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Central City News • Thursday, April 28, 2011 • Vol. 14, No. 8 • 16 Pages • Circulation 11,000 + on-line worldwide • centralcitynews.us

Watts Tells LoBue: Resign Mayor Blocks Further Review of Legal Services

Councilman Says Attorney Bills Are Public Records, He Won’t Resign

Woody Jenkins

Editor, Central City News

Photo by Woody Jenkins

CENTRAL — Central Mayor Mac Watts has demanded that Councilman Tony LoBue resign as Chairman of the Mayor’s Committee on Legal Services and keep quiet about it. But Councilman LoBue said Monday he has no plan to resign.

Watts said he wanted an “immediate” resignation without “fanfare” or “undue publicity.”

Meanwhile, Watts suspended the activities of the committee and ended for now its efforts to find alternatives to hiring City Attorney Sheri Morris at $175 an hour. Morris’ firms have been paid more than $700,000 for work for the City, school board, and transition district.

Morris says her monthly bills to the City of Central are not public See MAYOR on Page 3

110-METER HIGH HURDLES — Akil Bennett of Central burst out of the starting blocks at the District 5-5A championships. Bennett ran 3rd and qualified for Regionals. Also shown are Catholic’s Jonathan Hoffman and Ken Ward. For more, go to www.centralcitynews.us.

Wildcats Win Gold in District 5-5A Track BATON ROUGE — The newly-revived track and field program at Central High will compete in State Regional Championships this afternoon at the Catholic High track.

Last Wednesday, the Wildcats

began to hit their stride at the District 5-5A Championship Track and Field Meet, winning several District Championships and qualifying 10 athletes for Regionals.

Defending State Champion in

the 100-meter dash, Trevor Sansone of Central, won his second straight District 5-5A crown in the event with a time of 10.74.

Sansone won three Golds —

CENTRAL — At Tuesday night’s City Council meeting, Councilman Louis DeJohn proposed a resolution to waive a conflict of interest of City Attorney Sheri Morris.

According to the resolution, Morris has a conflict of interest because she represents the City of Central in negotiations to select a

contractor to run the City, while an attorney associated with her firm represents the Shaw Group, which is one of the possible bidders.

DeJohn said neither Morris nor the attorney for the Shaw Group had a problem with the conflict of interest and he wanted the Coun-

Mayor Says He Alone Has Power to Decide Which Company Runs City Government Here

meet on May 19 to decide on a contractor. That night, the City Council will receive the committee’s recommendation.

But if the City Council thought they will get to vote on the committee’s recommendation, they are wrong, according to City Attorney Sheri Morris. At Tuesday night’s City Council meeting, Morris said the Council’s only duty will be to approve the city’s budget and not a specific contractor.

Since December, Mayor Watts has contended that he alone has the authority to select the contractor, but he has said he will follow the recommendation of the NineMember Committee which he ap-

See CENTRAL on Page 10

DeJohn Asks Council to Waive Morris’ Conflict of Interest

Morris: Council Won’t Get to Vote on Contract Woody Jenkins

GOOD HUNTING — Kids found 150,000 eggs at Journey Church’s Easter Egg Hunt.

Editor, Central City News

CENTRAL— On Friday, members of Mayor Mac Watts’ Nine-Member Committee will meet to open proposals from the six contractors vying for the $4 million-a-year contract to administer the City of Central.

Committee chairman Wayne Leader said his committee will

See COUNCIL on Page 8

See COUNCIL on Page 6

2 CENTRAL CITY NEWS Thursday, April 28, 2011

CENTRAL CITY NEWS and The Leader • Vol. 14, No. 8

13567 Hooper Road Central, LA 70818

®

No. 283

Post Office Box 1 Greenwell Springs, LA 70739

Phone (225) 261-5055 • FAX 261-5022

Email stories and photos to centralcitynews@hotmail.com Published 2nd and 4th Thursdays, January through July Weekly from 2nd Thursday of August through 4th Thursday of December.

The Leader was founded April 30, 1998, and the Central City News was founded April 21, 2005. They merged May 4, 2006.

The Central City News also publishes the Central Community Directory & Yellow Pages and numerous special editions throughout the year.

Editor & Publisher Business Manager Graphic Artist Business Specialists

Woody Jenkins Candi Lee Terrie Palmer Shara Pollard, Jolice Provost

Member, Southern Newspaper Publishers Association, Louisiana Press Association, and National Newspaper Association

Deadline for news and advertising: 5 p.m. Fridays

CENTRAL HIGH BELLES AND BEAUXS — Seniors Rebecca Conrad and Taylor Padgett were Belles in the Central High School Belles & Beaux Pageant held on Thursday, April 21.

Photo by Yvonne Conrad

Country Living in the City

Attacks on Councilman LoBue Wholly Unjust Lawyer’s Bills to City Are Clearly Public Records Every Person Has Right to Examine Woody Jenkins

Editor, Central City News

CENTRAL — Councilman Tony LoBue has endured a world of unjust and undeserved criticism over the past two weeks, relative to his service as chairman of the Mayor’s Committee on Legal Services.

The criticism is that Councilman LoBue brought to his committee, which was holding its first meeting to look at the city’s legal services, a copy of a public record — the City Attorney’s bills to the City of Central for the period July 2010 to February 2011.

For this great crime, Central Speaks newspaper lashed out at Councilman LoBue in a front-page editorial and the Mayor ordered Councilman LoBue to resign as chairman of the committee.

Councilman LoBue has long ex-

pressed his concern about the mountain of legal bills which City Attorney Sheri Morris has amassed — more than $700,000 from the City, the school board, and transition district — at an unrestricted $175 an hour.

So one wonders why the Mayor appointed him to chair this committee in the first place After the first committee meeting, where Councilman LoBue actually did his job by looking at the bills of the City Attorney, all heck broke out.

It’s ironic, since the Committee on Legal Services was appointed by the Mayor to make recommendations on what direction the city should take on hiring legal services.

It would seem axiomatic that the committee would look at the legal bills the City is in currently being required to pay, if it is to have any recommendations on the subject.

Public Records vs. Secrecy The City Attorney has been trying for months to keep her billing records secret and out of public view. On two occasions, the City Council has met and voted to require her to release her billing records to the public.

Now the Mayor and the City Attorney’s allies are on a rampage that Councilman LoBue brought these

records for the committee to view.

LoBue Not the Problem The real problem here is not Councilman LoBue’s actions, which were completely honorable and legal, but the attempts by some in city government to keep public documents secret and thereby violate Louisiana’s Woody Jenkins Public Records Act. Here are the key issues: • Constitutional Right at Stake The right of Louisiana citizens to view public records is a constitutional right spelled out in the Louisiana Constitution. It was my privilege to have authored that provision of the constitution when I was a delegate to the state Constitutional Convention.

It reads as follows: Louisiana Constitution of 1974 — Art. XII, Section 3 — Right to Direct Participation in Government

“No person shall be denied the right to observe the deliberation of public bodies and examine public documents, except in cases established by law.”

By reading this provision, one understands that every person has the right to examine all public documents — except in cases specifically established by law. Laws have to be passed by the legislature.

• Attorney Bills Are Not an Exception to Public Records Act

Remember: Central’s Businesses Vote with Their Ad Dollars on What Newspaper They Want to Represent the Central Community

In Louisiana, the Public Records Act lists all the exceptions referred in the Constitution, and it clearly states that no other exceptions exist.

A broad “attorney-client privilege” is not an exception listed in the Louisiana’s Public Records Act. The only “exception” to the Public Records Act relative to attorneys is found in La. R.S. 44:4.1 as follows:

“The provisions of this Chapter shall not apply to any writings, records, or other accounts that reflect the mental impressions, conclusions, opinions, or theories of an attorney or an expert, obtained or prepared in anticipation of litigation or in preparation for trial.”

Thus, legal opinions are an exception to the Public Records Act but legal bills are not.

In the past, Ms. Morris’ bills have never contained her “mental impressions, conclusions, opinions, or theories.” And we can’t imagine why a monthly legal bill would include such information. If they do, then she should stop putting her legal opinions in her bills to the city!

• Public Records Are Supposed to Be Available Immediately The Public Records Act provides that public records shall be available at all times during business hours or within three days at most. The law gives citizens the right to examine existing original public documents.

The public body doesn’t have to make copies of the records unless the person requesting them pays for the copies.

When Mr. Mike Mannino requested to examine Ms. Morris’ legal bills last year, she developed an elaborate and quite bizarre system for preventing access to the records. Instead of following the law and allowing Mr. Mannino’s to walk into City Hall, pulling the bills out of the file drawer, and letting him see them, she created a system that would bring smiles to a federal bureaucrat.

Ms. Morris required that each of the 700 pages of her bills be copied at See LOBUE on Page 16

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Mayor Shuts Down Legal Services Review

that would do their best to report on the facts.

Because this committee is a direct arm from the city council and the mayor, one could come to the conclusion that there would be trust in their judgment. In order to thoroughly evaluate the facts and reach an effective solution, it was necessary for the committee to have access to all of the records. All of these committee members are upstanding citizens who take pride in the community and are always ready to help out and participate in community activities. And, since they were selected by the mayor and other councilmen, I did not see a problem with them having all of the facts before them. How can you expect to get a comprehensive study done without providing the facts?

At the closing of the meeting, Dave Freneaux (Central Speaks) wanted the exact copies of the legal bills that were passed out to the committee. I was concerned about his motives and realized the controversy that was about to erupt. So I asked that all copies be returned to me. All copies were in my possession within five hours from the meeting. With the continuing rhetoric from Central Speaks, I write you because I wanted you to know that my true intent was to come up with recommendations that would help the City of Central. Through prayer and listening to the citizens, I decided not to step down from the committee. If the mayor chooses to dismantle the committee, then that will be his choice, not mine.

The mission statement for the Attorney Study Committee is the following: “To explore methods to provide legal services to the City of Central in the most cost efficient and effective manner, with the goal of uniformly serving and protecting the present and future needs of the Citizens of Central.”

On examining the legal bills from this year, I found that Public Records Requests made up approximately 33 percent of the legal bills.

As chairman, I wanted this group to review the facts and come up with guidelines that would assist us in this area. We as a city must come up with procedures that do not allow attorney client privileges to hinder the public’s right to view the public records. It seems to me that anything that has to do with government should be open to the press and the public.

I appreciate your continued support and ask that you would come to the meeting Tuesday, April 26th.

Sincerely, Tony LoBue

Continued from Page 1

records and should be redacted to blacken out all details of what she does for the City.

The Mayor’s Committee on Legal Services was established by Watts to investigate and make recommendations with regard to how the City of Central procures legal services.

LoBue had been critical of the large sums paid by the city for legal services. The City has already exceeded its annual budget for legal services. LoBue has said Central should consider hiring a fulltime attorney for an annual salary or retainer, instead of paying $175 an hour. He has said there are few constraints on the hours charged

by Morris, and he has complained about the continued effort by the City to keep Morris’ bills secret.

Watts appointed LoBue to chair the committee but then called for his resignation as Chairman after the committee’s first meeting.

Watts criticized LoBue for distributing copies of Morris’ legal bills to committee members for review. Watts said the bills should have been redacted or edited, but LoBue contends legal bills to the city are public records. On Monday, Dr. LoBue issued this statement: Dear Citizens of Central,

I did not volunteer to be the chairman of the Attorney Study Committee. I was asked by the Mayor to fill that position. At first, I was reluctant but, the more I thought about it, I realized that when people have the chance to study a subject through actual facts, then better decisions can come about. Even though I did not pick this committee, I truly believe that it is made up of a good mixture

DeJohn to Watts: LoBue Should ‘Suffer the Consequences’ Woody Jenkins

Editor, Central City News

CENTRAL — In a letter to Central Mayor Mac Watts, Central City Councilman Louis DeJohn said Watts should make Councilman Tony LoBue “suffer the consequences” for having brought copies of City Attorney Sheri Morris’ monthly legal bills to the Mayor’s Committee on Legal Services, which LoBue chairs.

LoBue says the Mayor appointed the committee to recommend changes in the City’s system of providing legal services and he does not see how that would be possible without examining the existing bills from vendors.

The City of Central has far exceeded the current year’s City Budget for legal services.

Vendor’s bills sent to governmental bodies are public records in Louisiana, but City Attorney Sheri Morris has insisted on “redacting,” or blackening out, virtually all of her bills in response to Public Records Requests.

Last August, Mayor Watts appointed local attorney Steven Stockstill to review Morris unredacted bills.

Stockstill reported to the City Council on Aug. 24, 2010, that Morris has no basis for redacting the bills and that they should be provided immediately when a Public Records Request is made.

But DeJohn said LoBue has “gone to a new level of arrogance” by allowing committee members to view the bills, and he urged the Mayor to “take immediate action.”

Providing copies of Morris’ monthly legal bills to members of the Mayor’s Committee on Legal Services has “crossed the lines” and is either “intentional” or “an

ignorant mistake,” DeJohn said. In either case, it is “a grave act of indiscretion” and “has put our city in jeopardy,” he said.

DeJohn told Watts that he should “either disband this committee or remove Tony LoBue from the group.” DeJohn said LoBue’s action could “unravel all of the good work so many have accomplished.”

DeJohn said, “I will not let this LIE OR DIE” in all capital letters.

The Central City News obtained DeJohn’s letter from a third party.

To read DeJohn’s letter, visit centralcitynews.us or go to http:// centralcitynews.us/?p=1138.

Want More News about Central?

Go to www.centralcitynews.us

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CENTRAL — Three public officials were honored for their lifetimes of service to the Central community during the Central Business Awards ceremonies at Elegant Memories. The Central Lifetime Service Awards were presented to

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St. Alphonsus Hunt Captures Easter Spirit

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Journey Church Easter Egg Hunt • April 23, 2011

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Gift Certificates Available Walkins Welcome Next door to Menchie’s Mon.-Sat. • 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

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Kay Rawls Honored as Top Bowler, Scholar Central High Sparkplug Signs with Louisiana Tech

Photo by Terrie Palmer

Central High School’s Kay Rawls will continue her bowling career at Louisiana Tech University. She signed her letter of intent with the Bulldogs last Thursday.

Kay is a four-time member of the All-District First Team, District MVP in 2010, and the State Champion in 2010. She has scores in LHSAA matches of 736 series and 289 game.

Kay was a State Individual Finalist in 2011. She has served as captain of the Central High girls team for four years and was chosen as Baton Rouge ESPN Radio Girls Athlete of the Week. She has earned a 4.3 GPA and is a four-year Central High Overall Academic Excellence award recipient. Kay received the Academic Excellence award in ROTC, Chemistry, English II, and Spanish II. Shown are (left to right) Debra Martin, Phil Godley, Kay Rawls, Tuleigha Rawls, and Dee Smith.

Chet Myer Signs Baseball Scholarship

CHET MYER SIGNS WITH HINDS — Central High’s Chet Myer, a pitcher and outfielder, has signed with Hinds Community College in Jackson, Miss. Myer is a two-time All-District selection as a utility player. Pictured are (1st row, left to right) Edie Myer, Chet Myer, and Austin Myer and (2nd row) Hinds head coach Sam Temple, Central coach Chris Mire, and Hinds assistant coach Dan Rives.

Come enjoy the fun.

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Field Day at St. Alphonsus Catholic School

CENTRAL — St. Alphonsus took advantage of the beautiful weather on Friday, March 25, to hold their annual Field Day. After the flag presentation, an Olympic torch was brought in by Central’s own Todd McClure. The students participated in Olympic Games-style events including the 50-yard dash, wheelbarrow race, free throw shooting, broad

jump, bean bag toss, tug-o-war, ring toss, sack hop, and softball toss. The top three participants in each event received an award, and all children received participation ribbons. A total of 208 received at least one topthree ribbon. St. Alphonsus students and staff send a thank you to all of the parent volunteers who helped make this event such a success.

Continued from Page 1

pointed. The contract is currently held by CH2MHILL. At Tuesday night’s City Council meeting, Councilman Tony LoBue cited an Attorney General’s opinion that he said prohibits the Mayor from obligating city funds without the Council’s approval.

The Lawrason Act, which governs Louisiana municipalities such as Central, says City Council approval is required in order for a city to “incur debt.”

Watts appointed a 21-member committee to review the City Services contract held by CH2MHILL,

sent out a Request for Proposals, and appointed a Nine-Member Committee to select a vendor, all without seeking approval from the City Council. One Councilman said, “The Lawrason Act gives the Mayor the authority to ‘sign contracts’ but this contract and this Request for Proposals have never been approved by the Mayor. When the Council is asked to fund this contract, I am not sure the Mayor will be able to get a majority of the Council to support it.”

One Councilman said he will be “shocked” if Watts doesn’t select CH2MHILL.

Saturday, May 21 Central High Class of 1976 7 to 11 p.m.

The Central High Class of 1976 35th Class Reunion at Courtland’s Catering, 10565 Florida Blvd. Gourmet buffet, 70’s theme and memorabilia, cash bar, and oldies and new music. Dressy casual. $25 per per-

son at the door. RSVP by Saturday, May 7 by visiting www.centralwildcats.myevent.com. Denice Guillory Thomas at chsreunion@cox.net.

Saturday, May 28 Central High Class of 1966 6 p.m.

The Central High Class of 1966 reunion at Sammy’s, 14800 Wax Rd.

Council Left Out of Process

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ST. ALPHONSUS FIELD DAY — Enjoying an outing at St. Alphonsus were Casey McLean, Payton Lee, NFL star Todd McClure, Shae Frugé, and Brooke DeMonlin.

Upcoming Local Class Reunions

CENTRAL CITY NEWS Thursday, April 28, 2011 7

Photos by Shara Pollard

Frugé Realty Holds Grand Opening on Hooper

GRAND OPENING OF FRUGE REALTY — (Left) Jennifer Tucker, Clarence Frugé, Desi Pomeroy, and Dana Gafford. (Right) Penny Frugé, Clarence Frugé, Dana Gafford, and Desi Pomeroy.

Photos by Jolice Provost

Central Buffet Opens at The Quarter at Sullivan and Wax

Committee Recommends 7-Member City Council GRAND OPENING OF CENTRAL BUFFET — Staff includes Weng, Charles, Hui, Gui, Chet, Sheng, Saral, Nichol, Leo, Tony, Jim, Ricky, Rainbow, Xia, Ana, and Chen.

Woody Jenkins

Editor, Central City News

CENTRAL — The Mayor’s Committee on Term Limits and Council Districts last Sunday voted to recommend term limits for Central’s city officials and a new seven-member City Council with five members elected from single-member districts and two Councilmen elected at-large.

Committee chairman Wayne Messina said the committee’s recommendations will be sent to the City Council. He hopes the Council will be able to put the plan before Central voters in the fall.

The committee’s plan would provide term limits of three four-year terms for the Mayor and Police Chief and two four-year terms for the City Council. Term limits would begin with newly-elected officials who take office in July 2014 and be prospective in their application. Years of service by current city officials would not count toward the limits.

The committee debated the question of the size of the next City Council and how members of that body would be elected. They considered

five possibilities:

• A five-member City Council, elected at-large citywide, which is current law • A five-member City Council, elected by divisions, which would be designated seats, each elected citywide, with a Division A, B, C, D, and E • A five-member City Council elected from five single-member districts • A seven-member City Council elected from seven single-member districts, and • A seven-member City Council, with five members elected from single-member districts and two members elected at-large citywide.

Russell Starns told the committee the best option was a five-member City Council elected from singlemember districts. However, most committee members disagreed.

In the end, four of the seven committee members — Jr. Shelton, Charles Lee Hinton, Angela Summerville, and Vince Dileo — supported a seven-member Council with five elected from districts and two atlarge. Two committee members — Joan Lansing and Mike Mannino — supported a seven-member Council with all elected from single-member districts. Only one committee member — Brian Fife — supported a fivemember Council with all five elected

from single-member districts. No one on the committee favored the current five-member at-large Council or the idea of electing a five-member Council by divisions.

One criticism of the current fivemember Council is that it is too small to have a functioning committee system.

See 7-MEMBER on Page 14

8 CENTRAL CITY NEWS Thursday, April 28, 2011

Photos by Shara Pollard

Major Improvements at David’s Mobil

. Obituaries , Myrtis V. Gatlin Westbrook; and eight brothers and sisters. Visitation was at Rabenhorst Funeral Home East Chapel on Tuesday. Services were conducted by Rev. Dale Phillips. Many, many thanks to the caring nurses and staff at St. Claire Manor and the Carpenter House for their compassionate care of this beloved man.

Till we meet again, you were loved, rest in peace with your Lord and loved ones.

Jerry Lee Kemp

Webster Owen “Red” Westbrook

Webster Owen “Red” Westbrook

A resident of Baton Rouge and a native of Smithdale, Miss., he left his earthly body into the arms of his Lord and to reunite with his beloved wife, Shirley, on Sunday, April 10, 2011. He was 95 and retired from his business, Westbrook’s Body Shop, and was an avid gardener.

He loved growing all kinds of vegetables and sharing with others. He is survived by a daughter, Mary Joyce Davis, and her husband, Hilton J. Davis, Sr. of Central; two granddaughters and their husbands, Lisa and Mike Bates and Brenda and Carlton LeGrange; and a grandson and his wife, James and Milissia Davis. He was a grandfather to three, great-grandfather to 11, and great-great-grandfather to six. He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley D. Westbrook; infant daughter, Sheilia Westbrook; grandson, Adam Bates; parents, Webster and

Jerry Lee Kemp of Greenwell Springs passed away Saturday, April 16, 2011, at age 47. Born in Charleston, W.V., he served in the U.S.M.C. with honorable discharge after being wounded in Lebanon.

A master carpenter and contractor, he enjoyed teaching others the skills of his craft.

He was a strong man who will be missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his loving and Jerry Kemp devoted wife, Karen Crooks Kemp; beloved son, Jason Gary Kemp; children, Jessica Temple and Trey Richey, all of Greenwell Springs; loving mother, Paulette Poole of Chapel Hill, Tenn.; many in-laws; and nieces and nephews, all of the Baton Rouge area.

A private viewing was held and a Veteran’s memorial service will be held at a later date at the Port Hudson Veterans Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated at Hancock Bank for Karen Kemp. Lord, thank you for sharing him with us.

MAJOR RENOVATIONS — James and Jeannie David started a convenience store and deli on Terrace Street in Baton Rouge 30 years ago and took over Tiger Express at the corner of Hooper and Joor in 1997. Now they’ve beautifully remodeled and expanded David’s Tiger Express and their Dairy Queen. Everything is now complete. Shown above: Craig David. At right, James and Jeannie David being inducted into Central Business Hall of Fame by Dr. David Walker.

Council Refuses to OK Conflict Continued from Page 1

cil to go on record as ratifying the conflict. But Councilmen Tony LoBue, Wayne Messina, and Ralph Washington wanted nothing to do with the resolution.

Messina said the Mayor has been the one moving forward with the Requests for Proposals, and he would have to be the one to ratify the conflict of interest, not the City Council. Privately, after the meeting, one Councilman said, “The Mayor is doing everything in his

power to keep the Council from having a voice in the selection of a new City Contractor. Then suddenly he wants us to ratify the City Attorney’s conflict of interest.”

During the Council meeting, Central resident Mike Mannino said the problem will not be with the City or the Shaw Group but with another contractor who objected to the conflict of interest.

“You are opening up the City to possible litigation,” he said.

DeJohn withdrew the resolution.

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CENTRAL CITY NEWS Thursday, April 28, 2011 9

St. Alphonsus Priest: 40 Years of Faithful Service

Fr. Mike Moroney: A Lifetime of Journeys Vicki Whittington

Special to Central City News

CENTRAL — When Fr. Mike was only 21 years of age, he entered seminary knowing he probably would not serve in his beloved Ireland.

A group of bishops from the United States, including Fr. Stanley Ott, who was then the chancellor of the Baton Rouge Diocese, traveled there to recruit young men to relocate to the United States, where the shortage of priests was already anticipated.

Msgr. Borders, vocations director for the diocese and Msgr. Gillespie, V.G., were part of the group of clergy recruiting young men for the priesthood.

Bishop Tracy, the first bishop for the Diocese of Baton Rouge, impressed Fr. Mike with his excitement and enthusiasm for the Vatican Council.

It was his contagious spirit of excitement that hooked Fr. Mike and played a deciding factor in his coming to Louisiana. After coming here, Louisiana’s friendly people, good food, and love of celebration were a constant reminder of Ireland for the new priest.

Fr. Mike and his mother wrote to each other every Tuesday. In those days, it took three weeks for each to receive the other’s letter. News from home and family was precious. So it took diligence and discipline to write those long letters.

Fr. Mike’s journey has taken him to many places in South Louisiana.

He began his spiritual journey as parochial vicar and administrator at St.

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Mary’s Parish in New Roads where he was very involved in Catholic of Pointe Coupee Schools.

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where he was assistant pastor.

While at St. Charles during the late 1970’s, he was very involved at Redemptorist High School.

He was campus co-chaplain for 12 years, guidance counselor, and part of the team that implemented the retreat program for students that is still a viable part of the school today. Students and faculty return from this event with a new fervor for God, family, and life. Then he moved on to St. Thomas More.

Fr. Mike has twice been assigned to St. Alphonsus and says the second assignment was like “coming back home.”

He recalled those he had known in the past when he performed weddings, baptized infants, and interacted with many still living here.

Fr. Mike is comfortable around our young folks. When asked what was so unique about working with these impressionable young men and women, his response was, “The reward is the potential to make a difference in their lives.”

Fr. Mike said he didn’t think he’d

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made a difference in the lives of young people until years later when they returned to tell him of the positive impact he’d had on them.

He believes small things can make a big difference in their lives, and that we should never underestimate the importance of time spent with them nor the effect our presence has on them.

He says one small comment, a private conversation, or just a gentle gesture may make a positive difference in the life of someone who otherwise would stray from the straight and narrow path.

Since coming to St. Alphonsus, Fr. Mike has quickly put his finger on the pulse of what makes our parish unique.

We have the largest congregation in all 32 churches in Central. Gifts and talents abound in our Catholic family. There is never a lack of participation in our festivals, auctions, ministries, or liturgies.

We are part of a growing community that is exciting, and as the community flourishes, so does St. Alphonsus.

As the community continues to grow, greater challenges will face us, but together with the generosity of time and talent, we will triumph.

Fr. Mike praises the founders of St. Alphonsus for their vision in establishing a Catholic presence in this community. He is certain they are smiling upon us from up above.

In the Central community, we have been offered an unlimited potential for growth beyond the boundaries of St. Alphonsus Parish.

The annual Ecumenical Prayer Service is but one example of building the community on many levels. Attendance at this event ties our entire Central community together.

Life is a cycle, a journey.

Fr. Mike has devoted much of his journey to us in Central.

We are greatly blessed that his journey continues here.

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10 CENTRAL CITY NEWS Thursday, April 28, 2011

Sansone Wins Three 1st Places, Triplett Pushes in 200

Central Track Wins Gold at District 5-5A

DISTRICT 5-5A 200-METER FINALS — Central’s Trevor Sansone repeated as District 5-5A champion in the 200-meter dash but was pushed by Central freshman Gary Triplett, who came in 2nd. Both Sansone and Triplett qualified for Regional championships today.

SHOT PUT — Former Central High football star Taylor Jenkins was 5th in shot put.

Continued from Page 1

the 100-meter dash, the 200-meter dash, which he won at 22.06, and the 4x100-meter relay, which Sansone ran with James Richardson, Lamonte Juneau, and Gray Triplett for a time of 42.77. This relay team could be a serious threat at the Regional Championship.

Central won 3rd Place in the 4x200 relay in a dogfight with

4x100 RELAY CHAMPIONS — Trevor Sansone, Lamonte Juneau, J.R. Richardson, and Gary Triplett won the District 5-5A championship in the 4x100-meter relay. They finished with a time of 42.77. At right, Gregg Morris ran the 1,600 meters. He was 7th.

Catholic and Zachary. Catholic ry was 2nd with 2:28.57, and Cen- ly a whisker separating the three. won with a time of 2:28.22, Zacha- tral was third with 2:28.85 — hard- In the 200, Sansone — the Cen-

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State Regionals This Afternoon at Catholic Continued from Page 10

tral Flyer — had his hands full with freshman star Gary Triplett, also of Central. The pair finished 1-2 in the district. Triplett ran the 200 in 22.27, just bit behind Sansone.

Another bright spot for the Wildcats was the performance of Akil Bennett. Bennett won 1st place in the long jump with a leap of 22-4-1/4 inches — the best jump in the state this year. Bennett distinguished himself in the 110-meter hurdles, winning 3rd place with a time of 16.35. He was 4th in the triple jump with 41-2.

Central’s Thomas Woodard was 2nd in the high jump at 5-11. John Davis won 4th Place in the shot put with a throw of 43-10-3/4ths.

Blake Welborn won 3rd place in discus with a throw of 130-9.

Craig Jones was 4th in long jump at 20-10.5.

The Wildcats’ Brittany Starkey was the lone member of the girls track team to quality for the Regionals. She was 4th in the javelin at 101-05.

Coach Brad Cook said he feels this new Central team is making real progress.

For more photos from the district meet, go to www.centralcitynews.us.

Results from the district meet were (regional qualifiers in bold):

District 5-5A Championships Central Girls Track Team 100 Meters — 9. Brittany Johnson,

District 5-5A Track District Championship

Wednesday, April 20, 2011 Catholic High Track Photos by Woody Jenkins To see more photos, go to www.centralcitynews.us

START OF THE 100-MEET DASH — Central’s Trevor Sansone kept his head low at the start of the 100-meter dash and repeated as District Champion with a time of 10.74. He is defending his State Championship in the event. J. R. Richardson finished in 5th place.

13.39; 13. Meghan Saia, 14.12 200-meter dash — 12. Brittany Johnson, 29.55 1,600 meters — 10. Bobbie Broome, 6:42.61 100-meter hurdles — 8. Hailey Cothern, 20:41; 9. Kim Scott, 20.45 300-meter hurdles — 11. Kim Scott, 57.24 4x100 — 6. Central (Meghan Saia, Brittany Johnson, Hailey Cothern, and Kim Scott), 55.58 4x200 — 7. Central (same runners) 1:56.64 Discus — 14. Taylor Busbin, 59-05 Javelin — 4. Brittany Starkey, 10105 Central Boys Track Team 100-meter dash — 1. Trevor Sansone, 10.74; 5. James Richardson, 11.24.

Stadium record: 10.3 200-meter dash — 1. Trevor Sansone, 22.06; 2. Gary Triplett, 22.27.

Stadium record: 21.0 400-meter dash — 9. Jonathan Thibodeaux, 53.31 800-meter run — 14. Lorenzo Winding, 2:27.39 1,600 meters — 7. Gregg Morris, 5:00.63; 15. Dain Perrault 6:18.7

110-meter hurdles — 3. Akil Bennett, 16.35 300-meter hurdles — 5. Akil Bennett, 42.10; 12. Seth Thibodeaux, 46.2 4x100 — 1. Central (Sansone, Lamonte Juneau, Gary Triplett, and J.R. Richardson), 42.77. Stadium record: 41.4 4x200 — 3. Central (Sansone, Richardson, Triplett, and Leroy Williams), 1:28.85. Stadium record: 1:26.4 4x400 — 6. Central, 3:49.13 High jump — 2. Thomas Woodard, 5-11 Long jump — 1. Akil Bennett, 2204.75; 4. Craig Jones, 20-10.5. Stadium record: 23-10.75 Triple jump — 4. Akil Bennett, 4102 Shot put — 4. John Davis, 4310.75; 5. Taylor Jenkins, 42-07.75 Discus — 3. Blake Welborn, 13009; 6. Alex Frank, 119-10 Javelin — 6. Austin Estave, 135-11;

4x100 RELAY CHAMPS — Trevor Sansone takes the baton from J. R. Richardson

7. Joey Jarreau, 135-04 Overall Team Results: Central Girls, 8th; Boys, 3rd

100-METER DASH — Central’s Meghan Saia (far left) and Brittany Johnson (far right) competed in the 100-meter dash at the District 5-5A Championship last Wednesday.

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12 CENTRAL CITY NEWS Thursday, April 28, 2011

Milestones Births • Engagements • Weddings • Deaths Anniversaries • Reunions

WOMMACK, HINSON

Lauren Wommack and Connor Hinson will exchange vows in a private ceremony on Saturday, May 28.

POURCIAU, TAYLOR

Jessica Pourciau and Brad Taylor will marry Saturday, June 11 at Zoar Baptist Church in Central.

Photos by Jolice Provost

Secretary of State, New Judge Visit GOP Ladies of Central

REPUBLICAN WOMEN OF CENTRAL — (Left photo, left to right) Maudell Hill, Ginger Moak, Tommie Morden, Secretary of State Thomas J. Schedler, Juanita Anderson, Metro Councilman Mike Walker, Tracy Barnes, Betsy Barnes, and Pam Templet. (Right photo) newly-elected Judge Charlene Charlet Day.

Lauren Wommack, Connor Hinson To Exchange Wedding Vows May 28

Saturday, May 28, 2011.

The bride-elect is the daughter of Larry and Babette Wommack of Central. She is the granddaughter of Marilyn and Gene Robinson of Granbury, Texas and Josephine Wommack of Hurst, Texas.

Lauren is a graduate of Central Private School and a graduate of Southeastern University with a bachelor’s in early childhood education. She is teaching second grade at Seventh Ward Elementary in Denham Springs.

Her fiancé is the son of Don and Becky Hinson of Denham Springs.

He is the grandson of Howell and Annette McManus, the late Clara McManus, and Edgar and Billie Fae Hinson, all of Natchez, Miss.

Andrew is a graduate of Denham Springs High School and will graduate from Louisiana State Connor Hinson and Lauren Wommack University with a bachelor’s in CENTRAL — Lauren Wommack mechanical engineering. He is of Central and Connor Hinson of employed with Coastal Machinery Denham Springs will marry on LLC in Baton Rouge.

Brad Keith Taylor of Baton Rouge will marry Saturday, June 11, 2011, at 6 p.m. at Zoar Baptist Church.

The bride-elect is the daughter of Craig and Terri Pourciau. She is the granddaughter of LH and Trecia Pourciau of Greenwell Springs and Leroy and Joyce LeCoq of Baton Rouge.

Jessica is a 2005 graduate of Central High School and a 2009 graduate of Louisiana State University with a bachelor’s degree in family, child, and consumer sciences. She will graduate from Louisiana State University in May of 2011 with her master’s degree in social work.

Her fiancé is the son of Danny and LaMarylis Taylor. He is the grandson of Beatrice Waggenspack of Darrow and the late Francis Waggenspack and the late DaJessica Pourciau and Brad Taylor vid and Joyce Taylor of Gillsburg, Miss.

Brad is a 2004 graduate of Central Private School and a 2009 graduate of Louisiana State University with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a minor in construction management. He is CENTRAL — Jessica Lynn Pour- employed with Taylor Carpentry ciau of Greenwell Springs and and Construction.

Pourciau, Taylor to To Marry June 11 at Zoar Baptist Church

Avery Grace Fryer

Dax and Ginger (Stevens) Fryer of Deerfield Beach, Fla. are proud to announce the birth of their first child, Avery Grace.

Avery was born Oct. 25, 2010, at 8:32 p.m. at West Boca Medical Center in Boca Raton, Fla. She weighed six pounds, 10 ounces, and was 19 inches long.

Proud grandparents are Babs Stevens and the late Arthur Lee “Butch” Stevens of Greenwell Springs and Bill and Dianne Fryer of Bay St. Louis, Miss. Great-grandparents are the late James C. and Ethel Stevens of Baton Rouge, the late Herman and Shirley Lively of Greenwell Springs, Rose Fryer and the late William L. Fryer, Sr. of Diamondhead, Miss. and the late Elus E. and Estelle Depreo of Kiln, Miss.

CENTRAL CITY NEWS Thursday, April 28, 2011 13

Photos submitted by Jane Culpepper

Ladies of Istrouma High School Class of 1960

ISTROUMA CLASS OF 1960 — The ladies of the Class of 1960 had their monthly luncheon at Sammy’s Grill in Central on April 16. In attendance were (left photo) Linda Starnes McLaurin and Patsy Smith Wales, (2nd photo) June Wilson Pizzalato, (3rd photo) Jane Hinman Culpepper and Margaret Barousse Drummond, and (4th photo) Gail Melancon Deshotel and Babette Forbes Schexnaider.

Deklan Kole Hammons

Mylee Elizabeth Wright

Stephen and Kayla Verbois Hammons are proud to announce the birth of their baby boy, Deklan Kole. He was welcomed home by big brother, Brandon.

Deklan was born Jan. 27, 2011, at 8:14 a.m. He weighed eight pounds, 14 ounces, and was 20 inches long.

Proud grandparents are Michael and Gayle Hammons of Pollock and Jill Whittington of Central; great-grandparents are Doris Bryant of Pollock, John Hammons of Monroe, and Alvin and Wanda Whittington of Central; and great-great-grandmother is Mae Chemin of Central.

Howard and Jessica Burkett Wright are proud to announce the birth of their daughter, Mylee Elizabeth. She was welcomed home by her big sister, Camille Elise Wright.

Mylee was born Jan. 12, 2011, at Woman’s Hospital. She weighed eight pounds, two ounces, and was 21.5 inches long.

Proud grandparents are Julius and Donna Burkett of Central and David and Beth Burkette and the late Howard George Wright, II, all of Denham Springs.

Central High Class of 1971 • 40th Class Reunion

Kaysen Reese Dixon

Saturday, May 14 • 7 to 11 p.m. • Forrest Grove Plantation

Joey and Kamryn (Brown) Dixon are proud to announce the birth of their baby girl, Kaysen Reese.

Kaysen was born at Woman’s Hospital on Friday, Feb. 11, 2011, at 6:20 p.m. She weighed seven pounds, six ounces, and was 21 inches long.

Proud grandparents are John Brown of Montpelier, Carl and Kim Brown Singletary of Gonzales, and Joe and Denise Dixon of Central.

Contact Rosalie Kelly Milner at 262-2588 or rosaliewildcatkelly71@gmail.com

Brady Greer Ingram

Evan and Courtney Hailey Ingram are proud to announce the birth of their son, Brady Greer. He was welcomed home by big brother Aaden. Brady was born Nov. 12, 2010, at Lane Regional Medical Center. He weighed eight pounds, 2.2 ounces, and was 20-3/4 inches long.

Proud grandparents are Johnny and Lisa Hailey and David and Charlotte Ingram. Great-grandparents are Wyatt and Brenda Fisher, Ed and Catherine Ingram, Buster and Doris Hailey, and Henry and Jerry Nettles. Great-great-grandmother is Genevieve Hailey.

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Central’s Got Talent Auditions Saturday CENTRAL — Events coming up in and around Central: Thursday, April 28 Babysitter Training 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Lane Regional Medical Center will hold a Safe Sitter® babysitter training class. The program is offered to girls and boys ages 11 to 13. Participants learn the fundamentals of quality child care and how to handle crises, nurture and guide a young child, and keep children safe while parents are away. Registration is required. Cost is $20. For information or to register, call 654-5263.

Friday, April 29 Blood Drive • 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

United Blood Services will hold a blood drive at Lane Regional Medical Center. The blood drive is open to the public and registration is not required. Sign up online at www. bloodhero.com, sponsor code: LaneRegional.

Saturday, April 30 Central’s Got Talent Auditions 7:30 a.m. to 12 noon Can you sing or dance? Or maybe you’re magical? If you can do this or more, come out and audition for the 2nd Annual Central’s Got Talent.

Auditions will be held at St. Alphonsus Church. Fee is $10 for individual auditions and $20 for groups of three or more. Visit www.st-alphonsus.net for contest rules.

April 30, May 14 and 28 Central Area Horse Show • 10 a.m.

The Central Area Horse Show, sponsored by the Deep South Stock Horse Show Association, will be held at the Shady Park Arena on Greenwell Springs Road. Judged and timed events in four age groups. Beginners welcome. For info, www.dsshsa.org.

April 30 and May 1 St. Vincent de Paul Pick-up A St. Vincent de Paul truck will

7U COACHES PITCH CHAMPIONS — The Central Tigers 7U Coaches Pitch baseball team went undefeated to win the CAYL Pre-season Tournament for the D Minor Select Division. Pictured are (1st row, left to right) Jeffrey Swearingen, Ethan LeSage, Taylor Walters, Jimmie Johnson, and Rylen Walker, (2nd row) Dalton Wilson, Tanner Roberts, Luke Cowart, Easton Lonibos, and Luke Ydarraga, and (3rd row) coaches Mark Roberts, Earl Paul LeSage, Dwayne Wilson, and head coach Ronnie Walters.

be parked at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church to collect clothes, household items, and small appliances for the St. Vincent de Paul in the Central area.

Sunday, May 1 Senior Athletic Convocation 7 p.m.

Central High School will hold its Senior Athletic Convocation at Immanuel Baptist, 10870 Lovett Road.

May 2 and 3 9th Grade Academy Meeting for Parents & Students • 6 p.m.

Central High School invites you to an informational meeting to be held in the gym for the school year 20112012. The meeting will inform par-

ents and students about a “new team concept” for 9th graders and to give parents an opportunity to participate with their child in course selections.

Any students who are not currently enrolled in the Central Community School System will receive a registration packet at the meeting. For information, email Beth Miller, assistant principal, at mmiller@centralcss.org.

May 3 through 19 Computer Classes • 5 to 7 p.m.

The Central Community School System will offer computer classes to parents and any community members who live within the Central Community. The class will include discussion and activities using the Internet with the focus on fun, free programs found on the web used for photo and

video editing. This will be a handson class with the use of digital cameras and Flip video cameras. The six classes will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays. For information or to register, call the Central Intermediate School office at 261-1390.

Wednesday, May 4 Prenatal Class • 6 p.m.

Lane Regional Medical Center will offer a free prenatal class in the Staff Development Classroom. “The Pregnancy Workshop” is an overview of what to expect for the soon-to-be mom. Partners are welcome to attend.

Child care is not provided. Registration is required. For information or to register, call 654-5263.

Thursday, May 5 Central Day of Prayer • 6:30 p.m.

Central residents will gather to observe the 60th Annual National Day of Prayer, parking lot in front of Central City Hall behind Capital One Bank on Hooper. This will be the seventh observance in Central. Everyone is invited to attend and join in prayer for our churches, our businesses, our schools, our families, and our government. Pastors and leaders of the community will be in attendance.

Central Day of Prayer is sponsored

by Central Area Pastors Association.

May 5, 6, and 7 Cajun Arts and Crafts Festival South Live Oak Elementary in Watson will host its annual Cajun Arts and Crafts Festival. This year there will be various crafts from vendors around the state, new and exciting children’s rides and games, a fantastic auction featuring items from merchants around the area, yummy concessions, and a bar-b-que chicken lunch on Saturday. Times are: rides and concessions, 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 5; rides and concessions, 12:30 to 10 p.m.; craft booths, 12:30 to 5 p.m., and games, 12:30 to 7 p.m., Friday, May 6; and rides and concessions, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., craft booths See FESTIVAL on Page 15

Seven-Member City Council Continued from Page 7

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Messina did not vote on the final recommendations, but he said he supports the majority’s decision. Starns argued that having a seven-member City Council would be too expensive. However, Messina contended that the cost would be little different from the present system but would provide broader representation.

Messina said, “I have spoken to mayors and councilmen from all over the state, and many have told me that a combination of single-member districts and at-large seats is the best.

It allows each area of the city to be represented but it also allows some members to have a citywide perspective. Sometimes very talented people live in the same area of the city. If we go solely with districts, we would be deprived of the opportunity to have their service.”

Messina said he hopes the Council will consider the committee’s recommendations at the Council’s first meeting in May. He said that he would like the propositions to be on

the election ballot on Oct. 22, if that is permitted by state law.

States, counties, and cities across the country are considering reapportionment because of the 2010 census.

Central could continue its current system of at-large voting by taking no action. However, if it adopts any kind of districting plan, those districts would have to be drawn in accordance with the latest census numbers.

Mayor Mac Watts is reportedly opposed to the committee’s sevenmember plan. If he were to veto a reapportionment plan adopted by the Council, the current system of atlarge voting would continue in effect unless the Council overrode his veto.

After approval by the City Council, a new reapportionment plan would have to be submitted to the U.S. Justice Department for review under the federal Voting Rights Act. Central has the option of getting out from under scrutiny by the Justice Department if it can show that its elections have been conducted in a non-discriminatory manner.

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Festival of Two Rivers Set for May 13-15 Continued from Page 14

9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and games, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 7.

Friday, May 6 Parish Appreciation Crawfish Boil • 7 p.m.

St. Alphonsus will hold a Parish Appreciation Crawfish Boil in the Family Center. All adults who are involved in the life of the parish through ministries, organizations, committees, councils, boards, festival workers, and those who assist in other ways are invited to join Fr. Mike and the parish staff to say thank you.

Childcare will be provided. RSVP by calling the office at 261-4650.

Saturday, May 7 Car and Bike Show 9 a.m. to 12 noon Zoar Baptist Church, 11848 Hooper Road, will hold its annual Car and Bike Show. Free admission, free food, and door prizes. All classes.

Trophies and awards for all classes and categories. To register a vehicle call the church office at 261-3434.

Saturday, May 7 Women’s Day • 10:30 a.m.

First Baptist Church, Central, 9676 Sullivan Road, invites area women to Women’s Day for a great day of spiritual learning, fun, and fellowship. Guest speaker will be Dolores Manning. Singing, lunch, door prizes, and jewelry for sale. No

COACHES PITCH CHAMPIONS — The Rebels won the CAYL coaches pitch draft tournament. Pictured are (1st row, left to right) Austin Bradford, Ben Kolb, Brady Cash, Clay Petty, Zac Landry, Devin Ellis, and Parker Will, (2nd row) Christopher Murray, Nick Achee, Hayden Moore, Wyatt Beck, Braxton Matherne, Camden Juneau, and Cody Sharpe, and (3rd row) coaches Gary Petty, Keith Cash, Josh Sharpe, Colby Matherne, and Harold Beck.

charge to attend, but you must call the church office at 261-3722 to make a lunch reservation. A nursery will be provided. Please bring a sack lunch for your child.

May 13 through 15 Festival of Two Rivers St. Alphonsus will hold its’ annual

Festival of Two Rivers. Food, games, and rides for everyone!

Monday, May 16 Congestive Heart Failure Education Program • 10 a.m.

Lane Regional Medical Center will hold a free education and support program for congestive heart

Central Area Business Directory

failure patients and their caregivers.

Learn more about what you can do to manage the challenges of living with congestive heart failure. Topics will be Medication Management and Summertime Grillin’ and Chillin’.

Registration is required and seating is limited. Free lunch will be provided.

Call 654-5263 to register.

Saturday, May 21 PrimeTimers Spaghetti Dinner 5:30 p.m.

The PrimeTimers, a 60 plus group at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, are sponsoring a Spaghetti Dinner with former LSU coach Paul Dietzel. The dinner will be held in the St. Francis Room. Cost is $7 per person. Coach Dietzel will have his latest book “Call Me Coach” available for sale and will personally autograph your copy.

RSVP the parish office at 261-4650.

Deadline is Friday, May 13.

Wednesday, May 25 Skin Cancer Screening • 1 p.m.

A free skin cancer screening sponsored by Lane Regional Medical Center and Advanced Dermatology will be held at the office of Dr. Laurie Harrington, 20474 Old Scenic Hwy. in Zachary. The public is invited to take advantage of this free screening.

Registration is required and space is limited. For information or to register, call 654-5263.

$47.50 monthly January-July $95 monthly August-December Call 225-261-5055

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16 CENTRAL CITY NEWS Thursday, April 28, 2011

LoBue Attacked for Protecting Public’s Right to Know Continued from Page 2 City Hall, emailed to her office, printed out, blackening out, and then scanned, emailed back to City Hall, and then printed out for Mr. Mannino. With the black-outs, there was nothing left to read. It was a most amazing process and completely contrary to law. But Ms. Morris and her backers defended it. And, of course, they blamed Mr. Mannino for having causing another mountain of legal bills!

The only reason Mr. Mannino finally got to see the records was the City Council ordered Ms. Morris to produce the bills unredacted. The whole process took a month — not “immediately” or within the three days allowed by law.

Even today Ms. Morris remains devoted to the mistaken idea that the “attorney-client privilege” is an ex-

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cil meets and “waives” its “right” to confidentiality of public records.

City Attorney Must Be Recused Since the legal bills in question are from the City Attorney, she must be recused from rendering any legal opinions regarding their disclosure.

For her to do so is a serious conflict of interest by her as an attorney.

Records Are Appropriate for Committee Review Even if the legal bills to the City weren’t public records, which they clearly are, a committee studying legal services would have the legal right to review those bills. How else could they come up with any recommendations?

Council Members Should Not Serve on Mayoral Committees In the background is another important issue.

The Mayor’s Committee on Legal

Final Advertising, Copy, and Payment Deadline: 5 p.m., Friday, May 27

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ception to the Public Records Act. This notion threatens to keep Central’s citizens from having ready access to public records. And it threatens to keep the City Council busy meeting to waive a non-existent privilege.

• City of Central Can’t Alter Louisiana’s Public Records Law Louisiana’s Public Records Law is in the Revised Statutes. It passed the legislature and was signed into law.

Neither the Mayor, the City Council, nor the City Attorney can repeal, alter, or restrict Louisiana’s Public Records Law. Nor do they have authority to set up elaborate procedures that citizens must comply with in order to examine public records in this community.

Nothing in the Public Records Act permits a governmental body to withhold public records until a City Coun-

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Services was created solely and entirely by the Mayor — not by resolution or ordinance of the City Council.

It is an Executive Branch committee.

Councilman LoBue was appointed by the Mayor as chairman of the committee. This is entirely illegal and inappropriate. The Lawrason Act states clearly that the City Council is to exercise the legislative power of the municipal government.

For a member of the legislative branch to accept appointment from the executive branch and to serve at the executive’s pleasure is a serious violation of the separation of powers of the two branches.

Every responsible and functioning legislative body appoints its own committees. The President of the United States Senate does not appoint members of the U. S. Senate Armed Services Committee, and the Governor doesn’t appoint members of the Louisiana House Ways and Means Committee.

Everybody understands that would be a violation of separation of powers.

But the principle of separation of powers is just as important in municipal government.

At every level of government, the executive branch tries to dominate the legislative branch, but an independent legislature is essential to the functioning of our system of government.

City Council Should Have Its Own Committee System Our City Council has been remiss in its duties in that it has failed to establish a functioning committee system.

Committees are the way that every responsible legislative body conducts its business.

The reason we have five-hour City Council meetings in Central is because our City Council doesn’t have committees.

Any legislative body — whether it be Congress, the state legislature, or a City Council ­— needs a two-tiered system for considering legislation.

The first level is the committee hearing, which is conducted with less formality and greater public involvement.

At the committee hearing, the details of legislation are supposed to be hashed out. Bad proposals should be killed, and good ones should be amended to get the “bugs” out. Only after that occurs should proposed legislation get to the floor of the City Council for debate.

Examples of City Council committees would be an Executive Committee, a Budget and Finance Committee, and a Public Works Committee.

But, instead of working through committees, our City Council sees proposals for the first time when they are on final passage. The result is often chaotic, poorly thought out, and divisive. Without a functioning committee system, the City Council is making it easy for the executive branch to dominate city government.

Councilman LoBue Should Be Praised for his Stand on Public Records and His Effort to Reform Legal Services If Councilman Tony LoBue brought copies of a public record — the City Attorney’s bill — to a meeting of a committee on legal services, he was just doing his job, shining the light on public records of importance to our city and trying to mend our broken system of acquiring legal services.

But all of our Council members should be careful to protect the separation of powers. That means staying away from executive branch appointments and executive branch committees.

Never again should an elected City Councilman be called out by the Mayor and told to resign from a “Mayoral” appointment.

When asked by the Mayor to replace Councilman LoBue as chairman of the Mayor’s Committee on Legal Services, Councilman Ralph Washington said, “No, I was elected by the people, and I don’t intend to accept a post where I could be removed by the Mayor.”