PAGE 035-2019

MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CALLED MEETING

WEBSTER PARISH POLICE JURY

May 9, 2019

MEMBERS PRESENT:  Jim Bonsall, President; Vera Davison, Vice President; Jerri Lee; Bruce Blanton; Steve Lemmons; Steve Ramsey; Nick Cox; Dustin Moseley; and Allen Gilbert.

MEMBERS ABSENT:  Daniel Thomas, Bernard Hudson, Randy Thomas;

Mr. Jim Bonsall called the Special Meeting to order and asked Mrs. Jerri Lee to open the meeting with Prayer followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mr. Bonsall then asked for additions to the agenda.  Mr. Steve Ramsey moved, seconded by Mr. Steve Lemmons to add to the beginning of the meeting Louisiana Bridge Program, Mr. Brad Graff, Parish Engineer to present.  Motion carried unanimously.

Mr. Graff reported that a letter from LA DOTD required additional action by the Parish by May 10, 2019 on off System Load Rating Status.  Nine of the bridges that have box culverts could be rated by the Parish (Parish Engineer) and if not will be rated by LADOTD and the cost will be funded by deducting from the parish’s Federal Off-system Highway Bridge Program at $5,000.00 each bridge.  Mr. Steve Lemmons moved, seconded by Mr. Bruce Blanton to have the LADOTD rate the 9 Webster Bridges as presented by Mr. Graff at a reduction of $45,000.00 from the parish allotment.  Motion carried unanimously.

The purpose of the Special called meeting is to discuss the Office of Community Services and delinquent debt that has resulted in a suspension on all federal funding.  The debt resulted from the HHS disallowance of “in kind” services.  A re-payment agreement was signed by the former Director, in 2016.  The Parish Attorney has attempted to make contact with someone concerning the debt, but no response. 

The Office of Community Services has received notification of federal funds suspension.  To default on the debt could cause repayment from previous grants as well as jeopardize the current programs. 

Ms. Vera Davison moved, seconded by Mrs. Jerri Lee to allow the Director, Mrs. Melinda Davison to pay the approximate $100,000.00 to release the suspension and to accept the responsibility for the debt.  To request the assistance of the Congressional Delegation to contact federal agencies for relief from any penalties, interest, etc. if at all possible.   Motion carried unanimously.

There being no further business to bring before the Jury, the meeting adjourned. 

Ronda C. Carnahan                                                                   Jim Bonsall

Secretary-Treasurer                                                                   President