The St. FrancisvilleBoard of Aldermen took the initial step Nov.26toextendamoratoriumonresidential development while a newsewagetreatmentplant is underconstruction.
The board introduced an ordinance to extend thehaltonmajor developmentuntil March 31. Apublichearing on the ordinance and avote is expected at the Dec. 10 meeting. That meetingwillinclude apublic hearing on requests to rezone two tracts in the Pecan Grove area, including the old St. Francisville High School site that the School Board plans to sell to aresidential developer
West Feliciana Hospital celebrates holidayseason
West Feliciana Hospitaliscelebrating the holiday season all month long. From Christmas in the Country to aholiday lights display,the hospital invitesthe community to join in the following holidayevents:
Dec. 6: Cookies and Cocoa at the hospital beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Dec. 8: Hospital float in the annual Christmas in the Country parade.
All branches of the Audubon Regional Library will be holding the annual Sock It To Me sock drive through Dec. 6. Bins will be available to drop off sock. All sizes of new socksare needed.
WhiteLight shopping event
Jackson’sannual White Light Christmasshopping event is set for Dec. 14. Held this year from9a.m. until 7p.m. in the historic McKowen buildingon Charter Street, in downtown Jackson, multiple vendors inside and outside will offer a variety of items. Food truck will alsobe nearby
ASouthernChristmas
ASouthern Christmas in Clinton will be Dec. 6atthe Feliciana Courthouse. The start time will be announced later
Events include the lighting of the courthouse Christmas tree, courtesy of the EastFeliciana Police Jury.Santa andthe Grinch willvisit. St. HelenaStreet businesses open after the tree lighting and willhave specials. There willbefood, fun,a kids’ Christmas fun center games, and lotsofactivities.
Christmasinthe Country
Some Christmas in the Country events need tickets, which can be purchased at bontempstix.com.
Those include the Christmas Wreath Sale, which benefitsSt. Francisville Beautiful, acommunitywide efforttobeautify the Historic District with trees and ornamental plantings. Deadline for wreath orders is Nov.29. Choices ranges from
ä See AROUND, page 2G
ST.FRANCISVILLE
The zoning change would allow smaller lotsthanare now allowed on the tracts.
About 100peopleattended aPlanning and Zoning Commission meeting on the zoning change, many of them concerned about added traffic in thearea
The board enacted adevelopment moratorium because the town’ssewage treatment plant frequently floods and is outof compliance with environmentalstandards. The existing ordinance, which expires Dec. 31, prohibits improvements or development of lots inamajor subdivisionormorethan four multi-unit residential apartments on onesite.
Engineer Bianca Hillhouse told the board that construction of the new treatment plant is progressing andthe contractor maybeable tostart testing it by the end of December.
Boardmembers said they are hopeful the moratorium can be lifted before March 31 if the plant begins operating. Hillhouse said the next project will be closing the old oxidation ponds where sewage is now treated.
The Dec. 10 meetinglikely will be the last meeting forMayor Robert Leake, who was defeated for re-election by Alderman Andy D’Aquilla, and Alderman Rucker Leake, who did not seek re-election. In otheraction
On another matter,the boardvoted to lower thespeed limit on North Commerce
Street from 30 to 20 mphfrom Pecan Grove Drive north of Jackson Road.
Before the discussionand vote, resident Robert Honeycutt questioned the need for alower speed limit, saying the board has loweredtheminother areasseveral times this year
Honeycuttalso claimed that thetowndoes notenforcethe speedlimits now, butonly “law-abiding people” honor them
The mayor said the lower speed limit on North Commerce is needed because of the recent expansion of acommercial area with additional pedestrian traffic andvehicles parking in the area.
“It’sbeen brought to our attention of how dangerousCommerce Street is,” the mayor said.
COAseniors,Silliman students celebrateThanksgiving
BY MELINDARAWLS HOWELL Contributing writer
Seniors from across theparish enjoyed food, musicand dancing at theEastFeliciana Council On Aging’sThanksgiving gathering held Nov.21atthe Jackson site
Theparents of SillimanInstitute studentsprovided the traditional holiday food to seniors for thethird year,a COA spokesperson said. High school students served the mealand elementary students’ colorful artwork on placemats andcardswereadded to thetable decorations.
As part of the pre-meal festivities, studentssang several seasonal songs for the crowd. Most of theyoung people also joined in with the COAseniors for several line-dances, laughing along the way TheSilliman dance team performed, receiving applausefrom theappreciativeaudience.
Students also assisted by drawing the winning numbers for the numerous door prizes and the winning number forthe fundraising raffle prize. Several students also participated by giving abrief devotional talk.
Approximately 65 COAmembers were in attendance,according to aCOA spokesperson. Director Cyndi McManus
Councilreluctant to nameofficials to agency that hasn’t done oneproject
BY JAMES MINTON Contributing writer
With the Mississippi Riverforming its entire western boundary, from the state line at Angola south to Thompson Creek’smouth near
Port Hudson, does West Feliciana Parishneed aport commission? The parish’sPort Commission is astate-createdagencythathas existedfor almost20years, but it hasn’tcompleted asingle project. At first, commission members and parishleadersexplored the possibilityofa port at which barges loaded with shipping containers from overseas commerce could be off-loaded for furtherinland transportation by rail. Another idea proposed building alanding and facilityfor river
boat tourpassengers who visit St. Francisville.The plans never developed, however, andthe commission has languishedwithout funding or aviable project since. In August 2023, commission members voted, but not unanimously,toask the Legislature to dissolve thepanel,but state lawmakers havenot addressedthe request Now,four of the commission’s nine seatsare vacant, and the Parish Council has been reluctant to namenew representatives.
Parish President Kenny Havard has been vocal in opposing anew start for the commission, saying at thecouncil’s Nov. 12 meeting that“the port commission is dysfunctional andwillcontinuetobe dysfunctional.” The former legislator said state money
Leila Pitchford AROUND THE FELICIANAS
thankedthe Silliman parents, teachers and students for providing themeal and being part of the Thanksgiving fellowship and fun.
Artwork rafflewinner BethDawson and husband, Scotty Dawson, at the East Feliciana Council on Aging’s Thanksgiving party
PHOTOSBYMELINDARAWLS HOWELL
Silliman danceteam membersperformfor the Council on Aging at aThanksgivingparty ä More photos. PAGE 3G
$50-$150. Wreath pickup dates are from 10 a.m. to 3p.m. Nov.30and Dec. 7, from the potting shed behind theSt. Francisville Town Hall,11936 Ferdinand St Bon Temps Tixalso has ticketsfor Dec. 7events including Breakfast with Santa at GraceEpiscopal Church, the Friends of the LibraryChristmas Tour of Homes, and Christmas Spirits Historic District Stroll. This year’sChristmas in the Country T-shirt is available and can be purchased at Temple Design or Town Hall. They are long sleeved white shirtsinadult sizes smalltoXXXL and youthsizes small to large. Costs are youth $20,adult small to XL $30, XXL$34 and XXXL $39. Visit www.facebook.com/townofstfrancisvilletofind schedules and how to register for events connected toChristmas in the Country in St. Francisville on Dec. 6-8. Among the activities are aGingerbread Man Scavenger Hunt. Collect 10 stamps while shopping in St. Francisville and receive apair of Christmas socks. The hunt startedNov.23and wraps up Dec. 6atthe Town Hall Tree Lighting.
The Feliciana Stitchers will have handmade gifts for saleatMarket Hall on Dec. 7-8. The group will also have aquilt raffle benefitingthe West Feliciana Animal Humane Society. Ticketsare $2 and are available at Cross Quilter,5237 Commerce St., St. Francisville.
Send apostcard
Regan Tutor’s class at West Feliciana Middle School is studying maps, landmarks,weather and more across the U.S.Aspart of the lessons, thestudents would liketoreceive postcards from each state. If you have friends or family in other states, ask them to send apostcard ATTN: Regan Tutor,West Feliciana Middle School,9559 BainsRoad,St. Francisville, LA70775.
Market themes
The St. Francisville FarmersMarket is held Thursdays from 9a.m. to 1p.m. Dec. 19 is theChristmas reception. Refreshments will be available as well as achance to shop for last minutegifts and holiday food. Santa will be on hand for photos.
Send news and eventsfor Eastand West Feliciana parishes to extra@theadvocate. com by noon Friday or call (225) 3880731.
The Watchman
THE ST.FRANCISVILLEDEMOCRAT,P.O.Drawer1876, St.Francisville, LA 70775225-388-0215
SUBSCRIPTION QUESTIONS R. GRANTLALONDE (225) 388-0625
DEMOCRAT
Developmentmoratoriumcould be extended
BY JAMES MINTON
Contributing writer
The St. FrancisvilleBoard of Aldermen took the initial step Nov.26toextendamoratoriumonresidential development while a newsewagetreatmentplant is underconstruction.
The board introduced an ordinance to extend thehaltonmajor developmentuntil March 31. Apublichearing on the ordinance and avote is expected at the Dec. 10 meeting. That meetingwillinclude apublic hearing on requests to rezone two tracts in the Pecan Grove area, including the old St. Francisville High School site that the School Board plans to sell to aresidential developer
Leila Pitchford AROUND THE FELICIANAS
West Feliciana Hospital celebrates holidayseason
West Feliciana Hospitaliscelebrating the holiday season all month long. From Christmas in the Country to aholiday lights display,the hospital invitesthe community to join in the following holidayevents:
Dec. 6: Cookies and Cocoa at the hospital beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Dec. 8: Hospital float in the annual Christmas in the Country parade.
All branches of the Audubon Regional Library will be holding the annual Sock It To Me sock drive through Dec. 6. Bins will be available to drop off sock. All sizes of new socksare needed.
WhiteLight shopping event
Jackson’sannual White Light Christmasshopping event is set for Dec. 14. Held this year from9a.m. until 7p.m. in the historic McKowen buildingon Charter Street, in downtown Jackson, multiple vendors inside and outside will offer a variety of items. Food truck will alsobe nearby
ASouthernChristmas
ASouthern Christmas in Clinton will be Dec. 6atthe Feliciana Courthouse. The start time will be announced later
Events include the lighting of the courthouse Christmas tree, courtesy of the EastFeliciana Police Jury.Santa andthe Grinch willvisit.
St. HelenaStreet businesses open after the tree lighting and willhave specials. There willbefood, fun,a kids’ Christmas fun center games, and lotsofactivities.
Christmasinthe Country
Some Christmas in the Country events need tickets, which can be purchased at bontempstix.com.
Those include the Christmas Wreath Sale, which benefitsSt. Francisville Beautiful, acommunitywide efforttobeautify the Historic District with trees and ornamental plantings. Deadline for wreath orders is Nov.29. Choices ranges from
ä See AROUND, page 2G
ST.FRANCISVILLE
The zoning change would allow smaller lotsthanare now allowed on the tracts. About 100peopleattended aPlanning and Zoning Commission meeting on the zoning change, many of them concerned about added traffic in thearea
The board enacted adevelopment moratorium because the town’ssewage treatment plant frequently floods and is outof compliance with environmentalstandards. The existing ordinance, which expires Dec. 31, prohibits improvements or development of lots inamajor subdivisionormorethan four multi-unit residential apartments on onesite.
Engineer Bianca Hillhouse told the board that construction of the new treatment plant is progressing andthe contractor maybeable tostart testing it by the end of December.
Boardmembers said they are hopeful the moratorium can be lifted before March 31 if the plant begins operating. Hillhouse said the next project will be closing the old oxidation ponds where sewage is now treated.
The Dec. 10 meetinglikely will be the last meeting forMayor Robert Leake, who was defeated for re-election by Alderman Andy D’Aquilla, and Alderman Rucker Leake, who did not seek re-election. In otheraction
On another matter,the boardvoted to lower thespeed limit on North Commerce
Street from 30 to 20 mphfrom Pecan Grove Drive north of Jackson Road. Before the discussionand vote, resident Robert Honeycutt questioned the need for alower speed limit, saying the board has loweredtheminother areasseveral times this year
Honeycuttalso claimed that thetowndoes notenforcethe speedlimits now, butonly “law-abiding people” honor them
The mayor said the lower speed limit on North Commerce is needed because of the recent expansion of acommercial area with additional pedestrian traffic andvehicles parking in the area.
“It’sbeen brought to our attention of how dangerousCommerce Street is,” the mayor said.
COAseniors,Silliman students celebrateThanksgiving
BY MELINDARAWLS HOWELL Contributing writer
Seniors from across theparish enjoyed food, musicand dancing at theEastFeliciana Council On Aging’sThanksgiving gathering held Nov.21atthe Jackson site
Theparents of SillimanInstitute studentsprovided the traditional holiday food to seniors for thethird year,a COA spokesperson said. High school students served the mealand elementary students’ colorful artwork on placemats andcardswereadded to thetable decorations.
As part of the pre-meal festivities, studentssang several seasonal songs for the crowd. Most of theyoung people also joined in with the COAseniors for several line-dances, laughing along the way TheSilliman dance team performed, receiving applausefrom theappreciativeaudience.
Students also assisted by drawing the winning numbers for the numerous door prizes and the winning number forthe fundraising raffle prize. Several students also participated by giving abrief devotional talk.
Approximately 65 COAmembers were in attendance,according to aCOA spokesperson. Director Cyndi McManus
BY JAMES MINTON Contributing writer
With the Mississippi Riverforming its entire western boundary, from the state line at Angola south to Thompson Creek’smouth near
Port Hudson, does West Feliciana Parishneed aport commission? The parish’sPort Commission is astate-createdagencythathas existedfor almost20years, but it hasn’tcompleted asingle project. At first, commission members and parishleadersexplored the possibilityofa port at which barges loaded with shipping containers from overseas commerce could be off-loaded for furtherinland transportation by rail. Another idea proposed building alanding and facilityfor river
boat tourpassengers who visit St. Francisville.The plans never developed, however, andthe commission has languishedwithout funding or aviable project since. In August 2023, commission members voted, but not unanimously,toask the Legislature to dissolve thepanel,but state lawmakers havenot addressedthe request Now,four of the commission’s nine seatsare vacant, and the Parish Council has been reluctant to namenew representatives.
Parish President Kenny Havard has been vocal in opposing anew start for the commission, saying at thecouncil’s Nov. 12 meeting that“the port commission is dysfunctional andwillcontinuetobe dysfunctional.”
thankedthe Silliman parents, teachers and students for providing themeal and being part of the Thanksgiving fellowship and fun.
Artwork rafflewinner BethDawson and husband, Scotty Dawson, at the East Feliciana Council on Aging’s Thanksgiving party
PHOTOSBYMELINDARAWLS HOWELL
Silliman danceteam membersperformfor the Council on Aging at aThanksgivingparty ä More photos. PAGE 3G
$50-$150. Wreath pickup dates are from 10 a.m. to 3p.m. Nov.30and Dec. 7, from the potting shed behind theSt. Francisville Town Hall,11936 Ferdinand St Bon Temps Tixalso has ticketsfor Dec. 7events including Breakfast with Santa at GraceEpiscopal Church, the Friends of the LibraryChristmas Tour of Homes, and Christmas Spirits Historic District Stroll. This year’sChristmas in the Country T-shirt is available and can be purchased at Temple Design or Town Hall. They are long sleeved white shirtsinadult sizes smalltoXXXL and youthsizes small to large. Costs are youth $20,adult small to XL $30, XXL$34 and XXXL $39. Visit www.facebook.com/townofstfrancisvilletofind schedules and how to register for events connected toChristmas in the Country in St. Francisville on Dec. 6-8. Among the activities are aGingerbread Man Scavenger Hunt. Collect 10 stamps while shopping in St. Francisville and receive apair of Christmas socks. The hunt startedNov.23and wraps up Dec. 6atthe Town Hall Tree Lighting.
The Feliciana Stitchers will have handmade gifts for saleatMarket Hall on Dec. 7-8. The group will also have aquilt raffle benefitingthe West Feliciana Animal Humane Society. Ticketsare $2 and are available at Cross Quilter,5237 Commerce St., St. Francisville.
Send apostcard
Regan Tutor’s class at West Feliciana Middle School is studying maps, landmarks,weather and more across the U.S.Aspart of the lessons, thestudents would liketoreceive postcards from each state. If you have friends or family in other states, ask them to send apostcard ATTN: Regan Tutor,West Feliciana Middle School,9559 BainsRoad,St. Francisville, LA70775.
Market themes
The St. Francisville FarmersMarket is held Thursdays from 9a.m. to 1p.m. Dec. 19 is theChristmas reception. Refreshments will be available as well as achance to shop for last minutegifts and holiday food. Santa will be on hand for photos.
Send news and eventsfor Eastand West Feliciana parishes to extra@theadvocate. com by noon Friday or call (225) 3880731.
THE ST.FRANCISVILLE
DEMOCRAT
THE ST.FRANCISVILLEDEMOCRAT,P.O.Drawer1876, St.Francisville, LA 70775(225) 388-0215
PUBLISHEDEVERY WEDNESDAYUSPSNO. 668-520 Online at www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/news/communities/west_feliciana/
EDITOR
Darlene T. Denstorff extra@theadvocate.com
OFFICE:(225) 388-0215 CELL:(225) 603-1998
COMMUNITY NEWSREPORTER Leila Pitchford extra@theadvocate.com (225) 388-0731
SUBSCRIPTION QUESTIONS R. GRANTLALONDE (225) 388-0625
that fit your
And even thoughwe’ve beenhere the longest, we’rededicated to providingthe
center,isassisted by
for drawings during the Thanksgiving party
EAST ANDWESTFELICIANA COUNCIL ON AGINGACTIVITIES
The schedules for West and East Feliciana Council on Aging facilities areasfollows:
WEST FELICIANA
n 12292 Jackson Road, St. Francisville, (225) 635-6719
n Start time for all activities
is 10 a.m.
FIRST AND THIRD MONDAY: Line dance
FOURTH MONDAY: Religious service
TUESDAYS: Nutritioneducation
WEDNESDAYS: Exercise/yoga
THURSDAYS: Bible study
FRIDAYS: Bingo/movie/excursion
n All people 60 and older in West Feliciana Parishare invited to join.
n Fortransportationtothe center or questions, call (225) 635-6719.
EAST FELICIANA
n 11102 Bank St., Clinton n 3699 La. 10, Jackson
Wednesday, Dec. 4
ARTCLASS: 9a.m.
PORT
Continued from page1G
commission in an August letter that the parish will no longer offer administrative help, space for storing records or funding for administrative expenses.
In September,council memberJustin Metz persuaded his colleagues to put off filling vacancies on the commissionuntiltheysee what the Legislature plans to do with the 2023 request to disband the body
District Attorney Sam D’Aquilla, who represents thePortCommission,later advised the Parish Council to fill the vacanciesfor which it is responsible, and the council considered aresolution at its Nov.12meeting to rescind the action to defer appointments.
D’Aquilla told the members the law is clear,that they “shall” fill the vacancies.
Metzasked D’Aquilla to define“shall,”and thedistrict attorney replied,“S-HA-L-L: it means you must.”
D’Aquilla said he hoped the council would “do the right thing,”and addedhe would file alawsuit to force the issue if the Port Commission wanted it.
Commission member Paul Lambert Jr., who has been on the panel since 2005, asked the council to support the August 2023 move to disband the commission, but member LaurenField urged them to consider the pending applications fora seat on the panel.
The council then voted 3-2 to advertise for applicants for the posts for consideration at its December meeting. John M. Thomp-
EXERCISE CLASS: 9a.m. and 10:45 a.m. LUNCH: 11:30a.m.
Monday, Dec. 9
EXERCISE CLASS: 10:45 a.m. LUNCH,11:30 a.m.
Tuesday, Dec.10 BINGO: 10:30a.m. LUNCH: 11:30a.m.
Transportation Transportation isprovided to East Feliciana Parish residents of anyage for appointments in East Feliciana, West Feliciana andEast Baton Rouge parishes Monday through Friday. Call (225) 6839862 to schedule atransportation appointment.
son, Dwight Pate and Jerry Tanner voted for themotion, while TabBallard and Metz dissented
Three members of the commission,Field, David Jewelland Steven Dunn, then met Thursday but could not takeaction on a proposed agenda because they lacked aquorum.Four of the seven members who attended aSept. 30 meeting did not attend.
The proposed agenda included rescinding the2023 resolution asking the Legislature to disband the commission andconsideringa lawsuit if the Parish Council does not appoint new members in December Jewell said an activecommission could seek funding that would not beavailable to other parish entities. He also said questions about the commission’sauthority to levy taxes apparently were brought up to discourage the council from appointing new members.
“I’m not for taxing the people,” Jewell said, adding that parish voters would not supporta tax proposal anyway “Why bring it up?” Claire Mott, aSt. Francisville resident, suggested the remaining commission members make clear their positiononwhetherthey would get involved in aproposed multibilliondollar computerdatacenterHavard has said is in the parish’snear future. Shesaid that is one reason she has heard for the opposition to reviving the port authority.Unabletomove forward Thursday,the three members said they will wait to see whatactionthe Parish Council takes at its December meeting.
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East Feliciana Council on Aging Director Cyndi McManus,
Silliman student
Silliman students and East FelicianaCouncil on Aging senior line-dance during the COAThanksgiving party.
As the hustle andbustle of the holidayseason approaches, don’t forget about you. Take the time to take careof yourself and achieveyour best health. Dr.Nyirenda and Dr.Richardson at Lane Family Practicecan help you manage chronic health conditions as well as unexpected illnesses and injuries so youcan enjoythe holidayseason. Thebestgiftyoucangiveyourselfisthe giftofgoodhealth!
Jaquelyn Greenup and PeggyPittman visit and eat at Assisi Heights Apartments Thanksgiving luncheon.
PROVIDED PHOTOS
Linda Stevens, Karen Harvey, RosemaryWilliams, Lee Cavalier,James McQuirter,CarolynBelland ChristineGrayload plates at Assisi Heights Apartments Thanksgiving luncheon.
From left,Larry Morgan, Charles Cockerham, Darrell Fourrier and Patricia Fourrier visit and eat at Assisi HeightsApartments luncheon.
The following people were booked into the West Feliciana Parish Detention Center between Nov. 4-24:
NOV. 4
WASHINGTON, JENNIFER: 26; 9857 Street D, St.Francisville; probation violation
DUNCAN, JUSTON: 41;5937 Street A, St. Francisville; entry or remain in places after forbidden, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling
NOV. 6
DAVIS,JAYLON: 26; 5180 Burnett Road, St. Francisville; driving underthe influence, traffic signals-red light, aggravated flight from an officer, reckless operation of avehicle, speeding, fugitive warrant
NOV. 7
VANCEL, CHANDLER: 18; 7935 JonesVaughn Creek Road, St. Francisville; fivecounts mailtheft, switched plates, no registration, no proofof insurance, driver must be licensed
STOKES,PHILLIP: 18; 9Wiggins Lane,Natchez, Mississippi; possession Schedule II, open container
DAVIS,TYRIONNE: 18; 12 Phillip West Road,Natchez, Mississippi; possession Schedule II
DOSS JR., KEITH: 17; 21 Stardust Drive, Natchez,Mississippi;possession Schedule II
NOV. 19
SMITH, MALLORY: 34, 9176 Reech Road, St. Francisville, possession of drug paraphernalia, probation violation
WEST FELICIANA HOSPITAL BOARD OF COMMISSIONERSMONTHLYMEETING Date: October 16, 2024
MEMBERS PRESENT:Melvin Harvey,Jr.,Chairman; Rev.OltonScott Vice-Chairman; Cecile Castello,RN, Secretary; MagruderHazlip; Ernest Ayo, Rev. Craig Dalferes.
MEMBERS ABSENT:RhondaBeauchamp
1) CALL TO ORDER
The regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners of West Feliciana Hospital was called to order by Mr.Harvey at 5:00 p.m.
2) INVOCATION
Rev.Dalferes gavethe invocation.
3) ROLL CALL
Mr.Harvey calledthe roll. 6out of 7commissionerswerepresent, constituting aquorum.
4) PUBLIC COMMENTS
Public Comment forms wereoffered.
5) CONSENTAGENDA (Onevote,all items)
a. Approval of September 24, 2024 Minutes
b. Complaint/Grievance Policy
Ms. Castello explained that therewas some confusiondue to interpretive guidelines demonstrating this is not an employee grievance but apatient grievance.
Amotion was madebyRev.Scott to accept the consent agenda as presented. It was secondedbyMr. Ayo, with all in favorand no abstentions, and passed unanimously
6) OLD BUSINESS
a. LDH Notice of Intent (NOI)
Mr.Chastant explained that the abilityfor ahospitaltouse amobile clinic is in the works with LDH, and the state is waiting to put in the regulations for amobile clinic. The finalregulation is expected to be posted by the end of the month. Onceitcomes out, the hospital will have aclear direction about the possibility of using amobile clinic to serve the school.
b. BoardTraining Requirements—Ethics &Sexual Harassment
Mr.Chastant explained that members of theboard of commissioners have an annual obligation to complete Louisiana State Ethics and Sexual Harassment Education, with adeadline of December 1, 2024. Any member can contactBarbara Dawson forassistance in completing the training.
c. Joint Commission Lab Critical Values Update
Mr.Chastant explained the Joint Commission surveyprocess of the Laboratory and the results. Therewas some follow-up information about how the minor concerns from the Lab survey wereaddressed.
7) NEW BUSINESS
a. Approval of Recommendations to CreatePayroll Budget
Mr.Chastant explained that in the past, aconsultantwould come in and recommend an increase in the payroll. Now with Lisa Delatte, HR Director,the hospital can provide the recommendation. Ms. Delatte explained that the Merit and Market increasesare now divided. The increase would be effectiveNovember 4, 2024. This approval would create the general amount of the raises, and individual increaseswill be determined via criteria including job performance and market factors. Mr.Chastant explained that thereisanincrease due to market factors.
Amotion was madeby Mr.Ayo to approve the Recommendations to Create Payroll Budget as presented. The motion was seconded by
POWELL, NEIL: 34, 9176
Reech Road., St.Francisville, possession of Schedule II narcotics, possession of a firearm while committing or attempting crime, probation violation
ELLIS,CAROL: 37, 11980 Hamilton Drive, St.Francisville, contempt of court
LACOSTE, KYLE: 37, 221
HornsbySt.,Covington, bank fraud, fugitivewarrant
ARCHIBALD,DUSTIN: 36, 9745
MorrisRoad, St.Francisville, three bench warrants
NOV. 21
MCKEEL, DAVON: 30, 8412
LB Hill Road, St.Francisville, probation violation
MYERS,JASON: 50.4218 La. 952, Clinton,contempt of court
NOV. 22
ROBERSON, DEQUINCY: 27, 5496 BlackmoreRoad, St Francisville, illegal possession of stolen firearm, aggravated obstruction of highway of commerce, driving under the influence first offence
GAYLE, JOSHUA: 29, 7Cardinal St., Angola, improper lane usage, Schedule II narcotics
Rotary Club of St.Francisville hearsfromorganic farmer
Communitynewsreport
Amy West, of Westdome Nursery,spoke to the Rotary Clubof St.Francisville on Nov.5
She shared her passionfor healthy foods, which led her and herfamilytogrowing organic foods on alarger scale. Located in Wakefield, Westdome specializes in growing pesticidefree microgreens, baby greens, edible flowers, dried herbs and avarietyoflarger crops, which they distribute to finer restaurants andgrocery stores from Natchez to New Orleans. Thenursery’sproduce canalso be found in area farmersmarkets. Featuringa differentspeaker each week, the RotaryClub of St. Francisvillemeetsfor breakfast every Tuesday (except holidays) from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. at the West Feliciana ParishLibrary, 5114 Burnett Road, St. Francisville. Guestsare welcome.
Rev. Dalferes, with allinfavor,noabstentions, and themotion passed unanimously.
b. Approval of 2024-2025 Operational Budget
Mr.Doescher explained thenew Operational Budget, including building use, new building projects, provider utilization,expansion of services, volumes, purchased services, debts, grant revenue, interest income, net revenue, net expenses, cash flow,the revenue/ expense change in assets, independent service line revenues and expenses, and cash and investments. Mr.Doescher explained that future financial statementscouldinclude contractual allowances for individual service lines to provide net patient revenue.
Mr.Doescher also explained theCapital Budget for items over $5,000.00. This budget includes the capital costs of the Urgent Care, Renovations, and some other special equipment.
Amotion wasmadebyMr. Ayo to approve the 2024-2025 Operational Budget as presented. The motion as presented wasseconded by Fr Dalferes. With allinfavor,the motion passed.
c. Approval of the 2024-2025 Capital Budget
Amotion wasmade by Rev. Scott to approve the2024-2025 Capital Budget as presented. The motion as presented wasseconded by Mr Hazlip. With allinfavor,the motion passed.
d. BoardResolution Renewal –CEO Authority
Mr.Chastant explained that every 3years LDH requires aBoard Resolution withsome of thegrant documents. The document is only applicable to the LDHpiece.
Amotion wasmadebyFr. Dalferestorenew theCEO Authority as presented. The motion wasseconded by Rev. Scott,withall in favor, and the motionpassed.
e. New StoreCredit Application
Mr.Chastant explained that the hospital would like to set up acredit account withOwen’sCleaners in St.Francisville to facilitate the cleaning of theprovider coats. Anew storecredit account requires boardapproval.
Amotion wasmadebyMr. Ayo to approve thenew storecredit application as presented. The motion as presented wasseconded by Fr.Dalferes, with allinfavor,noabstentions, and the motion passed unanimously
f. HSLI GrantApplication
Mr.Chastant explained that theHSLI/LHATrust Funds is offering the hospital aWorkplace Funds for Safety Grant for services and over $6000.00 to assess and implement strategies to combat Workplace Violence. The boardwould need to approve the application forthe grant.
Amotion wasmadebyFr. Dalferestoapprove theHSLI Grant Application. The motion as presented wasseconded by Mr.Hazlip, with allinfavor,noabstentions, and the motion passed unanimously
g. Louisiana Physician Directed Program
Mr.Chastant explained that the stateofLouisiana has aprogram to increase reimbursements for physician servicesfor Medicaidpatients. CMSisasking the statetochange thecurrent program.The stateis attempting to use an Intergovernmental Transfer (IGT)tohelp fund theprogram.The hospital has to certify that it does not have other agreementsthatwould conflictwiththe stateprogram
8) BUILDINGREPORT
a. Construction Projects Started
Mr.Chastant explained that construction has begun across the campus and beyond. Construction has commenced on the new PediatricTherapy Building, the new Urgent CareBuilding, and
WestdomeNurseryspecializes in growing pesticidefree microgreens, babygreens, edible flowers, dried herbs and avariety of larger crops.
andthatmarketingneeds moremoney to explain theprogress and servicesinthe community.Ms. Kathy Terry, Community Champion, explained some of themarketing activities thehospital hasdone.
9) ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
Presented by LeeChastant, CEO Baxter IV Production -The Baxter plant in NorthCove,NorthCarolina whichmanufactures60% of thecountry’ssupplyofIVsolutions, wasseverely damaged during HurricaneHelenedue to flood waters enteringthe plant.The damage wassoextensivethateventhe road to theplant washed out. Twotemporarybridges have beeninstalled, andongoing cleaningupand damage assessmenthas beendone. To alleviate theproblem, Baxter plans to ramp up production at other plantsworldwide andisassistingwithrecommendations on howto continueconservingstock. Baxter hasbeenworking with theFood andDrugAdministration (FDA), Healthand Human Services (HHS), andotherstotry to mitigate theimpact on healthcare providers. As aresult,Baxterhas instituted an allocation-only policy to distribute itscurrent stock. TheWFH team immediately deviseda plan to conserve IV stock andplanned for practices that would extend the allocations received in thefuture. Thehospital will continuetomonitor thesituation to make anyadjustmentsnecessary nottoallow this to effect operations severely.
AirEvac Agreement -Atthe last Alderman meeting, thetownvoted to support thehospital’seffortstomake theAirEvachelicopterservice available to parishcitizens. They voted to contribute $5,000 toward thecost of theagreement,which is equal to thecontribution from theparish.
Ground Breaking PediatricTherapy Building –Friday,October 11th,was thegroundbreaking ceremony for thenew pediatric therapy building. Thebuildingisa projectofPatrick Brumfield, SFRS founder, to be able to expand thetherapyservicesfor pediatricsintotheir ownspace. Patrick’steamnow includespediatric physical, speech andoccupational therapy training. This newstructure is designed specifically for pediatric patients. Patricknoted at thegroundbreaking that havinga team of pediatric therapy specialists in apediatric design is truly unique for many hospitals of anysize, especially for arural hospital. Theconstruction projectwilltake 6to7months to complete, with theopeningexpectedin2025.
10)PERSONNEL REPORT (In boardfolder)
11)FINANCIAL REPORT
Scott Doescher,CFO, gave theupdate/reportonHospital Statistics, Income Statements andBalance Sheets, PhysicianOffices, Physical Therapy,Operating Statements, Emergency MedicalServicesand Hospital Revenues per physician,Cash Investments, aStatement of Income andExpense, Bottom Line andCheck Serviceand Check Register.Healso gave an update on buildingprojectsatthe old hospital.
12)EXECUTIVESESSION—STRATEGIC PLANNING
Ms.Castellomoved for theBoard to move into executive session at 6:27 p.m. for at least 10 minutesfor Strategic Planning.Thiswas secondedbyRev.Scott. All in favor and themotionpassed.
Ms.Castellomovedtoexit theexecutive session at 6:51 p.m. This was secondedbyRev.Scott. All in favor and themotionpassed.
12)ADJOURNMENT
Therebeing no further business to discuss, Rev. Scott made amotion to adjournthe meeting. Themotionwas seconded by Ms.Castello, with all in favor and the meetingadjourned at 6:52 p.m.
