SLP Council Meeting 3

ST. LANDRY PARISH COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16
th
, 2025 @ 6:00 P.M.
OLD CITY MARKET, 131 W. BELLEVUE ST.
OPELOUSAS, LOUISIANA
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES

The Council of the Parish of St. Landry, State of Louisiana, convened in a regular session on
this 16
th
, day of April, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.

I. Chairman Jody White called the meeting of the St. Landry Parish Council to order.
II. Councilwoman Mildred Thierry led the Pledge of Allegiance & Invocation.
III. ROLL CALL: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks, Alvin Stelly
Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard.
IV. CONDOLENCES:
Councilman Faltery Jolivette: Rufus A. Charles.
Councilman Ken Marks: Jerry Lee Sonnier, James ‘Ken’ Mistric, Emma Lee Lalonde,
Peggy Ann McJunkins, Rita Barron Olivier, Joyce Coulon Johnson, Edward “Duwa” Wiltz,
Charles Ray Mistric Sr., Joseph M. Andrus, Jr.
Councilman Wayne Ardoin: Gregory Paul Valin, Melinda Guillory Fuselier,
Joyce Lanclos Richard Bourque, Johnie Wayne Johnson, Daniel “Danny J. Majors,
Edward ‘Duwa’ Wiltz, Charles Ray Mistric Sr., Ronald Bellard, Robert Lee Taylor.
*Chairman Jody White called for a moment of silence for the families that lost their loved
ones.
V. PERSON TO ADDRESS THE COUNCIL:
Joseph Hayes III and Elizabeth Jones 190 Veterans Drive, Opelousas, LA 70570.
(Parcel #0104946000).
Ms. Elizabeth Jones addressed the council. She stated, “Good evening my name is
Elizabeth Jones Hayes. I live at 190 Veterans Drive. I received a letter in the mail concerning
my home. My husband is deceased, it will be three years in November. We do have a lot of
work that needs to be done on the house. The letter was stating to demolish the home but that
is not what I want to do. This is my daughter and her name is Lashonda Hayes.
Ms. Lashonda Hayes stated, “My name is Lashonda Hayes, I am the daughter. We did not
know exactly what this consist of or what we had to do. As I was telling one of the staff
members over here that my mom received this letter and we don’t know what it is about. We
have been in contact with the parish and with people explaining things to us. We need time.
We have been cleaning up and we have been in contact with them. So I am not sure what the
letter is for.”
Chairman Jody White stated, “I noticed that when we will get to the New Business that
passed through the Committee, your address, 190 Veterans Drive will be the first item on the
list. I think by that time maybe we would have a Parish Government Representative that
could give us more insight before we take a vote on that. Does anybody have a question or
anything right now?”

Councilman Ken Marks questioned, “The only question that I have is this: The letter that
you are stating, when did you receive that letter?”
Ms. Lashonda Hayes stated, “About one month ago.”
Councilman Ken Marks questioned, “You have not had any prior correspondence form the
Parish referencing that property?”
Ms. Lashonda Hayes stated, “No, I guess someone called with complaints or something. We
have been cleaning and we have been in contact with the Parish.”
Councilman Ken Marks stated, “We will get into the details with it.”
Councilwoman Nancy Carriere stated, “You all got the letter saying that it needed to be
cleaned and you all have been cleaning it. I know that Ms. Cynthia is not here to talk on that
and I know that we are going to get to the voting part of it. If they have been cleaning it and I
think what you are asking for is more time to continue to clean and get it up to standard.”
Ms. Lashonda Hayes stated, “Yes because we stay in contact.”
Ms. Elizabeth Jones Hayes stated, “We had problems. The Plaisance Water System line had
burst and they had to burst the driveway, there was no way to get in. The weather and all of
this threw us back. Now all of that is fixed and we are able to go back and forth.”
Councilman Timmy Lejeune questioned, “I would like to know how much time you would
maybe need to make it fall into compliance?”
Ms. Lashonda Hayes stated, “It is just mainly the outside like the big items that have
accumulated. Everything else is no different from other properties.”
Councilman Timmy Lejeune questioned, “Would 90 days be long enough for you to get it
cleaned? Whatever that is out there that needs to be removed or whatever. I am just trying to
find out what can we do to help you get it in compliance. If you are saying 30 days, 90 days
or 120 days, I just need a time frame.”
Councilwoman Nancy Carriere stated, “I think what you all are trying to figure out is how
much work needs to be done or what is it that we expect you all to do? I think that is what
you all have been trying to figure out.”
Ms. Lashonda Haynes stated, “Nothing is clear on the letter as far as what you all are trying
to say because someone is talking about demolishing that house. I don’t understand what you
all are talking about.”
Councilman Timmy Lejeune questioned, “Mr. Bellard, can you give us some insight on what
is going on.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “I don’t know how much time they are going to need.
We are willing to give them whatever time that is necessary. It is not like we are trying to do
anything without them trying to do for themselves.”
Councilman Timmy Lejeune questioned, “Is there anyone that can tell them what they need
to do? Evidently they got a letter and they seem puzzled with the fact that it not bad enough
to get a letter. I am just trying to figure out what is going on.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Cynthia is coming back next Tuesday. I will have
Cynthia contact them directly. You should have that in your packet. You should have
pictures and stuff in your packet.”

Councilwoman Mildred Thierry stated, “Can we just put it on hold until Cynthia comes back
and get it straight.”
Chairman Jody White stated, “Right, I think that is what we are going to do with it. Mr.
Bellard is saying that Ms. Cynthia can clarify more things once she is back in the office and
we definitely want to do that. At this point I don’t think that we need to do anything. When
we get to the new business we can vote.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “We can table it just to have some type of action.”
Chairman Jody White stated, “We will have to table it when we get to it. Can you give them
a number directly to Ms. Cynthia or does Ms. Cynthia have their number. Someone needs to
make personal contact with them.”
Ms. Lashonda Haynes stated, “Ms. Cynthia contacts us. We have been talking to her.”
Chairman Jody White stated, “You just need to find out and specify what needs to be done to
get you all into compliance. I don’t know what the property looks like so I can’t say.”
Ms. Lashonda Haynes stated, “When you say ‘Table it’ what does that mean? Will we have
to come back to another meeting?”
Chairman Jody White stated, “It means that tonight we won’t take a vote on that issue to
demolish the property. It is saying that we won’t take a vote on that issue tonight. We will
give you some time and let you speak with Ms. Cynthia and see what it will take to make
everything into compliance.”
Ms. Lashonda Haynes stated, “Alright, thank you.”
 Johnny Johnson and Audria Johnson. 825 S. Market Street Opelousas, LA 70570.
(Parcel #0105083000).
There was no one to address the council from the Johnson Family.
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “The address is 154 Tesson Street. That is the
property in question.”
Chairman Jody White stated, “154 Tesson, is that the same people? Johnny Johnson and
Audria Johnson?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard, “Let me make sure. 825 S. Market Street is a mailing
address that they put down on here but the physical address that we are talking about is going
to be in Dannato Subdivision which is 154 Tesson Street. That is going to be item No. 2 on
that Agenda. You also have a copy of it with pictures.”
Chairman Jody White stated, “The Johnson’s are not here right now to address the council so
we will move on. I would like to call Mr. Jake Benoit to address the council.”
Mr. Jake Benoit addressed the council. He stated, “Thank you Mr. Chairman and thank you
council for welcoming me. My name is Jake Benoit. I am with Senator John Kennedy’s
Office here in Acadiana. I have been a resident of Acadiana for almost my whole life. I was
in our New Orleans Office for 1 1/2 years. I just recently moved back so it is great to be
home. I just wanted to come over and introduce myself. I am sure you will be seeing me out
and about. I am here to a Resource for you all so if there is any way that we can be of help
with constituent issues with any Federal Agencies, Past Ports, IRS, Social Security Issues,
anything like that or if we could write letters for support for any grants that you all maybe
working on that is what I am here to do. I look forward to working with you all. Don’t
hesitate to contact me anytime. I am excited to get to work. Thank you all.”

Councilman Timmy Lejeune questioned, “Thanks for coming. Mr. Jake, recently we went to
Washington DC for a visit. We were trying to get funding for a Drainage Overlay on Parish
Roads, things of that sort. They do have programs there to support those problems that we
have here in our parish but it does not fit our financial ability to pay or match. It may fit New
York or California or a big Municipality like New Orleans but as a parish there is no funding
for that because we don’t have the match funding. If we asked for one million dollars or five
million dollars we may have to come up with three million dollars or two million dollars.
There is just no way. If we had two million we would probably would not have gone to
Washington. What I am asking if there is a way that we could get to them to understand that
we have less revenue than New Orleans so we don’t fit in the same category as them. If there
would be a way that they could make it more affordable and easy for us to join that type of
funding we would love to do it because we need it, we do have a 2 cents sales tax that we
passed to try and fund our own problem here in the parish but everybody knows that things
have gone up so much that it takes every penny that we get just to keep the lights on and we
can’t use that money for nothing other than the two cent sales tax for the roads. If there would
be a way that we could invest that money into a Grant that we would get money back it would
work but their programs, there elevation of funding is just way out of range for us.”
Mr. Jake Benoit stated, “I am not going to say that I know everything about all of these
programs but I know that we have people on our team that do so. I can check in with our
Grant Guy. I can contact our guy who work with the Department of Transportation and see if
there is any sort of wiggle room that we can work with or if they know of anything more that I
personally don’t know about. I will be in touch and I will be reaching out to all of you so
don’t hesitate to contact me as well.”
Councilman Timmy Lejeune stated, “Thank you so much. I appreciate it.”
VI. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
A motion was made by Councilwoman Mildred Thierry, seconded by Councilman Faltery Jolivette
to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes from March 19
th
, 2025 as transcribed.
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16

th, day of April, 2025.

VII. PARISH PRESIDENT REPORT:
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “In your packet you will see the Adjudicated Property
List. That was property that was bided on at our last sale on April 3rd, 2025. You will see the
highlighted portions. Those were the ones that were the highest bidders. We will be asking
the council to approve the sale of these properties to the highest bidders listed.”
Councilman Wayne Ardoin stated, “Are you asking for a motion at this time on that?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Yes.”
A motion was made by Councilman Wayne Ardoin, seconded by Councilwoman Mildred
Thierry to approve the sale of the Adjudicated Property list to the highest bidders from the Bid
Sale held on Thursday, April 3rd, 2025.
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.

Parish President Jessie Bellard continued to state, “So the next item you all should have a
copy of a letter that we drafted as a board. The Acadian Regional Juvenile Justice District was
developed and put in place in 2023. I am the Chairman of that Board. It is a Nine Parish
Regional Board. Our job is to take care of the Juvenile Offenders in our Parish. Everybody in
here knows that we have issues across all nine parishes so we do a Regional Approach to this.
What we are doing now is we are going to the State Legislature this year to get them to
approve this District to get on the Ballot for a Sales Tax of one cent, a one cent sales tax for
one year. At the end of that year the money that is collected builds the new facility for the
Juvenile Detention. After the money comes in for that one year we roll back the tax to no
more than a quarter cent sales tax for the operations and Maintenance of the Facility. So
every parish is going to have use of this facility in that nine Parish Region. The estimated cost
is $80,000,000.00 to build a 112 bed facility. This facility is not going to be a regular
detention center. This facility is going to be put in place to hopefully take these juveniles and
bring them back into the work force after they get out. It will give them the tools that is
needed to do what is needed once they get out. It is a bigger problem than what people think
that we have. Right now we are spending $50,000.00 a month on juveniles. We have a
contract with Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office. They are holding ten Juveniles for us right
now. We are paying this whether we like it or not. Unfortunately the $50,000.00 per month
that we have to spend now, we don’t have it. There is no way that you can budget that kind of
money for Juvenile Crime. It is at $50,000.00 right now because that is just how it is. We
don’t know when the next one is going to be put in. Trust me these judges are not sending the
Juveniles to these detention centers just because it is a minor crime. They are accused of
major crimes and that is why they are sent to Jackson Parish. We have people that are saying
you just going to put them in jail and throw the key away that is not what we are doing.
Across the street we were holding four of them in a cell 10 by 10. They will not see day light,
now that is throwing them in jail and throwing the key away. The law changed and we have
to send them to a juvenile facility and the closest one that is going to take our kids is in
Jackson Parish and they gave us a break for $275.00 a day where across the street an adult
inmate cost us $17.00 per day, so you all see the big problem that we have. We are lucky to
have them in Louisiana, most of the Juveniles will have to be transported to and from
Alabama and Mississippi. Every parish that is in this district have that same problem, it is the
transportation. What people don’t realize is the cost of everything. Across the street, the
transportation, everything that is happening, it is not the Sheriff that is paying that, it is us,
Parish Government is paying that. So all of that cost comes on us and it is Mandated, nothing
that we can do about it. What we are hoping for in this nine Parish Region is to build a
facility. We are looking at 12 – 13 acres to build a facility that we can add on too if we need
too. It will give the Judges an opportunity to put some of these kids that do lesser offenses to
go and sit a couple of days and think about what they are doing, right now there is no
recourse. Honestly if they don’t shoot somebody or they don’t stab somebody they don’t get
sent, they just go back home with their parents because there is no room and there is no
money. We applied for funding with the state on the money that the Governor put aside and
that money went to two different districts. We did not receive any but we can re-apply but the
catch is this: If we get money from the state then we mandate it to make sure that we have
30% bed capacity for the state. With this plan right here we pay for our own way and we
manage it ourselves with the nine parishes, not the state or anything like that. We can hold
some states juveniles if there is room available and they pay the rate to the district. This is
new, this is actually the first meeting that I have discussed this with the public. I would be
going around all nine parishes and asking all of the governments and all the elected officials
to support this initiative because we are paying for it one way or the other. If we don’t try and
help these kids we will see them next door.”
Councilwoman Nancy Carriere questioned, “Where is this facility supposed to be built?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Right now the District, we are going to decide where
it is going to be built. We are looking at North of I-10 because of the Insurance evacuations
and stuff like that. If you build something South of I-10 and you have to evacuate 100 kids I

can’t bring them nowhere. So we will be North of I-10 and it has to be within the District
which is Evangeline, St. Landry and Allen. It is only like three parishes.”
Councilwoman Nancy Carriere questioned, “Only the kids from that Region is going to be
housed? Are there no other children coming from outside of the parish or the state?
Are any of those children going to be able to come and utilize this facility or is it just for the
Region?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “The Region is going to be first Priority. I can tell
you that Florida Parish have one and their bed capacity is 112. They have 80 of their district
in there. What they are doing to help with the offset of the cost they take in outside Juveniles
to help with the cost. The first priority is the District, it has to be the District.”
Councilwoman Nancy Carriere stated, “I did hear you say a 1% tax and one quarter after that
one year. How much money did you say that it would generate?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “$80,000,000.00. It is estimated to generate about
$80,000,000.00 in that one year time frame with the nine parishes. It will cost that to build
the facility from what we are being told.”
Councilman Faltery Jolivette stated, “You actually just touched on it. The one year will
allocate the $80,000,000.00 projected?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “That is what we are told by the Bonding Attorneys.”
Councilman Faltery Jolivette questioned, “Will all nine Parishes have to pass for this to go
through?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “No the majority of the nine parishes. You could
have our parish say no but the majority of the population say yes. It is a District.”
Councilman Faltery Jolivette questioned, “After it is built I understand some situations may
come to inmates. There are some State Allocated Relief Funding, will that be available to us
once it is built and operating?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “I am pretty sure that we will be able to apply for
some type of state funding. The board as it sits now is not really pushing for that because you
will have to give them 30% bed capacity which limits us. Unless they were going to pay and
build the whole thing the board did not want to look at that.”
Councilman Timmy Lejeune questioned, “Mr. Bellard, I understand what you are saying
right now that we are spending $50,000.00 but the actual cost before the break from that
facility that gave us from the contract or the agreement that you may have gone in with, what
was the actual cost before that?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “I want to say about $750.00 a day savings.”
Councilman Timmy Lejeune stated, “So based on the Tax Proposition that may come before
the people what would that cost us per month generally like what we have going on in the
parish now? How much money? Do you have an idea? Is there any way that you could get
that back to us so the General Public could understand what that type of revenue is. Right
now you are telling me that I am going to spend $50,000.00 a month. Collecting the Revenue
is going to be how much? That is why I want to see where the difference is. If we are
spending $50,000.00 and the tax base would only be $30,000.00 then we would save
$20,000.00 as tax payers because we are spending our own tax dollars trying to pay the bills
of this program that we have now.”

Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Well the difference is this: We don’t have the
$50,000.00 a month to pay now. That is in all honesty.”
Councilman Timmy Lejeune stated, “I understand that but we still have to pay the debt. We
have to cut something somewhere.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “The state mandates us to pay whatever that maybe.
We are at the mercy of the Juveniles. If they want to commit a crime that is how our budget is
formulated. We can pass a budget all day long but as soon as something happens out there if it
is medical or whatever it may be we are at their mercy. There is nothing that we can do about
it. I can get the total for a one cent sales tax in the Parish of St. Landry Parish Wide and get
that to you all.”
Councilman Timmy Lejeune stated, “Just a general idea.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Yes, that is fine.”
Councilman Timmy Lejeune stated, “Thank you.”
Councilman Ken Marks stated, “Jessie, the Rehabilitation Aspect could you lengthen on that
a little bit. I know or does it tie into our Second Chance Program or something similar to
that? Do other parishes have something similar to that right now?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “So it is not going to be tied into our Second Chance
Program. It is going to have its own Individual Program. That is going to be done with the
School System. It is not only for educational purposes but we have to start teaching these kids
how to work and give them the tools on how to do this work. We have to remember that these
kids get placed in here and if we don’t do something to educate them and teach them what
needs to be done they are going to get out at the age of 25, no matter what they did, and they
will be back on the streets. We have to get them ready for the streets and get them ready to
come out and get to work and know what is expected of them. Most of these are home
bringing and that is why they are where they are now. We can’t go back and teach the parents
anything but whenever the kids get in our custody it is our responsibility to make sure that we
just don’t throw them in jail and forget about them.”
Councilman Ken Marks questioned, “Do we have a time with any institution or program that
can train or give them some type of opportunity to understand the work ethics and things of
that nature?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Depending on the location of this facility depends on
which system we are going to tap into. There are several programs out there and I hate to say
programs because some of those things are just wasted money. If we don’t see results it is not
going to stay. This Board is put together by a bunch of people who really want to do the right
thing for these juveniles because we have this problem. If we don’t do something and
contract with the right people then it is wasted time and wasted money. I can assure you that
once this place is built it is going to be ran like no other. There is a facility in Florida Parish
and there is a facility in Rapides Parish further north and they are doing some different things.
Building upon what they are doing and understanding what is right and what is wrong and
what is working and what is not working is how we are going to be able to run our facility.”
Councilwoman Nancy Carriere stated, “The quarter percent, how long is that going to be
for? I know that the one percent is for one year. Is it indefinitely?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Yes.”
Councilwoman Nancy Carriere stated, “My next question is this: I heard you touch on the
age of 25. What is the cap of age and what is the extent of the crime, what level?”

Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “We have to go by whatever the law says and the laws
are changing. I think that they are trying to change it again this year. It is really hard to say
what the maximum and the least amount is going to be. I know that 10 years of age is
whenever you are accountable to be charged. It could be from that age all the way up to 17
years old right now.”
Councilwoman Nancy Carriere stated, “Not the age of 25.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “No but when it says a life sentence for a Juvenile.”
Councilwoman Nancy Carriere stated, “I thought it was the age of 21 then they go and
transfer into the adult prison but it is 25?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “I am not exactly sure. Maybe Jody can help us on
that with that one. From what I am being told there sentence could be up to the age of 25.”
Councilwoman Nancy Carriere stated, “Now that brings up the question that this facility is
going to be more like a Juvenile Detention but it is going to have to have long term beds, long
term of everything because they are going to be there for years. It is not like the Juvenile
Facility that they have in Baton Rouge. You would go there for 6 weeks and then they would
get out. This maybe like an adult prison for years.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Right, the short term is the 72 hours. Whenever we
arrest a Juvenile we have 72 hours to bring them back in front of a Judge, then the Judge
decides at that point. They may go back to the jail until they get to trail or whatever. You
will have some short term and you will have some long term but when I was a kid they
threatened to send you to the boy’s school or to the boy’s home or something and you would
sort of act better. We don’t have that opportunity right now. There is threat of that no more
because there is no room and there is no money. What this is going to do is give the Judges
an opportunity to send them out for a couple of days when they are not staying a long term but
long enough to know that this is what you can do. So there is a deterrent but those that are
going to be housed there for the long term will be given the opportunity to do whatever is
needed to get them ready for work and whatever the real life is about.”
Councilwoman Nancy Carriere stated, “Whenever you get a chance I would like to see a
little bit more of the amount of time and the offenses of the kids that are going to be housed
and know what all is going to be involved in the rehabilitation. Where will there medical be
serviced? Who is going to cover that?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Everything is covered with this.”
Councilwoman Nancy Carriere stated, “If they get sick and they have to go to the hospital all
of the money will be coming out of this facility.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Yes Ma’am. This is actually the first draft that we
have for people. I want people to know that this is in the State Legislature for this year. I
don’t want you all to be blindsided with trying to pass a tax, this is the reason why. The
Legislature is going to have to give us an approval to get on the ballot then we will go to the
people. I wanted everybody to start seeing this ahead of time and then we can ask the
questions and then answer them.”
Councilman Alvin Stelly questioned, “I want to get this right we have nine parishes. What if
six parishes votes for it and three parishes does not vote for it. Will those three parishes that
did not vote for it still have to pay the tax? Will they be forced to pay the tax?
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Yes because it is a district.”

Councilman Alvin Stelly questioned, “Is it right to do that?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “It is a District so we are not looking at an individual
Parishes we are looking at it as the nine Parish Region as one District. It is the majority of the
voters in that nine Parish Region. That is all that I have.”
Chairman Jody White stated, “We need a motion to accept the Parish President’s Report.”
A motion was made by Councilman Wayne Ardoin, seconded by Councilman Jimmie
Edwards to accept the Parish President’s Report.
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS:
*Items passed through committee.

The Council to vote on whether or not to go forward on work on blighted property located at 190
Veterans Drive, Opelousas LA 70570 owned by: Joseph Hayes III and Elizabeth Jones.
(Parcel #0104946000).
A motion was made by Councilwoman Mildred Thierry, seconded by Councilman Faltery
Jolivette to Table going forward on the Blighted Property located at 190 Veterans Drive,
Opelousas, LA. Owned by Joseph Hayes III and Elizabeth Jones. (Parcel NO. 0104946000) until
the council receives more information from Code Enforcement Officer Cynthia Joubert.
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16

th, day of April, 2025.

The Council to vote on whether or not to go forward on work on blighted property located at
154 Tesson Street, Opelousas, LA 70570 owned by: Johnny Johnson and Audria Johnson.
(Parcel #01050836000).
Councilwoman Mildred Thierry stated, “I know that this is family property. Are we sure that someone
within that family received the letter? Do we have proof that they received their letter?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “We are obligated to do a few things and we have done
everything under the law on this property here if you all have looked at the pictures.”
Councilwoman Mildred Thierry stated, “I know where it is.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “It is not salvageable anyway so we would be doing them
a favor. We have followed everything with the certified letter. I can’t be sure if they received
it or if they acknowledged it or anything.
Councilwoman Mildred Thierry stated, “I just wanted to make sure.”
A motion was made by Councilman Wayne Ardoin, seconded by Councilman Timmy Lejeune to
authorize Code Enforcement to move forward on the blighted property located at 154 Tesson Street,
Opelousas, LA 70570 owned by: Johnny Johnson and Audria Johnson. (Parcel #01050836000).
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.

NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.

Vote to re-appoint Robert Duplechain and Barry Hardy for two appointments to Fire District
No. 2 for a two-year term. (05-15-2025 – 05-15-2027).
A motion was made by Councilman Timmy Lejeune, seconded by Councilman Ken Marks
to re-appoint Robert Duplechain and Barry Hardy for two appointments to Fire District No. 2 for a
two-year term. (05-15-2025 – 05-15-2027).
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.
Vote to re-appoint Michael Mills, Charles Miniex Sr., and James Barney Johnson for three
appointments to Bellevue & Coulee Crouche Gravity Drainage District No. 20 for a
four-year term. (05-02-2025 – 05-02-2029).
A motion was made by Councilman Timmy Lejeune, seconded by Councilman Wayne Ardoin
to re-appoint Michael Mills, Charles Miniex Sr., and James Barney Johnson for three appointments to
Bellevue & Coulee Crouche Gravity Drainage District No. 20 for four-year term.
(05-02-2025 – 05-02-2029).
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.
Authorize the Council Clerk to advertise for five appointments to St. Landry Gravity Drainage
District No. 14 for a four-year term. (06-21-2025 – 06-21-2029).
A motion was made by Councilman Ken Marks, seconded by Councilwoman Mildred Thierry
to authorize the Council Clerk to advertise for five appointments to St. Landry Gravity Drainage District
No. 14 for a four-year term. (06-21-2025 – 06-21-2029).
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.
Authorize the Council Clerk to advertise for one appointment to St. Landry Waterworks District
No. 5 for a three-year term. (04-21-2025 – 04-21-2028).
A motion was made by Councilman Wayne Ardoin, seconded by Councilwoman Mildred Thierry
to authorize the Council Clerk to advertise for one appointment to St. Landry Waterworks District
No. 5 for a three-year term. (04-21-2025 – 04-21-2028).
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.
Authorize the Council Clerk to advertise for one appointment to St. Landry Waterworks District
No. 3. (No Set Term). (Julie Fourrier resigned.)
A motion was made by Councilman Timmy Lejeune, seconded by Councilwoman Mildred Thierry
to authorize the Council Clerk to advertise for one appointment to St. Landry Waterworks District
No.3. (No Set Terms). (Julie Fourrier resigned.)
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.

NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.

Vote to increase Assistant Council Clerk Karen Barlow’s rate of pay by $2.00 per hour.
A motion was made by Councilman Timmy Lejeune, seconded by Councilman Jimmie Edwards.
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Mr. Chairman, in reference to this, at the Committee Meeting
Mr. Taylor made a suggestion that we take this money from the Travel Expenses from the Council. Is
that the wishes of the Council to take both wages from the travel?”
Councilman Wayne Ardoin stated, “I don’t care if they take it out of the travel pay.”
Councilman Dexter Brown stated, “I will second that motion.”
Councilwoman Nancy Carriere stated, “Before we accept the motion and I am okay with taking it out of
the Travel Expense but can we increase that to $2.25 an hour? $2.25 would bring Ms. Karen to an even
number of $18.00 per hour. It is only twenty-five cents more.”
Councilman Wayne Ardoin stated, “You want to change the motion from $2.00 to $2.25. I will second
your motion. It will come out of the travel pay.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “We have too many motions on the floor.”
Councilman Wayne Ardoin stated, “We have 2 motions on the floor.”
Chairman Jody White stated, “The first motion is to accept the $2.00”
Councilman Dexter Brown stated, “Can he withdraw his motion?”
Chairman Jody White stated, “Are you withdrawing it Mr. Ardoin?”
Councilman Wayne Ardoin stated, “I did not make the motion for $2.00 but it was made on this end.”
Councilman Timmy Lejeune stated, “I did. I am not withdrawing?”
Chairman Jody White stated, “You are not withdrawing?”
Councilman Timmy Lejeune stated, “No Sir.”
Chairman Jody White stated, “Okay, Well on the first motion of $2.00 per hour do we need to take a
vote on that?”
Councilman Timmy Lejeune stated, “Yes.”
Councilman Faltery Jolivette stated, “I second it for $2.00.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “We have to do a Substitute Motion before we do anything else.”
Councilman Dexter Brown stated, “Do Ms. Nancy’s Motion of $2.25.”
Chairman Jody White stated, “Okay, so we will set the motion at $2.25 first as the Substitute Motion.
In reference to Mr. Lejeune’s motion.”
Councilman Wayne Ardoin stated, “Mr. Lejeune, do you have a second?”
Chairman Jody White stated, “Mr. Lejeune had a second with Mr. Jolivette.”

Councilwoman Nancy Carriere stated, “Mr. Ardoin second for the $2.25.”
Chairman Jody White stated, “We will start with the Sub-Motion from Ms. Carriere at the rate of $2.25
per hour coming from the Travel Expenses.”
Councilman Faltery Jolivette questioned, “I need better clarity. Mr. Chairman, may I address the Parish
President on this issue or is it too late?”
Chairman Jody White stated, “You can ask your question.”
Councilman Faltery Jolivette stated, “Thank you. Mr. President, we had an understanding that those
funds were allocated for Ms. Karen. I am all for $2.25 per hour. Can we do the $2.25 per hour out of our
Travel Expenses?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Yes, out of the Travel Expenses, Yes, that is not a problem.”
A Sub Motion was made by Councilwoman Nancy Carriere, seconded by Councilman Wayne Ardoin to
increase the Assistant Council Clerk’s Pay for Ms. Karen Barlow by $2.25 per hour. The funds will
come from the Council Travel Expense.”
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin and Dexter Brown. NAYS: Timmy Lejeune and
Jimmie Edwards. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.
Chairman Jody White stated, “The motion passes in reference to the Sub Motion.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “The Sub-Motion passed so now it becomes the Main Motion.”
Councilman Dexter Brown stated, “Your Sub-Motion now becomes your main motion so now we have
to vote again.”
A Motion was made by Councilwoman Nancy Carriere, seconded by Councilman Wayne Ardoin to
increase the Assistant Council Clerk’s Pay for Ms. Karen Barlow by $2.25 per hour. The funds will
come from the Council Travel Expense.
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.

Authorize Parish President Jessie Bellard to sign an Intergovernmental Agreement between St.
Landry Parish Government and St. Landry Parish District Six Public Works Commission.
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “So the purpose of the Intergovernmental Agreement and I want
to make sure that this is what we had decided on. If you all remember the Pernie Bailey Property has
been adjudicated to the Parish forever. There is a lien on it from DEQ that is in the millions. DEQ is not
willing to release that lien, and I don’t blame them, so it would be better for us to do an agreement with
District 6 for a Public Purpose and allow them to occupy their grounds. They will keep it up and they are
going to take care of it and that will be their official yard for Road District No. 6. Instead of us having to
go through a bunch of legal loop holes and stuff this is the easiest route for us to take and for them. It is
another Public Entity so it is not an issue unless someone else have a question.”
Councilman Wayne Ardoin questioned, “Mr. Bellard, are you going to demolish the building?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “We have to remove some Asbestos out of it and that have been
done. We are taking down whatever is not needed. District Six would like to keep the bones of the
structure so that is better for us. We are taking all of the trash out and all of the Asbestos have been
removed.”

A motion was made by Councilman Ken Marks, seconded by Councilwoman Mildred Thierry
to authorize the Parish President Jessie Bellard to sign the Intergovernmental Agreement between
St. Landry Parish Government and St. Landry Parish District Six Public Works Commission.
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.

Authorize the Council Clerk to advertise for one appointment to Hospital District No. 2
(Opelousas General) for a six-year term. (06-07-2025 – 06-07-2031).
A motion was made by Councilman Wayne Ardoin, seconded by Councilwoman Mildred Thierry
to authorize the Council Clerk to advertise for one appointment to Hospital District No. 2
(Opelousas General) for a six-year term. (06-07-2025 – 06-07-2031).
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.
Authorize Parish President Jessie Bellard to sign the Intergovernmental Agreement between St.
Landry Parish Government and the St. Landry Parish Housing Authority.
A motion was made by Councilwoman Mildred Thierry, seconded by Councilman Dexter Brown to
authorize the Parish President Jessie Bellard to sign the Intergovernmental Agreement between St.
Landry Parish Government and the St. Landry Parish Housing Authority.
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.
Update on the Smooth Ride Home and what the funds can be spent on and present the council with
the by-laws of how the money is spent and when the money is collected.
Chairman Jody White stated, “Okay, I think we all have something in our packet in reference to that line
item No. 12. It says update. Mr. President, do you have something that you want to say in reference to
this or you were just trying to relay this information to us?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “I did not bring this up.”
Councilman Wayne Ardoin stated, “Ms. Mildred had ask the other day for it to be brought up but she
was not here so I ask that it be brought up.”
Councilwoman Mildred Thierry stated, “I only ask for an update on the Smooth Ride Home Project and
what are some of the things that we can spend it on. This is not my wording here. I was not here when
this was place on the agenda.”
Chairman Jody White stated, “So we don’t have any updates right now. This is not anything that we
need to take a motion on. We don’t have any questions we can move on.”
Authorize the Lease and Operating Agreement between St. Landry Parish Government and
Robin C. Ardoin for Lots 24 and 25 at the St. Landry Parish Airport.
A motion was made by Councilman Dexter Brown, seconded by Councilman Wayne Ardoin to authorize
the Lease and Operating Agreement between St. Landry Parish Government and Robin C. Ardoin
for Lots 24 and 25 at the St. Landry Parish Airport.
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,

Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.
IX. ORDINANCES TO BE INTRODUCED:

Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Just to clarify so people will know that these are
funds that are paid out of the Taxing District 1 of 11A which is Fund 42. It consist of
District 2 and District 9.”

ORDINANCE NO. 2025-007
(Sponsored by Councilman Wayne Ardoin)

AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE AND SALE OF NOT
EXCEEDING $2,500,000 REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2025 (ROAD
OVERLAY), OF THE PARISH OF ST. LANDRY, STATE OF LOUISIANA;
PROVIDING FOR THE PAYMENT THEREOF; ESTABLISHING THE
RATE OF INTEREST THEREON; PROVIDING FOR A PLEDGE AND
DEDICATION OF REVENUES FOR SECURITY AND PAYMENT
THEREOF IN PRINCIPAL AND INTEREST; AND OTHER MATTERS IN
CONNECTION THEREWITH.

ORDINANCE NO. 2025-008
(Sponsored by Councilman Ken Marks)
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “This is a normal procedure.”
AN ORDINANCE TO LEVY THE MILLAGES FOR THE 2025 TAX ROLLS ON
ALL PROPERTY SUBJECT TO TAXATION.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE ST. LANDRY PARISH
GOVERNMENT THAT the following millages are hereby levied on the 2025
tax rolls on all property subject to taxation:

2025 LEVY
General Alimony 3.780 mills
Exempted Municipalities 1.890 mills
Health Units 2.170 mills
Jail Parish Wide 1.000 mills
Road District No 11A Sub 1 9.560 mills
Road District No 1 Ward 3 10.260 mills
Road District No 12 Ward 2 4.800 mills
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE ST. LANDRY PARISH
GOVERNMENT THAT that the proper administrative officials of the Parish of
St. Landry, State of Louisiana, be and they are hereby empowered, authorized, and
directed to spread said taxes, as hereinabove set forth, upon the assessment rolls of
said Parish for the year 2025, and to make the collection of the taxes imposed for
and on behalf of the taxing authority, according to law, and that the taxes herein
levied shall become a permanent lien and privilege on all property subject to taxation
as herein set forth, and collection thereof shall be enforceable in the manner provided by law.

ORDINANCE NO. 2025-009
(Sponsored by Councilman Jimmie Edwards)

Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “I will ask Mr. Jimmie Edwards to sponsor
this Ordinance since it is in his district. It is off of Guillory Road. That is a driveway. That

is what that is. Just for the record, when I find driveways that were put in the system under
the Jury Days, I will be coming back to this council to have them removed as a Parish Road.”
AN ORDINANCE TO ABANDON WILTON LANE IN ST. LANDRY PARISH
WHEREAS, St. Landry Parish Government has decided to abandon Wilton Lane in St. Landry
Parish because Wilton Lane is no longer needed for public purposes, as per Louisiana Revised
Statute 48:701.

ORDINANCE NO. 2025-010
(Sponsored by Councilman Wayne Ardoin)

Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “What we have is this: We already have the District
created for the I-49 Midway Corridor. It was named something else and basically what we are
doing is making sure that Board that is already created is changed to this name and its authority
rest only with I-49 Corridor Overlay Projects, not the entire parish when it is dealing with
permits.”
Councilman Wayne Ardoin stated, “I will Sponsor it.”
AN ORDINANCE TO CREATE THE ST. LANDRY PARISH I-49 MIDWAY
CORRIDOR OVERLAY DISTRICT AND TO ESTABLISH REGULATIONS FOR
THE ST. LANDRY PARISH I-49 MIDWAY CORRIDOR OVERLAY DISTRICT,
IN CHAPTER 32, PLANNING, ZONING AND DEVELOPMENT, AND TO
ENACT AND BE PLACED IN ARTICLE IV, ST. LANDRY PARISH I-49
MIDWAY CORRIDOR OVERLAY DISTRICT REGULATIONS, SECTION 32-80,
SECTION 32-81, SECTION 32-82, SECTION 32-83, SECTION 32-84, AND
SECTION 32-85 IN CHAPTER 32 OF THE ST. LANDRY PARISH CODE OF
ORDINANCES

ORDINANCE NO. 2025-011
(Sponsored by Councilman Wayne Ardoin)

AN ORDINANCE TO ABOLISH THE ST. LANDRY PARISH PLANNING
COMMISSION AND TO CREATE AND REPLACE IT WITH THE ST. LANDRY
PARISH I-49 MIDWAY CORRIDOR VARIANCE BOARD IN CHAPTER 32,
PLANNING, ZONING AND DEVELOPMENT, AND TO ENACT ARTICLE I, ST.
LANDRY PARISH I-49 MIDWAY CORRIDOR VARIANCE BOARD, SECTION 32-1,
SECTION 32-2, SECTION 32-3, SECTION 32-4, SECTION 32-5, AND SECTION 32-6,
TO BE PLACED IN CHAPTER 32 OF THE ST. LANDRY PARISH CODE OF
ORDINANCES

ORDINANCE NO. 2025-012
(Sponsored by Councilman Wayne Ardoin)

AN ORDINANCE TO ESTABLISH PERFORMANCE LAND USE REGULATIONS
FOR THE ST. LANDRY PARISH I-49 MIDWAY CORRIDOR, IN CHAPTER 32,
PLANNING, ZONING AND DEVELOPMENT, AND TO ENACT AND PLACE IN
ARTICLE V, ST. LANDRY PARISH I-49 MIDWAY CORRIDOR PERFORMANCE
LAND USE REGULATIONS, TO BE PLACED IN SECTIONS 32-97 THROUGH
32-108 IN CHAPTER 32 OF THE ST. LANDRY PARISH CODE OF ORDINANCES

ORDINANCE NO. 2025-013
(Sponsored by Councilman Dexter Brown)

AN ORDINANCE TO SELL PROPERTIES THAT HAVE BEEN ADJUDICATED
TO ST. LANDRY PARISH GOVERNMENT.
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Mr. Chairman I have a question. Back to Ordinance
2025-013. I want to make sure that we word it correctly. It says an Ordinance to sell property
that have been adjudicated to St. Landry Parish Government. Did Cynthia give you a list or did
she provide something?”
Council Clerk Sherell Jordan stated, “She gave me the list.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Okay, this is very broad, this statement right here on this
ordinance. I don’t know if we need to add something to it. It pretty much gives us Cart Blanche
to sell anything. I just want to make sure that we clarify that.”
Councilman Timmy Lejeune questioned, “Who put that on there?”
Legal Counsel Garett Duplechain stated, “It is a specific list of properties. It is done the same
way each time. Our Council Clerk is very familiar with it. She receives a list from Cynthia and
that list goes into that Ordinance to sell properties which have been adjudicated only that list
which is received by our council clerk. It is done the same way each time. It is the ordinance that
we use to sell Adjudicated Properties but only the properties that are sent to us by Cynthia
Fontenot-Joubert.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “We need to specify in general such as: See attached or
Reference item number whatever. We know what is in the packet, we know we have it here but
the General Public does not know.”
Legal Counsel Garett Duplechain stated, “We can add on to that title saying: The following
properties which are listed. If we do that then it will be more specific as to the properties that
Cynthia sent to us. We will add that to our ordinance.”
Council Clerk Sherell Jordan stated, “Once the Ordinance is introduced I have to send it to our
Official Journal which is The Eunice News which is the entire ordinance. So the Public is going
to know what Ordinance we are referring to.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Yes I know but when the Public is looking at our
Agenda is what I am talking about.”
Council Clerk Sherell Jordan stated, “Yes, our agenda, we only put the title.”
Councilman Wayne Ardoin questioned, “I was wondering if this is the same one that we have in
our packet dealing with some property on True Life Baptist Church. Does that have anything to
do with it? It is in our packet here. It is to sell Adjudicated Property to an adjoining landowner of
Adjudicated Property. Is that the same one?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “No, this is a list of 14 properties.”
Chairman Jody White stated, “What you are reading Mr. Ardoin is under Ordinance 2025-006.”
Councilman Wayne Ardoin stated, “I don’t see it in our packet.”
Council Clerk Sherell Jordan stated, “It is in your packet.
Councilman Ken Marks questioned, “Mr. Chairman, do we have a clarity going forward of what
the changes will be for this to be available to the General Public for information.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “I think if we say: Listed are the 14 properties, something
to where we identify. I know when we send it to the Eunice News they will post the whole entire

ordinance. For the person or persons that are coming here tonight or looking at it on Facebook all
they see is an Ordinance to Sell Properties. I just want people to know that is not all of our
property. It is just these 14 properties and we are doing it by the Statue.”
Council Clerk Sherell Jordan stated, “Moving forward if you would like for me to put the whole
ordinance, it is up to you all.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Or Just see the attached list of 14 properties dated
whatever. Something that will identify what list.”
Chairman Jody White stated, “Something in reference to the list of properties.”
Council Clerk Sherell Jordan stated, “Yes, I can put all of that.”

X. ORDINANCE TO BE ADOPTED:

A motion was made by Councilman Jimmie Edwards, seconded by Councilman Timmy Lejeune
to Adopt Ordinance No. 2025-006.
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.

ORDINANCE NO. 2025-006
(Sponsored By: Councilman Jimmie Edwards)

AN ORDINANCE TO SELL ADJUDICATED PROPERTY TO AN ADJOINING
LANDOWNER OF THE ADJUDICATED PROPERTY AS PER LA R.S. 47:2202 (B)
WHEREAS, Louisiana Revised Statute 47:2202 B. states that the governing authority of each
political subdivision may allow an adjoining landowner to purchase adjudicated property for
any price set by the governing authority without public bidding at a public meeting of the
governing authority; provided, that the governing authority determines that the adjoining
landowner has maintained the adjudicated property for a period of one year prior to the sale.
Such a sale shall be deemed a public sale.
WHEREAS, the St. Landry Parish Government has determined that True Light Baptist
Church is the adjoining landowner of adjudicated property and has maintained said
adjudicated property for a period of one year or more, and thus, True Light Baptist Church
may purchase the adjudicated property through a public sale without public bidding.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL FOR ST. LANDRY PARISH GOVERNMENT that
the following adjudicated property shall be sold by public sale to True Light Baptist Church,
an adjoining land owner to the adjudicated property who maintained said adjudicated
property for one year or more, without public bidding, for a price set by St. Landry Parish
Government of, as per LA R.S. 47:2202 B., at the assessed value of $5,400 and said
adjudicated property is described as follows:
1 LOT NORTH 100’ OF LOT 14’ (46 X 110) BLK 94 F & L ADD 1 LOT E/2 OF NORTH 100’
OF LOT 15 (23X100) BLK 94 F & L ADD 730836 (R-311-164) 967422 (K-42-221) DEEDED
2005 PARISH & CITY TAXES
This adjudicated property bearing parcel number 8602064000 in the St. Landry Parish land
records. Which adjoins True Life Baptist Church bearing Parcel Number: 9693229454.

XI. RESOLUTIONS TO BE ADOPTED:
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “Mr. Chairman, Resolution NO. 009-2025 is not needed at this
time.
Councilman Timmy Lejeune questioned, “It needs to be pulled?”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “We can pull it for now. I met with the Chairman of SLED and
they agreed. They will change their by-laws to read the same. Let me finish explaining so I can let
everyone know why. The Resolution is not needed for that purpose. We met with the Chairman of
SLED and they assured us that they are going to change their By-Laws. They are not going to approve
anything that is going to change the Tax Structure by any taxing body before it comes to this council. If
this council doesn’t give the approval to change it then it won’t happen. That is what the purpose of this
law I want to change. Since they are going to do it and they are going to do it in good faith. Right now
they can do it without coming to this council. That is what started a lot of questions. I believe that this
council should be the body that says ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ if they are going to start adjusting taxes or give out tax
incentives. I am not against all of those things but I think that it needs to come to the proper authority for
that to happen and they agreed. They are going to bring it to the council when it is needed.”
Councilman Ken Marks stated, “Mr. President, basically what you are saying is this: They are going to
make the changes for their Statue.”
Parish President Jessie Bellard stated, “They are asking us to basically trust them to do the right thing. I
don’t have no reason not to unless this council feels otherwise. I would like to give them the opportunity
to do it and if we see that it is not happening we have the option of bringing it back.”
Councilman Ken Marks stated, “Okay, I am good with that.”
A motion was made by Councilman Timmy Lejeune, seconded by Councilwoman Mildred Thierry to
Pull Resolution No. 009-2025.
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.
 Resolution No. 009-2025 PULLED
A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF LEGISLATION TO AMEND La. R.S. 33:130.302 AND TO
ENACT A NEW STATUTE REQUIRING PARISH AND/OR MUNICIPALITY APPROVAL
FOR PROJECTS THAT WILL NEGATIVELY AFFECT LOCAL TAXES.
WHEREAS, La. R. S. 33:130.301(B) states the St. Landry Parish Economic and Industrial Development
District was “established for the primary purpose of stimulating industrial and commercial developments
in St. Landry Parish… special attention shall be focused on developing stable and more extensive
employment opportunities, promoting economic development in disadvantages communities, improving
infrastructure, and promoting the overall welfare of the citizens of the parish.”
WHEREAS, St. Landry Parish Government, the governing authority for St. Landry Parish, must protect
the tax bases of the parish and its municipalities;
WHEREAS, St. Landry Economic and Industrial Development District possesses the authority to
negotiate economic development projects that may reduce, eliminate, abate, or otherwise affect the tax
bases of the parish and/or its municipalities, without any requirements of notification provided to or
approval received from St. Landry Parish Government;
WHEREAS, the Executive Director or Chief Executive Officer of the St. Landry Economic and
Industrial Development District is appointed by the board of commissioners;
WHEREAS, St. Landry Parish Government can effectively protect the taxes bases of the parish and its
municipalities if St. Landry Parish Economic and Industrial Development District was required to submit
a detailed proposal of any economic development project that may reduce, eliminate, abate, or otherwise

affect the tax bases of the parish and/or its municipalities, for the governing authority’s review and
approval and allowing forty-five (45) days for the governing authority to conduct a public hearing and to
approve or deny the agreement by resolution.
WHEREAS, St. Landry Parish Government can more effectively ensure that the St. Landry Parish
Economic and Industrial Development District is fulfilling its purpose and focusing special attention on
the areas identified in La. R. S. 33:130.301(B), and protect the taxes bases of the parish and its
municipalities if the Executive Director of the St. Landry Parish Economic and Industrial Development
District reported to the St. Landry Parish President who (1) shall have authority to provide general
direction, strategy, and supervision to the Executive Director or Chief Executive Officer, and (2) will
work at the pleasure of the Parish President.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the St. Landry Parish Council hereby expresses its
support of legislation to amend La. R. S. 33:130.302 and to enact a new statute requiring parish and/or
municipality approval for projects that will negatively affect local taxes.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this Resolution be forwarded to those members of the
Louisiana Legislative representing St. Landry Parish.
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that this Resolution shall become effective immediately upon adoption
by the St. Landry Parish Council.

A motion was made by Councilwoman Mildred Thierry, seconded by Councilman Wayne Ardoin to
Adopt Resolution No. 010-2025
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.
 Resolution No. 010-2025

A resolution approving the holding of an election in Bayou Mallet and Plaquemine Gravity Drainage
District No. 10 of St. Landry Parish, Louisiana, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, to authorize the
continuation of a special tax therein.
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners of Bayou Mallet and Plaquemine Gravity Drainage District
No. 10 of St. Landry Parish, Louisiana (the “Governing Authority”), acting as the governing authority of
Bayou Mallet and Plaquemine Gravity Drainage District No. 10 of St. Landry Parish, Louisiana (the
“District”), adopted a resolution on April 9, 2025, calling a special election in the District on Saturday,
October 11, 2025, to authorize the continuation of a special tax therein; and
WHEREAS, the governing authority of the District has requested that this Parish Council, acting as the
governing authority of the Parish of St. Landry, State of Louisiana, give its consent and authority for the
District to hold the aforesaid election, and in the event that the election carries to continue to levy and
collect the special tax provided for therein; and
WHEREAS, as required by Article VI, Section 15 of the Constitution of the State of Louisiana of 1974, it
is now the desire of this Parish Council to approve the holding of said election and in the event that the
election carries, to authorize the District to continue to levy and collect the special tax provided for
therein;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Parish Council of the Parish of St. Landry, State of
Louisiana, acting as the governing authority of said Parish, that:
SECTION 1. In compliance with the provisions of Article VI, Section 15 of the Constitution of the State
of Louisiana of 1974, and in accordance with the request of the Board of Commissioners of Bayou Mallet
and Plaquemine Gravity Drainage District No. 10 of St. Landry Parish, Louisiana, this Parish Council

hereby approves the holding of an election in the District, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at which
election there will be submitted the following proposition, to-wit:
PROPOSITION
(MILLAGE CONTINUATION)

Shall Bayou Mallet and Plaquemine Gravity Drainage District No. 10 of St. Landry Parish, Louisiana
(the “District”), continue to levy a special tax of 12.19 mills on all property subject to taxation in the
District (an estimated $333,000 reasonably expected at this time to be collected from the levy of the tax
for an entire year), for a period of 10 years, beginning with the year 2025 and ending with the year 2034,
for the purpose of constructing, maintaining, operating and improving the gravity drainage works in the
District?
SECTION 2. In the event the election carries, this Parish Council does hereby further consent to and
authorize the District to continue to levy and collect the special tax provided for therein.

A motion was made by Councilman Wayne Ardoin, seconded by Councilwoman Mildred Thierry to
Adopt Resolution No. 011-2025
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.
 Resolution No. 011-2025
A resolution approving the holding of an election in Ward 1 South Gravity Drainage District No. 1 of the
Parish of St. Landry, State of Louisiana, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, to authorize the renewal of a
special tax therein.
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners of Ward 1 South Gravity Drainage District No. 1 of the Parish
of St. Landry, State of Louisiana (the “Governing Authority”), acting as the governing authority of Ward
1 South Gravity Drainage District No. 1 of the Parish of St. Landry, State of Louisiana (the “District”),
adopted a resolution on April 14, 2025, calling a special election in the District on Saturday, October 11,
2025, to authorize the renewal of a special tax therein; and
WHEREAS, the governing authority of the District has requested that this Parish Council, acting as the
governing authority of the Parish of St. Landry, State of Louisiana, give its consent and authority for the
District to hold the aforesaid election, and in the event that the election carries to continue to levy and
collect the special tax provided for therein; and
WHEREAS, as required by Article VI, Section 15 of the Constitution of the State of Louisiana of 1974, it
is now the desire of this Parish Council to approve the holding of said election and in the event that the
election carries, to authorize the District to continue to levy and collect the special tax provided for
therein;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Parish Council of the Parish of St. Landry, State of
Louisiana, acting as the governing authority of said Parish, that:
SECTION 1. In compliance with the provisions of Article VI, Section 15 of the Constitution of the State
of Louisiana of 1974, and in accordance with the request of the Board of Commissioners of Ward 1
South Gravity Drainage District No. 1 of the Parish of St. Landry, State of Louisiana, this Parish Council
hereby approves the holding of an election in the District, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at which
election there will be submitted the following proposition, to-wit:

21
PROPOSITION
(MILLAGE RENEWAL)

Shall Ward 1 South Gravity Drainage District No. 1 of the Parish of St. Landry, State of Louisiana (the
“District”), continue to levy a special tax of 3.49 mills on all property subject to taxation in the District
(an estimated $312,000 expected at this time to be collected from the levy of the tax for an entire year),
for a period of 10 years, beginning with the year 2026 and ending with the year 2035, for the purpose of
acquiring, constructing, improving, maintaining and/or operating the District’s drainage works?
SECTION 2. In the event the election carries, this Parish Council does hereby further consent to
and authorize the District to continue to levy and collect the special tax provided for therein.

XII. COMMITTEE MINUTES:

A motion was made by Councilman Timmy Lejeune, seconded by Councilman Jimmie Edwards
to accept the Public Works Committee Meeting Minutes from Wednesday, April 2nd
, 2025 as

transcribed.
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.
A motion was made by Councilman Ken Marks, seconded by Councilwoman Mildred Thierry
to accept the Administrative Finance Committee Meeting Minutes from Wednesday,
April 2nd, 2025 as transcribed.
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.
XIII. ADJOURN:
A motion was made by Councilman Wayne Ardoin, seconded by Councilwoman Vivian Olivier
to Adjourn the Regular Meeting.
On roll call vote: YEAS: Nancy Carriere, Faltery Jolivette, Mildred Thierry, Ken Marks,
Alvin Stelly, Vivian Olivier, Wayne Ardoin, Dexter Brown, Timmy Lejeune and Jimmie Edwards.
NAYS: None. ABSENT: Harold Taylor and Ernest Blanchard. ABSTAINED: None.
WHEREUPON, this motion was adopted on this, the 16th, day of April, 2025.