Washington Parish Council Meeting: Final Entergy Report, State Park Trails Issue, & Polling Places

The Washington Parish Council met Monday (January 24, 2022) evening and 

• received the final report from Entergy on noise abatement at their plant outside of Bogalusa
• approved an ordinance adding Palestine Church Roa to the “No Thru Truck Routes”
• introduced two ordinances: one to amend the permit fee for telecommunications towers and one to amend the WPG Employees' Handbook concerning premium pay
• approved two resolutions: one to authorize the signing of the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire for the audit of WPG for the year ended December 31, 2021 and one to make permanent the changing of certain polling places. See http://www.washingtonparishalerts.org/files/135006346.pdf
• postponed action on a resolution to enter into a contract with Flowmotion Trail Builders, LLC for additional mountain bike trails at the Bogue Chitto State Park

Entergy representative Patrick Hamby provided a final report (beginning at 2:00 into video of the meeting) on noise level mitigation efforts at their power plant outside of Bogalusa City limits. Hamby reported that the noise level has been reduced to around 45 decibels. The noise issue was first raised at an October, 2020 meeting of the Council. Complaints from residents near the plant were of noise levels in excess of 70 decibels. At the time, Calpine was the owner/operator of the plant and Entergy later took ownership of the plant. Aggressive action was requested and the Entergy representative committed to investigating and cooperating with the Council and residents to resolve problem. Entergy proceeded to investigate, made substantial investment in needed equipment, installed the equipment, and provided regular progress reports to the Council. The Council complimented Entergy on their efforts and indicated they were satisfied. Hamby thanked the Council and reiterated that Entergy is a “community partner” with Bogalusa and the Parish of Washington. Click here for previous related stories

Beginning at 8:00 into video of the meeting, the resolution to enter into a contract with Flowmotion Trail Builders, LLC for additional mountain bike trails at the Bogue Chitto State Park was considered and, ultimately, Council action on the resolution was postponed. At issue was conflicts with the mountain bike trails and horseback riding trails. Several persons who use the horseback riding trails spoke, with concerns of safety being prominent. The Council repeatedly advised that activities at the State Park is governed by the State – not the Council and that the Council encourages all to enjoy the State Park. The resolution before the Council was only to consider a $25,000 funding request. The Council postponed action to encourage a resolution of the conflict. 

Administrative reports were provided beginning at 35:00 into video of the meeting. 

Public Works Director provided COVID statistics with regard to positivity rate (declining), confirmed cases, deaths (one), vaccination rates, and encouraged all to be vaccinated. Wheat also provided information on parish bridges and expected substantial funding to repair/replace bridges.

Finance Director Donna Graham announced purchases to be made soon of needed equipment.

Donnell Merritt reported on work done by public work crews and described equipment obtained by Parish Government over the years to better serve the Parish. 

WP Council 01242022.wmv from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Washington Parish Council: Major Issues Nearing Completion

During the Monday (November 22, 2021) meeting, the Washington Parish Council received information and took actions regarding some major issues. First, noise abatement measures are complete at the Entergy facility near Bogalusa. Second, the draft of the proposed ordinance regulating solar panel projects is nearing completion. Third, debris cleanup following Hurricane Ida is complete with the exception of six stumps. 

Entergy representative Patrick Hamby advised the Council (beginning at 6:55 into the video) that noise mitigation measures at the Entergy plant near Bogalusa are now complete and testing is planned for next week. The target noise level is 45 decibels. 

The Council approved a resolution for a fourth extension (for 90 days) of the "moratorium on the approval or permitting of all solar panel farms or utility scale solar projects, commercial solar power plants or operations similar thereto". Prior to approving the resolution and beginning at 52:20 into the video, the Council was advised that the draft of the proposed ordinance was nearing completion. The draft of the proposed ordinance is being prepared by a group of four attorneys, each expert in their fields, retained by the Council. It was ultimately agreed that the draft would be provided to all interested parties and be brought to the Council at a special meeting. The Planning Commission and all interested parties will be invited. The ordinance will then be introduced followed by a Public Hearing and vote by the Council two weeks after introduction.

In other business, 

• Small Business Administration representative Barbara Nitis made a presentation (beginning at 2:40 into the video) on assistance available to residents in the wake of Hurricane Ida. The number to call is 800-659-2955
• AT&T representatives Britt Ikerd and Eric Jones (beginning at 9:55 into the video) provided an overview of efforts to improve broadband to the Parish and requested a resolution in support of their application for a competitive $90 million Gumbo grant from the State of Louisiana
• an ordinance was introduced to adopt the 2022 Annual Operating Budget and the Capital Outlay Budget for the WPG. A public hearing and vote will held on December 6, 2021
• approved a number of resolutions of appointment. Huey Newcomb, Judy Howard, and John McCrary were re-appointed to the Washington Parish Fire District No. 5. Board of Directors; Troy Crain, Penny Moses, and Jerome Warren were re-appointed to the Washington Parish Planning Commission; Michael Harang, Thomas Garic, and Ricky Brumfield were re-appointed to the Washington Parish Fire District No. 2. Board of Directors; John Nathaniel, Gary Pierce, and Christine Whittington were re-appointed to the Washington Parish Fire District No. 6. Board of Directors
• a resolution was approved to engage Kushner Lagraize, L.L.C. to perform audit services for the WPG
• a resolution was approved in support of expanding Louisiana Highway 25 and Mississippi Highway 27 to four lanes.

Parish President Richard Thomas (beginning at 1:10:00 into the video) commented on the recent ground-breaking of the Hwy. 3241 project (finally becoming a reality after 32 years), provided comments and described the recent Larry Wells Memorial Highway dedication ceremony at Mt. Hermon School as “wonderful”, remarked on the efforts expanding Highway 25 to a four-lane, and provided the latest COVID-19 statistics in the Parish.

WP Council – New “Digs”, Power Plant Update, Appeal of Gun Range Decision

The Washington Parish Council met Monday (July 26, 2021) evening for the first time in the newly-renovated Council Chambers at the Washington Parish Courthouse in Franklinton, Louisiana. Prior to the meeting, attendees were served refreshments and viewed the improvements.

The bulk of the meeting consisted of an appeal of the Planning Commission decision to approve a conditional use permit for a gun range on Lon Miley Road in Angie. Both sides were heard and the Council upheld the decision by the Planning Commission. (See the video beginning 6:50)

In other business, the Council 

• heard an update from Entergy representative Patrick Hamby on progress with the noise abatement efforts at the power plant outside of Bogalusa. (See the video beginning at 3:00)
• introduced an ordinance concerning age limitation of manufactured homes moved into Washington Parish. A Public Hearing and vote on the ordinance will be on August 9, 2021 at 5:45 PM

Washington Parish Clerk of Court Johnny Crain, Jr. came before the Council, commending the Council on modernization of the Courthouse facilities and expressing his appreciation for all that the Council and Parish Government does. Crain also announced that Court Opening will be on September 10, 2021 and invited all to attend. (See the video beginning at 1:10:10)

During the President’s Report (See the video beginning at 1:14:00), Parish President Richard N. Thomas, Jr. remarked on the Council Chambers improvements, described efforts to put together a mental health system better than what is available now, described efforts to improve broadband availability, and announced that COVID-19 cases have increased in the parish and is going up every day. Reports were then provided by Finance Director Donna Graham, Public Works Director Ken Wheat, and Transportation Supervisor Donnell Merritt.

Your Latest Parish Council Meeting: Tourism Commission, Entergy Plant Update, & More

At the Washington Parish Council meeting Monday (March 24, 2021) meeting,

• Henry Harrison and other members of the Tourism Commission introduced Patricia “Patty” Alford as the Office Manager, replacing Kathi Mayor who is retiring (beginning at 2:25 into video of the meeting). The Tourism Commission also provided punch and cake for those in attendance.
• Entergy Representative Patrick Hamby provided an update on noise abatement progress at the power plant outside of Bogalusa City limits (beginning at 9:30 into video of the meeting).
• Introduced an ordinance granting a contract with Amwaste of Louisiana, LLC for solid waste collection and transportation. A Public Hearing on the ordinance and council vote will be held at the next Council Meeting in two weeks.
• Approved two resolutions. One was authorizing an Intergovernmental Agreement Between the Washington Parish Government and the Village of Angie. The second was to accept recently completed sidewalk improvements funded by a State and Federal Project. 

During the Public Participation segment, parish resident John Stevens addressed the Council regarding problems he is experiencing caused by the nearby solar power plant.

In the President's Report to the Council (beginning at 20:40 into video of the meeting)

• Parish President Richard Thomas provided an update on COVID-19 in Washington Parish, encouraged residents to make arrangements for vaccination, and encouraged residents to prepare for hurricane season. 
• Public Works Director Ken Wheat reported that agreement is pending for the solar power plant near Kat Kaw Road to remedy drainage problems. Wheat also reported on major improvements being made at both the Courthouse and the Washington Parish Jail. Funding for the improvements were made possible by grants.
• Alex Sumrall and Donnell Merritt also provided reports.

Robert Stafford announced that a Memorial Day service will be held by American Legion Post #24 at Fisher Methodist Church Cemetery on Monday, May 31st at 10:00 am.

Following Council Discussion and a review of the Home Rule Charter Section 2-11 through 4-03, the meeting adjourned. 

Parish Council Addresses a Loaded Agenda

The Washington Parish Council met at 6:00 PM on April 26, 2021 and heard an update from Entergy, acted on six ordinances, introduced five ordinances, adopted two resolutions, heard concerns from the public, heard the President's Report (including the reading and presentation of two proclamations), and conducted a review of part of the Home Rule Charter.

Entergy Representative Patrick Hamby provided an update on the progress of noise abatement efforts at the power plant outside of Bogalusa. Questions were asked and comments made by members of the Council and by nearby resident Perry Mickenheim. (beginning at 3:05 into video of the meeting)

Six ordinances, previously introduced and Public Hearings having been held, were acted on (beginning at 12:25 into video of the meeting)

• Two were approved to facilitate the sale of two pieces of property by Washington Parish Government. One parcel was 40.34 acres and the other was approximately 11 acres.
• One was approved related to a community development block grant for Bogalusa Lusa Water Works District.
• One was approved for WPG to apply for and administer a grant through the Louisiana Community Development Block Grant – Coronavirus (LCDBG-CV) HVAC improvements program
• Two were approved for acquisition of property and to execute a Conservation Servitude with the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.

Five ordinances were introduced that will have Public Hearings and considered for approval at the next meeting on May 10, 2021. (beginning at 18:35 into video of the meeting)

• One to levy taxes for 2021 millage at the same rate as prior year on property subject to taxation in Washington Parish.
• Three to accept roads as parish roads: Déjà Vu Lane, Poole Drive, David Drive, Kelli Lane, and Denis Road (sometimes referred to as Denise Road).
• One to abandon 0.15 miles of Robert Stuart Road, Parish Road No. 5-153.

Two resolutions were adopted (beginning at 20:35 into video of the meeting)

• One was agreeing to accept State Roads from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Road Transfer Program.
• One was in Support of the Application to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Recreational Trails Program for Louisiana (FRTPL) by the Northshore Off Road Bicycling Association For Grants to Federal, State, Local Government Agencies, Non-Profit Organizations and Commercial Entities to Acquire, Develop and/or Maintain Motorized and Non-Motorized Trails.

During Public Participation, resident Richard Berry addressed the Council regarding Riverside Medical Center's failure to accept People's Health Insurance. (beginning at 34:45 into video of the meeting)

Washington Parish President Richard Thomas presented his report (beginning at 38:30 into video of the meeting)

• Thomas read and presented a Proclamation Honoring the Washington Parish Library’s 75th Anniversary.
• Thomas read and presented a Proclamation Honoring Robert Harrison and the Harrison Racing Team for winning the Gulfport Dragway Ford vs. Chevy Dragster Class Competition in March of this year.
• Thomas provided an update and comments on COVID-19 in Washington Parish.
• Brief comments were provided by Finance Director Donna Graham, Public Works Director Ken Wheat, and Transportation Supervisor Donnell Merritt.

The meeting was concluded with a review of the Home Rule Charter, Section 1-01 through 2-10 -24. (beginning at 57:50 into video of the meeting)

Parish Council Approves Asphalt Overlay of Ten Roads

The Washington Parish Council approved a resolution Monday (March 22, 2021) evening to authorize the Parish President to sign an agreement with Barriere Construction for asphalt overlay on Lanes Road, Wells Road, Mack Adams-O’ Berry Road, Bill Booty Road, Will Talley Road, Harry Kennedy Road, Fisher Road, C.C. Road, Carol Morgan Road, Lake Choctaw Road, Claud Nobles Road, Hammerstone Road, Pine Lane and West Choctaw Road. The project was made possible by a very low bid from Barriere (about $500,00.00 lower than the next lowest bid) and the availability of funds described in the Finance Director's report.

The Council also

• received an update from Entergy representative Patrick Hamby on their noise-mitigation efforts at the power plant outside of Bogalusa (beginning at 3:30 into video of the meeting). Hamby stated they are “on-track” with plans previously reported with start time of construction as end of August or first of September. The target level is 45 to 50 decibels. Questions and comments came from Council members and parish residents
• heard a presentation Ocean Behavioral Hospital representative Cadie Robertson (beginning at 18:20 into video of the meeting). 
• adopted an ordinance supplementing the “NO THRU TRUCK ROUTES” ordinance
• approved a resolution placing a moratorium on the approval or permitting of all solar panel farms, commercial solar power plants or operations similar thereto

In his report (beginning 28:50 into video of the meeting), Parish President Richard Thomas 

• reported on damage during the recent storm, including damage at the Mile Branch Settlement at the Fairgrounds in Franklinton
• provided an update on COVID-19 in the parish 
• provided an update on addressing the litter problem in the parish
• proclaimed April as Fair Housing & Equal Opportunity Month
• encouraged residents to stay weather-aware by going to the Washington Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/WPOHSEP/
• reported on the FOCUS Franklinton community bike ride scheduled for April 6th

A very positive report was provided by Finance Director Donna Graham (beginning at 36:20 into video of the meeting). Graham reported that several fund balances were better than projected for various reasons. Public Works Director Ken Wheat's report (beginning at 43:15 into video of the meeting) included information about the asphalt overlay project and he updated the Council on ongoing projects. Transportation Manager Donnell Merritt provided a report (beginning at 51:00 into video of the meeting). Altogether, 859 bags of garbage were picked up in only two weeks; this, in addition to other work performed.

Much Done and Reported at WP Council Meeting

Resolutions were approved to assist the Town of Franklinton, Village of Varnado, and the Village of Angie at the meeting of the Washington Parish Council Monday (February 22, 2021) evening. The resolutions were in the form of Intergovernmental Agreements to assist the entities with labor and equipment. A similar resolution was approved to assist the City of Bogalusa at the last meeting of the Parish Council. 

In other business, the Council

• approved a resolution to facilitate the council chambers renovation project not to exceed $125,000
• heard a report from Entergy representative Patrick Hamby on progress to reduce the noise levels at the power plant near Bogalusa. See our report and the video at https://www.mthermonwebtv.com/2021/02/entergy-report-to-wp-council-on-power.html
• heard from Frankie Crosby (beginning at 18:15 into video of the meeting) regarding Community Cleanup Day scheduled for March 27th, an informational seminar on expungements on March 20th hosted by District Attorney Warren Montgomery, and a bicycle parade for Easter weekend that is being planned
• heard a report from President Richard Thomas (beginning at 27:45 into video of the meeting) regarding the severe weather last week, an update on COVID-19 deaths, positivity rates, and vaccinations in the parish, and recognition of Robert “Bob” Hicks day
• heard a reports from Finance Director Donna Graham (beginning at 33:55 into video of the meeting), Public Works Director Ken Wheat (beginning at 37:55 into video of the meeting), Bridge Inspector Alex Sumrall (beginning at 42:20 into video of the meeting), and Transportation Manager Donnell Merritt (beginning at 45:25 into video of the meeting).

Following Council comments, the meeting adjourned.

Entergy Report to WP Council on Power Plant Noise Issue

Entergy representative Patrick Hamby reported to the Washington Parish Council Monday (February 22, 2021) evening on the progress to reduce the noise levels at the power plant near Bogalusa. Hamby advised that Entergy is working to maximize the reduction level of noise, that the target level is a reduction to 45 to 50 decibels, and that construction start has been pushed back to begin the last of August or early September of 2021.

See the video for his report and comments and questions from Council members and by parish resident Phillip Bedwell. 

Click here for previous related stories

Entergy Updates Council on Bogalusa Plant Noise Abatement

Entergy representative Patrick Hamby reported to the Washington Parish Council Monday (January 25, 2021) that plans to address their Bogalusa plant noise concerns are on track and promised significant noise reduction, with more specifics about decibel levels to be given in their next report in a month. The plan previous reported is to replace horizontal duct work with wider duct, add acoustical barrier roof between the duct work and close to the actual turbines, and insulate the expansion joints. Hamby reported that Entergy has conducted more noise testing, engaged engineers and noise specialists and determined the scope of work. Start of work will should begin in June, 2021 to be completed by the end of the third quarter or the beginning of the fourth quarter of 2021. (See his comments beginning at 8:55 into video of the meeting.) 

Click here for previous related stories and video.

In addition to other routine matters, the Council heard a report from Beth Putnam with the LSU Ag Center and heard from Colonel Chad Conerly, a candidate for Louisiana 5th Congressional District.

In his report to the Council (beginning at 25:30 into video of the meeting), Parish President Richard N. Thomas, Jr. 

• complimented Public Works Director Wheat, Finance Director Graham, and Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Breland on the work they do
• reported on the International Paper's recent announcement of a $52 million investment in their facility, great news for Washington Parish and the City of Bogalusa
• reported on current COVID-19 testing being done at Cassidy Park in Bogalusa
• reported on current COVID-19 vaccinations available  in the Parish: Creel Pharmacy in Pine, Sumrall Pharmacy in Angie, and Nielson's Pharmacy in Bogalusa
• reported the statistics on COVID-19 (an increase of cases and deaths) in Washington Parish and
• answered a question from Councilman Fornea regarding enforcement of the “thru-roads” ordinance. The ordinances on the books regulate big trucks on parish roads.  The discussion also included the ongoing issue of litter and litter enforcement in the parish

Following remarks by members of the Council, the meeting adjourned.

Productive Parish Council Meeting Held Monday

A lot of good news was revealed at the latest Washington Parish Council meeting held Monday (December 14, 2020) evening.  The meeting was conducted both as an in-person meeting at the Washington Parish Courthouse and by Zoom. (Video of the full meeting can be seen below) Briefly, the good news included

• the report by WPSS Superintendent Frances Varnado and WPSS Coordinator of Support Services Shane Smith. Varnado reported on best practices being observed to protect students and staff with regard to the COVID-19 pandemic and educate the students during these trying times. Smith's report was about capital improvement projects in-progress and planned system-wide. For your convenience, click here for this segment of the meeting
• progress is being made toward noise reduction from the Entergy power plant near Bogalusa. The plan is to replace horizontal Duct Work with wider duct, add acoustical barrier roof between the duct work and close to the actual turbines, and insulate the expansion joints. A major investment is being made by Entergy to reduce the noise level residents are experiencing; however, estimates are July/August, 2021 before residents will get relief and the Entergy Representatives could not provide an estimate of how much the noise would be reduced. For your convenience, click here for this segment of the meeting
• the passage by voters on December 5th of the millage renewal which will allow continuation of road improvements throughout the parish
• the President's Report was provided by Finance Director Donna Graham and Public Works Director Ken Wheat. Graham reported that the final payment of $1,000,000.00 (WPG's share is $324,000) by Calpine (in lieu of taxes) had been received. Also, the overall WPG fund balance has increased $2.4 million. Wheat reported that the recent Animal Shelter event “Jingle Paws” raised over $1400.00, 6 dogs were adopted, and 25 dogs and cats were vaccinated and micro-chipped. Also, a $400,000 grant was approved for improvements at the Washington Parish Jail. For your convenience, click here for this segment of the meeting

In other business, the Council 

• introduced an ordinance authorizing the purchase of a parcel of land in Franklinton
• adopted a resolution to the Louisiana Senate and House of Representatives in support of funding for the development of Rural Broadband infrastructure
• adopted several resolutions of appointment to Boards of Directors

Entergy Commits to Address Sound Issues at Bogalusa Plant

Addressing the Washington Parish Council meeting Monday (November 23, 2020) evening, Entergy Representative Jody Montelaro advised that Entergy is committing to address the sound issues raised at the two previous meetings of the Council. Sound testing has started and a plan is being made to mitigate the noise levels. Coordination has involved Entergy representatives, Public Service Commissioner Eric Skrmetta, and residents in the area. A timeline will be developed for what will be done and when. 

Questions were asked and comments made by Parish President Thomas, Council Members and residents. One resident advised that he resided 2270 feet from the plant, was having sounds levels of 60 to 80 decibels, and could not even hear his central air unit.

In other business, the Council 

• approved an Ordinance adopting the 2021 Annual Operating Budget and the Capital Outlay Budget for the Washington Parish Government
• approved an Ordinance entering into a contract with Landworks, Inc. for the operation of the Choctaw Road Landfill
• approved resolutions of appointment for the Washington Parish Fire District No. 5 Board of Directors (Freddie Jefferson and Willie Peters), the Washington Parish Fire District No. 3 Board of Directors (Justin Porche and Larry Magee), and the Washington Parish Utility Gas District No. 2 Board of Directors (Gary Wheat and Dennis Warren)
• approved the engagement of Kushner Lagraize, L.L.C. to perform audit services for the Washington Parish Government.

During the Public Participation segment, Darryl Peterson reported that the Washington Republican Parish Executive Committee endorses the 10 mil tax renewal proposition on the December 5, 2020 ballot. Peterson stated that they see where tax dollars are being spent wisely. Peterson also advised that he is a candidate (#216) for Republican State Central Committee District 12E.

President Thomas reported that the parish government central office has been hit hard by COVID-19, with four having tested positive. Thomas also commented on the importance of passing the tax renewal proposition on the December 5, 2020 ballot. Click here for more on this in a previous article.

Finance Director Donna Alonzo and Public Works Director Ken Wheat provided reports to the Council. Following Council Discussion, the meeting adjourned.

“Aggressive Action” Requested to Address Calpine/Entergy Noise

At their meeting on Monday (October 26, 2020), the Washington Parish Council heard from an Entergy representative regarding complaints of excessive noise from the power plant located just outside the city limits of Bogalusa. Both Washington Parish President Richard Thomas and the Council had been made aware of complaints, made preliminary investigation into the issue, and requested the presence of Calpine and Entergy representatives at the meeting. Specifically, noise levels in excess of 70 decibels and such noise beginning as early as 4:30 a.m. were complained of by nearby residents. Calpine is the current owner/operator and Entergy will soon be taking ownership of the plant.

Parish resident Phillipp Bedwell, who lives near the plant, addressed the Council. He related that the excessive noises began about three weeks ago and reached 66 decibels at his driveway at 11:20 pm. He stated that the noise levels were twice as high at his home as the noise levels should be at the plant – this according to EPA standards. Bedwell stated that, per the EPA, decibel levels above 55 impacted health and welfare, affected sleep, and causes physical and psychological problems. He encouraged “aggressive action” by the Council. 

The Entergy representative committed to investigating and cooperating with the Council and residents to resolve problems. However, the contract has not been made available to the Council and the issues of permitted levels and permitted hours cannot be addressed without it. (See the video beginning at 9:20 into video of the meeting).

In other business, the Council 

• heard from Vincent Wynne, candidate for District Attorney
• heard from Kevin Pearson, candidate for Public Service Commissioner
• adopted three resolutions regarding Washington Parish Fire District No. 6 Board of Directors
• introduced an ordinance accepting Fernwood Drive, Arbor Lane and Sundance Lane as Parish roads