Lutcher public meetings in 2025

Planning Commission

The St. James Parish Planning Commission will meet to discuss the resubdivision of two specific plots of land. The body will also determine the meeting schedule for 2026.

• Item #15-01: Reconsideration of the January 28, 2015 approval for Brian Bourgeois Family Resubdivision of Lot 1A of Longview Sugar Plantation
• Item #25-41: Request by Tony D. Milazzo Investment Trust to subdivide Lot 1-A3-1 of Hester Plantation into three lots
• Establishment of 2026 Planning Commission Meeting Dates

The commission conditionally approved the Bourgeois family resubdivision, requiring the plat to be revised, variances for water line and hydrants, and a prohibition on building until compliance. It also approved the Milazzo Investment Trust subdivision of Lot 1‑A3‑1 into three lots, pending health department approval and a CAD file. The schedule of 2026 planning commission meetings was approved. All motions carried unanimously.

• Conditional approval of Bourgeois family resubdivision with compliance conditions (all in favor)
• Approval of Tony D. Milazzo Investment Trust subdivision of Lot 1‑A3‑1 into three lots, pending health department approval and CAD file (all in favor)
• Approval of 2026 Planning Commission meeting dates schedule (all in favor)
• Approval of minutes from November 24, 2025 meeting (all in favor)
• Adjournment of the meeting (all in favor)

Economic Development Board Meetings

The board will meet to discuss state coastal use permit applications and review minutes from the previous meeting. There is no new or old business listed for the board to decide.

• Acadian Gas Pipeline System: Emergency leak repair on Chico C Pipeline (P20250762)
• Port Ship Services, Inc.: Construction of a walkway and pier at mile marker 168 (P20250734)
• Koch Methanol St. James: Maintenance dredging at water intake structure at mile marker 157.8 (P20250765)
• Entergy Louisiana, LLC: Installation of three dead-end structures between Willow Glen and Waterford Substations

Parish Council

The St. James Parish Council will consider final approval of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget and a series of resolutions authorizing contracts for drainage, road rehabilitation, and water plant upgrades. The meeting also includes a public hearing on the FY2025 budget revision.

• Approval of FY2026 budget (Ordinance 25-27)
• Resolution accepting change order #5 from Pintail Contracting Services for Convent water plant upgrades
• Resolution authorizing contract with Crescent Engineering for DR-4611 drainage improvements
• Resolution accepting change order #3 from B.E.T. Construction for Vacherie Senior Center project
• Resolution accepting change order #1 from Barriere Construction for FY2024 Road Rehabilitation

The Parish Council approved a revised 2025 budget that adds $1.5 million in Fund 802 to purchase mitigation credits for the West Shore Levee project. It also adopted the original 2026 budget, reducing Fund 802 expenditures by the same amount. Several resolutions were adopted, including funding disbursements, support for a foreign‑trade‑zone expansion, and contract authorizations. All votes were unanimous with six members in favor and one absent.

• Adopted revised 2025 budget adding $1.5M in Fund 802 for West Shore Levee mitigation (6‑0)
• Adopted original 2026 budget reducing Fund 802 expenditures by $1.5M (6‑0)
• Approved Resolution 25‑222 to disburse funds for pending invoices (6‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 25‑223 supporting expansion of Foreign Trade Zone 124 (6‑0)
• Accepted Change Order #5 from Pintail Contracting Services for Convent Water Plant upgrades (unanimously adopted)
• Authorized President to sign contract with Parish Engineering, LLC for professional services (unanimously adopted)
• Accepted Change Order #3 from B.E.T. Construction, Inc. for Vacherie Senior Center project (unanimously adopted)
• Adopted Resolutions 25‑219, 25‑220, 25‑221 honoring blood‑donor month, youth advisory commission students, and student of the year (unanimously adopted)

Parish Council

The St. James Parish Council voted to adopt Resolution 25, opting out of the state‑level siting requirements for solar farms established by Act 279 of the 2025 Louisiana Legislative session. The parish already has a comprehensive solar farm ordinance (Section 82‑26 of the St. James Parish Code of Ordinances) that is more detailed than the state law. By opting out, the parish will continue to regulate solar farms locally under its existing ordinance.

• Adoption of Resolution 25 opting out of state siting requirements for solar farms under Act 279 (La. R.S. 30:1131‑1145).
• Reference to the parish’s own solar farm ordinance, codified at Section 82‑26 of the St. James Parish Code of Ordinances.

The council adopted the proposed FY2026 budget ordinance and approved several resolutions authorizing payroll disbursements, invoice payments, advertising for future infrastructure projects, and contracts for tank maintenance, workers compensation insurance, and solar farm regulation. All items were adopted with six council members voting in favor and one member absent.

• Approved payroll disbursement for numbers 192-194 (Resolution 25-212) – adopted, 6 in favor
• Approved payment of pending invoices and payables (Resolution 25-213) – adopted, 6 in favor
• Authorized advertising for asphaltic concrete pavement preservation 2026-2028 (Resolution 25-214) – adopted unanimously, 6 in favor
• Authorized contract with McGuire Iron Inc. for maintenance of 75,000‑gallon elevated union tank (Resolution 25-215) – adopted unanimously, 6 in favor
• Authorized advertising for Buddy Whitney Canal improvements project (Resolution 25-216) – adopted unanimously, 6 in favor
• Authorized contract with Louisiana Workers Compensation Corp. for insurance (Resolution 25-217) – adopted, 6 in favor
• Opted out of state‑level regulation of solar farms under Act 279 (Resolution 25-218) – adopted, 6 in favor
• Adopted FY2026 budget of revenues and expenditures (Proposed Ordinance 25-27) – adopted, 6 in favor

Coastal Zone Commission

The St. James Parish Coastal Zone Advisory Board will vote to approve the 2026 meeting dates and locations for the Advisory Board. The board will also receive updates on several state coastal permit applications, including the Acadian Gas Pipeline emergency repair and the West Shore Lake Pontchartrain Connector Levees project. An ethics training reminder and upcoming coastal training dates will be discussed.

• Approve 2026 Coastal Zone Advisory Board meeting dates (e.g., Jan 26 at Convent Courthouse, Feb 23 at Vacherie Annex, etc.)
• Review Acadian Gas Pipeline System – Chico C Pipeline emergency leak repair (Permit # P20250762)
• Review West Shore Lake Pontchartrain Connector Levees project (Permit # P20240772)
• Review Burnside Walkway and Pier project at mile marker 168 (Permit # P20250734)
• Review Koch Methanol St. James water intake structure maintenance dredging (Permit # P20250765)

Planning Commission

The St. James Parish Planning Commission will consider three new plot resubdivision requests, a side‑setback variance for a mobile home, and two land‑use applications. One land‑use request seeks approval for a 100 ft × 100 ft equipment shed on Falgoust Street. The other requests approval to expand the phosphogypsum stack at Mosaic Fertilizer’s Uncle Sam plant on La 44.

• Resubdivision of Lots 3‑A, 4‑A, 5‑A into Lot 3‑A‑1 (Item 25‑38) – 18,997 sq ft residential lot
• Resubdivision of Lot 11 and Lot 12 into Lot 11A (Item 25‑39) – 0.939 acre residential lot
• Resubdivision of Francis Poche tract into Lots 1‑A (10,978.08 sq ft) and 1‑B (7,669.92 sq ft) (Item 25‑40)
• Side‑setback variance for a 16 × 86 ft mobile home at 3292 Ann Street, Vacherie (Item 25‑34)
• Land‑use approval for Mosaic Fertilizer LLC to add Stack No. 5 to its phosphogypsum system at 7250 La 44, Convent (Item 25‑31)

The St. James Parish Planning Commission unanimously approved three subdivision applications: Lots 3‑A, 4‑A, and 5‑A into Lot 3‑A‑1; Lot 11 and Lot 12 into Lot 11A; and a simplified subdivision of the Francis Poche tract into Lot 1‑A and Lot 1‑B. The commission also approved the community assessment presentation, permitting Desire Line to draft a community profile and comprehensive plan update, and amended the agenda to allow a legal update.

• Approved subdivision of Lots 3‑A, 4‑A, 5‑A into Lot 3‑A‑1 (unanimous)
• Approved subdivision of Lot 11 and Lot 12 into Lot 11A (unanimous)
• Approved simplified subdivision of Francis Poche tract into Lot 1‑A and Lot 1‑B, pending CAD file and variance recommendation (unanimous)
• Approved Desire Line community assessment findings, allowing drafting of community profile and comprehensive plan update (unanimous)
• Amended agenda to permit Vic Franckiewicz to provide legal update (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Parish Council

The St. James Parish Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a franchise renewal for Entergy LA, LLC. The body will also review annual reports from the Hospital and Economic Development boards and discuss drainage and building updates.

• Ordinance 25-25: Renewal of franchise for Entergy LA, LLC
• Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with Festival of the Bonfires, Inc.
• Extension of legal services contract with Butler Snow, LLP through January 31, 2026
• Memorandum of Understanding with River Parishes Community College for workforce training
• Drainage study update from Forrestal Street to Pool Lane

The council approved the minutes from the November 5 and November 12 meetings and adopted the September 2025 Statement of Revenues and Expenditures. It also unanimously adopted Resolution 25-207, reappointing Yolanda Williams to the St. James Parish Housing Authority board. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved November 5, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Nash, seconded by Long)
• Approved November 12, 2025 special budget meeting minutes (motion by Nash, seconded by Jasmin)
• Approved September 2025 Statement of Revenues and Expenditures (motion by Etienne‑Steib, seconded by Jasmin)
• Unanimously adopted Resolution 25‑207 reappointing Yolanda Williams to the Housing Authority board

Keep St. James Parish Beautiful Board

The Keep St. James Parish Beautiful Board will meet to discuss tree planting projects, a proposed 2026 budget of $12,700, and recycling initiatives. The board will also plan for future beautification projects and report to the parish council.

• Tree planting at District 7 Park and St. James Parish Courthouse
• 2026 Proposed budget of $12,700
• Electronic recycling event at Winn Dixie on November 22
• Koch Methanol grant for tree planting
• Report to parish council in December

Parish Council

The St. James Parish Council special meeting will open with a call to order and roll call, followed by a prayer and pledge. The council will then discuss the 2026 budget. The meeting will conclude with a motion to adjourn.

• Call to order and roll call
• Prayer and pledge
• Discussion of the 2026 budget
• Motion to adjourn

The St. James Parish Council met to discuss the proposed 2026 line‑item budget. No additional business was presented. Councilman Nash moved to adjourn, Councilman Jasmin seconded, and the motion carried. The meeting ended at 7:14 p.m.

• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Parish Council

The St. James Parish Council will vote on several resolutions, including authorizing up to $12,000,000 of revenue bonds and approving a request to construct a 100‑by‑100‑foot equipment shed on Falgoust Street. The council will also consider renewing two professional‑services contracts with Desire Line LLC at no additional cost, and will discuss a Christmas Bonfire Program Agreement with local levee districts. Additional items include a contract for a federal bridge‑rehabilitation program and the sale of surplus movable property at public auction.

• Resolution to issue not more than $12,000,000 of revenue bonds (Dufresne)
• Resolution recommending approval of a 100' x 100' equipment shed on Falgoust Street (Dufresne)
• Resolution to authorize purchase of immovable property from Ellis & Lena W. Bourgeois Family Properties, LLC (Louque)
• Resolution granting Entergy, LA, LLC a franchise renewal in St. James Parish (Dufresne)
• Resolution authorizing sale of movable surplus property at a public auction (Dufresne)

The St. James Parish Council unanimously adopted multiple resolutions, including authorizing up to $12 million of revenue bonds. It also approved several contract renewals, a Christmas bonfire agreement, a bridge rehabilitation contract, and a franchise renewal for Entergy. A proposed ordinance to purchase immovable property was not adopted after the motion to table it was withdrawn.

• Approved Resolution 25-198 to disburse funds for pending invoices (unanimous)
• Authorized renewal of Desire Line LLC contract for program management services (Resolution 25-199, unanimous)
• Authorized renewal of Desire Line LLC contract for community development plan (Resolution 25-200, unanimous)
• Approved Christmas Bonfire Program agreement with local levee districts (Resolution 25-201, unanimous)
• Approved contract with Dept. of Transportation for Federal Off‑System Bridge Rehabilitation (Resolution 25-202, unanimous)
• Authorized issuance of up to $12,000,000 revenue bonds (Resolution 25-205, unanimous)
• Accepted Change Order #2 for EOC exterior renovations project (Resolution 25-206, unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance granting franchise renewal to Entergy, LA, LLC (Proposed Ordinance 25-25, unanimous)

Economic Development Board Meetings

The St. James Parish Economic Development Board will receive updates from the Welcome Center and several regional partners. It will review nominations for Small Business of the Month and accept public comments on any agenda items that require a vote. The meeting includes reports from the River Parishes Tourist Commission, River Region Chamber of Commerce, Town of Lutcher, Town of Gramercy, GNO, Inc., South Central Planning, River Parishes Community College, and the Port of South Louisiana.

• Small Business of the Month nominations
• Public comments on agenda items that require a vote
• Welcome Center updates
• Report from River Parishes Tourist Commission
• Report from River Region Chamber of Commerce

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a request from Mosaic Fertilizer, LLC to expand its phosphogypsum management system. The body will also review two property resubdivisions, a land use request for a pole barn, and a mobile home setback variance.

• Mosaic Fertilizer, LLC request to construct Stack No. 5 at 7250 La 44, Convent
• Charles Waguespack request for a 100’ x 100’ pole barn on Falgoust Street, St. James
• Jada Melancon side setback variance for a mobile home at 3292 Ann Street, Vacherie
• Velma Hotard Becnel resubdivision of property into Lot A (0.79 acres) and remaining (6.8 acres)
• Albert and Gail Noel resubdivision of Lots 30-C, 31-C and 31-E into Lot 311-CC (23,550 sqft)

The commission unanimously approved three resubdivision requests, a mobile‑home setback variance, and recommended approval of a 100 × 100 ft equipment shed. It also approved Mosaic Fertilizer’s application to expand its gypsum stack, adding conditions and a start‑date limitation. All motions passed with all members voting in favor.

• Approved Velma Hotard Becnel resubdivision for drainage parcel (all in favor)
• Approved Albert and Gail Noel resubdivision of Lots 30‑C, 31‑C, 31‑E into Lot 311‑CC (all in favor)
• Approved Jada Melancon 1‑ft side‑setback variance for mobile home at 3292 Ann Street (all in favor)
• Recommended approval of Charles Waguespack 100 × 100 ft equipment shed on Falgoust Street (all in favor)
• Approved Mosaic Fertilizer LLC expansion of gypsum stack at 7250 LA‑44 with conditions (all in favor)

Coastal Zone Commission

The St. James Parish Coastal Zone Advisory Board will meet to discuss state coastal use permit applications. The agenda includes reviews of infrastructure projects and maintenance activities along the Mississippi River.

• Acadian Gas Pipeline System: Emergency leak repair on Chico C Pipeline (P20250762)
• Port Ship Services, Inc.: Construction of a walkway and pier at mile marker 168 (P20250734)
• Koch Methanol St. James: Maintenance dredging at water intake structure at mile marker 157.8 (P20250765)
• Entergy Louisiana, LLC: Installation of three dead-end structures between Willow Glen and Waterford Substations
• Administration report regarding 2025 Ethics Reminder

Keep St. James Parish Beautiful Board

The Keep St. James Parish Beautiful Board will discuss the proposed 2026 budget of $12,700 covering supplies for beautification, recycling, and events. Members will review old business items such as the board stipend, tree‑planting locations at District 7 Park, Gramercy Park and the Convent courthouse, and a $300 motion for recycling signage. New business includes decisions on the Circle of Excellence award ($500), dates for shredding (Oct 25) and electronic recycling (Nov 22) events, and the youth component of the program.

• Approval of the 2026 budget totaling $12,700 for supplies and programs
• $300 motion approved to purchase signage for the recycling drop‑off behind the library
• Tree‑planting project planned for District 7 Park, Gramercy Park and the Convent courthouse, with planting on LA Arbor Day Jan 16
• Reception of the Circle of Excellence award providing $500 to the board
• Scheduling of a shredding event on Oct 25 and an electronic recycling event on Nov 22

Parish Council

The St. James Parish Council will vote on a contract for parish-wide drainage improvements and a pipeline servitude agreement for ExxonMobil Low Carbon Solutions Onshore Storage, LLC. The body will also review the acceptance of storm damage repairs to docks on Blind River.

• Contract with Triumph Construction LLC for St. James Parish-Wide Drainage Improvements
• Pipeline servitude agreement for ExxonMobil Low Carbon Solutions Onshore Storage, LLC at the Nucor site
• Acceptance of work by Sage Construction, LLC for storm damage repairs to docks on Blind River
• Appointment of Andy M. Detillier as Constable for the 1st District
• Agreement with Entergy Louisiana, LLC for a temporary emergency restoration staging area

The council appointed Andy M. Detillier as Constable for District 15 and approved a disbursement of funds for pending invoices. It set Halloween trick‑or‑treat hours, accepted Sage Construction’s storm‑damage repair work, and authorized a contract with Triumph Construction for parish‑wide drainage improvements. It also approved an agreement with Entergy for a temporary emergency staging area and adopted the finance statement and meeting minutes.

• Appointed Andy M. Detillier as Constable (unanimous)
• Approved disbursement of funds for pending invoices (unanimous)
• Set Halloween trick‑or‑treat hours 6‑8 p.m. (unanimous)
• Accepted Sage Construction work on Blind River dock repairs (unanimous)
• Authorized contract with Triumph Construction for parish‑wide drainage improvements (unanimous)
• Authorized agreement with Entergy for emergency staging area on parish property (unanimous)
• Approved August 2025 Statement of Revenues and Expenditures (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 1, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Parish Council

The St. James Parish Council will consider a resolution to amend the contract with Gulf South Engineering and Testing, Inc., extending it three years and increasing its price. It will also consider resolutions to accept a change order from Aqua‑Metric Sales Company for the automatic water and gas meter infrastructure project, to modify the maintenance agreement with the Department of Transportation and Development to double the number of maintenance cycles in FY 2026, and to enter a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement for storm‑water improvements in the Bellevue Lakes Subdivision. Additional items include a proclamation of October 2025 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a commercial‑use application for 2957 Highway 3125 in Paulina, and the filing of a grant application with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development.

• Resolution amending Gulf South Engineering and Testing, Inc. contract: extend 3 years, increase price
• Resolution accepting change order #1 from Aqua‑Metric Sales Company for automatic water and gas meter infrastructure project
• Resolution amending DOTD maintenance agreement to increase cycles from 4 to 8 for FY 2026
• Resolution authorizing Cooperative Endeavor Agreement for concrete panels, storm‑water basins, and curbing replacement in Bellevue Lakes Subdivision
• Resolution approving commercial use application for 2957 Highway 3125, Paulina, LA under the Land Use Ordinance

The council adopted Resolution 25-182, amending the Gulf South Engineering and Testing contract to extend it three years and increase its price. The motion passed with Councilmembers T. Poche, Long, N. Poche, Jasmin, Etienne‑Steib, and Louque in favor and Nash opposing. In the same meeting, the council also approved several other resolutions, including payroll disbursements, invoice payments, and various community and infrastructure initiatives.

• Resolution 25-182 amended Gulf South Engineering contract (6‑1 vote)
• Resolution 25-179 approved payroll disbursement numbers 188 and 189 (unanimously adopted)
• Resolution 25-180 approved disbursement of funds for pending invoices (unanimously adopted)
• Resolution 25-181 proclaimed October 2025 Breast Cancer Awareness Month (unanimously adopted)
• Resolution 25-184 amended DOTD maintenance agreement to increase cycles to 8 (unanimously adopted)
• Resolution 25-185 authorized cooperative agreement for concrete panels, storm water basins, and curbing in Bellevue Lake subdivision (unanimously adopted)
• Resolution 25-186 approved commercial use application for 2957 HWY 3125, Paulina (unanimously adopted)
• Resolution 25-188 authorized filing of a grant application with LDOTD (unanimously adopted)

Planning Commission

The St. James Parish Planning Commission will consider several land use and subdivision requests at its September 29 meeting. Items include a residential lot subdivision, a commercial building proposal in an agricultural zone, an industrial gypsum stack expansion, a mobile‑home variance, and a church mausoleum addition. The commission will make recommendations that may be forwarded to the Parish Council for final action.

• Glenn Melancon resubdivision of Lot 1‑A (0.436 acres) in Section 5, T 12 S‑R 17 E, residential growth – pending CAD file.
• Tom and Mary Kliebert request to build a 148’ × 58’ metal building for a law office and rental units at 2957 Hwy 3125, Paulina (agricultural zone, commercial use).
• Mosaic Fertilizer, LLC seeks to expand its gypsum management system with Stack No. 5 at 7250 LA 44, Convent (industrial zone).
• Angela Evans requests a variance to place a third mobile home on the parcel at 3315 Hwy 642, Paulina.
• St. Joseph Catholic Church requests approval for a 426‑crypt garden mausoleum addition at 2130 Rectory Street, Paulina (residential growth zone).

The commission approved a subdivision of Lot 1 and Lot 2 into Lot 1‑A. It voted to recommend approval of Tom and Mary Kliebert’s commercial building request at 2957 Highway 3125. The Mosaic Fertilizer land‑use request was tabled pending additional information. A variance was approved for a third structure at 3315 Hwy 642.

• Approved resubdivision of Lot 1 and Lot 2 into Lot 1‑A (all in favor)
• Recommended approval of Kliebert commercial building at 2957 Hwy 3125 (all in favor)
• Tabled Mosaic Fertilizer land‑use request until additional information is provided (unanimous)
• Approved variance for third structure at 3315 Hwy 642 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the June 30, 2025 meeting (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Coastal Zone Commission

The St. James Parish Coastal Zone Advisory Board will hold a regular meeting on September 29, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the Convent Courthouse Council Chambers. The agenda includes reviewing minutes from the previous meeting and a public hearing notice for Air Products Blue Energy LLC. The board will also review state applications for various projects, including a proposed transmission line and a road widening.

• Review minutes from August 25, 2025 meeting
• Public hearing notice for Air Products Blue Energy LLC
• LA 3127 Widening project (33,196 cy concrete, 99,600 cy asphalt)
• Entergy transmission line project (84 mile 500 kV line)
• Entergy Willow Glen to Waterford dead-end structures

Economic Development Board Meetings

The St. James Parish Economic Development Board will hear a presentation from American Cruise Lines director Frank J. Klipsch on city partnerships and special projects. The board will welcome new member Hunter Haydel for District 4 and consider upcoming events, including Market Days/Fall Fest on Oct. 18‑19, 2025 and the Décor Shoppe 50th‑anniversary ribbon cutting on Oct. 16, 2025. Reports from local agencies and small‑business nominations will also be reviewed.

• American Cruise Lines presentation by Director Frank J. Klipsch on city partnerships & special projects
• Welcome new board member Hunter Haydel (District 4)
• Market Days/Fall Fest scheduled for Oct. 18‑19, 2025
• Décor Shoppe 50th Anniversary ribbon cutting on Oct. 16, 2025
• Small Business of the Month nominations

Parish Council

The St. James Parish Council will meet to discuss several administrative resolutions and project updates. Key items include participation in a state-run housing program and the execution of a contract with Terracon.

• Opt In Form for the State Run Temporary Housing Program
• Cities Readiness Initiative FY 2026 Grant contract with the Office of Public Health
• Contract execution with Terracon
• Drainage study update from Forrestal Street to Pool Lane
• Appointment of Hunter Haydel to the St. James Parish Economic Development Board

The council unanimously adopted several resolutions, including authorizing the Parish President to sign the opt‑in form for the state temporary housing program. They also approved disbursement of funds for pending invoices, a contract for the Cities Readiness Initiative grant, and a contract with Terracon. Additional unanimous resolutions appointed a new economic‑development board member and commemorated the 100‑year anniversary of King Solomon Baptist Church.

• Approved minutes of the September 3, 2025 meeting (motion by Nash, seconded by N. Poche)
• Adopted Resolution 25-170 proclaiming September 2025 Adult Education and Literacy Month (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-171 appointing Hunter Haydel to the Economic Development Board (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-172 approving disbursement of funds for pending invoices (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-173 authorizing the Parish President to sign the opt‑in form for the state temporary housing program (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-174 authorizing the Parish President to sign the contract for the Cities Readiness Initiative FY 2026 grant (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-175 authorizing execution of a contract with Terracon (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-176 commemorating the 100‑year anniversary of King Solomon Baptist Church (unanimous)

Parish Council

The St. James Parish Council adopted eight resolutions. They approved a disbursement of funds, rejected all bids for the Humble Phase III drainage project, amended a contract with McKim & Creed, authorized a demolition contract for the utilities building, opened competitive bidding for Humble Phase II drainage, approved commercial use of 2130 Rectory Street, authorized engineering RFQs for storm‑water projects, and approved a new healthcare services contract. All votes were unanimous with Councilman Long absent.

• Resolution 25-161 disbursement of funds approved (unanimous, Long absent)
• Resolution 25-162 all bids for Humble Phase III drainage rejected (unanimous, Long absent)
• Resolution 25-163 contract with McKim & Creed amended to $700,000 for three years (unanimous, Long absent)
• Resolution 25-164 contract with Vacherie Hymel Company for utilities building demolition authorized (unanimous, Long absent)
• Resolution 25-165 advertising for competitive bids for Humble Phase II drainage improvements authorized (unanimous, Long absent)
• Resolution 25-166 commercial use of 2130 Rectory Street approved under land‑use ordinance (unanimous, Long absent)
• Resolution 25-167 engineering firms RFQs for storm‑water and drainage projects authorized (unanimous, Long absent)
• Resolution 25-169 healthcare services contract with Anastasia Montgomery approved (unanimous, Long absent)

Planning Commission

The commission approved the June 30, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved the Atalco subdivision with a condition for a revised plat showing 50‑foot access servitudes. It also approved the Lifehouse and Sugar View Estates subdivisions, each pending a letter of no objection from LaDH and a completed CAD file. Finally, it recommended approval of St. Joseph Catholic Church’s 426‑crypt mausoleum addition, subject to several construction‑start and use conditions.

• Approved June 30, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved Atalco Resubdivision (Item 25‑18) with 50’ access servitude condition (all in favor)
• Approved Lifehouse Resubdivision (Item 25‑28) pending LaDH no‑objection letter and CAD file (all in favor)
• Approved Sugar View Estates Resubdivision (Item 25‑29) with survey, permit, and zero‑fill conditions, pending LaDH no‑objection letter and CAD file (all in favor)
• Recommended approval of St. Joseph Catholic Church 426‑crypt mausoleum addition (Item 25‑25) with start‑date and use conditions (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Planning Commission

The St. James Parish Planning Commission Working Group will meet to discuss the St. James Parish Community Profile & Comprehensive Plan Update. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 25, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the Operations Conference Room.

• Discussion of the St. James Parish Community Profile & Comprehensive Plan Update

Parish Council

The council adopted several unanimous resolutions, including authorizing the parish president to declare a state of emergency to replace the failed intake pump at the Convent water plant. It also approved disbursement of funds for pending invoices, affirmed the Flood Awareness Week proclamation, and adopted an ordinance amending vendor compensation. Additional approvals covered security camera bidding, a nutrition assessment contract, senior exercise programs, and revisions to the personnel policy. The June 2025 Statement of Revenues and Expenditures was also approved.

• Approved June 2025 Statement of Revenues and Expenditures (motion by Nash, seconded by N. Poche)
• Adopted Ordinance 25-24 amending vendor compensation (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-153 approving disbursement of funds for pending invoices (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-154 affirming Flood Awareness Week proclamation (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-155 authorizing advertisement and bids for security cameras (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-156 approving contract for nutrition assessment services (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-160 authorizing a state of emergency to replace the failed intake pump at the Convent water plant (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-159 approving revisions to the personnel policy (unanimous)

Keep St. James Parish Beautiful Board

The board is meeting to discuss a proposed 2026 budget and plan annual agenda items. The session includes reviews of recycling efforts, youth participation, and the potential for a new electronic recycling event.

• Proposed 2026 budget of $12,700
• Circle of Excellence award with $500 attached
• Discussion on trash cans for West Bank
• Planning for electronic recycling and shredding event
• Review of youth and business participation grants

Parish Council

The council approved the May 2025 Statement of Revenues and Expenditures and adopted two resolutions recognizing Bryleigh Sutherland and Hannah Roussel as Miss St. James Parish. It also adopted several ordinances, including tax levies to fund libraries, an enhanced 911 telephone system, and fire department operations, each passing unanimously. All actions were recorded as adopted without dissent.

• Approved May 2025 Statement of Revenues and Expenditures (motion by Nash, seconded by Etienne‑Steib)
• Unanimously adopted Resolution 25‑143 recognizing Bryleigh Sutherland as Miss St. James Parish
• Unanimously adopted Resolution 25‑144 recognizing Hannah Roussel as Miss St. James Parish
• Unanimously adopted Ordinance 25‑12 amending Chapter 70 Manufactured Homes and Trailers
• Unanimously adopted Ordinance 25‑13 amending Chapter 18 Building and Building Regulations
• Unanimously adopted Ordinance 25‑17 renewing a 2.48‑mill levy for public library funding (2027‑2036)
• Unanimously adopted Ordinance 25‑18 renewing a 1.25‑mill levy for an enhanced 911 telephone system (2027‑2036)
• Unanimously adopted Ordinance 25‑19 renewing a 3.91‑mill levy for fire department and emergency medical services (2027‑2036)

Planning Commission

The commission voted to recommend the Parish Council approve agricultural use of the property at 39319 Humble Street, allowing hay production, up to ten farm animals, and a barn, with specific conditions. It also approved three subdivision requests and tabled one pending further information. Additionally, the commission acknowledged a court‑ordered subdivision and sent it to the Parish Council with variances.

• Tabled Atalco subdivision request (Item 25-18) – vote 7‑0
• Approved Steven Louque simplified subdivision (Item 25-15) – vote 7‑0
• Approved Jules Priestley subdivision of Lot 8 (Item 25-26) – vote 7‑0
• Recommended approval of agricultural use at 39319 Humble St (Item 25-22) – vote 7‑0
• Acknowledged court orders and forwarded to Parish Council with variances (Item 25-27) – vote 4‑3

Parish Council

The council adopted Ordinance 25-16 authorizing a pipeline servitude agreement with ExxonMobil Low Carbon Solutions ONSHORE STORAGE LLC, passing the motion unanimously. Several resolutions were also adopted unanimously, including a $33,163 disbursement, personnel policy revisions, a computer endpoint protection MOU, a renewal contract with Electronic Business System, Inc., an intergovernmental agreement for a new fire station, a land‑use approval for Faoucheux Farms, and a 2.48‑mill levy renewal for library funding.

• Adopted Ordinance 25-16 pipeline servitude agreement with ExxonMobil (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-129 disbursement of $33,163 to Mrs. Earline Becnel (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-130 revisions to parish personnel policy (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-131 MOU with GOHSEP for computer endpoint protection (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-132 renewal contract with Electronic Business System, Inc. (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-133 intergovernmental agreement with school board for new fire station (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-134 land‑use approval for Faoucheux Farms at 39388 LA 642 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-136 renewal of 2.48‑mill levy for library funding (unanimous)

Parish Council

The council approved the minutes from the June 18 meeting and the April 2025 financial statement. It unanimously adopted Ordinance 25-15 to purchase immovable property from Earline Falgoust Bencel. Several resolutions were also unanimously adopted, including funding disbursements, gas infrastructure contracts, meal‑truck bidding, maintenance agreements, a garage construction permit, and a rail‑culvert improvement contract.

• Approved June 18, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Nash, seconded by Jasmin)
• Approved April 2025 Statement of Revenues and Expenditures (motion by Jasmin, seconded by Etienne‑Steib)
• Adopted Ordinance 25-15 to purchase immovable property from Earline Falgoust Bencel (unanimous vote)
• Adopted Resolution 25-122 to disburse funds for pending invoices (unanimous vote)
• Adopted Resolution 25-123 authorizing contract with Feliciana Welders for gas infrastructure (unanimous vote)
• Adopted Resolution 25-124 to advertise and take bids for meal trucks (unanimous vote)
• Adopted Resolution 25-125 authorizing maintenance agreement for mowing and litter pickup (unanimous vote)
• Adopted Resolution 25-126 approving Prestige Collision Center garage construction at 20976 Hwy 3125 (unanimous vote)

Planning Commission

The commission adopted a resolution recommending approval of the Koch Methanol St. James, LLC optimization project, subject to conditions, after a public hearing and review of the court‑remanded application. It also approved land‑use requests for Faucheux Farms and Prestige Collision Center, recommending approval to the Parish Council with conditions. Additionally, three simplified subdivision requests were approved.

• Recommended approval of Koch Methanol optimization project (all in favor)
• Recommended approval of Faucheux Farms land‑use request (all in favor)
• Recommended approval of Prestige Collision Center land‑use request (all in favor)
• Approved subdivision of Nelson J Roussel, Sr. Estate (all in favor)
• Approved subdivision of Huguet Family tract (all in favor)
• Approved subdivision of Vincent and Alice Reulet property (all in favor)
• Amended agenda to move Koch Methanol item after Adams Variance (all in favor)

Parish Council

The Parish Council approved the March 2025 Statement of Revenues and Expenditures and adopted a $25 million general‑obligation bond ordinance. It also unanimously adopted resolutions recognizing Luther’s Day, proclaiming Juneteenth, and reappointing a board member, and approved a temporary construction servitude for a Union Pacific rail project.

• Approved Statement of Revenues and Expenditures for March 2025 (motion by Nash, seconded N. Poche)
• Adopted Resolution 25‑111 recognizing Luther’s Day and motorcycle safety (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25‑121 proclaiming Juneteenth Day (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25‑112 reappointing Brad Poche to Economic Development Board (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 25‑09 to purchase immovable property from Louis Dreyfus Co. (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 25‑11 temporary construction servitude for Union Pacific rail culvert (5‑1, 1 absent)
• Adopted Ordinance 25‑14 authorizing issuance of up to $25 M general‑obligation bonds (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25‑113 authorizing disbursement of funds for pending invoices (unanimous)

Parish Council

The council approved the minutes of the May 21 meeting and the February 2025 Statement of Revenues and Expenditures. Three ordinances were adopted unanimously, including a sewer use fee agreement with Ascension Parish. Several payroll and infrastructure resolutions were also approved, with one proposed ordinance passing 6‑1.

• Approved May 21 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved February 2025 Statement of Revenues and Expenditures (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 25-06 continuing health benefits for retirees (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 25-07 authorizing sewer use fee agreement with Ascension Parish (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 25-08 authorizing temporary access agreement with Entergy Louisiana (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-101 approving payroll disbursement for June 2025 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-108 authorizing contract with Crescent Engineering for roadway rehabilitation (unanimous)
• Adopted Proposed Ordinance 25-11 authorizing temporary construction servitude for Union Pacific rail culvert (6‑1)

Parish Council

The council unanimously adopted Resolution 25-91, authorizing up to $25 million in general‑obligation bonds to fund road construction and drainage improvements, payable from ad valorem taxes. It also approved several other resolutions, including payment of pending invoices, a proclamation of Paul Keller Day, and authorizations for contracts and agreements related to finance and engineering services.

• Reappointed Heidi Poche to the St. James Parish Economic Development Board (unanimous)
• Reappointed MAC BORDELON to the St. James Parish Economic Development Board (unanimous)
• Reappointed LOUIS KLIEBERT to the St. James Parish Economic Development Board (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-88 to disburse funds for pending invoices and payables (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-89 proclaiming June 2 2025 as Paul Keller Day (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-90 authorizing the President to sign an agreement with Capital Area Finance Authority (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-91 authorizing up to $25 million in general‑obligation bonds for road and drainage projects (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-92 authorizing a contract with Infinity Engineering Consultants, LLC for professional services (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The commission approved two property line variances for mobile homes at 8202 Woods Street and 9211 Ester Street, with all present members voting in favor. It then considered Exxon’s request to construct a 24‑inch CO2 pipeline and voted on a resolution recommending approval; the motion failed with three votes against, two for, and one abstention. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved variance for 8202 Woods Street mobile home (all in favor)
• Approved variance for 9211 Ester Street mobile home (all in favor)
• Rejected Exxon CO2 pipeline land use recommendation (motion failed: 3 no, 2 yes, 1 abstain)
• Motion to adjourn carried (all in favor)

Parish Council

The council unanimously adopted a series of resolutions, including a $5.7 M amendment to the Intracoastal Consultants contract for the West Shore Risk Reduction Levee Project and a contract with US Aqua Services for Phase 2 geotechnical work. It also approved the commercial lease ordinance for the fleet maintenance division, payroll and invoice disbursements, and several proclamations designating May as Community Action Month, Older Americans Month, and Mental Health Awareness Month. Additional resolutions authorized flood‑control pre‑applications, change orders, and land‑use permits for a used‑car lot and an auto‑collision garage.

• Approved $5.7M contract amendment for West Shore Risk Reduction Levee Project (unanimous)
• Approved contract with US Aqua Services for Phase 2 geotechnical investigation (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 25-05 approving commercial lease for fleet maintenance division (unanimous)
• Approved payroll disbursement numbers 174 and 175 for May 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved disbursement of funds to pay pending invoices and payables (unanimous)
• Proclaimed May as Community Action Month (unanimous)
• Proclaimed May as Older Americans Month (unanimous)
• Approved Good Cars LLC used‑car lot application at 9127 Central Crossing Street (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved a simplified subdivision of Antoine Falgoust lots, recommended approval of Good Cars LLC and Prestige Collision Center land use applications, approved a variance for 2192 Perkins Street, and tabled two Nelson Roussel subdivision requests and the Exxon CO2 pipeline request. All motions carried with the recorded roll‑call votes.

• Approved Antoine Falgoust subdivision (Item #25-11) – all members in favor
• Tabled Nelson J. Roussel Lot C-14 subdivision (Item #25-12) – all members in favor
• Tabled Nelson J. Roussel Lot C-21 subdivision (Item #25-13) – all members in favor
• Recommended approval of Good Cars LLC land use (Item #25-02) – 5 yes, 3 no, 0 absent
• Tabled Exxon CO2 pipeline land use request (Item #25-03) – all members in favor
• Recommended approval of Prestige Collision Center land use (Item #25-07) – all members in favor
• Approved Stone/Young variance for 2192 Perkins Street (Item #25-10) – all members in favor

Parish Council

The council unanimously adopted two ordinances to purchase immovable property for utility needs. It also passed four resolutions: approving pending invoice payments, proclaiming April 2025 as Fair Housing Month, and authorizing cooperative road‑repair agreements with the towns of Lutcher and Gramercy. A motion to correct a typographical error was also adopted unanimously.

• Ordinance 25-03 authorizing purchase of immovable property from Peter Bodin adopted (unanimous)
• Ordinance 25-04 authorizing purchase of immovable property from Phyllis Poirrier Bodin adopted (unanimous)
• Resolution 25-61 approving disbursement of funds for pending invoices and payables adopted (unanimous)
• Resolution 25-62 proclaiming April 2025 as Fair Housing Month adopted (unanimous)
• Resolution 25-63 authorizing cooperative road‑repair/overlay agreement with Town of Lutcher adopted (unanimous)
• Motion to correct typo (Lutcher to Gramercy) adopted (unanimous)
• Resolution 25-64 authorizing cooperative road‑repair/overlay agreement with Town of Gramercy adopted, as amended (unanimous)
• Resolution 25-65 ... (text truncated in minutes, no decision recorded)

Parish Council

The council unanimously adopted Ordinance 25-01 setting the 2025 property tax millage for all taxable property in the parish. It also approved a resolution increasing the Gulf South Engineering contract from $100,000 to $500,000, and adopted several other resolutions covering payroll, flood‑code updates, wetlands mitigation, and a new industrial tax‑exemption participant. All votes were recorded as unanimous unless noted otherwise.

• Adopted Ordinance 25-01 property tax millage (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 25-02 flood‑code amendment (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 25-53 amendment to Gulf South Engineering contract, raising amount to $500,000 (unanimous after amendment)
• Adopted Resolution 25-54 approving Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. for industrial tax‑exemption program (6‑0‑1; Louque abstained)
• Adopted Resolution 24-57 authorizing mosquito‑control bid advertising (6‑1; Nash opposed)
• Adopted Resolution 25-58 authorizing wetlands mitigation agreement with Delta Land Services (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-59 authorizing contract with Capital Area Construction for EOC exterior renovations (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25-60 reaffirming support for FG LA, LLC Sunshine Project (6‑1; Nash opposed)

Planning Commission

The commission approved two subdivision requests, removed the Lloyd's Auto & Towing land‑use item, and tabled the Good Cars LLC request. It approved a variance for a shed at 3391 S. Angelle Street and recommended approval of the R.A.R. fencing metal building with conditions. The Exxon CO2 pipeline request was tabled for further information.

• Approved Earline Falgoust Becnel resubdivision (combine Lots 32A & 33A) (9‑0)
• Approved Loretta Oubre resubdivision of 35‑acre tract (9‑0)
• Removed Lloyd’s Auto & Towing land‑use item from agenda (9‑0)
• Tabled Good Cars, LLC land‑use request (8‑1)
• Approved Lambert variance for 14x30 shed at 3391 S. Angelle Street (9‑0)
• Recommended approval of R.A.R. fencing metal building request with conditions (8‑0, 1 absent)
• Tabled Exxon CO2 pipeline land‑use request (7‑0, 1 abstain, 1 absent)

Parish Council

The council approved the minutes from the March 12, 2025 meeting. It then unanimously adopted Resolution 25‑37, proclaiming March 31 through April 6, 2025 as "Paint the Parish Purple". No other actions were voted on.

• Approved March 12, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 25‑37 proclaiming March 31‑April 6, 2025 as Paint the Parish Purple (unanimous)