Today (February 28, 2025), the final step in placing the City of Bogalusa under Fiscal Administration was made with a ruling by 22nd JDC Judge Alan Zaunbrecher. The Judge also approved the appointment of Robert Neilson as Fiscal Administrator.
On January 29, 2025, the Louisiana Fiscal Review Committee voted to place the City of Bogalusa under Fiscal Administration and appointed Robert Neilson as Fiscal Administrator. Click here for that story The actions required Judge's approval and a Motion was filed by the Louisiana Attorney General's office to accomplish the actions of the Louisiana Fiscal Review Committee, setting up today's Hearing.
Judge Zaunbrecher took the bench today soon after 10:00 AM. The matter of legal representation by the City of Bogalusa was resolved with the Judge ruling that the City Attorney of Bogalusa was the legal representative. City Attorney Kelvin May attempted to argue that he was not prepared and attempted to obtain a continuance of the Hearing. However, the Judge maintained his ruling on representation and denied a continuance.
The Hearing was then held in the Judge's Chambers, a disappointment to those in the packed courtroom. The Judge emphasized, however, that a transcript of the Hearing would be available at a later date. Around 2:00 PM, an announcement was made that the Judge had rendered his Judgment. Later this evening, Chief Deputy Attorney General Larry Frieman confirmed that the Judge ruled the City of Bogalusa is placed under Fiscal Administration and that Robert Neilson is named as Fiscal Administrator.
Bogalusa Mayor Tyrin Z. Truong has strongly opposed Fiscal Administration and the appointment of Neilson as Fiscal Administrator.
What comes next? Stay Tuned.
