Minutes

The Police Jury of the Parish of Rapides, State of Louisiana, met in Regular Session at its regular meeting place, the Police Jury Room of the Parish Courthouse, 701 Murray Street, Alexandria, Louisiana, on Monday, October 14, 2024, at three (3:00) o'clock p.m. (Central Standard Time).

There were present: Joseph “Joe” Bishop, Presiden t and Police Jurors: Davron “Bubba” Moreau, Craig Smith , Ernest Nelson, Danny Bordelon, Oliver “Ollie” Overton, Jr., Sean McGlothlin, Parrish Giles and Jay Scott.

Absent: None

Also present were: Ms. Theresa Pacholik, Secretary/Treasurer; Mr. Cory Ashmore, Public Works Director; Mr. Shane Trapp, Courthouse & Jail Building Superintendent; Ms. Angie Branton, 911 Communications and OEP Director; Ms. Sharon Neal, WOD/OEWD Executive Director; Ms. Betty Jo Bourgeois, Sales Tax Administrator; Hon. Greg Beard; Mr. Rhett Desselle, Pan American Engineers; Ms. Marla West, Purchasing Agent ; Ms. Linda Sanders, Civil Service Director; Ms. Celise Reech-Harper, Director, Rapides Parish Library Ms. Melissa Gregory, Town Talk and Mr. Greg Jones, Legal Counsel.

The invocation was given by Mr. Ollie Overton.

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Sean McGlothlin.

The Police Jury of the Parish of Rapides, State of Louisiana, was duly convened at 3:00 p.m. as the governing authority of said Parish by Hon. Joe Bishop , President, who welcomed all present and then stated that the Police Jury was ready for the first item of business.

Mr. Parrish Giles stated he received numerous phone calls on the dry conditions and asked about the status of the Parish issuing a burn ban. Mr. Bishop stated they were aware of the situation and would issue a burn ban if conditions did not improve.

Ms. Celise Reech -Harper provided the quarterly update on the Rapides Parish Library.

On m otion by Mr. Ollie Overton , seconded by Mr. Bubba Moreau to adopt the minutes of the Rapides Parish Police Jury held in Special Session on September 10, 2024 and September 16, 2024 and Regular Session on September 10, 2024. As published in the Official Journal. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Bubba Moreau, seconded by Mr. Sean McGlothlin that approved bills be paid. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Bubba Moreau, seconded by Mr. Ollie Overton, to waive the thirty

• (30) day announcement rule and reappoint Mr. Melvin Christy to the Rapides Parish Fire District No. 3 Board for a three (3) year term. New term will expire on October 10, 2027. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Joe Bishop , seconded by Mr. Ollie Overton to waive the thirty

• (30) day announcement rule and reappoint M r. Jason Dewitt on the Ward 9 REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 14, 2024

Recreation District Board for a five (5) year term. New term will expire November 8, 2029. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Joe Bishop, seconded by Mr. Craig Smith to waive the thirty (30) day announcement rule and reappoint Mr. Jim Atkins on the Waterworks 11A Board for a five (5) year term. N ew term will expire November 8, 2029. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Sean McGlothlin , seconded by Mr. Jay Scott to approve the Treasurer’s report as presented in the Committee Meeting on October 7, 2024. The report contained budget to actual revenue and expenses for all funds and status of audit findings. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Craig Smith, seconded by Mr. Sean McGlothlin to enter into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement between the Rapides Parish Police Jury and the Louisiana Department of Treasury related to Act 776 of 2024 Regular Legislative Session – State Aid to Local Government Entities State General Fund Direct, for road repairs to Philadelphia Road, St. Clair Ryder Road, Nation Road and B. Miller Road and authorize the President to sign same and send a letter of appreciation to the local legislators responsible for securing the funds. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Craig Smith, seconded by Mr. Jay Scott to enter into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement between the Rapides Parish Police Jury and the Louisiana Department of Treasury related to Act 776 of 2024 Regular Legislative Session – State Aid to Local Government Entities State General Fund Direct, for debris removal from Bayou Rapides and authorize the President to sign same and send a letter of appreciation to the local legislators responsible for securing the funds. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Ollie Overton, seconded by Mr. Craig Smith to enter into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement between the Rapides Parish Police Jury and the Louisiana Department of Treasury related to Act 776 of 2024 Regular Legislative Session – State Aid to Local Government Entities State General Fund Direct, for fire protection districts and authorize the President to sign same and send a letter of appreciation to the local legislators responsible for securing the funds. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Jay Scott, seconded by Mr. Bubba Moreau to delete assets from the various departments as indicated with the various reasons as shown. These are all requested by the various department heads and fire chiefs. Judges Office Asset Number Description Disposal 10731 Recording Equipment Auction 10737 Recording Equipment Auction

Rapides Parish Fire District No. 8 Asset Number Description Disposal 13085 2023 Ford Explorer Damaged in accident Insurance Totaled 10820 Lifepak 12 Auction/Scrapped 12847 Extractor Delt 20lb Auction/Scrapped REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 14, 2024

SN# 1449252C21 13049 Winch Auctioned

Rapides Parish Fire District No. 5 Asset Number Description Disposal 8363 Darley Pump Auctioned SN# 28239 8267 A/C Heat Central Unit Trade-in SN# WGJM008340 9500 Ward Winch Auctioned/Broken SN# 824649 9850 Motorola Mobile Radio Auctioned SN# 4B2B950730 11298 Copy Machine Auction/Broker SN#QTW06908

Rapides Parish Sales Tax Asset Number Description Disposal 10725 Folding Machine Traded in SN# 11DX5358 10819 Printer – DTC 4500 Auctioned SN# B1220510 10907 Security System Broken/Discarded Replaced – 2023 11357 Computer Scrapped 12579 Optiplex Computer Scrapped SN# 1C22P23 12785 Latitude 5510 Laptop Scrapped SN# SHV-024126

Rapides Parish Fire District No. 2 Asset Number Description Disposal 10762 Shed Storm damage 8325 Chainsaw Duplicate tag SN# YA8XC0625RA 9863 Chainsaw Stihl 20 Broken/Discarded SN# 45415202 7125 Portable Building Storm damage 10024 Thermal Imaging Unit Broken/Discarded SN# 38042 10434 Chainsaw- Stihl MS360 Scrapped SN# 276328419 10437 Generator Damaged in storm 8324 Chainsaw Stihl 36 Broken/Discarded SN# 243975251 10025 Thermal Imaging Unit Broken/Discarded SN# 38040 10546 A/C Unit – 5 ton Broken/Discarded SN# 7307M280811149 11008 MSA Firehawk SCBA Broken/Scrapped 11028 MSA Firehawk SCBA Broken/Scrapped 11039 MSA Firehawk SCBA Broken/Scrapped REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 14, 2024

11046 MSA Firehawk SCBA Broken/Scrapped 11061 MSA Firehawk SCBA Broken/Scrapped 11071 MSA Firehawk SCBA Broken/Scrapped 11080 MSA Firehawk SCBA Lost by vendor No report Filed 8287 Generator – Honda Broken/Discarded SN# 80561034 9398 Chainsaw – Stihl 20 Broken/Scrapped SN# 54930306 9399 Chainsaw – Stihl 20 Broken/Discarded SN# 55836876

Rapides Parish Communication Center Asset Number Description Disposal 11094 Roof Replaced in 2020 342 Watson Console Replaced in 2023 343 Watson Console Replaced in 2023 344 Watson Console Replaced in 2023 345 Watson Console Replaced in 2023 350 Watson Turn Table Replaced in 2023 561 2017 Ford Explorer Damaged in Accident Totaled in 2021 028 Autopatch PR1208 Auctioned - 2024 SN# 01750100 083 Dell Computer Auctioned - 2024 SN# FSGS121 10118 Camera and CCTC Replaced in 2018 299 Radio Analyzer Auctioned – 2024 421 Dictaphone Auctioned – 2024 513 Server Auctioned - 2024 SN# MXQ3370409 514 Server Auctioned – 2024 SN# MXQ337040L 551 HP Probook 650 Auctioned – 2024 SN# 5CG5090TZW 567 Camera System Replaced - 2024 590 Recorder System Replaced – 2024 SN# 103065 378 Computer – Best Power Auctioned – 2024 SN# FEI – 4K09854

Rapides Parish Fire District No. 10 Asset Number Description Disposal 8816 Air Conditioning Unit Replaced in 2017

Rapides Parish Fire District No. 11 Asset Number Description Disposal 10225 Jackrabbit Monitor Salvaged for parts 9690 Lightbar with Ac. Salvaged for parts

Rapides Parish Fire District No. 4 Asset Number Description Disposal REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 14, 2024

10202 Exhaust Fan with Ventilator Scrapped SN# 4006 10203 Exhaust Fan with Ventilator Scrapped SN# 4007 10212 Exhaust Fan with Ventilator Scrapped SN# 31577 10229 Kenmore Washer Scrapped SN# C60170294 10335 Card Imaging System Scrapped SN# A73330564 10490 AirMask M7 Salvaged for parts SN# LAB 352206 10492 AirMask M7 Salvaged for parts SN# LAB 351179 10494 AirMask M7 Salvaged for parts SN# LAB 352299 10503 AirMask M7 Salvaged for parts SN# LAB 352196 10505 Airmask M7 Salvaged for parts SN# LAB352284 10842 Zoll Autopulse Scrapped SN# 20955 11391 Carriers – Vest Duplicate Tag Issued 11392 Carriers – Vest Duplicate Tag Issued 11393 Carriers – Vest Duplicate Tag Issued 11394 Carriers – Vest Duplicate Tag Issued 11395 Carriers – Vest Duplicate Tag Issued 11396 Carriers – Vest Duplicate Tag Issued 11397 Carriers – Vest Duplicate Tag Issued 11398 Carriers – Vest Duplicate Tag Issued 12280 Radio – Portable Salvaged for Parts SN# 543010821830057 6000 1988 Ford Truck Donated 2022 VIN# 1FDX84A0JV48138 7279 Pillow Air/Bag Scrapped SN# 94009 7280 Pillow Air/Bag Scrapped SN# 94001 7281 Pillow Air/Bag Scrapped SN# 95016 7282 Ram – Jaws of Life Scrapped SN# 01960047 7283 Power Unit for Jaws Scrapped SN# 61272 7284 Rescue Tool for Jaws Scrapped SN# 7575 7365 Fire Hose Tester Salvage for Parts 7674 Tank Pump Scrapped SN# 96B1664 7779 Defibrillator Scrapped SN# 6353643 8377 Skid Unit Scrapped REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 14, 2024

9964 Radio – Portable Salvaged for Parts SN# 91100595 On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Bubba Moreau, seconded by Mr. Craig Smith to not extend Bid# 3227 – Bituminous Road Materials (Hot and Cold Mix) for thirty (30) days as Diamond B. Construction was unable to maintain bid price for an additional six (6) months. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Craig Smith, seconded by Mr. Parrish Giles to authorize the Purchasing Agent to advertise to receive bids for bituminous Road Materials (Hot and Cold Mix) for a six (6) month contract and award to the lowest bidder, to be paid from various Public Works and Road District Maintenance Funds. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Craig Smith, seconded by Mr. Ollie Overton to enter into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement between the Rapides Parish Police Jury and the Louisiana Department of Treasury related to Act 776 of 2024 Regular Legislative Session – State Aid to Local Government Entities State General Fund Direct, for Fire District No. 6 – equipment purchase and authorize the President to sign same and send a letter of appreciation to the local legislators responsible for securing the funds. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Danny Bordelon, seconded by Mr. Craig Smith to accept Change Order No. 3 for the Hurricane Laura Cotile Lake Recreation Area Bath House Restoration and Repairs Project, to increase total cost by $4,971.90 and increase completion date by 28 days, as recommended by project engineer, Ballard CLC and Pan American Engineers. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Jay Scott, seconded by Mr. Danny Bordelon to allow Town of Boyce to annex five (5) foot strip down shoulder (no asphalt area) of Old La. Highway 1 from existing corporate limits to Sims Enterprise tract of property. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Bubba Moreau, seconded by Mr. Jay Scott to authorize Ms. Brianna Lambert to perform beautification upgrades, repair the arch and install two

• (2) benches at Serenity Field Pauper Cemetery, located behind Buhlow Lake, for her Eagle Scout project. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Jay Scott, seconded by Mr. Craig Smith to authorize cleanup of garbage, trash, weeds and debris at 5707 Lanny Street, Alexandria, LA and authorize legal counsel to invoice the property owner for cost of cleanup. Public Works Department to complete the job if a contractor is unable to complete the job in a timely manner or if it is cost prohibitive. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Bubba Moreau, seconded by Mr. Jay Scott to authorize cleanup of garbage, trash, weeds and debris at 1402 Highway 1204, Pineville, LA and authorize legal counsel to invoice the property owner for cost of cleanup. Public Works Department to complete the job if a contractor is unable to complete the job in a timely manner or if it is cost prohibitive. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Jay Scott, seconded by Mr. Parrish Giles to authorize cleanup REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 14, 2024

of garbage, trash, weeds and debris at 1797 Watson Road, Pineville, LA and authorize legal counsel to invoice the property owner for cost of cleanup. Public Works Department to complete the job if a contractor is unable to complete the job in a timely manner or if it is cost prohibitive. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Parrish Giles, seconded by Mr. Ernest Nelson, the following ordinance was presented, an ordinance to lower the speed limit on Constant Road, Ward 2, District H from 25 mph to 15 mph and authorize the Parish Highway Department to erect new speed limit signs, and on vote unanimously adopted:

ORDINANCE

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND AND REENACT SECTION 18-4.2 (I) SPEED LIMITS SO AS TO ESTABLISH A 15 MPH SPEED LIMIT ON CONSTANT ROAD, WARD 2, DISTRICT H.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Rapides Parish Police Jury in Regular Session convened on this 14 th day of October, 2024, that Section 18-4.2 (i) of the Rapides Parish Code of Ordinances is hereby amended and reenacted to include the following road, as follows:

Chapter 18. MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC Section 18-4.2. Speed limits designated on certain streets: ...

• (i) Fifteen miles per hour. It shall be unlawful for any person to drive or operate a vehicle upon the following parish roads in Rapides Parish in excess of fifteen (15) miles per hour. ... Constant Road, Ward 2, District H ...

(l). Whoever violates the provisions of this section shall be punished by a fine not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100.00), or imprisoned in the Rapides Parish Jail for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days, or both.

BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that this ordinance is to be effective immediately. BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED in all other respects Section 18 of the Rapides Parish Code of Ordinances shall remain unchanged. BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED that the Parish Public Works Department is hereby authorized to erect speed limit signs on the road. THUS DONE AND SIGNED on this 14 th day of October, 2024.

On motion by Mr. Bubba Moreau, seconded by Mr. Craig Smith to award RFQ No. 3300 - Engineering Services at Esler Field to Pan American Engineers as recommended by the Selection Committee. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Bubba Moreau, seconded by Mr. Craig Smith the following resolution was unanimously adopted:

RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Apeck Construction, LLC, the Contractor for the Rapides Parish Police Jury District No. A – Districtwide Asphalt Roadway Improvements – 2023, REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 14, 2024

has “Substantially Completed” the work under the Contract as recommended by the Engineer.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Contract of Apeck Construction, LLC the Contractor, for said work, is hereby accepted as “Substantially Complete” with the understanding that the final payment will be made upon satisfactory completion of any Punch List items and presentation of the Clear Lien Certificate as required by law; and,

It is HEREBY FURTHER RESOLVED, that the signing and filing with the Clerk of Court of this Resolution of Contract Acceptance by the President is hereby authorized; and,

It is HEREBY FURTHER RESOLVED, that the President is authorized to sign a Final Recap Change Order adjusting the final contract quantities and time period as necessary.

Passed, approved and adopted this 14 th day of October, 2024.

On motion by Mr. Craig Smith, seconded by Mr. Jay Scott the following resolution was unanimously adopted:

RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Diamond B Construction Company, LLC, the Contractor for the Rapides Parish Police Jury Gunter Road and Barron Chapel Road Improvements, has “Substantially Completed” the work under the Contract as recommended by the Engineer.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Contract of Diamond B Construction Company, LLC, the Contractor, for said work, is hereby accepted as “Substantially Complete” with the understanding that the final payment will be made upon satisfactory completion of any Punch List items and presentation of the Clear Lien Certificate as required by law; and,

It is HEREBY FURTHER RESOLVED, that the signing and filing with the Clerk of Court of this Resolution of Contract Acceptance by the President is hereby authorized; and,

It is HEREBY FURTHER RESOLVED, that the President is authorized to sign a Final Recap Change Order adjusting the final contract quantities and time period as necessary.

Passed, approved and adopted this 14 th day of October, 2024.

On motion by Mr. Danny Bordelon, seconded by Mr. Ernest Nelson to authorize Pan American Engineers, LLC. to advertise and receive bids for the Belgard Bend Road Widening project. The estimated construction cost of the project is $550,000.00. Project is to be paid from Police Jury District E – Road District 36A funds. On vote the motion carried.

REGULAR MEETING

OCTOBER 14, 2024

On motion by Mr. Danny Bordelon, seconded by Mr. Ollie Overton to authorize the President to execute Partial Acceptance of Comfort Station #3 and the Picnic Shelter portion related to the Cotile Recreation Repairs and Improvements Project, under construction by Bayou Rapides Corporation, as recommended by Ballard CLC and Pan American Engineers. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Ollie Overton, seconded by Mr. Ernest Nelson to authorize the Parish President to approve and sign a six (6) month extension for the One Stop Operator contract with Louisiana State University at Alexandria (LSUA), contract to be extended until June 30, 2025, and funded through the WIOA grant funds. Treasurer to amend the budget as necessary. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Ollie Overton, seconded by Mr. Parrish Giles to ratify acceptance of a Volunteer Fire Assistance grant administered by the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry for $8,550.00 for Fire District No. 16. Matching funds to be paid from Fire District No. 16 funds. The purpose of this U.S. Forest Service grant is to assist rural fire departments in building firefighting capacities. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Parrish Giles, seconded by Mr. Ollie Overton to authorize participation in the State Homeland Security Program Grant (EMPG 2024), Grant No. EMT-2024-EP-05015, grant award $56,618.17, to be administered by the Rapides Parish Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Office and for the Parish President to sign related documents. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Bubba Moreau, seconded by Mr. Parrish Giles to authorize participation in the State Homeland Security Program Grant (SHSP 2024), Grant No. EMW-2024-SS-05277, to be administered by the Rapides Parish Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Office and to authorize the Parish President to sign related documents. On vote the motion carried.

RESOLUTION TO SUBMIT FY 2025-2029 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS PROGRAM APPLICATION FOR THE ESLER REGIONAL AIRPORT BY THE RAPIDES PARISH POLICE JURY

WHEREAS, Title 2 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950 provides that cities, towns, parishes, and other political subdivisions of this State may separately or jointly acquire, establish, construct, expand, own, lease, control, equip, improve, maintain, operate, regulate, and police airports and landing fields for the use of aircraft; and,

WHEREAS, the State of Louisiana, Department of Transportation and Development, Division of Aviation (formerly the LA DOTD-OAPT) is charged by Title 2 with the responsibility for the development of aviation facilities within the State to foster air commerce and to safeguard the interests of those engaged in all phases of the aviation industry and of the general public; and,

WHEREAS, the Rapides Parish Police Jury hereinafter referred to as “Sponsor”, has completed an FAA and DOTD approved Master Plan, Action Plan, and/or Airport Layout Plan which outlines the specific future development of the Esler Regional REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 14, 2024

Airport; and, the Sponsor is desirous of implementing a portion of the approved Plan recommendations which provide for the critically needed improvements as stated below to substantially improve the safety and usability of the Airport, but does not have sufficient funds of its own required for completing the needed improvements; and,

WHEREAS, the LA DOTD, Division of Aviation is authorized by Title 2 to expend funds for the construction or enlargement of airports for the safety and advancement of aeronautics;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: SECTION I That the Sponsor does hereby formally request that the LA DOTD, Division of Aviation provide funds required to complete the airport improvements at the Esler Regional Airport specifically as described in the Capital Improvement Program Application for State Financial Assistance to be dated October 2024. SECTION II That the said LA DOTD, Division of Aviation be and is hereby assured that all necessary servitudes, rights-of-way, rights of ingress and egress and means thereof will be furnished by the Sponsor and the titles thereto will be valid and indefeasible, and th at the Sponsor will assume ownership, financial reporting, and complete responsibility for the maintenance and upkeep of the airport after completion of said improvement. SECTION III That the Sponsor will save and hold the said LA DOTD, Division of Aviation, its officers, agents, and employees harmless from any liability or claim for damages arising out of the project, including death or injuries to third parties including, but not limited to, liability or claim for damages out of the negligence of said LA DOTD, Division of Aviation, its officers, agents, or employees, and expressly agrees to defend any suit of any nature brought against the LA DOTD, Division of Aviation as a result of this project. SECTION IV That the President of the Sponsor be and is hereby authorized and directed to evidence this agreement by affixing his signature at the place provided therefore on this resolution and on subsequent related documents/agreements as required by the rules and regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration and the State of Louisiana and the Clerk is hereby authorized to attest said execution. SECTION V That this resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its adoption.

A MOTION TO ADOPT the above resolution was made by Mr. Jay Scott, seconded by Mr. Ernest Nelson, and resulted in the following vote:

YEAS: Oliver “Ollie” Overton, Jr , Craig Smith, Danny Bordelon, Parrish Giles, Jay Scott, Ernest Nelson, Davron “Bubba” Moreau , Sean McGlothlin and Joe Bishop NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None On roll call vote the motion carried 9-0.

Passed, approved and adopted by the President and Police Jury of Rapides REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 14, 2024

Parish, Louisiana, on this 14th day of October, 2024.

On motion by Mr. Ollie Overton, seconded by Mr. Bubba Moreau to authorize participation in the FY 2025 LCDBG Clearance Program for clearance, demolition and the removal of residential or commercial structures on private property found to be detrimental to or endangering public safety, health or welfare and authorize the President to sign all necessary documents. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Ollie Overton, seconded by Mr. Sean McGlothlin to enter into a lease agreement with Steth LLC for the Kilpatrick Building, located at 909 Foisy Street, Alexandria, LA, to be used for additional office space for various departments during renovations of the Courthouse and Annex Buildings. Tenant will be responsible for utilities and maintenance. Rate for one year term is $5,000.00 per month; Rate for two-year term is $4,600.00 per month. Discussion ensued.

On amended motion by Mr. Ollie Overton, seconded by Mr. Sean McGlothlin to enter into a one (1) year lease agreement with an option to renew for six months at the end of one (1) year, with Steth LLC for the Kilpatrick Building, located at 909 Foisy Street, Alexandria, LA, to be used for additional office space for various departments during renovations of the Courthouse and Annex Buildings. Tenant will be responsible for utilities and maintenance. Rate for one year term is $5,000.00 per month. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Sean McGlothlin, seconded by Mr. Jay Scott to adopt the following resolution;

Resolution

WHEREAS, Gregory L. Jones is in need of the expertise of The Keiser Law Firm and attorney Randall B. Keiser in the area of Federal Civil Rights Litigation in Federal Court; and

WHEREAS, there are various Civil Suits that are ongoing and being filed against the Rapides Parish Police Jury; and

WHEREAS, The Keiser Law Firm and attorney Randall B. Keiser, has the knowledge of these suits and the Police Jury request that services be extended for an additional year to assist the Police Jury in this defense; and

WHEREAS, The Keiser Law Firm and attorney Randall B. Keiser, be hereby retained as co- counsel for the Rapides Parish Police Jury; at the compensation schedule published and approved by the attorney general not to exceed $225.00 per hour together with incurred expenses for court cost advances, subpoena and deposition fees, and other like out-of -pocket expenditures, subject however to the approval of the Louisiana Attorney General pursuant to R.S. 42:263; and

WHEREAS, The Keiser Law Firm and attorney Randall B. Keiser, is hereby retained for a term of one (1) year beginning September 1, 2024 and ending August 31, 2025; and

REGULAR MEETING

OCTOBER 14, 2024

WHEREAS, in the event of claims brought in federal court seeking equitable relief, these claims may implicate the interests of the State of Louisiana, and so the Rapides Parish Police Jury agrees to provide advance written notice to the Louisiana Attorney General ten (10) business days before the next meeting and an opportunity for the Attorney General to express concerns directly to the Board in writing or in executive session before the Board:

• (1) proposes a settlement, accepts a proposed settlement, agrees to a consent decree, or enters any other agreement with any party in any federal action for declaratory or injunctive relief that is going to be or has been filed; or
• (2) files any document in any federal case in which(a) declaratory or injunctive relief has been granted against the Board, (b) final judgement dismissing the case has not been entered, and (c) at least 3 years have passed since any party seeking relief, including the USDOJ in an amicus capacity, filed any document in the case.

Accordingly, the Rapides Parish Police Jury authorizes and directs The Keiser Law Firm and attorney Randall B. Keiser, to provide the required notice to the Attorney General, release such information and documentation as the Attorney General may request in response to the notice, and generally cooperate with the Attorney General in regard to the notice

WHEREAS, this resolution shall take effect immediately; and

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Rapides Parish Police Jury, pursuant to La. R.S. 42:262, does hereby retain and employee The Keiser Law Firm and attorney Randall B. Keiser, as special counsel; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution and proposed contract described herein be submitted to the Attorney General for the State of Louisiana for approval.

The resolution having been submitted to a vote; the vote thereon was as follows:

YEAS: Oliver “Ollie” Overton, Jr , Craig Smith, Danny Bordelon, Parrish Giles, Jay Scott, Ernest Nelson, Davron “Bubba” Moreau , Sean McGlothlin and Joe Bishop NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None On roll call vote the motion carried 9-0.

Whereupon the Resolution was declared adopted by the Rapides Parish Police Jury on the 14 th day of October, 2024.

On motion by Mr. Bubba Moreau, seconded by Mr. Sean McGlothlin to accept the recommendation of Legal Counsel to contribute thirty thousand dollars towards a settlement on J. Gamlin v. State of Louisiana et al; Civil Suit No. 260,394; 9 th JDC; Parish of Rapides; State of Louisiana . On vote the motion carried. Mr. Scott abstained.

On m otion by Mr. Ollie Overton, seconded by Mr. Ernest Nelson to approve REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 14, 2024

negotiations to purchase the building located at 1293 Murray Street, Alexandria, LA, to be used as a Public Records Storage facility, and report final negotiation to the Jury for final approval. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Parrish Giles, seconded by Mr. Ollie Overton to receive the required report from Acadian Ambulance under the Contract for August 2024:

Response Number of Required Compliance Zone Responses % % Alexandria - 8 minute 499 80% 86.77% Pineville - 8 minute 191 80% 84.29% Rapides - 12 minute 229 80% 91.70% Rapides - 20 minute 214 80% 87.85% On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Bubba Moreau, seconded by Mr. Sean McGlothlin the following item(s) were placed on the Jury but were posted on the agenda after the Committee Meeting in compliance with the public meetings law and are confirmed as having been added to the agenda by unanimous vote:

YEAS: Oliver “Ollie” Overton, Jr , Craig Smith, Danny Bordelon, Parrish Giles, Jay Scott, Ernest Nelson, Davron “Bubba” Moreau , Sean McGlothlin and Joe Bishop NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None On roll call vote the motion carried 9-0.

On motion by Mr. Jay Scott, seconded by Mr. Ernest Nelson to authorize cleanup of garbage, trash, weeds and debris at 1827 Community Lane, Alexandria, LA and authorize legal counsel to invoice the property owner for cost of cleanup. Public Works Department to complete the job if a contractor is unable to complete the job in a timely manner or if it is cost prohibitive. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Jay Scott, seconded by Mr. Sean McGlothlin to authorize cleanup of garbage, trash, weeds and debris at 5215 Francis Street, Alexandria, LA and authorize legal counsel to invoice the property owner for cost of cleanup. Public Works Department to complete the job if a contractor is unable to complete the job in a timely manner or if it is cost prohibitive. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Jay Scott, seconded by Mr. Ernest Nelson to authorize cleanup of garbage, trash, weeds and debris at 521 Bayou Maria Road, Pineville, LA and authorize legal counsel to invoice the property owner for cost of cleanup. Public Works Department to complete the job if a contractor is unable to complete the job in a timely manner or if it is cost prohibitive. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Ollie Overton, seconded by Mr. Bubba Moreau to authorize advertising and the hiring of a Purchasing Agent for the Police Jury office due to the upcoming retirement of Ms. Marla West. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Parrish Giles, seconded by Mr. Ernest Nelson to authorize a two

• (2) month extension of the current Acadian Ambulance contract pending new REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 14, 2024

request for proposals for ambulance service in Rapides Parish. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Danny Bordelon, seconded by Mr. Ollie Overton to authorize Fire District No. 16 – Alfalfa District to submit a grant application to Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, as recommended by the Fire Chief and authorize the Parish President to sign all necessary documents. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Jay Scott, seconded by Mr. Parrish Giles to authorize cleanup of garbage, trash, weeds and debris at 7019 Isabella Drive, Alexandria, LA and authorize legal counsel to invoice the property owner for cost of cleanup. Public Works Department to complete the job if a contractor is unable to complete the job in a timely manner or if it is cost prohibitive. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Ollie Overton, seconded by Mr. Sean McGlothlin to authorize cleanup of garbage, trash, weeds and debris at 6910 Isabella Drive, Alexandria, LA and authorize legal counsel to invoice the property owner for cost of cleanup. Public Works Department to complete the job if a contractor is unable to complete the job in a timely manner or if it is cost prohibitive. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Sean McGlothlin, seconded by Mr. Ollie Overton to authorize cleanup of garbage, trash, weeds and debris at 6231 Antoinette Street, Alexandria, LA and authorize legal counsel to invoice the property owner for cost of cleanup. Public Works Department to complete the job if a contractor is unable to complete the job in a timely manner or if it is cost prohibitive. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Parrish Giles, seconded by Mr. Ollie Overton to authorize the Parish President to form a committee to review quotes received for Group Health Insurance for FY 2025 and make a recommendation to the Jury. On vote the motion carried.

On motion by Mr. Jay Scott, seconded by Mr. Craig Smith to discuss and take action against Optimum. Discussion ensued. The Jury recommends sending a letter to all local delegation, Public Service Commission and the State of Louisiana requesting they no longer allow Optimum to have a permit to provide services in the State of Louisiana. On vote the motion carried.

Mr. Rhett Desselle stated they have been reviewing multiple options to store dirt at the Rapides Parish Coliseum for events at the venue. A contractor will assist in moving the dirt to an approved location and the Jury can send a letter to DOTD to ask if they have any surplus concrete barriers that can be used to help encase the dirt in the location. Mr. Bishop asked for Mr. Desselle to prepare a letter to send to DOTD.

On motion by Mr. Bubba Moreau, seconded by Mr. Craig Smith to ratify acceptance of a Volunteer Fire Assistance grant administered by the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry for $11,349.00 for Fire District No. 14. Matching funds to be paid from Fire District No. 14 funds. The purpose of this U.S. Forest Service grant is to assist rural fire departments in building their firefighting capacities. On vote the motion carried.

There being no further business, motion by Mr. Sean McGlothlin, seconded by Mr. REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 14, 2024

Joe Bishop the meeting was adjourned at 3:48 p.m.