Minutes
REGULAR MEETING
OF THE MAYOR AND BOARD OF ALDERMEN
OF THE VILLAGE OF FRENCH SETTLEMENT, JULY 11, 2007
The Mayor
and Board of Aldermen of the Village of French Settlement met
at the Municipal Building on the 11th day of July in regular session
convened.
The meeting
was called to order by Mayor Toni Guitrau with the following members
present:
Alderman
Teresa Miller Also Present: Harry Brignac, Chief of Police
Alderman Glen Newell Monte Ferguson, Clerk
Alderman Sean Guitrau
Public Hearing:
The title of Proposed Ordinance No. 2 of 2007, (Ordinance to set
the speed limit for the newly adopted roads) was read by Alderman
Newell. Public hearing notice having been published, the Mayor
opened the floor for public comments.
There were
no public comments pertaining directly to Ordinance No. 2 of 2007.
The mayor stated that this ordinance is not to lower speed limits,
but it is to set speed limits on newly adopted roads. La Trace
Road speed limit will actually be raised to 25 mph instead of
20 mph since it is now paved.
There being
no comments, the Mayor adjourned the public hearing and called
for a vote of the Board. Alderman Newell made a motion to accept
Proposed Ordinance No. 2 of 2007, as presented. This was seconded
by Alderman Guitrau. A vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell,
Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
Absent: None
Adoption of Minutes.
The motion
to adopt the minutes and statement of finances for the regular
meeting of June 13, 2007 was made by Alderman Guitrau and seconded
by Alderman Miller. A yea and a nay vote was called for and resulted
as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Miller, Guitrau
Nays: None
Absent: None
Public Comments
on Agenda Items:
" Ms. Paula Brown requested "School Bus Stop Ahead"
signs to be installed on La. Hwy. 16 near her resident as the
curve by the FS Baptist Church causes a dangerous situation for
children getting off the bus in the following straight strip of
highway.
" Mr. Joe Trippi, of Mitchell Road, requested that more parish
officers patrol the part of Mitchell Lane that is outside village
limits.
" Mr. Butch Porche requested that the trees near the Colyell
Bay Bridge be removed by the LA DOTD as it is causing a safety
hazard for anyone that attempts to enter La. Hwy. 16 in said curve.
" Another resident from Matherne Lane requested that a "Children
at Play" sign be installed on Matherne Lane.
Mayor Guitrau
said that she will attend to their requests as soon as possible.
Reading of
Communications: None
Police Report:
Chief Harry
Brignac read the police report for the month of June. 31 citations
were issued, 2 accident reports, 38 private or confidential calls,
7 trips to Livingston, 3 for booking prisoners, 4 for court or
subpoena. The monthly mileage for unit 1 was 2453.0 with 217.8
gallons of gas used. For unit 2, the mileage was 875.0 with 75.2
gallons of gas used.
Ground Report:
The Mayor reported that the new emergency digital sign is being
installed, and there
are no problems with the grounds.
Road Report:
" It was reported that the speed limit signs are being installed
on the newly paved
roads.
" There is a serious flash flood drainage problem near Rue
des Chenes/Hebert Lambert Road area in the Mecca Subdivision.
The town engineer is looking into this, and will have a report
soon.
" The "DO NOT ENTER" signs have been installed
by the EATEL building off of Mecca Road to help deter any future
accidents caused by motorists cutting across that property.
LMA Convention:
Mayor Guitrau
requested those members not planning to attend the convention
should report this to Clerk Monte Ferguson so she can cancel the
hotel room reservations.
New Business:
a. Removal
of trees (Aydell Lane right-of-way)
Mr. Latino has requested that the town remove the dead tree(s)
from Aydell Lane in front of his house. After researching the
footage of servitude of Aydell Lane, the tree was determined to
be within the right-of-way and therefore needs to be removed by
the town. Mayor Guitrau stated that anyone intentionally trying
to kill a tree within a village public road right-of-way will
be financially responsible for the removal of said tree.
More estimates
will be requested but in the meantime a motion to spend no more
than $1,500.00 to have the 2 trees and stumps removed was made
by Alderman Newell, and seconded by Alderman Guitrau. A yea and
a nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell,
Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
Absent: None
b. EATEL Cable Franchise Agreement Discussion: Mayor Guitrau is
reviewing EATEL's cable franchise proposal. After discussing the
proposal with an attorney through the LMA, she will take her findings
to town attorney, Mr. Pujol for further review. This will be on
next month's agenda.
c. Resolution No. 3 of 2007 - (LGAP 2007 $25,000 Grant)
A motion
to accept Resolution No. 3 as presented (LGPA 2007/windows, furnishings,
and computers) was made by Alderman Guitrau, and seconded by Alderman
Miller. A yea and a nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell,
Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
Absent: None
A motion was made to spend $3,500.00 to have a phone system, and
security system installed in the town hall building was made by
Alderman Miller, and seconded by Alderman Newell. A yea and a
nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell,
Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
Absent: None
There being no further business to discuss, the motion to adjourn
the meeting was made by Alderman Guitrau and seconded by Alderman
Miller. A yea and a nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Miller, Guitrau
Nays: None
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND BOARD OF ALDERMEN
OF THE VILLAGE OF FRENCH SETTLEMENT, July 23, 2007
The Mayor
and Board of Aldermen of the Village of French Settlement met
at the Municipal Building on the 23rd day of July in special session
convened.
The meeting
was called to order by Mayor Toni Guitrau with the following members
present:
Alderman
Glen Newell Also Present: Chief Harry Brignac
Alderman Sean Guitrau Monte Ferguson, Clerk
Alderman Teresa Miller
A motion
was made by Alderman Newell, seconded by Alderman Miller, to hire
Sigma Engineering to complete the survey of the (flash-flood)
drainage problem in the Mecca Subdivision near Hebert-Lambert
Road and Rue Des Chenes. The cost of this survey will not exceed
$4,440.00. A yea and nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Guitrau,
Miller, Newell
Nays: None
Absent: None
A motion
was made by Alderman Guitrau and seconded by Alderman Newell to
increase the amount of money for surveillance equipment, and the
phone system by $2,400.00. A yea and nay vote was called for and
resulted as follows:
Yeas: Guitrau,
Miller, Newell
Nays: None
Absent: None
There being no further business to discuss, the motion to adjourn
the meeting was made by Alderman Guitrau and seconded by Alderman
Miller. A yea and nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Guitrau,
Miller, Newell
Nays: None
Absent: None
Absent:
None
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND BOARD OF ALDERMEN OF
THE VILLAGE OF FRENCH SETTLEMENT, AUGUST 08, 2007
The Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the Village
of French Settlement met at the Municipal Building on the 8th
day of August in regular session convened.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Toni
Guitrau with the following members present:
Alderman Sean Guitrau Also Present: Chief Harry
Brignac
Alderman Glen Newell Monte Ferguson, Clerk
Alderman Teresa Miller
The motion to adopt the minutes of the July 23, 2007 Special Meeting
was made by Alderman Miller and seconded by Alderman Guitrau.
A yea and a nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Guitrau, Miller, Newell
Nays: None
Absent: None
The motion to adopt the statement of finances
of the July 11, 2007 regular meeting was made by Alderman Newell
and seconded by Alderman Guitrau. A yea and a nay vote was called
for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Guitrau, Miller, Newell
Nays: None
Absent: None
Reading of Communications:
District 8, Fire Chief Alan Guitreau, has requested
that elected officials attend a Fire Chief's meeting on August
27, 7 p.m. at Carter Plantation. This meeting is to discuss how
the increased population in the surrounding area is affecting
our fire services.
Public Comments on Agenda Items: None
Police Report:
Chief Harry Brignac read the police report for
the month of July. 31 traffic citations were issued, 1 accident
report, 20 private or confidential calls, and 4 trips to Livingston,
1for booking prisoners, 3 for court or subpoena. The monthly mileage
for unit 1 was 906.0 with 92.0 gallons of gas used. For unit 2,
the mileage was 499.0 with 35.7 gallons of gas used. For unit
3 the mileage was 2175.0 with 170.0 gallon of gas used.
Chief Brignac stated that school starts back next
week and there will be zero tolerance for speeders in the school
zone
Old Business.
" LMA Convention. Mayor Guitrau stated that the LMA convention
was August 2nd -5th. Aldermen Newell, Guitrau, Miller, Chief Harry
Brignac and Monte Ferguson Clerk attended, and found it very informative.
Road Report:
Mayor reported that Saturday all the street signs
will be installed, except Matherne Lane's "Children at Play"
sign as it had to be ordered.
Grounds Report None Mayor Guitrau stated that
we are still waiting on installation of the digital part of the
town sign.
New Business.
A motion was made by Alderman Guitrau to add
Proposed Ordinance 3 of 2007 to the Agenda. This was seconded
by Alderman Newell. A yea and a nay vote was called for and resulted
as follows:
Yeas: Guitrau, Miller, Newell
Nays: None
Absent: None
Proposed Ordinance No.3 of 2007 (EATEL Franchise Agreement) was
introduced by Alderman Guitrau. A Public Hearing will be held
at a Special Meeting scheduled August 20, 2007, at 7 p.m.
There being no further business to discuss, the
motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Alderman Newell and
seconded by Alderman Miller. A yea and nay vote was called for
and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
Absent: None
_____________________________ _____________________________________
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND BOARD OF ALDERMEN
OF THE VILLAGE OF FRENCH SETTLEMENT, AUGUST, 20, 2007
The Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the Village of French Settlement
met at the Municipal Building on the 20th day of August in special
session convened.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Toni Guitrau with the
following members present:
Alderman Glen Newell Also Present: Chief Harry Brignac
Alderman Teresa Miller Monte Ferguson, Clerk
Public Hearing:
The title of Proposed Ordinance No.3 of 2007, (EATEL TV/VIDEO
FRANCHISE AGREEMENT) was read by Alderman Newell , public hearing
notice having been published, the Mayor opened the floor to public
comments.
Comments: There were no public comments regarding
the proposed franchise agreement.
There being no comments, the Mayor adjourned the
public hearing and called for a vote of the Board. Alderman Miller
made a motion to accept Proposed Ordinance No. 3 of 2007, as presented.
This was seconded by Alderman Newell. A vote was called for and
resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Miller
Nays: None
Absent: Guitrau
There being no further business to discuss, the motion to adjourn
the meeting was made by Alderman Miller and seconded by Alderman
Newell. A yea and nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Miller
Nays: None
Absent: Guitrau
______________________________ __________________________
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND BOARD OF ALDERMEN
OF THE VILLAGE OF FRENCH SETTLEMENT, SEPTEMBER 12, 2007
The Board of Aldermen of the Village of French
Settlement met at the Municipal Building on the 12th day of September
in regular session convened.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Toni
Guitrau the following members present:
Alderman Sean Guitrau Also Present: Chief Harry Brignac
Alderman Teresa Miller Clerk Monte Ferguson
Absent: Alderman Glen Newell
A prayer was offered by Mayor Guitrau, and the Pledge of Allegiance
was recited.
Adoption of Minutes.
The motion to adopt the minutes and statement
of finances for the regular meeting August 08, 2007, and special
meeting, August 20, 2007 was made by Alderman Guitrau and seconded
by Alderman Miller. A yea and a nay vote was called for and resulted
as follows:
Yeas: Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
Absent: Newell
Reading of Communications.
Ms. Cat Guitreau, of the French Settlement Fire Department, announced
that the Christmas Parade will be held on December15, 2007 at
noon, with rain-out date set for December 16, 2007, 2:00 pm.
Public Comments on Agenda Items: None
Police Report.
Chief Harry Brignac read the police report for
the month of August. 39 traffic citations were issued, 2 accident
reports, 29 private or confidential calls, and 9 trips to Livingston,
5 for booking prisoners, 4 for court or subpoena. The monthly
mileage for unit 1 was 1359.0 with 115.2 gallons of gas used.
For unit 2, the mileage was 771.0 with 34.2 gallons of gas used.
For unit 3 the mileage was 1534.0 with 127.2 gallon of gas used.
Mayor Guitrau announced that Chief Harry Brignac
was awarded the Livingston Parish Sheriff's Commendation for outstanding
meritorious service in the line of duty which resulted in the
saving of a human life. Also awarded were Chief of Police of Springfield
SP 1 Jimmie Jones, LP 357 Ronnie Sharp and LP 335 Willie Brooks.
Old Business
Road Report:
Coteau Platte Road may be blacktopped in December instead of September.
This is the last public road in French Settlement scheduled to
be blacktopped. All the signage has been put up on the new public
roads.
Grounds Report:
The new digital sign is now installed and is operational. This
sign was purchased through a $103,150 USDA grant, along with two
new police units, equipment and ballistic vests.
LGAP 2006-2007 Grant ($25,000.00). Through this
grant, the town hall floors are being replaced with new ceramic
tiles. The project is nearing completion.
New Business
Alderman Miller read Proclamation No. 1 of 2007 in which Mayor
Guitrau proclaimed September to be Leukemia Awareness Month.
The Mayor attended and spoke before the Executive
Committee at the Baton Rouge Loop meeting held September 7, 2007
for elected officials. She was assured by Mayor Kip Holden, engineers
and other elected officials that the BR Loop would go well north
of French Settlement and Port Vincent. A revised map should be
available in less than one year.
The Mayor also stated that the current temporary
appointment of Tim Pujol as our town attorney needs to be extended
to the end of 2008.
A motion was made by Alderman Guitrau, and seconded
by Alderman Miller to retain Mr. Pujol as our town attorney at
the fee of $80 per hour, and to grant permission for Mr. Pujol
to act as magistrate of Mayor's Court during the mayor's absence
or during times of conflict of interest. A yea and a nay vote
was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
Absent: Newell
There being no further business to discuss, the
motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Alderman Guitrau and
seconded by Alderman Miller. A yea and a nay vote was called for
and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
Absent: Newell
___________________________ _______________________
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND BOARD OF ALDERMEN
OF THE VILLAGE OF FRENCH SETTLEMENT, OCTOBER 10, 2007
The Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the Village
of French Settlement met at the Municipal Building on the 10th
day of October at 7 p.m. in regular session convened.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Toni
Guitrau with the following members present:
Alderman Glen Newell Also Present: Chief Harry Brignac Alderman
Sean Guitrau Monte Ferguson, Clerk
Alderman Teresa Miller
A prayer was offered by Alderman Newell, and the
Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.
Guest Speaker: Representative M. J. "Mert"
Smiley presented Mayor Guitrau and the Board of Alderman with
a State of Louisiana Flag.
Adoption of Minutes:
Mayor Guitrau stated that next month she would
have the 2007 Amended Budget and the 2008 Budget prepared for
proposal.
The motion to adopt the minutes and statement
of finances for the regular meeting of September 12, 2007 was
made by Alderman Newell and seconded by Alderman Guitrau. A yea
and a nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Guitrau, Newell, Miller
Nays: None
Reading of Communication: None
Public Comments on Agenda Items: None
Police Report.
Chief Harry Brignac read the police report for the month of September.
25 traffic citations were issued, 2 accident reports, 29 private
or confidential calls, and 10 trips to Livingston, 7 for booking
prisoners, 3 for court or subpoena. The monthly mileage for unit
1 was 909.0 with 138.0 gallons of gas used. For unit 2, the mileage
was 350.0 with 30.3 gallons of gas used. For unit 3 the mileage
was 1115.0 with 101.4 gallon of gas used.
Chief Brignac came before the Mayor and Board
of Aldermen to request their approval to hire a new substitute
crossing guard. A motion to hire Margie Willie as substitute crossing
guard was made by Alderman Guitrau, and seconded by Alderman Miller.
A yea and a nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
Chief Brignac announced "Trick or Treat"
will be on Wednesday, October 31, 2007 from 6-8:00 p.m. The International
Chief's of Police Conference will be held in New Orleans next
week, and he will be attending. He also stated that October 20th
is Election Day and the Fire Department has a tax renewal on the
ballot.
Road Report:
Mayor Guitrau stated all the public village roads have been black-topped
except Coteau Platte and it should be done by the end of the year.
As for speeding on these public roads, she has received a few
calls of complaint. The Chief is patrolling them with radar as
planned and tickets will be issued if people refuse to slow down
and obey the posted speed limits.
Grounds Report:
The new digital sign is now functioning properly.
Old Business:
Sigma Engineering is progressing with preparing a final drainage
report for an ongoing drainage project within the south part of
the village.
New Business:
Alderman Guitrau has temporarily shut down the village website
as he makes needed changes including switching to a new host.
As there was no further business to discuss, a
motion to adjourn was made by Alderman Newell and seconded by
Alderman Guitrau. A yea and a nay vote was called for and resulted
as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
__________________________ _______________________
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND BOARD OF ALDERMEN
OF THE VILLAGE OF FRENCH SETTLEMENT OCTOBER 22, 2007
The Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the Village of French Settlement
met at the Municipal Building on the 22th day of October in special
session convened.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Toni Guitrau with the
following members present:
Alderman Glen Newell Also Present: Chief Harry Brignac Alderman
Sean Guitrau Monte Ferguson, Clerk
Alderman Teresa Miller
A prayer was offered by Mayor Guitrau, and the
Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Alderman Miller introduced proposed ordinance # 4 of 2007 (Moratorium
on creation of subdivisions). A public hearing was set for October
29, 2007 at 6:00 PM.
There being no further business to discuss, the
motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Alderman Guitrau and
seconded by Alderman Miller. A yea and nay vote was called for
and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Guitrau, Miller, Newell
Nays: None
Absent: None
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND BOARD OF ALDERMEN
OF THE VILLAGE OF FRENCH SETTLEMENT, OCTOBER 29, 2007
The Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the Village of French Settlement
met at the Municipal Building on the 29 the day of October in
special session convened.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Toni
Guitrau with the following members present:
Alderman Newell Chief Harry Brignac
Alderman Guitrau Monte Ferguson, Clerk
Alderman Miller
Public Hearing:
The title of Proposed Ordinance No. 4 of 2007,
(Moratorium on Subdivision ) was read by Alderman Miller, public
hearing notice having been published, the Mayor opened the floor
to public comments.
Public Comments: There were several main concerns
voiced regarding future developments some of which are fire protection,
water pressure, impact on the roads and the public schools.
Mayor Guitrau stated that there is no quick answer
to these problems, and requested that Fire Chief Alan Guitreau
notify the Board with any new updates.
There being no further comments, the Mayor adjourned
the public hearing and called for a vote of the Board. Alderman
Guitrau made a motion to accept Proposed Ordinance No. 4 of 2007,
as presented. This was seconded by Alderman Newell. A vote was
called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Miller, Guitrau
Nays: None
Absent: None
Abstain: None
There being no further business to discuss, the motion to adjourn
the meeting was made by Alderman Miller and seconded by Alderman
Newell. A yea and nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Miller, Guitrau
Nays: None
Absent: None
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND BOARD OF ALDERMEN
OF THE VILLAGE OF FRENCH SETTLEMENT, NOVEMBER 14, 2007
The Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the Village
of French Settlement met at the Municipal Building on the 14th
day of November at 7 p.m. in regular session convened.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Toni
Guitrau with the following members present:
Alderman Glen Newell
Alderman Sean Guitrau
Alderman Teresa Miller
Also Present: Monte Ferguson, Clerk
A prayer was offered by Mayor Guitrau, and the
Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.
Guest Speaker:
Mr. Eric Edwards from the Livingston Parish Tourist
Commission stated he would like to promote tourism in the Village
of French Settlement, and the surrounding areas, and that there
are several Grants available through their office and that he
would be happy to help with those grants. Also the Livingston
Parish Tourist Commission has changed their name to Livingston
Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Adoption of Minutes:
The motion to adopt the minutes and statement
of finances for the regular meeting of October 10, 2007 was made
by Alderman Miller and seconded by Alderman Guitrau. A yea and
a nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
The motion to adopt the minutes for the special
meeting of October 22, 2007 was made by Alderman Newell and seconded
by Alderman Guitrau. A yea and a nay vote was called for and resulted
as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
The motion to adopt the minutes for the special meeting of October
29, 2007 was made by Alderman Guitrau and seconded by Alderman
Newell. A yea and a nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
The motion to adopt the statement of finances
for the regular meeting of October 10, 2007 was made by Alderman
Newell and seconded by Alderman Miller. A yea and a nay vote was
called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
Reading of Communication.
a. A letter from Mary Broussard of Entergy stated
that residents will
have a line item charge on their bill reflecting franchise fees
paid to the Village. The mayor said that this is not an increase,
just a summary of how the money is disbursed.
Public Comments on Agenda Items: None
Old Business:
a. Subdivision Moratorium Update:
Mayor Guitrau said she contacted the town attorney and engineers,
and spoke to the fire chief to begin the process of addressing
the items listed on the moratorium ordinance. She also said this
is going to be a slow process as there are serious safety issues
to resolve.
b. Drainage Update:
Studies are on-going.
New Business.
The following Ordinances were proposed:
a. Proposed Ordinance No. 5 of 2007 (Mobile home
parks, Condo's, Etc) was
introduced by Alderman Miller.
b. Proposed Ordinance No.6 of 2007 (To amend the
Budget of 2007) ) was
introduced by Alderman Miller.
c. Proposed Ordinance No.7 of 2007 (To propose
the Budget of 2008) was
introduced by Alderman Newell.
d. Proposed Ordinance No. 8 of 2007 (Cost of living
raise for police personnel) was
introduced by Alderman Guitrau.
e. Proposed Ordinance No. 9 of 2007 (Cost of living
raise for the town clerk) was
introduced by Alderman Guitrau
As there was no further business to discuss, a
motion to adjourn was made by Alderman Guitrau and seconded by
Alderman Newell. A yea and a nay vote was called for and resulted
as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
_______________________________ __________________________
Monte Ferguson, Clerk Toni Guitrau, Mayor
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND BOARD OF ALDERMEN
OF THE VILLAGE OF FRENCH SETTLEMENT, DECEMBER 12, 2007
The Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the Village
of French Settlement met at the Municipal Building on the 12th
day of December, 2007 at 7 p.m. in regular session convened.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Toni
Guitrau with the following members present:
Alderman Glen Newell
Alderman Sean Guitrau
Alderman Teresa Miller
Also Present: Chief Harry Brignac
Clerk Monte Ferguson
A prayer was offered by Mayor Guitrau, and the
Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all.
Guest Speaker; Mr. Edrington from French Settlement
Water Co. addressed the Mayor and Board of Alderman about the
water system for Subdivisions, and the problems pertaining to
fire hydrants, and water pressure to supply fire protection such
as fire hydrants. Alderman Miller stated that the problems of
fire safety need to be addressed and solved now, before we are
left with a mess to deal with later.
Public Hearing
Public Hearing
Proposed Ordinance No. 5 of 2007 ( Moratorium on Mobile home parks,
Condo's, Etc)
a. Public Comments on Proposed Ordinance No. 5 of 2007 (None)
b. Adjourn Public Hearing
c. Vote on Proposed Ordinance No. 5 of 2007
There being no further comments, the Mayor adjourned the public
hearing and called for a vote of the Board. Alderman Miller made
a motion to accept Proposed Ordinance No. 5of 2007, as presented.
This was seconded by Alderman Guitrau. A vote was called for and
resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Miller, Guitrau
Nays: None
Public Hearing
Proposed Ordinance No. 6 of 2007 (To amend the Budget of 2007)
a. Public Comments on Proposed Ordinance No. 6of 2007(none)
b. Adjourn Public Hearing
c. Vote on Proposed Ordinance No. 6 of 2007
There being no further comments, the Mayor adjourned the public
hearing and called for a vote of the Board. Alderman Newell made
a motion to accept Proposed Ordinance No. 6 of 2007, as presented.
This was seconded by Alderman Guitrau. A vote was called for and
resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Miller, Guitrau
Nays: None
Public Hearing
Proposed Ordinance No. 7 of 2007 (To set the salary of clerk)
a. Public Comments on Proposed Ordinance No. 7 of 2007 (none)
b. Adjourn Public Hearing
c. Vote on Proposed Ordinance No. 7 of 2007
There being no further comments, the Mayor adjourned the public
hearing and called for a vote of the Board. Alderman Guitrau made
a motion to accept Proposed Ordinance No. 7 of 2007, as presented.
This was seconded by Alderman Miller. A vote was called for and
resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Miller, Guitrau
Nays: None
Public Hearing
Proposed Ordinance No. 8 of 2007 (To set the salary of police
personnel)
a. Public Comments on Proposed Ordinance No. 8 of 2007 (none)
b. Adjourn Public Hearing
c. Vote on Proposed Ordinance No. 8of 2007
There being no further comments, the Mayor adjourned the public
hearing and called for a vote of the Board. Alderman Miller made
a motion to accept Proposed Ordinance No. 8 of 2007, as presented.
This was seconded by Alderman Newell. A vote was called for and
resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Miller, Guitrau
Nays: None
Public Hearing
Proposed Ordinance No. 9 of 2007 (To propose the Budget of 2008)
a. Public Comments on Proposed Ordinance No. 9 of 2007(none)
b. Adjourn Public Hearing
c. Vote on Proposed Ordinance No. 9 of 2007
There being no further comments, the Mayor adjourned the public
hearing and called for a vote of the Board. Alderman Guitrau made
a motion to accept Proposed Ordinance No. 9 of 2007, as presented.
This was seconded by Alderman Newell. A vote was called for and
resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Miller, Guitrau
Nays: None
Public Comments on Agenda Items. (None)
Reading of Minutes and Statement of Finances.
The motion to adopt the minutes and statement
of finances for the regular meeting of November 8, 2006 was made
by Alderman Miller and seconded by Alderman Guitrau. A yea and
a nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
Reading of Communications. (None)
Dept. Police Report
Chief Harry Brignac read the police report for the month of November.
70 traffic citations were issued, 3 accident reports, 29 private
or confidential calls, 6 trips to Livingston, 3 for booking prisoners,
3 for court or subpoena. The monthly mileage for unit 1 was 964.0
with 81.5 gallons of gas used. For unit 2, the mileage was 1058.0
with 80.4 gallons of gas used. For unit 3, the mileage was 1221.0
with 89.8 gallons of gas used.
Chief Brignac requested that the Board of Alderman
approve the purchase of a trailer which can be pulled by the Tahoe,
also electric brake system for the Tahoe. The cost is around $1,100.00
A motion to purchase the trailer and electric
brakes was made by Alderman Newell and seconded by Alderman Miller.
A yea and a nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
Old Business.
a. Grounds Report:
The urinal in the men's bathroom is leaking
b. Road Report
The last road in the Village, Coteau Platte is being blacktopped
as we speak
c. USDA Grant Update
d. 9th Annual Fire Department Christmas Parade:
New Business
a. LMA Mid-Winter Conference (Feb 19, 20, 21 2008)
As there was no further business to discuss, a motion to adjourn
was made by Alderman Miller and seconded by Alderman Newell. A
yea and a nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
_______________________________ __________________________
Monte Ferguson, Clerk Toni Guitrau, Mayor
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND BOARD OF ALDERMEN
OF THE VILLAGE OF FRENCH SETTLEMENT, JANUARY 9, 2008
The Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the Village of French Settlement
met at the Municipal Building on the 9th day of January in regular
session convened.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Toni Guitrau with the
following members present:
Alderman Glen Newell Also Present: Chief Harry Brignac Alderman
Sean Guitrau Clerk Monte Ferguson
Alderman Teresa Miller
A prayer was offered by Alderman Newell, and the Pledge of Allegiance
was recited.
Adoption of Minutes
The motion to adopt the minutes and statement of finances of the
December 13, 2006 regular meeting was made by Alderman Newell
and seconded by Alderman Miller. A yea and a nay vote was called
for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
Reading of Communications: None
Public Comments on Agenda Items: None
Police Report:
Chief Harry Brignac read the police report for the month of December
2007. 71 traffic citations were issued for January's court date,
2 accidents reported, 25 private or confidential calls, 4 trips
to Livingston, 3 for booking prisoners, 1 for court or subpoena.
The monthly mileage for unit 1 was 2081.0 with 138.7 gallons of
gas used. For unit 2, the mileage was 799.0 with 60.2 gallons
of gas used. For unit 3, the mileage was 850.0 with 86.5 gallons
of gas used.
There were no accidents over the holidays. Chief Brignac also
presented the Mayor and Board with an annual police report. Chief
Brignac also stated that he has ordered 500 Identification kit
for the kids in French Settlement Elementary School, Pre K thru
Third Grade, these kits should be filled out and kept in a safe
place at home. He also said that there is information on Child
restraints.
Old Business:
a. Grounds Report: Urinal in men's room needs to be repaired.
b. Road Report: Our last road Coteau Platte Rd. has been blacktopped,
also people seem to be obeying the speed limits now.
c. Moratorium Update: Mayor Guitrau said she has meeting setup
and that Fire Chief Alan Guitreau is meeting with Parish Presidents
Mike Grimmer, and will get back to us on this matter. Alderman
Miller said there is no need to rush on this, as long as we get
it right.
New Business:
The motion to approve our CPA was made by Alderman Guitrau and
seconded by Alderman Miller. A yea and a nay vote was called for
and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
There being no further business to discuss, the motion to adjourn
the meeting was made by Alderman Guitrau and seconded by Alderman
Newell. A yea and nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
______________________________ __________________________
Monte Ferguson, Clerk Toni Guitrau, Mayor
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND BOARD OF ALDERMEN
OF THE VILLAGE OF FRENCH SETTLEMENT, FEBRUARY 13, 2008
The Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the Village of French Settlement
met at the Municipal Building on the 13th day of February in regular
session convened.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Toni Guitrau with the
following members present:
Alderman Glen Newell Also Present: Chief Harry Brignac
Alderman Sean Guitrau Clerk Monte Ferguson
Alderman Teresa Miller
A prayer was offered by Mayor Guitrau, and the Pledge of Allegiance
was recited by all.
Adoption of Minutes.
The motion to adopt the minutes and statement
of finances of the January 9, 2008 regular meeting was made by
Alderman Guitrau and seconded by Alderman Newell. A yea and a
nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Miller, Newell, Guitrau
Nays: None
Absent: None
Guest Speaker: Keith Martin (Livingston Parish School Board)
Mr. Keith Martin stated that the number of classrooms at the French
Settlement High School are adequate at this time; however this
is affected by more than the number of children in attendance,
such as State and Federal programs for certain students. The elementary
school is at capacity right now. The answer to over population
may be in constructing a new middle school, not just adding more
classrooms but in his opinion debt should be paid down before
constructing new buildings. T-buildings will have to be brought
in if the school is faced with more students from new growth.
Reading of Communications.
a. A letter from the Public Service Commission said that the "Do
Not Call" initiative has past, and to stay on the list you
must re-register online at. www.lpsc.org or by calling 1-877-676-0773.
b. Charter Communications is once again raising cable rates.
c. Mayor Guitrau attended Mayors Day in Baker, and Chief Brignac
attended the LMA Mid Winter Conference in Baton Rouge.
Public Comments on Agenda Items: None
Police Report.
Chief Harry Brignac read the police report for
the month of January, 2008. 26 traffic citations were issued for
January's court date, 3 accidents reported, 32 private or confidential
calls, 5 trips to Livingston, 4 for booking prisoners, 1 for court
or subpoena. The monthly mileage for unit 1 was 2434.0 with 167.3
gallons of gas used. For unit 2, the mileage was 458.0 with 30.5
gallons of gas used. For unit 3, the mileage was 518.0 with 62.6
gallons of gas used.
Mayor Guitrau reported under the Police report that the DOTD did
a study and decided to change the speed limit on the state highways
within village limits to 45 mph. Chief Brignac and Mayor Guitrau
disagree with that decision, and requested a copy of their report.
Alderman Guitrau announced that the active bench warrants are
now posted online on the village website at www.frenchsettlement-la.gov
Mayor Guitrau said the total owed to the village is approximately
$94,000, with some warrants being as old as 1993.
Old Business:
Moratorium Update
Mayor Guitrau attended a meeting with Sigma Engineers. Both Mayor
Guitrau and Fire Chief Guitreau submitted information to Sigma
Engineers. Sigma is now working on a plan with cooperation from
Livingston Parish to find temporary solution to the fire protection
water pressure issues facing future new high-density developments
within village limits.
Census Report:
The population report for 2007 is 996. The Mayor explained that
this is not a door to door count. It is partially based on utility
meter counts and is not a decennial count, which is more accurate.
Years ago the village's estimated population was 998 and then
after the decennial count it was said to be only 942 in population.
The decennial census paperwork has already begun for the year
2010. The village is participating.
BR Loop Update.
Mayor Guitrau attended another BR Loop meeting for elected officials.
At that meeting it was officially announced that the Village's
of French Settlement and Port Vincent are officially out of the
LOOP. Mayor Guitrau intends to attend future BR Loop meetings
as they are held.
LGAP Grant Update. NONE.
Road Report:
The mayor had a meeting with FEMA and was presented with new preliminary
flood maps. About a year ago she met with FEMA and requested street
names be corrected on the future maps. Those changes were not
reflected on the new maps so she will turn in a 'protest' to have
them corrected.
New Business. NONE
There being no further business to discuss, the motion to adjourn
the meeting was made by Alderman Newell and seconded by Alderman
Guitrau. A yea and nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Miller, Newell, Guitrau
Nays: None
Absent: None
_________________________________ ____________________________________________
Monte Ferguson, Clerk Toni Guitrau, Mayor
REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND BOARD OF ALDERMENOF
THE VILLAGE OF FRENCH SETTLEMENT, MARCH 12, 2008
The Mayor and Board of Aldermen of the Village of French Settlement
met at the Municipal Building on the 12th day of March in regular
session convened.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Toni Guitrau with the
following members present:
Alderman Glen Newell Also Present: Chief Harry Brignac Alderman
Sean Guitrau Clerk Monte Ferguson
Alderman Teresa Miller
A prayer was offered by Alderman Newell, and the Pledge of Allegiance
was recited by all.
Adoption of Minutes
The motion to adopt the minutes and statement of finances of the
February 13, 2008 regular meeting was made by Alderman Guitrau
and seconded by Alderman Newell. A yea and a nay vote was called
for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
Reading of Communications: None
Public Comments on Agenda Items: None
Police Report:
Chief Harry Brignac read the police report for the month of February,
2008. 41 traffic citations were issued for January's court date,
1 accident reported, 29 private or confidential calls, 11 trips
to Livingston, 8 for booking prisoners, 3 for court or subpoena.
The monthly mileage for unit 1 was 2255.0 with 165.5 gallons of
gas used. For unit 2, the mileage was 241.0 with 17.3 gallons
of gas used. For unit 3, the mileage was 973.0 with 83.7 gallons
of gas used.
Chief Harry Brignac stated that the town hall parking lot is re-striped
with fresh paint. Mayor Guitrau requested that he get inmates
to pick up trash in the ditches throughout the village.
Old Business:
" Moratorium Update: Mayor Guitrau stated that we are still
in the process of gathering documents and information from the
parish and other sources, so we need to extend this Moratorium
for six more months. Mayor Guitrau said she hopes everyone understands
that this is not an effort to discourage development. Alderman
Miller stated that the burden to get this right is on us and we're
going to get it right.
The motion to accept Resolution 1 of 2008 as presented by Alderman
Guitrau (6 month renewal of Moratorium on Subdivisions) was offered
by Alderman Miller, and seconded by Alderman Newell. A yea and
a nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Miller, Newell, Guitrau
Nays: None
Absent: None
" LGAP Update: Mayor Guitrau said that next month maybe she
will have some good news on this funding.
" Drainage Project Update: The drainage project construction
began this week. This project will help with flash flooding in
the south end of town.
" Baton Rouge Loop Update: Mayor Guitrau stated that French
Settlement is officially out of the proposed BR Loop.
" Grounds Report: Mayor Guitrau stated that the person that
mows the municipal grounds requested a $25.00 per month raise
from $300.00 to $325.00 due to the fact that gas prices have gone
up. The alderman unanimously agreed to the request.
New Business:
a. Proclamation 1 of 2008 (Flood Awareness Month) Alderman Newell
read Proclamation No. 1 of 2008, which the mayor declared April,
2008 as Flood Awareness Month.
b. FEMA/Flood Map Update: Residents may go online to www.lamappingproject.com
to see if their property has changed in regard to flood zones.
People have 90 days after the public notice by FEMA to protest.
c. Seven large filing cabinets were purchased for $1800.00 for
the town hall offices. The mayor stated that normally these run
$800-$1000 each. She requested that this purchase be moved to
line item Capital Improvements within the budget later when the
budget is amended.
There being no further business to discuss, the motion to adjourn
the meeting was made by Alderman Guitrau and seconded by Alderman
Newell. A yea and nay vote was called for and resulted as follows:
Yeas: Newell, Guitrau, Miller
Nays: None
______________________________ __________________________
Monte Ferguson, Clerk Toni Guitrau, Mayor