharp fiscal sensibilities Carroll Breaux 

that promoted unprecedented 

growth in Springhill. He was elected mayor of the city 

in 2006 and during his three terms in office, he was 

successful in funding millions of dollars in construction 

and improvements, all while attracting new investment 

and industry. He was elected to serve as District A Vice 

President for the LMA in 2008 and held that office for 

five years. In 2013, he was elected as 2nd Vice President. 

Mr. Breaux ascended to the rank of LMA President for 

2015-2016, while simultaneously serving on the board of 

LaMATS. Mr. Breaux became the President of LaMATS in 

2017, and during his tenure there, his leadership inspired 

and guided the creation of a much-need program, the 

Municipal Clerks’ Technical Assistance Program. Mr. 

Breaux recognized that clerks are an essential part of 

municipal governance, and further realized that novice 

clerks are often overwhelmed with duties without 

immediately accessible training. Under the program, 

which is jointly implemented by the LMA and the LMCA, 

a seasoned certified clerk travels to the new clerk’s 

municipality and offers mentorship and practical advice 

on a variety of issues, from organization to statutory 

mandates to processing payments. This invaluable 

service benefits everyone and enables a smooth transition 

between municipal administrations. While Mr. Breaux 

eschews applause for his leadership in developing the 

program, it is yet another example of his pragmatism 

in action. Regardless of what his retirement brings, his 

legacy of public service is secure. 

The LMA’s Immediate Past President 

is Lawrence Henagan of the City of 

DeQuincy. Mr. Henagan comes from 

a family of public servants, his uncle 

and namesake Lawrence “Buddy” 

Henagan having preceded him as 

mayor. Like other DeQuincy mayors, 

Mr. Henagan had a career as a railroad 

engineer for Union Pacific Railroad, 

but he brought his own brand of 

dynamic leadership to the community. Lawrence Henagan 

After first serving as councilman, 

Mr. Henagan was elected as mayor of DeQuincy in 

2006 and in 2008, he was elected by his peers to be 

SEE LMA SALUTES PAGE 8 

Page 6 



Legal Briefs 

ONCE MORE UNTO THE BREACH 

BY KAREN DAY WHITE, EXECUTIVE COUNSEL 

Echoing the spirit of the above line from Shakespeare’s 

Henry V, the Iron Lady of British politics, Margaret 

Thatcher, once opined, “You may have to fight a battle 

more than once to win it.” This has proven to be an 

accurate statement as the LMA must once again join 

our local government partners to defend against unfair 

depictions of our relationship with the state budget. 

In the February 2018 issue of the Louisiana Municipal 

Review, we examined how municipal governments do 

more with less, noting that the actual funding that 

trickles down to municipal governing bodies (after 

allocation of K-12 education and state supplemental 

pay) is a mere fraction of the state’s annual budget. 

We urged prioritization of local government standing, 

considering that 86% of the country’s population lives 

in cities, and that 88% of total real income is generated 

within municipalities. Locals provide the essential 

services upon which citizens rely every day, including 

public utilities, transportation and technology 

infrastructure, and fire and police protection. 

We described in the November 2018 issue of the LMR 

how locals are constrained in their ability to raise 

their own revenue to fund critical needs: “Louisiana’s 

municipalities have generally been unable to generate 

an adequate amount of revenue from locally-levied 

taxes and fees because of tax exemptions and 

exclusions and statutory constraints imposed by the 

state. For example, the state limits the percentage of 

sales tax that a municipality may impose, even though 

municipal taxes may only be levied after an affirmative 

vote of the people. Municipalities must then seek 

legislative permission to levy their own taxes that 

exceed the threshold. So, under the current system, 

municipalities are forced to receive financial assistance 

from the federal and state governments, especially in 

the funding of K-12 education, which represents the vast 

majority of state funding of local governments.” 

Recently, there has been an increase in comments from a 

variety of sources that seek to blame local governments 

for the state’s budgetary woes. To be clear, the LMA 

values its strong working relationships with state and 

federal legislators, many of whom fight alongside local 

governments to protect against attempts to cripple 

local revenue and authority. It is not legislators against 

whom we take up arms – it is the unfair perception of 

municipalities as parasites on the state budget. Here are 

the facts. 

If there is a system of state 

subsidization, then it is a dynamic 

that was created by the state 

legislature. There are literally 

hundreds of constitutional and statutory tax exemptions 

and exclusions that limit the type of taxes that local 

governments may levy, and the scope of the tax base 

(this even though the people must vote to approve 

local taxes, whereas the state may impose taxes as it 

deems fit). Combined with that limited revenue base 

are dozens and dozens of unfunded mandates that 

are imposed on local governments by the state. And 

it cannot be overemphasized that of the money that is 

allocated by the state to “local” needs, the vast majority 

is comprised of MFP funding for K-12 education and 

state supplemental pay for law enforcement. What 

remains, after being divvied up between 64 parishes, 

303 municipalities, and numerous taxing authorities and 

school boards, is a very small amount. 

The LMA Legislative Team is collaborating with our local 

government partners to ensure that our message is clear: 

locals can tend to their own needs if the state unties 

their hands. We seek to be part of the solution to the 

problems that underlie this perennial conversation, and 

we encourage our members to make their voices heard 

at the State Capitol, too. 

Calendar of Events 

January 

16 LMA Executive Committee Meeting, 10:00 a.m. 

will be held in Meeting Room 2 of the LMA Office 

Building. 

21 The LMA office will be closed Monday, January 

21 st in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. 

21-24 LRPA Annual Conference will take place at the 

Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center, 201 Lafayette 

St., Baton Rouge (from January 21-23). The final 

day of the conference, January 24, will be held 

at the LMA Building in Rooms 1 and 2 from 8:00 

a.m. until 1:00 p.m. 

22 BOAL Executive Board Meeting, 9:30 a.m. will be 

held on the first floor of the LMA Office Building. 


Adv Code 

Official Publication of the 

LMA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE – 2019 MEETING DATES 

LMA Executive Committee 

LMA Executive Board 

Wed. January 16, 2019 10:00 a.m. 

Louisiana 

Tue. 

Rural Water 

February 

Association 

19, 2019 10:00 a.m. 

Naylor, LLC - Gain 

Wed. March 6, 2019 10:00 a.m. Wed. May 8, 2019 10:00 a.m. 

5950 NW 1st Pl 

Wed. April 3, 2019 10:00 a.m. Wed. June 12, 2019 10:00 Gainesville, a.m. Florida, 

Tel:(800) 369-6220, (352 

Wed. July 10, 2019 10:00 a.m. Wed. July 31, 2019 2:00 p.m. 

Fax: (352) 331-3 

(@ Convention – Monroe, LA) 

Wed. September Thornton, Musso, 4, 2019 &Bellemin 10:00 a.m. Wed October 9, 2019 10:00 a.m. 

Wed. November 13, 2019 10:00 a.m. Wed. December 11, 2019 10:00 a.m. 

I approve this ad copy for use in the following issues: LWR-R0018 

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6: LMA SALUTES 

District G Vice President on the LMA Executive Board. 

By 2015, his commitment to the organization was wellestablished 

and he was elected to serve as 2nd Vice 

President. That position lead to his ascendance to LMA 

President for the 2017-2018 term. Mr. Henagan proved 

to be a tireless Index advocate Listings for municipal governments, 

providing assertive yet kind leadership, all while juggling 

WATER TREATMENT CONSULTANTS 

his demanding schedule as a railroad engineer. For 

nearly two decades, he has volunteered his time and 

energy as part of Operation Lifesaver, which is focused 

on promoting crossing safety through education and 

mentorship. During his tenure, Mr. Henagan shepherded 

the LMA and its subsidiaries and affiliates through pivotal 

transitions, focusing on giving LMA members the tools 

necessary for successful governance through expanded 

educational initiatives. He also served as President of the 

Louisiana Municipal Gas Authority, imparting his vision 

for long-term profitability to their board of directors 

and laying the foundation 

for gas transactions that will 

provide sustainable benefits for 

LMA members. Thankfully, Mr. 

Henagan will continue to mentor 

incoming executive officers on 

the LMA Executive Board through 

his service as Immediate Past 

President until July of 2019. Mr. 

Henagan’s skilled governance is 

part of the reason that Calcasieu 

Parish has become a beacon 

for economic development, 

safe communities, and smart 

growth. Since his retirement from 

public office coincides with his 

retirement from Union Pacific, we 

are especially grateful that he has 

chosen to share some of the time 

dedicated to enjoying his family 

with his extended family at the 

LMA. 

The combined tenures of these 

three distinguished gentlemen on 

Membership Directory 

2018 Roster Edition 

Pub Code 

the LMA Executive Board Authorized amount Signature: to over three decades 

of dedication to the LMA and its members. Please join 

us in thanking these leaders 

Date: 

for their commitment to 

municipalities and for the Artwork sacrifices Contact: that they have made 

in the pursuit of improving the lives of our citizens. They 

are examples of servant leadership at its finest and we 

wish them the very best in their future endeavors. 

Safety Consulting and Programs 

16260 Airline Highway, Suite B 

Prairieville, LA 70769 

chris@riskwise.biz 

Custom Water 

Treatment Programs 

Designed by Professionals Since 1990 

POTAB 

ABLE 

WASTE 

WA 

ATER 

FAX: (225)654-9533 

P. O. Bory, 

Advertising Space 

LWR-R00 

Ad Order # 1636839 

179697 

S. Rep: Jason Zawada (C) 

Chris Conti 

Board Certified Safety Professional 

Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter 

www.riskwise.biz 

O 225.313.4448 

C 225.413.7542 

F 225.313.4518 

Corrosion Inhibition Iron & Manganese Control Enhanced Disinfection NSF Certified 

EPA Approved Chlorine dioxide for Stage 2 compliance assurance DBP reduction 

Sludge Dewatering Polymers Dechlorination Technical Support/Service Testing 

Page 8 

707693_Thornton.indd 1 

LMR | January 2019 

8/21/14 8:33 PM

Chosen to Lead: 

The Good Example of Carroll Breaux 

By Matt Mullenix, LaMATS Communications Consultant 

For a small town licensed plumber who loves to fish, 

retiring Springhill Mayor Carroll Breaux will leave 

office with a remarkable legacy of leadership and 

public service. 

Much of Breaux’s civic effort has focused on 

the betterment of Springhill, where he secured 

more than $22 million in capital improvements, 

spearheaded the construction of a $2 million sports 

complex and brought significant new industry, 

revenue, and jobs to town. In a community with 200 

years of history, Mayor Breaux’s productive tenure 

will be long remembered. 

Breaux did not limit his public service to Springhill. 

In 2008, he was elected unanimously by dozens of 

his mayoral peers to the position of District A Vice 

President of the Louisiana Municipal Association 

(LMA), where for five years he represented the 

northwestern district that includes Shreveport and 

Bossier metro areas. 

For a decade, Breaux served with distinction on LMA’s 

Executive Committee, highlighted by his 2015/2016 term 

as President. For five years, Breaux was also a Board 

Member and Board President (2017/2018) of the Louisiana 

Municipal Advisory and Technical Services Bureau 

(LaMATS), the LMA subsidiary that provides information 

and support to more than 300 incorporated local 

governments. Breaux calls his LMA service instructive and 

directly helpful to his performance in office; and he credits 

LaMATS, under the direction of Cliff Palmer and his staff, 

for the great benefits it brings to the LMA membership. 

Drawing from his own experience and that of peers 

in the LMA, Breaux recognized a need for a better 

understanding of the millage process and the importance 

of accurately levying ad valorem taxes. “It was an area 

I was weak in,” he said of his decision to address this 

need with a new program. Breaux worked with LaMATS 

and millage expert Kristyn Childers to develop Millage 

Management, now a free service to bring greater 

awareness, assistance and maximum revenues to every 

LMA member. 

One might assume that such an accomplished public 

servant caught the political bug early in life. 

Breaux says no, smiling at the suggestion. It was more the 

opposite motivation, “One of the reasons I got involved 

with government was because I was tired of what I call 

Retiring Mayor Carroll Breaux (Springhill) and his wife, Diana. 

A Word from 

Our Affiliates 

‘brother-in-law deals,’ or old-time politics,” he replied. 

Among the qualities Breaux says are essential to good 

political leadership, “having a servant’s heart is first 

and foremost,” adding, “They didn’t teach me that in 

government. My daddy taught me that.” 

Thoughtful and soft-spoken, Breaux says he operates 

always on the assumption that there are only two good 

reasons to do anything. “Number one, it needs doing,” he 

said, “and number two, it needs to be the right thing to 

do.” 

As a Deacon and Sunday school teacher at Springhill’s 

Central Baptist Church, Breaux notes his faith provides 

another motivation to leadership and informs his views on 

public service. “I think of Corinthians 13:1,” he explained. 

That’s the Bible passage stating, “If I speak in the tongues 

of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong 

or a clanging cymbal.” 

For Breaux, being a positive influence and example 

to people regardless of his position or theirs is more 

important than big wins or self-promotion in office. 

“Basically,” observed Breaux, “anybody can make a noise.” 

LaMATS expresses sincere thanks for the leadership 

and long-time support of Mayor Breaux, whose work on 

behalf of our mission and the LMA membership has been 

outstanding and singularly impactful. For a full transcript 

of our conversation with Mayor Breaux, visit the LaMATS 

blog at lamats.net. 


Clerks Corner 

BY DOLORES R. QUEBEDEAUX, LMMC, LMCA PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER 

The Clerks Association had two long time members 

that retired December 31, 2018. After serving many 

years in their respectful position as Town/City Clerks 

they leave behind a legacy for all to remember. 

Mrs. Sandra Turley began her career with the Town 

of Iowa on December 9, 1997. Sandra served as Town 

Clerk under five mayors and two Mayor Pro Tems. She 

became certified through the International Institute 

of Municipal Clerks (IIMC) on October 21, 2001 as 

a Certified Clerk and earned her Louisiana Master 

Municipal Clerk (LMMC) certification on November 

6, 2006. Sandra served on the LAMP President’s 

Advisory Board from 2007-2016. She also became 

certified as the Town’s Political Subdivision Ethics 

Liaison Trainer (PSEL) for the town’s employees. 

Throughout her years with the Town of Iowa Sandra 

has participated in many trainings for the betterment 

of her job as Town Clerk. Her vast knowledge in 

all aspects of her duties has been insurmountable. 

Assistant Town Clerk, Elsie Lane stated that “Sandra’s 

kindness, patience and strength have taught me well. 

My goal not just as a Clerk but as a human being is 

to be half the person that Sandra is.” The LMCA’s 

Facebook will greatly miss her quick and valuable 

knowledge that she shared with us! 

Sandra is married to Robert Turley and has one son and 

one grandson. 

Mrs. Patti Dupuis began her career with the City of 

Breaux Bridge on July 18, 1977 as a Bookkeeper under 

Mayor Vance Theriot. She was appointed City Clerk on 

January 1, 1987, working under four Mayors throughout 

her 40 years of service with the City of Breaux Bridge. 

She help to implement many changes to benefit the 

city. Patti became a Certified Municipal Clerk on 

September 21, 1990 and continued her education to 

earn her certification as a Master Municipal Clerk on 

October 19, 2001. In 1996 Patti was elected to serve 

as LMCA's Public Relations Officer, succeeding to 

Secretary/Treasurer, Vice President and then served as 

the association’s President from March 1999 till March 

2000. Patti took pride in continuing her education 

where she was also very involved and active with the 

IIMC, attending many conferences held in other states. 

Patti is married to Blaise Dupuis and has three children: 

Steven, Sammy and Stacie. Blaise and Patti are blessed 

with four grandchildren: Barrett, Bennett, Kerrigan and 

Peyton. 

LMCA commends both Sandra and Patti for their 

outstanding leadership 

and dedication to their 

jobs as clerks and we 

extend our best wishes 

for continued success in their future endeavors. 

WE WILL MISS YOU BOTH VERY MUCH! 

IN REMEMBRANCE: Candice “Candy” Baque 

We asked that you pray for the family and friends 

of Candy who passed away on December 3, 2018. 

Candy started her career as an Accounting Clerk in 

May 2003 with the City of Carencro. In May 2006 she 

was promoted to Assistant City Clerk. Thru the LMCI, 

Candy earned both her certifications as a Certified 

Deputy Clerk and a Master Municipal Deputy Clerk. 

Even though she had retired in April 2016 she remained 

active with the City of Carencro by volunteering on the 

Carencro Veterans Memorial Committee. Her sewing 

talents provided many items for silent auctions and 

door prizes. WE WILL MISS YOU SWEET FRIEND! 

Looking for 

Salary Data? 

Through a partnership with 

SurveyNavigator, LMA 

members can find salary data for 

more than 60 jobs commonly 

found in Louisiana local 

government. With an easy online 

interface, Louisiana’s elected and 

appointed officials can make 

hiring and advancement decisions 

with confidence in the most 

current and accurate data 

Compare directly 

between munis 

Accurate and 

timely info 

Customized 

search and save 

available in the market. 

LaMATS 

CALL (225) 344-5001 or VISIT WWW.LAMATS.NET/SERVICES 

Page 10 


A Word from 

Our Affiliates 

Come Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of LRPA 

This year LRPA is turning 75, and from January 21-24, 2019, we will host an 

annual conference that will be better than ever. The conference will take place 

at the Baton Rouge Hilton and will feature many notable presenters including 

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser. 

No matter what department you work in, the educational sessions will bring 

valuable information on athletics, facilities, management and more. Mark your 

calendars, get registered, prepare for a great time. 

Please visit us at www.lrpa.net, you will need a username/password to register. 

Send request for username/password to registration@lma.org. 

Monday, January 21st 

1:00 pm to 5:00 pm Registration 

6:00 pm Past Presidents’ Conference Social 

Tuesday, January 22nd 

8:00 am to 5:00 pm Registration, Exhibits, Educational Sessions 

6:30 pm 75th Anniversary Celebration at the Louisiana State Museum 

Wednesday, January 23rd 

8:00 am - 12:00 pm Registration, Exhibits 

8:00 am - 5:00 pm Educational Sessions 

6:30 pm Awards Banquet 


Rural Development 

USDA Helps Bring Safe, Clean Water to Small Louisiana Communities 

By USDA Rural Development State Director Dr. Carrie Castille 

Reliable infrastructure is a necessity for economic 

opportunity, public health, and the environment--- 

especially water infrastructure. Modern infrastructure 

is crucial for any community to thrive, and when we 

address this need, many other challenges in rural 

communities become much more manageable. 

In Fiscal Year 2018, the USDA Rural Development (RD) 

Water and Environmental Programs (WEP) invested 

over $100 million in loans and grants to help construct, 

improve, repair, and maintain water and wastewater 

systems in small rural communities throughout Louisiana. 

Through WEP, RD provides funding for infrastructure 

improvements for reliable drinking water systems, 

sanitary solid waste disposal, and effective storm 

water drainage to households and businesses. 

An eligible rural area is a city or town with a 

population of less than 10,000. Long-term, lowinterest 

loans are available for eligible borrowers 

who are unable to obtain commercial credit for 

reasonable terms. 

Modern infrastructure investments and access to 

safe drinking water and waste disposal systems 

are vital to creating economic prosperity for 

our small rural communities. Without RD’s help, 

many communities would lack access to safe 

water. For example, RD’s investments are making 

a difference for the following communities to 

improve the delivery of safe drinking water in 

Louisiana: 

• The Ascension Parish Consolidated Utility District 

is receiving a $9.6 million loan and $7.8 million 

grant to rehabilitate the water distribution system 

to reduce water loss and improve water quality to 

18,359 citizens. 

• The Town of Haughton will receive a $6.8 million 

loan and $2.9 million grant to increase water 

capacity at the Bullard and Buc Stop lift stations to 

meet current and future demands. Force mains and 

a chlorine contact chamber will be installed along 

with renovations to the wastewater treatment plant 

that serves 3,454 customers in Bossier. 

• The Consolidated Water Works District #13 of 

Feliciana will use a $5.8 million loan and $1.9 million 

grant to upgrade their water system to meet 

current industry standards. The entire system will 

be modernized for efficiency to 

serve 10,043 users. 

• The Town of Coushatta received 

a $4.1 million loan and $2.8 Dr. Carrie Castille 

million grant to drill two water wells and replace a 

50-year-old water storage tank and service lines for 

the town’s population of 2,139 residents. 

• The Town of Gibsland will use a $2.5 loan and $1.9 

million grant to install a clarifier, refurbish the 

existing aeration system and install new water 

mains where needed. 13,100 linear feet of pipe will 

also be installed for access to safe clean drinking 

water for the town of 979 residents. 

Applications are accepted year-round. Eligible rural 

communities and water districts can apply online for 

funding to maintain, modernize, or construct water and 

wastewater systems. They can visit the interactive RD 

Apply tool, or contact the Acting Community Programs 

Director lee.jones@la.usda.gov or calling (318) 473-4740. 

We could not have done this alone. Thank you for your 

support and your partnerships. You are extremely 

valuable in helping to carry out the mission of RD. 

RD investments support economic development, 

infrastructure improvements, homeownership, and 

essential community facilities and services in rural areas. 

We must continue working together to help our rural 

water and sewer systems in need of access to reliable 

infrastructure for clean drinking water and sanitary waste 

disposal. My team and I are here to help, please contact 

me at carrie.castille@la.usda.gov or (318) 473-7921. 

Page 12 


Partner Insight 

Treasury Notes 

Treasury Year in Review 

By State Treasurer John M. Schroder 

When I was first elected to the job 

of State Treasurer a year ago, one of 

my goals was to educate the public 

about the many different functions 

of the Treasurer’s Office. I’ve written several columns 

for the LMA about Treasury’s divisions and the job we 

perform for Louisiana taxpayers. I’d like to close out 

the year with a recap of what our various divisions have 

accomplished in 2018. 

Here are some of the highlights: 

Fiscal Division 

• Restructured the state’s banking agreement to 

save state agencies $250,000 this fiscal year and 

$1.8 million over five years. 

• Processed 11.4 million deposit items and 72,098 

credit items, resulting in a cash flow of over $40.7 

billion. 

• Improved the state’s cash interfund borrowing 

position to -$543.7 million as of November 30 

compared to -$931.5 million this time last year, 

eliminating the need for mid-year financing with 

Revenue Anticipation Notes (RANs). 

Investments 

• Continued to manage fixed-income investments in 

the START 529 program. The program closed out 

the year with $873 million in total investments. 

• Managed state trust fund investments, which now 

total $3.1 billion. 

• Launched the LA-ABLE Program with the Board 

of Regents to help Louisiana families save for 

disability-related expenses. LA-ABLE closed out 

the year with $448,514 in total investments. 

Unclaimed Property (Unclaimed Money) 

• Returned $18 million in unclaimed money by the 

end of November compared to $10 million this 

time last year. 

• Partnered with the Department of Revenue to 

update Treasury’s address database, which will 

result in the mailing of 83,000 checks totaling 

$20 million by the end of December 2018. 

• Implemented a Fast Track online claims system 

to make it easier than ever before for citizens to 

claim their unclaimed money. Many claims now 

qualify for Fast Track and are paid immediately. 

• Returned the largest single amount of unclaimed 

money ($2.3 million) ever in the Treasury’s history. 

• Supported federal efforts to release billions of 

dollars in unclaimed retirement benefits to state 

Unclaimed Property offices so we could return 

this money to Louisiana citizens. 

Bond Commission 

• Launched an online transparency portal for capital 

outlay information so the public can see how the 

Legislature appropriates construction dollars. 

• Worked with other state partners and the 

Legislature to improve the outlook on the state’s 

credit rating. Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s 

both raised the outlook on the state’s credit from 

Negative to Stable. 

• Managed 44 bond issues, paid $582 million in 

debt service payments on time, and made $11.64 

million in interest rate swap payments. 

• Reviewed 223 debt issuance applications totaling 

$4.9 billion and 237 local government elections. 

The Treasury also worked with several lawmakers 

this year on a variety of good government bills. One 

major success was our partnership with a variety 

of organizations to help pass Louisiana checkbook 

legislation. A broad coalition of public and private 

partners supported this effort to improve transparency 

and provide taxpayers with more detailed information 

about state government spending. 

Legislation to set up a revolving loan bank for local 

governments to fund infrastructure projects passed the 

Legislature, but was vetoed by the Governor. We are 

working to bring this bill up again in the future. I also 

want to work with lawmakers to keep the conversation 

going about capital outlay and pension reform. 

We’ve compiled a solid list of accomplishments this 

year, but there is still much more to do. Rest assured 

we will continue to do the best job possible. After all, 

we report to you – Louisiana taxpayers – and we take 

this very seriously. 


Fall 2018 Election Results 

Below is a full listing of re-elected or 

elected mayors and councilmembers 

from the fall primary and run-off 

elections. Information was retrieved 

from the Secretary of State’s website 

but does not include individuals who 

may have been appointed. 

Acadia Parish 

Ryan “Spanky” Meche – Mayor, Church Point 

Martin “Big G” Logan – Alderman, Ward 1, Church Point 

Nelson “Kim” Cormier – Alderman, Ward 2, Church Point 

Patrick O’Pry – Alderman, Ward 3, Church Point 

“Chris” Lebas – Alderman, Ward 4, Church Point 

“Tim” Monceaux – Mayor, Crowley 

“Kim” Stringfellow – Alderman, Ward 1, Crowley 

“Brad” Core – Alderman, Ward 2, Crowley 

Byron K. Wilridge, Sr. – Alderman, Ward 3, Crowley 

“Sammy” Reggie, III – Alderman, Ward 4, Crowley 

Cody Leckelt – Mayor, Iota 

Jude K. Sittig – Alderman, Iota 

James Quillan Bertrand – Alderman, Iota 

Brandon Hebert – Alderman, Iota 

Warren C. Pousson – Alderman, Iota 

Seth Manuel – Alderman, Iota 

Ray Richard – Mayor, Morse 

Eric Primeaux – Alderman, Morse 

Ross Trahan – Alderman, Morse 

Dale Louvierre – Alderman, Morse 

“Chuck” Robichaux - Mayor, Rayne 

Curtrese L. Minix – Alderman, Ward 1, Rayne 

Kenneth J. Guidry – Alderman, Ward 2, Rayne 

Calise Michael Doucet – Alderman, Ward 3, Rayne 

Allen Parish 

LaToya Tunwar – Councilmember, District 1, Kinder 

Joseph “Moochie” Manuel - Mayor, Oberlin 

Carl Wayne Smith – Alderman-at-Large, Oberlin 

Romelzy Willis, Jr. – Alderman, District 1, Oberlin 

Jonathan “Jay” Lewis, II – Alderman, District 3, Oberlin 

Bobby R. Thomas – Alderman, District 4, Oberlin 

“Chris” Guillory – Mayor, Reeves 

“Mick” Estay – Alderman, Reeves 

Glenn Ducharme – Alderman, Reeves 

R.J. “Randy” Credeur – Alderman, Reeves 

Assumption Parish 

Ron Animashaun – Mayor, Napoleonville 

Avoyelles Parish 

Kenneth Pickett, Sr. – Mayor, Mansura 

Judy Augustine Bazert – Alderman, Mansura 

Gaon Escude – Alderman, Mansura 

Bruce J. Jackson, Sr. – Alderman, Mansura 

Rodrick “Poddgy” Perry – Alderman, Mansura 

Shawn Wilson – Alderman, Mansura 

Felix Benjamin – Alderman, Moreauville 

Oscar “OP” Goody, Jr. – Alderman, Moreauville 

Shannon K. Sampson – Alderman, Moreauville 

Bienville Parish 

O’Landis “Bubba” Millican – Mayor, Arcadia 

Lydia Haulcy Harris – Councilmember, District 1, Arcadia 

Melanie Monroe – Councilmember, District 2, Arcadia 

Joseph Pruitt, Jr. – Councilmember, District 3, Arcadia 

Patsy Roberson – Councilmember, District 4, Arcadia 

Charles Butler – Councilmember, District 5, Arcadia 

Ray Ivory, Sr. – Mayor, Gibsland 

Milton Vining – Mayor, Ringgold 

Alan D. Clayborn – Councilman, District 5, Ringgold 

Bossier and Caddo Parish 

Cindy Anderson Dodson – Mayor, Plain Dealing 

Shanithia “Shanita” Gay – Alderman, District 1, Plain Dealing 

Howard Haynie – Alderman, District 3, Plain Dealing 

Adrian Perkins – Mayor, Shreveport 

Willie Bradford – Councilman, District A, Shreveport 

LeVette Fuller- Councilman, District B, Shreveport 

John Nickelson – Councilman, District C, Shreveport 

Grayson Boucher - Councilman, District D, Shreveport 

“Jim” Galambos – Mayor, Blanchard 

Chester Coffman – Mayor, Mooringsport 

Cynthia Clark – Councilman, Mooringsport 

Joni M. Lindsay – Councilman, Mooringsport 

William Moore – Councilman, Mooringsport 

Ronnie Festavan – Mayor, Vivian 

Angela Channell – Alderman-at-Large, Vivian 

James Martin – Alderman, Ward 1, Vivian 

Denise Alexander – Alderman, Ward 2, Vivian 

Michael Guthrie – Alderman, Ward 3, Vivian 

Raymond E. Williams – Alderman, Ward 4, Vivian 

Calcasieu Parish 

Riley Smith – Mayor, DeQuincy 

Paul Hesse – Mayor, Iowa 

Gerald Guidry – Councilman, District E, Iowa 

Betty Bates – Councilman, Division C, Westlake 

Caldwell Parish 

Chad Coates – Mayor, Clarks 

Melissa Bratton – Mayor, Grayson 

Kimberly Kinnison Bandy – Councilmember, Grayson 

Dennis Wayne Nugent – Councilmember, Grayson 

“Danny” Finley – Councilmember, Grayson 

Catahoula Parish 

Milton Ceasar – Mayor, Jonesville 

Benny Vault, Sr. – Alderman, District 1, Jonesville 

Josie Bullitts – Alderman, District 3, Jonesville 

Catina F. Branch – Alderman, District 5, Jonesville 

Walter “Pot” Krause – Mayor, Sicily Island 

Claiborne Parish 

Beverlee Killgore – Mayor, Haynesville 

Linda Ivory Beene – Councilmember, District 2, Haynesville 

Betty Richardson – Councilmember, District 3, Haynesville 

Dewatha Malone – Councilmember, District 4, Haynesville 

Robbie Carla Smith – Councilmember, District 5, Haynesville 

Xanthe Y. Seals – Mayor, Homer 

Linda D. Hardaway – Selectman, District 1, Homer 

Patricia Jenkins – Selectman, District 5, Homer 

Concordia Parish 

Wilbert Washington - Alderman, Clayton 

East Baton Rouge Parish 

David Barrow – Mayor, Central 

Aaron K. McKinney – Councilmember-at-Large, Central 

Wade Evans – Councilmember-at-Large, Central 

Aaron Moak – Councilmember, District 1, Central 

Joshua Roy – Councilmember, District 2, Central 

“Dave” Freneaux – Councilmember, District 3, Central 

Despo “D’Ann” Wells – Councilmember, District 4, Central 

Briton Myer – Councilmember, District 5, Central 

David Amrhein – Mayor, Zachary 

Francis Nezianya – Councilman, District 1, Zachary 

Laura O’Brien – Councilman, District 3, Zachary 

Thomas Hunter Landry – Councilman, District 4, Zachary 

Lael Montgomery – Councilman, District 5, Zachary 

East Carroll Parish 

Jerry Bell – Mayor, Lake Providence 

Jason Condrey – Alderman, Lake Providence 

Nemia “Nate” Madere – Alderman, Lake Providence 

Karl Magee – Alderman, Lake Providence 

Barbara McDaniel – Alderman, Lake Providence 

“Donnie” Meadows – Alderman, Lake Providence 

Evangeline Parish 

Justin Darbonne – Mayor, Chataignier 

Carilyn “Tu” Arvie – Alderman, Chataignier 

John B. Brasseaux – Alderman, Chataignier 

Debra Fontenot – Alderman, Chataignier 

Ricky Fontenot – Mayor, Mamou 

Dettell “Sheaky” Thomas – Alderman, District 1, Mamou 

Brook Chapman – Alderman, District 2, Mamou 

Charles Reed – Alderman, District 3, Mamou 

Jennifer Vidrine – Mayor, Ville Platte 

Faye Lemoine – Alderman, District A, Ville Platte 

Lionel Anderson – Alderman, District D, Ville Platte 

Donald Ray Sam – Alderman, District E, Ville Platte 

Bryant Riggs – Alderman, District F, Ville Platte 

Franklin Parish 

Robert “Bobby” Fife – Mayor, Baskin 

Heather Chapman – Alderman, Baskin 

Johnny “Red” Belton – Alderman, Baskin 

Cary Collier – Alderman, Baskin 

“Mike” Stephens – Mayor, Gilbert 

Elliot Britt – Alderman, Wisner 

Nettie B. Brown – Alderman, Wisner 

Jo Meredith Caldwell – Alderman, Wisner 

Roger Hilliard – Alderman, Wisner 

Thomas Lemle – Alderman, Wisner 

Page 14 


Municipalities 

Grant Parish 

“Steve” Gunn – Mayor, Montgomery 

Von Gilcrease – Councilmember, Montgomery 

“Tom” Gongre – Councilmember, Montgomery 

Releida James – Councilmember, Montgomery 

Sabrina Kuhlmann – Councilmember, Montgomery 

Delores Lebaron – Councilmember, Montgomery 

“Carroll” Cathey – Councilman, Pollock 

Randy Estes – Councilman, Pollock 

“Dee” Thorne – Councilman, Pollock 

Deborah Tumminello – Councilman, Pollock 

Ronald Wilkins – Councilman, Pollock 

Iberville Parish 

Maurice Harris – Mayor, Maringouin 

Cherise D. Gougisha – Alderman, Maringouin 

Veronica “Bonnie” Hill – Alderman, Maringouin 

Jerome “Gillis” Martin – Alderman, Maringouin 

Sam W. Watson – Alderman, Maringouin 

Clarence “D-Dot” Wiley – Alderman, Maringouin 

John Morris III – Mayor, White Castle 

Melissa Allen – Alderman, White Castle 

Erick “Duck” Batiste – Alderman, White Castle 

Candice M. Depron – Alderman, White Castle 

Kipp V. Knight – Alderman, White Castle 

Barbara “Bo” O’Bear – Alderman, White Castle 

Jackson Parish 

Gerald T. Palmer – Mayor, Hodge 

Wayne Buchan – Alderman, Hodge 

Steve Fox – Alderman, Hodge 

Willard Willis – Alderman, Hodge 

Leslie Thompson – Mayor, Jonesboro 

James W. Ginn – Alderman, District A, Jonesboro 

Kathy Robertson – Mayor, North Hodge 

Ernest “Ernie” Roden – Alderman, North Hodge 

Chasity Davis Womack - Alderman, North Hodge 

Andrea J. Woods – Alderman, North Hodge 

Joe Vail – Mayor, Quitman 

Jefferson Parish 

“Tim” Baudier – Mayor, Harahan 

“Tommy” Budde – Councilman, Harahan 

Jason D. Asbill – Councilman, Harahan 

Carrie Wheeler – Councilman, Harahan 

Eric Chatelain – Councilman, Harahan 

Craig Johnston – Councilman, Harahan 

Jefferson Davis Parish 

Roger D. “Tony” Laughlin – Mayor, Elton 

Avella Ackless – Councilmember, Elton 

“Tony” Guillory – Councilmember, Elton 

Shirley Lafleur Johnson – Councilmember, Elton 

Kesia Lemoine – Councilmember, Elton 

Brandilyn Soileau – Councilmember, Elton 

David Hanks – Councilmember, Lake Arthur 

Sampson “Poncho” Lejeune – Councilmember, Lake Arthur 

Ricky Monceaux - Councilmember, Lake Arthur 

“Bobby” Palmero - Councilmember, Lake Arthur 

Auldon Robinson, Sr. - Councilmember, Lake Arthur 

Lafayette Parish 

Glenn L. Brasseaux – Mayor, Carencro 

Jordan Arceneaux – Councilmember, Carencro 

Antoine Babineaux – Councilmember, Carencro 

Danielle Capritto - Councilmember, Carencro 

Kimberly “Kim” Guidry - Councilmember, Carencro 

Alfred “Al” Sinegal - Councilmember, Carencro 

Jan-Scott Richard – Mayor, Scott 

Troy Bergeron – Councilmember-at-Large, Scott 

Danny Hollier – Councilmember, District 3, Scott 

“Lindy” Bolgiano – Councilmember, Division B, Youngsville 

Mathew “Matt” Romero – Councilmember, Division C, Youngsville 

Gary P. Williams – Councilmember, Division E, Youngsville 

Lafourche Parish 

“Mike” Naquin – Councilman-at-Large, Seat D, Thibodaux 

Eric J. Tabor – Councilman, District A, Thibodaux 

Constance T. Johnson – Councilman, District C, Thibodaux 

Lasalle Parish 

Rhonda Gough Elliott – Mayor, Olla 

Madge Jones Bailey – Alderman, Olla 

Ashley Crawford – Alderman, Olla 

Michael Duke – Alderman, Olla 

Anthony Fenoli – Alderman, Olla 

Joel B. Sims – Alderman, Olla 

David Wayne Chapman – Councilmember, Jena 

Lester Francis – Councilmember, Jena 

David Paul Jones, Jr. – Councilmember, Jena 

“Donny” Richardson – Councilmember, Jena 

Tommy D. Sandifer – Councilmember, Jena 

Lincoln Parish 

“John” Croswell, Jr. – Alderman, Choudrant 

Frederick “Rick” Maier – Alderman, Choudrant 

Thomas B. Patton – Alderman, Choudrant 

Phyllis Miller – Councilmember, Grambling 

Toby B. Bryan – Councilmember, Grambling 

Yanise N. Days – Councilmember, Grambling 

Cathy Holmes – Councilmember, Grambling 

G. Denise Dupree – Councilmember, Grambling 

“Doug” Durrett – Alderman, Simsboro 

Hazel Tuminello – Alderman, Simsboro 

Jerry L. White – Alderman, Simsboro 

Livingston Parish 

Eileen Bates-McCarroll – Mayor, Albany 

Jerry Glascock – Alderman, Albany 

Ronnie Gregoire - Alderman, Albany 

Lloyd “Bee” Martin - Alderman, Albany 

Kim Stewart - Alderman, Albany 

S. Gerald Stilley - Alderman, Albany 

H. Gerard Landry – Mayor, Denham Springs 

Amber Dugas – Councilmember, Denham Springs 

Lori Lamm-Williams - Councilmember, Denham Springs 

Robert Poole - Councilmember, Denham Springs 

Laura Schmitt Smith - Councilmember, Denham Springs 

Jeffrey “Jeff” Wesley - Councilmember, Denham Springs 

Gillis Windham – Mayor, Killian 

Morehouse Parish 

Virgil Penn – Mayor, Bonita 

Christopher Carter – Mayor, Collinston 

Natchitoches Parish 

Donna Holland Horn – Mayor, Ashland 

Mozella Jeanetter Bell – Mayor, Campti 

Theresa C. Anslem – Councilman, Campti 

Mary Donaway Collins – Councilman, Campti 

Gloria Waldrup Davis – Councilman, Campti 

Bence Nicholas – Councilman, Campti 

Sarah Ann Reliford – Councilman, Campti 

Aretha B. McWright – Alderman, Clarence 

Jennifer Garner Smith – Mayor, Goldonna 

Reed Franklin – Alderman, Goldonna 

Fonda Stewart Garner – Alderman, Goldonna 

Norvel Garner – Alderman Goldonna 

“Randy” Dupree – Mayor, Provencal 

Bobby A. Behan – Mayor, Robeline 

Bubba Ivy – Alderman, Robeline 

Gilda Jenkins – Alderman, Robeline 

Pamela Ann Jennings – Alderman, Robeline 

Ouachita Parish 

Caesar Velasquez – Mayor, Sterlington 

“Ron” Hill – Alderman, Sterlington 

“Zack” Howse – Alderman, Sterlington 

Benjamin Hobson – Alderman, Sterlington 

Brian McCarthy – Alderman, Sterlington 

“Matt” Talbert – Alderman, Sterlington 

Pointe Coupee Parish 

Ronnie J. Bonaventure, Jr. – Alderman, Fordoche 

Robin P. Cashio – Alderman, Fordoche 

Tiffany Gremillion – Alderman, Fordoche 

Carolyn “Callie” Meche – Alderman, Fordoche 

Don Sonnier – Alderman, Fordoche 

Clarence “Woots” Wells – Mayor, Morganza 

Cornell Dukes – Mayor, New Roads 

Theron Smith – Councilmember-at-Large, New Roads 

Vernell Davis – Councilmember, District 1, New Roads 

Joy Nelson – Councilmember, District 1, New Roads 

Rapides Parish 

“Jeff” Hall – Mayor, Alexandria 

James “Jim” Villard – Councilman-at-Large, Alexandria 

Gerber Porter – Councilman, District 2, Alexandria 

Roy Hebron – Mayor, Ball 

Gail Wilking – Alderman, Seat A, Ball 

Marc Mercer – Alderman, Seat C, Ball 

Alma Scott Moore – Mayor, Boyce 

Linda Bobb Fisher – Alderman, Boyce 

Cathy Fisher – Alderman, Boyce 

Kelvin V. McCoy – Alderman, Boyce 

Lucretia “Bonnie” McCoy – Alderman, Boyce 

Charles Veal – Alderman, Boyce 

Karen Carroll – Alderman, Forest Hill 

Danny Perkins – Alderman, Forest Hill 

Jerriot Robinson – Alderman, Forest Hill 

Glynn R. Dixon – Alderman, Glenmora 

Brian Goree – Alderman, Glenmora 

Willie Moore – Alderman, Glenmora 

Clyde “Red” Myers – Alderman, Glenmora 

“Joe” Rivers – Alderman, Glenmora 

Craig Phillips – Mayor, Lecompte 

Alex Baker – Alderman, Lecompte 

Patrick Baker – Alderman, Lecompte 

Lavern Clark – Alderman, Lecompte 

Lonnell Clark – Alderman, Lecompte 

Ashton Washington, Jr. – Alderman, Lecompte 

Barbara Billings – Alderman, McNary 


Billy Billings – Alderman, McNary 

Lee Book – Alderman, McNary 

Lisa Gunter Aymond – Alderman, Woodworth 

Jimmie Cranford, Sr. – Alderman, Woodworth 

Kevin Kitchen – Alderman, Woodworth 

“Tommy” Melder – Alderman, Woodworth 

Charles “Chuck” Reich – Alderman, Woodworth 

Red River Parish 

Danny Rex Scott – Mayor, Hall Summit 

Richland Parish 

Jesse Washington – Mayor, Delhi 

Larry Rancher – Alderman, District A, Delhi 

Larry Houston – Alderman, District B, Delhi 

Henry Washington, Jr. – Alderman, District C, Delhi 

Lennon Whitney, Sr. – Alderman, District D, Delhi 

Ellen Oliver – Alderman, District E, Delhi 

Sabine Parish 

Carolyn Cutright – Councilman, Zwolle 

Darlene Frazier – Councilman, Zwolle 

Martha Rivers Henderson – Councilman, Zwolle 

Allen Rivers – Councilman, Zwolle 

Jermaine Thomas – Councilman, Zwolle 

St. James Parish 

“Steve” Nosacka – Mayor, Gramercy 

Craig Calcagno – Alderman-at-Large, Gramercy 

Claude “Clyde” Wiggins – Alderman-at-Large, Gramercy 

Darren Brack – Alderman, District 2, Gramercy 

Theron Louque – Alderman, District 3, Gramercy 

Darlene F. Riley – Alderman-at-Large, Seat One, Lutcher 

Danny B. Manuel – Alderman, District 1, Division A, Lutcher 

St. Landry Parish 

“Debbie” Kidder – Alderman, Arnaudville 

Malcolm “Scott” Bussey – Alderman, Cankton 

Matthew Smith – Alderman, Cankton 

Danny L. Uriegas – Alderman, Cankton 

Patrick Richard – Mayor, Grand Coteau 

Annette Charles – Alderman, Grand Coteau 

Brad Randell – Alderman, Grand Coteau 

James Wayne Richard – Alderman, Grand Coteau 

Devin Thomas – Alderman, Grand Coteau 

Eli Wheeler – Alderman, Grand Coteau 

Chad Andrepont – Alderman, Ward 1, Eunice 

Germaine Simpson – Alderman, Ward 2, Eunice 

Nicholas Degueyter – Mayor, Leonville 

Brandon C. Herpin – Councilmember, Leonville 

Benita A. Kennerson – Councilmember, Leonville 

Billy Lanclos – Councilmember, Leonville 

Kirk Stelly – Councilmember, Leonville 

Kerry Willingham – Councilmember, Leonville 

Velma D. Hendrix – Mayor, Melville 

April Butler Goudeau – Councilmember, Melville 

Linda Haynes – Councilmember, Melville 

Jayme Polotzola Johnson – Councilmember, Melville 

Natasha “Faye” Thomas Oliney – Councilmember, Melville 

Theardis Tieuel, Jr. – Councilmember, Melville 

Julius Alsandor – Mayor, Opelousas 

Marvin Tyrone Richard – Alderman-at-Large, Opelousas 

Milton Batiste, III – Alderman, District A, Opelousas 

Floyd Ford – Alderman, District B, Opelousas 

Charles W. Cummings – Alderman, District C, Opelousas 

Sherell Roberts – Alderman, District D, Opelousas 

Chasity Davis – Alderman, District E, Opelousas 

“Johnny” Ardoin – Mayor, Port Barre 

Todd Abshire – Alderman, Port Barre 

Nelson Barron – Alderman, Port Barre 

Sammy Wayne Hardy, II – Alderman, Port Barre 

Polly R. Pickney – Alderman, Port Barre 

Donald Robin – Alderman, Port Barre 

Rashida Charlot – Alderman, District 1, Sunset 

Robert L. “R.L.” Carmouche – Alderman, District 2, Sunset 

Jarrod Shaw – Alderman, District 3, Sunset 

James Olivier – Mayor, Washington 

Mona C. Wilson – Councilmember-at-Large, Washington 

Rogers “Rock” Malveaux – Councilmember, District 2, Washington 

Tanya Doucet – Councilmember, District 3, Washington 

St. Martin Parish 

Ricky Calais – Mayor, Breaux Bridge 

Ryan A. Breaux – Alderman, District A, Breaux Bridge 

Scotty Borel – Alderman, District B, Breaux Bridge 

Ernest “E.J.” Ledet – Alderman, District C, Breaux Bridge 

Neil “Sam” Melancon – Alderman, District D, Breaux Bridge 

Eddy J. LeBlanc – Alderman, District E, Breaux Bridge 

Kevin J. Kately – Mayor, Parks 

“Yvonne” Narcisse – Alderman, Parks 

Kanisha “Pumpie” Potier – Alderman, Parks 

Harold “Kellogg” Robertson – Alderman, Parks 

St. Mary Parish 

Herbert “H.B.” Bell – Alderman, Baldwin 

Margaret C. Coleman – Alderman, Baldwin 

Donald Grimm – Alderman, Baldwin 

Marion J. Newton – Alderman, Baldwin 

Clarence A. Vappie – Alderman, Baldwin 

Duval H. Arthur, Jr. – Mayor, Berwick 

Colleen Nicklas Askew – Councilman, Berwick 

Kevin P. Hebert – Councilman, Berwick 

“Lud” Henry – Councilman, Berwick 

Raymond P. Price – Councilman, Berwick 

James Richard – Councilman, Berwick 

“Steve” Domangue – Councilman, District 4, Morgan City 

Rodney A. Grogan – Mayor, Patterson 

Lee Condolle – Councilmember, Patterson 

Travis “T.D.” Darnell – Councilmember, Patterson 

John C. Rentrop – Councilmember, Patterson 

“Joe” Russo, III - Councilmember, Patterson 

Sandra K. Turner – Councilmember, Patterson 

St. Tammany Parish 

“Dan” Curtis – Mayor, Abita Springs 

Regan Contois – Alderman, Abita Springs 

Ryan Murphy – Alderman, Abita Springs 

W.E. “Pat” Patterson, III – Alderman, Abita Springs 

Evette Randolph – Alderman, Abita Springs 

Stephen Saussy – Alderman, Abita Springs 

Lance Willie – Mayor, Folsom 

Shawn J. Dillon – Alderman, Folsom 

George W. Garrett – Alderman, Folsom 

Jill Palmer Mathies – Alderman, Folsom 

David McQueen – Mayor, Pearl River 

Bridgett Bennett – Alderman, Pearl River 

“Angel” Galloway – Alderman, Pearl River 

Joe D. Lee – Alderman, Pearl River 

David McGregor – Alderman, Pearl River 

Kathryn “Kat” Walsh – Alderman, Pearl River 

Tangipahoa Parish 

Peter Michael Panepinto – Mayor, Hammond 

Kiplyn “Kip” Andrews – Councilmember, District 1, Hammond 

Carlee White Gonzales – Councilmember, District 2, Hammond 

Devon Wells – Councilmember, District 3, Hammond 

Sam Divittorio – Councilmember, District 4, Hammond 

Steven Leon – Councilmember, District 5, Hammond 

Rochell Bates – Mayor, Kentwood 

Tre’von D. Cooper – Councilmember, Kentwood 

Xavier D. Diamond – Councilmember, Kentwood 

Terrell “Teddy” Hookfin – Councilmember, Kentwood 

Audrey Thomas Winters – Councilmember, Kentwood 

Gary Callihan – Councilmember, Kentwood 

“Mike” Fedele – Councilmember, Tickfaw 

“Steve” Galofaro – Councilmember, Tickfaw 

Guy J. Ribando – Councilmember, Tickfaw 

Tensas Parish 

Jarrod Bottley – Mayor, Waterproof 

Robert L. Clark – Alderman, Waterproof 

Henry Jenkins – Alderman, Waterproof 

Archie Turner, Jr. – Alderman, Waterproof 

Union Parish 

Mildred Ferguson – Mayor, Bernice 

John H. Levingston – Alderman, District 2, Bernice 

Karen Hall – Alderman, District 3, Bernice 

James “Bobo” Montgomery – Alderman, District 4, Bernice 

Danny A. Smith – Mayor, Marion 

Mark Andrews – Alderman, Marion 

Rhonda Davis – Alderman, Marion 

Lindsey Franklin Redd – Alderman, Marion 

Eugene “Bubba” Hoggatt – Alderman, Marion 

Jeffrey Kirkland – Alderman, Marion 

Vermilion Parish 

Taylor Mencacci – Mayor, Erath 

Scott Antoine Bernard – Alderman, Erath 

Jason Connor – Alderman, Erath 

Earl “Boo” Landry – Alderman, Erath 

Michael “Mike” Richard – Alderman, Erath 

Robert B. Vincent – Alderman, Erath 

Jude Reese – Mayor, Gueydan 

Anita Freeland Dupuis – Alderman, Gueydan 

John Ryan Laseter – Alderman, Gueydan 

Claudette Simon Price – Alderman, Gueydan 

Jason Suire – Alderman, Gueydan 

Scott D. Vallo – Alderman, Gueydan 

Phyllis Catalon Johnson – Alderman, Maurice 

Warren Rost – Alderman, Maurice 

Jonathan Schlicher – Alderman, Maurice 

Vernon Parish 

Lance Ellis – Alderman, Hornbeck 

“Jon” Hyatt – Alderman, Hornbeck 

Gregory Lantier – Alderman, Hornbeck 

Lawrence Trotti – Alderman, Hornbeck 

Terri Whiddon – Alderman, Hornbeck 

Donna Weeks-Duvall – Mayor, Rosepine 

Page 16 


Municipalities 

Leesville and Rosepine Receive Awards from 

U.S. Department of Army 

BY CLIFF PALMER 

Leesville Mayor Rick Allen and 

Rosepine Mayor Donna Duvall 

recently travelled to The Pentagon 

(Washington, D.C.) to receive a 

prestigious award from the U.S. 

Department of the Army. Both 

municipalities received the 2018 

Army Community Partnership Award 

for their respective contract work 

at Fort Polk. The Town of Rosepine 

provides custodial services, while the 

City of Leesville maintains the vast 

grounds at Fort Polk. Earlier this 

year, Leesville and Rosepine entered 

into inter-governmental support 

agreements with the U.S. Army to 

provide specialized services at Fort 

Polk, resulting in significant cost 

savings to the Army, and creation of 

local, municipal jobs. “It is my great 

honor to serve with my council as 

a part of Vernon Parish in the Town 

of Rosepine. We are so blessed to 

Johnny Beavers, Deputy Garrison Commander (Fort Polk), Mayor Donna Duvall (Rosepine), COL 

Jarrett Thomas II, Garrison Commander (Fort Polk), Patti Larney, City Administrator (Leesville), Eve 

Duhon, Assistant Town Clerk/Town Administrator (Rosepine), Mayor Rick Allen (Leesville) 

be a part of this partnership with 

the Army and are proud of the 

services we provide each day to 100 

buildings at Fort Polk. I am thankful 

to all of our workers. Your hard work 

in the partnership plays a big part 

in the success of the project,” said 

Mayor Duvall. “On behalf of the 

City of Leesville, we are honored 

to receive this distinguished award 

from the U.S. Department of the 

Army. We are grateful for the Army’s 

confidence in our ability to provide 

these important services, ground 

maintenance and tree removal at 

Fort Polk. The city’s outstanding 

staff perform at the highest of Army 

standards, as we continue to support 

the men and women who carry out 

the critical missions assigned to Fort 

Polk. The city has a long-standing 

and proud relationship with Fort 

Polk, and look forward to years of 

service to the installation leadership 

in our new capacity,” added Mayor 

Allen. 

Washington Parish 

Wendy O’Quin-Perrette – Mayor, Bogalusa 

Penny Douglas – Councilmember-at-Large, Bogalusa 

“Teddy” Drummond – Councilmember-at-Large, Bogalusa 

Gloria W. Kates – Councilman, District A, Bogalusa 

Danielle Magee-Keys – Councilmember, District B, Bogalusa 

Oneita H. Graham – Councilman, District C, Bogalusa 

“Kenny” Kellis – Councilmember, District D, Bogalusa 

Mark Irvine – Councilmember, District E, Bogalusa 

Webster Parish 

Steven Bridwell – Mayor, Doyline 

Terry Gardner – Mayor, Minden 

Herbert “Tycoon” Taylor, III – Councilmen, District A, Minden 

Terika “Reek” Williams – Councilman, District B, Minden 

Vincen “Cheese” Bradford – Councilman, District C, Minden 

Keith Beard – Councilman, District D, Minden 

Pamela T. “Pam” Bloxom – Councilman, District E, Minden 

Ray Huddleston – Mayor, Springhill 

D. Nicole Frazier – Alderman, District 1, Springhill 

“Ronnie” Hearnsberger – Alderman, District 2, Springhill 

Stacey Willard – Alderman, District 3, Springhill 

“Alex” Edwards – Alderman, District 4, Springhill 

“Ronnie” Dees – Alderman, District 5, Springhill 

West Carroll Parish 

Josh Jones – Mayor, Epps 

Brittney Clark – Alderman, Epps 

Vicki Drurey – Alderman, Epps 

Rosa Fair – Alderman, Epps 

Winn Parish 

Waymon Barry Payne – Alderman, Dodson 

Gary Robertson – Alderman, Dodson 

Karla Shively – Alderman, Dodson 


SMALL TOWNS, BIG IDEAS 

The Louisiana Municipal Association consists of 303 

cities, towns and villages with small towns and villages 

making up the vast majority of our membership. As 

expenditures increase and revenues often decrease, 

locals have to continually master the art of doing more 

with less. Throughout 2019, the Louisiana Municipal Review 

will feature a new series titled “Small Towns, Big Ideas,” 

where we will highlight the different ways that our 

members - through partnerships, ingenuity, and sheer 

determination - have overcome barriers to bring their big 

ideas to life. 

The series begins with the recipient of the 2018 Best of 

Show awardee at the LMA’s Community Achievement 

Awards, the Town of Jean Lafitte for their Final Phase of 

the Fisher Tidal Levee Protection project, and is further 

exemplified by the fantastic works of Grand Cane in the 

article that follows. 

Jean Lafitte, Louisiana | Timothy Kerner, Mayor 

The Town of Jean Lafitte is located in southeastern 

Louisiana just south of New Orleans in the Barataria 

Estuary, on the eastern bank of Bayou Barataria in 

Jefferson Parish. The town is approximately 30 miles 

north of the Gulf of Mexico and is protected from the 

Mississippi River overflow by the mainline Mississippi 

River and Tributaries levee system. 

The town has spent years lobbying for levee protection 

to prevent repetitive flooding. The town was able to 

obtain funding for the tidal protection from the State 

of Louisiana, combining funds from Department of 

Transportation Statewide Flood Control (DOTD), Coastal 

Protection and Restoration Association (CPRA) and 

Office of Facility Planning and Control (FP&C). The 

Fisher Basin Tidal Levee Protection Project is the first in 

a series of projects to protect the coastal communities of 

Lafitte, Barataria and Crown Point. 

Fisher Basin Levee Project Phase I was a previously 

completed 7.5-foot earthen levee on the back of the town 

constructed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers 

(USACE) as a Section 205 Project. Following Hurricane 

Katrina, the USACE abandoned Section 205 Projects and 

started working only on 100-year projects. That meant 

the mayor, town council and levee district officials had to 

continue to lobby for funding for these projects. 

Funding for Phase II and III was secured through the 

State of Louisiana. Phase II consisted of 7,840 linear feet 

of 7.5-foot structural wall tidal protection levee along the 

banks of Bayou Barataria from approximately Shipyard 

Street to Fleming Park Road, and included 10 gate 

structures (5 swing gates, 4 roller gates and 1 pedestrian 

Page 18 


Feature 

The design and planning for Phase III began in 2017. 

Construction began in the fall of 2018 and is estimated to 

take 18 months to complete. 

This project, which is at 7.5-foot elevation, is 7,553 linear 

feet of I-wall and bulkhead and is estimated to cost $13 

million. Phases I and II combined equal $25.5 million. 

The mayor, town council, levee board and residents 

lobbied the state to receive funding and approval of 

this project that resulted in tidal levee protection. Once 

Phase III is finished, the ring levee will be complete and 

will protect the Town of Jean Lafitte against flooding 

due to tidal surge, including almost all of Jean Lafitte’s 

government and civic buildings, schools, health center, 

fire department, police station, three churches and over 

300 residential homes. 

gate). Construction on Phase II began on Sept. 5, 2014 

and was completed in April 2017. Fisher Basin Levee 

Phase II encompasses approximately 250 acres. 

Phase III will link with the existing earthen levee on 

the back of the town, thus completing the ring levee 

to better protect the Town of Jean Lafitte from tidal 

flooding. Phase III protects an additional 200 acres of 

land in the Town of Jean Lafitte. When this project is 

completed, this levee along Bayou Barataria will better 

protect the town’s commercial buildings, government 

buildings and residences. These structures include 

commercial structures, Jean Lafitte Town Hall, Jean 

Lafitte Senior Center, Jean Lafitte Auditorium, Jean 

Lafitte Multipurpose Complex (Museum, Library and 

Civic Center), Jean Lafitte Safe House and Storage 

Facility, Jean Lafitte Police Department, Jean Lafitte Art 

Center, Jean Lafitte Medical Center, Jean Lafitte Post 

Office, Jean Lafitte Baseball Stadium, Jean Lafitte Fire 

Department, Jean Lafitte Head Start School, Leo Kerner 

Elementary and Fisher High School. 

Funding for the Fisher Basin Tidal Levee Phase III 

comes from the State of Louisiana Department of 

Transportation Statewide Flood Control (DOTD), Coastal 

Protection and Restoration Association (CPRA) and 

Office of Facility Planning and Control (FP&C). The town 

and the Lafitte Area Independent Levee District worked 

with residents to facilitate construction where often it 

was on commercial or residential property. 


How Grand Cane Transformed Nuisance 

Structures Into Thriving Local Businesses 

NEIL T. ERWIN, J.D., NEIL ERWIN LAW, LLC 

The Big Problem 

Few things are worse in a small town with big ideas than 

having attractive historic buildings in the municipal core 

that an absentee owner just let sit and rot. 

This was the big problem faced by the Village of 

Grand Cane (pop. 242), one of the more prosperous 

municipalities in its region of DeSoto Parish, 35 miles south 

of Shreveport, after the 1995 acquisition by an absentee 

owner of three buildings in the village’s Historic District. 

The claim was that the owner would use the buildings 

in an antique furniture restoration business, but in fact 

it became a hoarding space used to pile junk into the 

buildings as unmaintained, unproductive warehouses. 

Promises made to put the buildings into active use were 

never kept. Legal demands for action were met with 

shuffling of some items of furniture out, only to have other 

junk moved back in. This behavior led to wasted time, 

expense, and frustration. 

The Vision 

With the turn of the new century, Grand Cane evolved 

and started thinking big. Its Back Alley Community 

Theater, founded in 2001, became a focus of pride and 

high attendance for its top-quality live theater and musical 

performances. The village and civic volunteers started 

taking advantage of Louisiana Government Assistance 

Program (LGAP) grants to, step-by-step, enclose and 

improve the theater. 

In 2006, Denzel Washington and Hollywood came to town 

to film the true story of “The Great Debaters,” a movie set 

in 1935 showing how the historically-black Wiley College 

debaters took on Harvard, with Grand Cane’s school 

making a perfect period movie set. 

In 2008, the Haynesville Shale natural gas boom brought 

new prosperity to the area, along with demand for new 

restaurants and shops in Grand Cane. The village found 

ready tenants for a building it owned in the Historic 

District, but the three junk storage buildings stood still, 

clouding the glow. 

The Big Idea 

Mayor Marsha Richardson was elected in 2010. Coming 

from a successful business background, she decided it was 

time to act. Supported by Board of Aldermen members 

Rhonda Meek, Mike Rives, and Bill Cook, the village knew 

through legal action it could force the owner of the 

three buildings to maintain his structures and, through a 

new zoning ordinance, stop the use of the buildings for 

warehousing. Legally, the village also knew that it could 

not force the owner to use the buildings for what was 

needed most, which was retail shops. 

They either could sit empty as long as 

the owner paid the negligible property 

taxes or, if unmaintained, be torn down 

leaving a gap like missing teeth in the 

Historic District. 

Instead, the village took the bold 

step of buying the structures in 2015 

for a price, high but fair under the 

circumstances, which the owner 

finally couldn’t refuse. The funds 

providentially were available from the 

village’s Haynesville Shale proceeds from leases under 

village-owned property but it, like other municipalities, 

could have borrowed the money with state approval or 

voted on a bond issue. 

The Village then used LGAP grants starting in 2014-15 to 

renovate the buildings, one at a time, to which general 

municipal funds were added. The renovation cost of the 

largest building, Cook-Douglas, was $121,440.00. It now 

houses a local business tenant, Southern Thoughtfulness, 

which handles both retail sales and consignment booths. 

Southern Thoughtfulness store window, Grand Cane 

Mayor Marsha 

Richardson 

The neighboring building, Wilson, went from junk 

warehouse to retail gift shop for a renovation cost of 

$49,914. It also is leased by a local business tenant, 

Magnolia Mercantile (see before and after). 

Page 20 


Feature 

One building remains, Parker, which is rising from a dirt 

floor that looks inside like it belongs to Grand Cane’s 

pioneer days, which are celebrated in its annual Christmas 

Parade and often have featured wagons. 

The Community Impact 

Grand Cane’s success in transforming nuisance 

structures into thriving sales-tax producing local 

business is an example of the wise observation of 

Bossier Parish Administrator Bill Altimus, “In local 

government, leadership makes all the difference.” 

What does Grand Cane think? 

Ann-Marie Eaves, Town Clerk (President, Louisiana 

Municipal Clerks Association) says, “Mayor Richardson 

worked diligently with the Aldermen to acquire these 

buildings. We are very proud to see them filled with 

retail spaces. People from all over come to enjoy 

shopping in our Village and that makes us very happy.” 

Magnolia Mercantile shop, Grand Cane, before and after 

Local Government Law & Litigation; 

Local Government Advocacy; Annexation; 

Planning, Zoning & Code Drafting; Local Water Systems 

We seek creative smart growth 

solutions for your community through– 

Planning 

and Zoning 

Bossier-Shreveport, Baton 

Rouge, and Statewide 

neilerwinlaw.com 

Parker building (renovation underway) 

LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT 

LMR | January 2019 Page 21 

143446 Dec-July.indd 2 12/7/18 10:27 AM

11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

1:00 p.m. - 1:45 p.m. 

LMA MID-WINTER CONFERENCE 

FEBRUARY 19 - 2 0 , 2019 

CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL 

BATON ROUGE 

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2019 

“ FUNDING THE FUTURE OF YOUR MUNICIPALITY” 

REGISTRATION 

EXHIBITS 

Welcome 

Honorable Harry Lewis, Mayor, Town of Rayville, LMA President 

Keynote Speaker 

Congressman Garret Graves, U.S. House of Representatives, 6 th District [Invited] 

1:45 p.m. – 1:50 p.m. BREAK 

1:50 p.m. – 2:50 p.m. 

2:50 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. BREAK 

3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

LMA MID-WINTER CONFERENCE 

FEBRUARY 19-20, 2019 

CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL • BATON ROUGE 

Managing Aging Water Infrastructure 

Dr. Carrie Castille, State Director, USDA 

Leslie Durham, Special Assistant to Governor, Governor’s Designee to the Delta Regional Authority 

Transportation Issues 

Dr. Shawn Wilson, Secretary, Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development 

Marie Walsh, PhD, Director, Louisiana Local Technical Assistance Program 

4:00 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. BREAK 

4:15 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. Broadband Opportunities 

4:45 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. 

5:15 p.m. – 5:45 p.m. 

Louisiana Main Street Program 

Ray Scriber, MArch, MBA, Director, Louisiana Main Street, Office of Cultural Development 

Show Me the Money! Available LCDBG Grants 

Traci Watts, Director, LCDBG/LGAP/CWEF Programs, Office of Community Development 

5:45 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. VENDOR RECEPTION 

8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

8:45 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. 

“CONGRATULATIONS, YOU’VE BEEN ELECTED! NOW WHAT?” 

REGISTRATION 

EXHIBITS 

Welcome 

USDA Funding and Available Programs 

Dr. Carrie Castille, State Director, USDA 

10:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. BREAK 

10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. 

Best Fiscal Practices 

Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s Office 

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2019 

11:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. VENDOR NETWORKING 

We’ve Got You Covered: RMI Programs and 

Services 

Jerry Cronin, General Manager, Risk Management, Inc. 

11:45 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. 

LUNCHEON 

KEYNOTE SPEAKER 

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. 

Public Records and Open Meetings 

Luke Donovan, Assistant Attorney General 

Louisiana Department of Justice 

Lauryn Sudduth, Assistant Attorney General 

Louisiana Department of Justice 

2:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. BREAK 

2:45 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. 

The Lawrason Act 

Jerry Guillot, Chief of Staff, Louisiana State Senate 

3:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. BREAK 

4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. 

The Code of Governmental Ethics 

Brett Robinson, Attorney, Louisiana Ethics Commission 

5:00 p.m. ADJOURN 

LaMATS Programs and Services 

Cliff Palmer, Executive Director, LaMATS 

The Nuts and Bolts of Financing and Capital 

Outlay 

Government Consultants, Inc. 

Page 22 


Feature 

- R E G I S T R A T I O N F O R M - 

Louisiana Municipal Association 

Mid-Winter Conference for Municipal Officials 

February 19 – 20, 2019 

Crowne Plaza Baton Rouge 

4728 Constitution Avenue, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 

NAME 

BADGE NAME 

TITLE 

GUEST NAME 

MUNICIPALITY 

ADDRESS 

(STREET OR P.O. BOX) (CITY) (STATE) (ZIP CODE) 

TELEPHONE ( ) FAX ( ) 

EMAIL 

! Is this your first Mid-Winter Conference? Yes No 

ACCOMMODATIONS 

A block of rooms has been reserved at the Crowne 

Plaza Hotel at a rate of $109 Single/Double. Please 

call (225) 925-2244 to make your reservation and 

mention that you are with 

Louisiana Municipal 

Association’s Mid-Winter Conference to secure this 

special rate. The reservation cut-off date is 

Saturday, January 19, 2019. Check-in time is 4:00 

p.m. and check-out time is 11:00 a.m., unless special 

arrangements are made in advance. 

For accommodations, the suggested arrival is 

Tuesday, February 19 and departure on Thursday, 

February 21. Registration will open at 11:00 a.m. 

with the first session beginning at 1:00 p.m. on 

February 19. 

NOTE: The LMA will offer one hour of required 

ethics training on Wednesday, February 20, at no 

ADVANCE REGISTRATION 

ENDS FEBRUARY 5 

$100 per delegate/official 

(includes one guest & reception) 

LATE REGISTRATION 

BEGINS FEBRUARY 6 

$110 per delegate/official 

(includes one guest & reception) 

REGISTER BY MAIL 

Complete this form and return with your 

registration fee payment, in full, no later than 

February 14 , 2019 . 

Make Checks Payable To 

Louisiana Municipal Association 

Mid- Winter Conference 

P.O. Box 4327 

Baton Rouge, LA 70821 

additional charge. Class on The Code of 

REGISTER ONLINE 

Governmental Ethics will begin at 4:00 p.m. in the 

Premier Ballroom. 

www.lma.org 

HAVE A QUESTION? 

Contact Nikki Samrow, P.O. Box 4327, Baton Rouge, LA 70821, (225) 344- 5001 Phone, (225) 344- 3057 Fax, nsamrow@lma.org 

LMR | January 2019 Page . 23

Registration for the 

2019 LMA Mid-Winter Conference is Open 

The LMA Mid-Winter Conference for Municipal Officials 

has been set for February 19th and 20th at the Crowne 

Plaza Hotel in Baton Rouge. Registration is now available 

by check with the registration form or by credit card at 

www.lma.org. Please email registration@lma.org to request 

a username and password or if you need assistance 

registering online. The purpose of this conference is to 

provide pertinent education on current issues in local 

government, as well as providing an environment for 

networking with Louisiana elected officials and vendors. 

Registration will remain at its lowest cost of $100 until 

February 5, 2019. The reservation cut-off date for hotel 

rooms is January 19, 2019. 

Join us in learning from experts in fields related to 

municipal government and in exploring your resources for 

efficient management of Louisiana’s villages, towns, and 

cities at the upcoming Mid-Winter Conference! 

Refund Policy 

An administrative fee of $45 will be charged for all 

cancellations of the LMA Mid-Winter Conference, 

including medical emergencies. No refunds will be 

given after Tuesday, February 5, 2019 (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 February 5, 2019. Telephone requests 

for refunds are not acceptable. There will be no 

exceptions to this policy. 

P.O. Box 4327, Baton Rouge, LA 70821 

Fax (225) 344-3057 • Email nsamrow@lma.org 

REMINDER 

STATE OF LOUISIANA ETHICS REQUIREMENTS FOR 

ALL ELECTED PUBLIC OFFICIALS 

According to the Louisiana Ethics Administration, all 

newly-elected public officials must complete one hour 

of Ethics training within 90 days of taking office. This 

requirement affects those who have changed elected 

positions, as well as first-time elected officials. 

All elected public officials and public servants 

(employees) must complete one hour of training during 

this year. 

Remember, online training and certification for all 

elected officials and public servants can be obtained 

through the Louisiana Ethics Administration Program 

website, http://eap.ethics.la.gov/EthicsTraining/login. 

aspx. (Register, create a username and password, login, 

and follow all instructions provided.) 

PERSONAL FINANCE DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS 

FOR ALL ELECTED PUBLIC OFFICIALS 

If you were in office or held an elected position in 2018, 

you must file a Personal Finance Disclosure Statement 

with the Louisiana Ethics Commission no later than 

May 15, 2019. The population of your district, or service 

on boards and commissions, dictates which tier your 

disclosure statement must be filed in: 

Tier 2 – Election district with population over 5,000 

Tier 2.1 – Board or Commission that spends more than 

$10,000 annually 

Tier 3 – Election district with population under 5,000 

Questions? Contact Karen White, LMA Executive Counsel 

at (225) 344-5001, (800) 234-8274 or kwhite@lma.org. 

PRESORT 

STANDARD 

U.S. POSTAGE 

PAID 

BATON ROUGE, LA 

PERMIT #319 

Page 24

LMR_January_FINAL

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?