Archive of Previously Published Information

League of Women Voters^®
of St. Tammany

Archive of Previously Published Information

Arrows to the Past

See what School Board, Parish Council and Congressional Candidates wrote before the 2006 elections.

School Board Candidates Resp.. Congress Candidates Resp.. Home Rule Charter.

School Board Candidates

1.There are currently 15 school board member districts. Why do you think only three of the 15 incumbents have opposition? District Two - Elizabeth Heintz: Our current board works very well together. I believe that the public recognizes that we have an excellent school system and attributes some of that success to the vision of our board. Also, we are an active, accessible and dedicated group of board members. District Two - Andrew Varvoutis: I think only 3 of the 15 incumbents have opposition because people generally are not aware of elections and qualifying periods. I think more media coverage prior to the qualifying period would increase opposition, which is healthy for our democratic process. I am concerned that there is not enough public interaction with the school board. I believe that any and every election should have opposition so that voters have the option to hear a debate on issues and decide whom the best candidate is. It is primary to our political system that "we the people" participate and demand the most of our elected officials. I do not believe that having opposition is a sign of a personal attack, rather a conduit for the exchange of ideas. District Four + Stephen "Jack" Loup, III: I believe that the no. 1 ranking of test scores allow people to think that everything is great in our system. Also, who wants this type of job?

District Four + Diane Sambola: I feel that only two districts have opposition because the people of St. Tammany Parish think that the school board is doing a great job. The board works well together and has shown to make good and sound decisions for the school system.
2. Currently, the St. Tammany Parish Planning Department is embarking on an ambitious plan to rezone all unincorporated property within St. Tammany Parish during the upcoming term of office. There are specific new proposed zoning classifications for lower and secondary education school sites. Will the school board publicly participate in this process to identify those areas where future schools should be constructed? District Two - Elizabeth Heintz: The school board has already begun working with Parish government to identify areas where future schools should be located. We have also asked the public to help us locate property that may be suitable for school construction. The Board has established a Land Acquisition Fund to help pay for school property. But most importantly we have had a demographics study conducted by a noted firm to determine where we will need new schools. The study informs us on short term growth in the area and anticipated growth five years from now. We will need further data collected to zero in on areas of growth to obtain more specific and useful data for planning purposes. District Two -Andrew Varvoutis: As a member of the school board, I am in favor of publicly participating in this process with the STP-PD. These decisions should be driven by public input The STP Planning Department and land use issues as a whole are vitally important to me as we look at the long term future of our parish. It is paramount to our continued success that we work to develop long range plans. I want the school board to work not only with the planning department, but other public parish entities to formulate the proper land use maps and long range plans. District Four + Stephen "Jack" Loup, III: I think that the school board would participate.

District Four + Diane Sambola: The board already works very close with the parish on zoning issues. I am sure that we will continue to do everything possible to ensure that we identify important school sites.

3. Land acquisition costs are rising sharply in St. Tammany. Should all the developers of residential property in a school district be asked to share in these costs either through fees or land donations? District Two - Elizabeth Heintz: The St. Tammany Parish School Board is always open to donations of land. It is the School Board's obligation to decide whether a piece of property would be a good location for a school. Many criteria would have to be met before the Board would deem property suitable for a school site. District Two -Andrew Varvoutis: I am not in favor of any additional fees because those fees are passed along to the home buyer and therefore only an additional tax on property owners. The property owners feel overtaxed and I don't believe in adding any taxes without a full bottom up review of expenditures and budget forecasts. Secondly I believe that the realty market has yet to stabilize in post-Katrina St. Tammany and I do not support additional costs under these circumstances. If additional costs are levied on developers, they will be passed through to the home buyer thus augmenting the issue of housing costs. District Four + Stephen "Jack" Loup, III: I would have to investigate this further. District Four + Diane Sambola: I think that all new developments should be assessed some type of land fee to go directly to the school system. These impact fees could be set aside for future land acquisitions.
4. Currently there are fifteen school board districts. Should there be fewer districts? If YES, how many districts? If NO, why not?

District Two - Elizabeth Heintz: No, because a reduction in the number of school districts would mean that each board member would have to represent more people. This would limit our accessibility to the public. Our board functions well with members being available to attend the many activities at the fifty two schools within our parish. We work together to keep other members informed of the needs and activities at the schools within our district.

District Two -Andrew Varvoutis: Yes, I think that there should be fewer districts and additional at-large seats to insure elected officials think of the implications parish wide and not only to their district. I think that any group of this size has certain inherent strengths and weaknesses. The strength of a board of this size is it allows for a diversity of ideas that when focused on a singular goal (our children's education) can produce a better result. The issue I have is more to the geographic districts and not the number. I believe that the school board districts, as they are currently, do not serve the entire parish effectively and that we should have at-large seats that answer to the parish as a whole. District Four + Stephen "Jack" Loup, III: There could be some discussion on this, but in the past, no serious considerations were finalized.

District Four + Diane Sambola: I feel that we should keep the fifteen districts because it works well for our parish. The parish is very big and it gives each board member a small area to travel to visit their schools. It also helps keep the board member closer to their community.

5.What is your responsibility as a member of the St. Tammany Parish School Board?

District Two - Elizabeth Heintz: First and foremost as an elected member of the St. Tammany Parish School Board my duties are to determine policies by which the school system will operate. It is also my responsibility to be visible in the schools, community and to attend board meetings. I believe I should consider the children first, and then plan and vote for sound management of the system.

District Two -Andrew Varvoutis: I see the responsibilities' of the board as follows. Establishes academic goals, adopts a budget, sets the school calendar, adopts the curriculum and courses, hires and supervises the Superintendent, approves the hiring and termination of school personnel, approves new building plans and oversees construction and maintenance of school buildings and grounds, adopts standards for student promotion, establishes student safety and behavior codes, adopts rules regarding student uniforms, enforces mandatory school attendance laws, makes sure school buses and transportation are available to students, and holds regular meetings to conduct the business of the district and hear from employees, students and citizens. District Four + Stephen "Jack" Loup, III: Provide the best possible education for our kids.

District Four + Diane Sambola: My responsibility as a board member is to set policy. We also are required to be fiscally responsible.
6.What can/will you do to improve communication between the School Board and the community? What role can technology play in improving communications?

District Two - Elizabeth Heintz: I will continue to make myself available to the public by maintaining a high level of visibility in the schools, community, and district. I will encourage the administration to be available also. Board meetings are open to the public. The Board seeks representation by stakeholders on of many of our committees and always asks for the publics input into our policies and budgeting process. School report cards are located on the State Department of Education web site. School officials and Board members are available to speak before governmental and civic groups. Technology plays a very important role in our communication with the public. We maintain a web site that is an excellent research tool and information site about the school system and its activities. Channel 13 on the Charter system also provides important information about the system and highlights schools within our system. We are constantly seeking ways to improve our communication with the public.

District Two -Andrew Varvoutis: I think it is the responsibility of the school board members to keep contact with the parents and citizens of each district. Regular meeting to inform district members of the actions of the school board as well as hearing the concerns of those in the community will help facilitate this. The school board website and personal e-mails from board members will certainly help in this area. I believe it will help gain the much needed involvement of the public. I will be an advocate for timely updates to the school website as well as e-mails informing the public of our efforts.

District Four + Stephen "Jack" Loup, III: The community is concerned about spending a huge budget, we need to inform them of exactly how the money is spent. The board should create new avenues of communication.

District Four + Diane Sambola: I do think we need to improve our public relations with the community. It does not seem that the community realizes all the good things that goes on in our parish. We need to let everyone in our parish see what is required to educate our children. I feel that the website is a good tool for us to show everyone what goes on in our school system.

7.How does the school board and the administration interact?

District Two - Elizabeth Heintz: Interaction occurs on many levels. Departments within the system report to the Board on a monthly basis at committee meetings. We review programs and policies and make decisions where and when needed. The administration keeps board members informed on information relating to educational programs, human resources matters, fiscal management, construction, technology, etc... There is an open door policy between the administration, the Board and the public. Board members discuss their visions for the system with the Superintendent and her staff. Then we plan together for that vision.

District Two -Andrew Varvoutis: My commitment as a school board member would be to interact with all levels of the administration directly, with my first line of contact being the superintendent. However, it is equally important to me that any member of the St. Tammany Parish school system feel they can speak with me. Communication is a two way street and it is vital that we keep the flow of information up to the board members open and accessible. I want to have annual principle and teacher meetings at the end of the school year where I will meet with the schools in my district to review the year, find out what worked well and what areas need improvement. I also think that meetings like board member Mary Kay Bellisario has in Slidell and her e-mail updates are valuable to her residents. I want to do the same thing for district #2.

District Four + Stephen "Jack" Loup, III: Not sure.

District Four + Diane Sambola: Our board and the administration have a great working relationship. As a board member I have great respect for the vast amount of knowledge that the administrative team has. I do not think that there is any other board around that works as well together as our system does.
8. When the revenues that are generated by property and sales taxes are examined, one finds the St. Tammany Parish School Board receives more than half of all the tax revenue that is generated in St. Tammany Parish. The revised budget for 2001-2002 was $210.4 million. This year's proposed budget is $308.8 million. Adjusted for inflation that represents a 31% increase in real spending. During the same period, student enrollment increased by about 15%. What skills do you bring to the Board that will manage this growth?

District Two - Elizabeth Heintz: I have always viewed the budget from a business perspective. It has been important to weigh how we can spend our funds to provide the best education possible for the children. Maintaining highly qualified teachers has been a priority and that has meant increasing teacher pay. Salaries and benefits are almost 90% of our current budget. It has been necessary to look toward ways to save on employee benefits. After an intensive study on employee health benefits we are ask: ing our employees to consider the system becoming self-insured for these benefits. We have researched the savings and believe that this is one measure to control spending. Pupil/teacher ratio and elementary planning time for teachers has also been costly to our system. Expenses for these items benefit the children immensely, but have come at a cost. Much analysis of each part of the budget is necessary to determine that we are spending appropriately.

District Two -Andrew Varvoutis: I have the innate ability to offer a strategic approach to the growth rate through my extensive background in management training. Through the development of a long term strategy, we can then focus on fiscal matters which will allow us to eliminate redundancies and reduce spending. The growth rate of the school system is at a manageable rate, but the plan is lacking. I want to focus my energy to develop the strategy for our growth. By working with the other board members to implement multi-year budgets, more financially responsible budgets that do more than meet the minimum state requirements', and eliminating redundancies, we can work to reduce some areas of spending. .

District Four + Stephen "Jack" Loup, III: I hope my listening ability and questioning skills will allow me to make the best decision on growth and the problems it creates.

District Four + Diane Sambola: I have used both my management training from the Hilton and my experience as a Village of Folsom planning and zoning member in my eight years on the board. The experience from both of these positions helps me understand both budgets and growth issues.

9.What impact is No Child Left Behind having on the school system?

District Two - Elizabeth Heintz: No Child Left Behind has already had a positive impact in St. Tammany's schools. We have worked hard to have programs in place that have helped our schools to make adequate yearly progress in all subgroups. Over half of our schools were eligible for monetary rewards given through the Louisiana Accountability Program. The rewards have been from $2500.00 to over $12,000.00. Individual schools have used these funds for their specific needs. Many of our schools showed exemplary academic growth.

District Two -Andrew Varvoutis: Because St. Tammany has always maintained a level of excellence with respect to our AYP (adequate yearly progress + an NCLB term) even before NCLB was instituted in 2004, NCLB has had little impact on the school system's accountability. The latest data available through the LA Dept. of Education, which is for the 2004-05 school year, ranks St. Tammany Parish School District No. 2 in the state, trailing only by 4/10 of a point behind Livingston Parish. We have the highest Subgroup Performance Score (GPS) for both education (118.4) and students with disabilities (72.0) in the state. I believe these numbers are directly attributed to the fact that we rank #9 in the state for the percentage of classes taught by certified teachers in all schools.

District Four + Stephen "Jack" Loup, III: More accountability. More time spent with individual students. More personnel. More money spent in this area.

District Four + Diane Sambola: No Child Left Behind has pushed us to focus on every child in the class setting. We are asked to make sure that we not focus on just groups but the individual child. Our system has had to look outside the box on ways to educate each and every child equally.
10. Some St. Tammany Parish schools, notably those in the Mandeville area, are recognized for their excellence year after year. However, some other schools, notably those that have higher concentrations of minority and/or economically disadvantaged students, are not sharing in these successes. What specific steps will the School Board take to ensure that ALL St. Tammany students are able to reap the rewards of good schools, access to higher education, and more opportunity in the workplace?

District Two - Elizabeth Heintz: The Board has placed an emphasis on literacy throughout our school system. We have also put in place tools to measure and collect data on academic improvement by the students. This will aid us in determining where to focus on improvement. Our new curriculum is designed to help us meet and hopefully surpass grade level expectations set forth by the state. In addition to preparing students for the higher education, we have programs in place that prepare them for the workplace. We offer industry certification such as automotive, nursing assistant, web master tech, etc... Classes are also offered that give students the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school. Also in place are programs to help students that may be considering dropping out. These programs include Options, Back on Track and Operation Jumpstart. All have been highly successful.

District Two -Andrew Varvoutis: As a school board member, I will support the board in examining these issues to provide the best possible education to all children. Schools need to take an active role in developing skills which will prepare graduates for college and labor. The focus of the high schools on college prep, and in St. Tammany parish only around 20% of our high school graduates graduate from college. I believe we need to do more to develop skills in our schools that translate to life skills. The regional workforce shortage in skilled labor gives us a great opportunity to work with private companies to staff and equip these types of training. President Bush and the high school initiative as well as the state high school re-design all hit at this issue. I work with high schools nationally to recruit these students and I have the skills to improve the systems here.

District Four + Stephen "Jack" Loup, III: I would have to study which areas are lacking in test success and then make recommendations based on my education experience. District Four + Diane Sambola: No Child Left Behind has helped us to make sure that all of the children in St. Tammany receive equal education. Our curriculum is the same throughout the parish but we do offer services to children at risk.
11. What is your position on school vouchers?

District Two - Elizabeth Heintz: I do want to see these funds taken from our public schools in St. Tammany.

District Two -Andrew Varvoutis: I do not support vouchers for the St. Tammany Parish School System simply because we do not fall under the guidelines of being a failing public school

District Four + Stephen "Jack" Loup, III: If I had to make a decision on use of school vouchers, I would have to study all sides in more depth.

District Four + Diane Sambola: I do not have a problem with school vouchers as long as the participating schools are held to the same accountability as the public schools. If a school accepts vouchers then they should be required to administer the LEAP test.

12A.INCUMBENTS ONLY: How many times have you visited the classrooms of the schools in your district over the past year? Were these visits planned or unannounced? Do you think there is any benefit in visiting the classrooms either during pre-announced visits or unannounced?

District Two - Elizabeth Heintz: I could not begin to count the times I have been in parish classrooms over the past year. I have been invited to many functions as well as having volunteered as a parent in the classrooms. Usually when I plan to visit a school I call and speak with the administration. Frequently when I am at schools, teachers, students or the administration want to take me into classrooms to see all of the learning that is taking place. I have always felt very welcome in the classrooms at our schools. Visiting the schools is the most rewarding part of being on the School Board for me. District Four +Diane Sambola: I have visited the classrooms in my schools many times over the past year. My children attend the schools in my district therefore I know most of the teachers and school employees at my schools. My visits are both announced and unannounced. I do feel that unannounced visits should be kept to a minimum because our principals have too many responsibilities and need to focus their time on the schools not the board members.

12B.CHALLENGERS ONLY: Have you visited any of the classrooms of the schools in your district during the past year? Will you visit the classrooms of the schools in your district? Do you think your visits should be pre-arranged or spontaneous or both and what are the benefits of both types of visits?

District Two + Andrew Varvoutis: I have visited many schools in and out of my district. I have also met with teachers and principals outside of the school grounds. These visits are important to keeping the lines of communication flowing in both directions. The visits should be both scheduled, to allow people time to prepare their thoughts and concerns and also unannounced to get a feel for the real day-to day that occurs at the schools. District Four +Stephen "Jack" Loup, III: I will visit classrooms to be more informed of the types of teaching taking place or observe new projects being tried. Visits would be pre-arranged.

13.Last year, pre-Katrina, during a public meeting on the property tax rates, many citizens questioned the School Board regarding their spending of a $45 million dollar surplus. Should the School Board maintain a surplus and if so, how much money should be set aside and under what conditions should these monies be spent?\

District Two - Elizabeth Heintz: It is necessary to maintain some surplus funding to improve and maintain a strong bond rating. We also maintain a rainy day fund that allows us to operate and meet our expenses for at least one month. In planning for the 2004 Capital Project Fund, we designated some of our surplus funds collected toward needed capital projects.

District Two -Andrew Varvoutis: It is crucial that we maintain a contingency fund to insure financial stability for our system. There are laws regulating the balances of certain accounts so this money should be dedicated to certain areas to protect it from future misuse. That can be accomplished through the idea of multiyear budgets that consider the life cycle of certain purchases and plan for the continuation of services being provided.

District Four + Stephen "Jack" Loup, III: I suppose a surplus is a good thing, but I do not know how much is necessary. District Four + Diane Sambola: Now more than ever I know that the school board needs to maintain a surplus because we will never know what can happen in the future. After Katrina we were able to protect our employees while other systems were not able to. I feel that if we had not had that surplus we might have had to put our employees through more hardship than necessary. The surplus is broken down as follows: $25.8 million unrestricted as a rainy day fund (this is one month's of operations), $17 million designated for 2004 Capital Project Fund, and $17.8 million designated to improve our strong bond rating. Please note that our strong bond rating has enabled us to refinance our bonds and reduce property tax rate by 11% over the last four years.

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I received an email from Rick Rauch, Sr. stating that he was withdrawing from the race.

1. Abita Springs is experiencing an increased rate of growth and development. What impact is this increased growth having on Abita Springs? What ordinances, if any, will you recommend to control and/or curb this growth?

Sheri Sable Campbell: The growth Abita is experiencing right now is evident in the hundreds of new homes that are on the horizon. However, there are ordinances currently being used to control this growth. The Nonconforming Lots law - Ordinance No. 190, Ordinance No. 188 on Density Requirements, and the recently amended Subdivision Ordinance will allow for growth yet still provide restrictions.

Daniel Curtis: We are fast losing our small town quaintness; the reason many chose to move here. I would not try to stop growth, however I would assure that the infrastructure is in place to support smart growth in the town. I DO NOT believe we should allow politicians to continue to put the proverbial cart in front of the horse. We should increase substantially, the impact fee to developers for every building site. The people in the town should not have to shoulder the cost to increase the infrastructure so that growth can expand.

Troy Dugas: It is straining town services and existing infrastructure which was outdated to begin with before the storm and accelerated the need for new infrastructure and expanded city services. We need simply to enforce existing ordinances many which we passed the last 4 years and monitor their effectiveness for possible amendments if necessary. Greed, property costs, impact fees, increased interest rates, wetlands issues, traffic, increased hook up fees and a tougher PUD ordinance all will work to curb such fast growth rates. Patricia Edmiston: Traffic, especially on Hwy 59, backs up every evening. I, along with Alderwoman Benton, had petitioned our state legislators in 2004 for a turning signal to be added to our traffic light to help ease the flow of traffic. Instead we were presented with a traffic-circle proposal. Although the project has been postponed repeatedly DOTD has recently stated construction will begin later this year or early next year. I plan to request a change of timing of the traffic light as a temporary measure to ease traffic congestion. I have worked diligently as Alderman to keep Abita a safe and wonderful place to live. Over 800 new homes are slated to be built in Abita Springs but these developments must follow strict ordinances, including the "subdivision" and "PUD" ordinances, that ensure homes are of a quality standard and will only enhance our current property values. Greg Lemons: I am currently a commissioner for Planning & Zoning for the past four years. We have been making recommendation to the town councils recommending changes to ordinances that an antiquated. I suggested changes to the PUD ordinance , I worked on a rewrite of the subdivision ordinance , and we are currently working on revisions to allow P&Z to look at "Modular Homes" . Growth will be the largest impact to the Town of Abita Springs. In fact we will at least double in size in the next five years, we cannot stop growth but we can make sure that growth fits in the character of Abita.

Pat Patterson, III: There are several areas of concern for Abita Springs. Traffic, Construction development both commercial and residential and Infrastructure. With Infrastructure I am refering to streets, drainage, water, gas and sewage. As we continue to grow all of these mentioned are being taxed by our communities growth. Looking at these issues I feel it is necessary to continue to adhere to the St. Tammany Parish Ordinance #499 which is a comprehensive ordinance covering streets, sanitary provisions, drainage and traffic impact. This along with updating and expanding the Historic building code regulations for Historic Abita and any new constructions should dramatically help in the accelerated growth both now and in the long term.

2. Many of St. Tammany's roads are state highways and local citizens and politicians have little influence on the construction and upgrading of these roadways. What can the town of Abita Springs do to ensure that citizens will have alternative routes to navigate around and through the town, with special attention given to connectivity between new developments and existing roadways?

Sheri Sable Campbell: Steps have been taken to ease the navigation of our streets. Ordinances currently in effect do not allow any "gated" communities of any sort, no subdivisions with limited entry or exit, and no cul-de-sacs. What they do promote is the development of new "neighborhoods" with streets that flow easily with our existing streets and blend with our established neighborhoods. In addition, the construction of the Harrison Ave Extension will take a large amount of traffic out of the middle of town and reroute them to Hwy 36. Also assisting with "cut through" traffic will be the construction of the Bogalusa Hwy that will bring vehicles from Hwy 1088 all the way to Bogalusa. We must work aggressively on this with the state and parish to get these projects done, and ease the traffic congestion in our town.

Daniel Curtis: I do not believe in being reactive, I believe in being proactive. There are other options we can do inside our city limits that would help ease the navigation nightmare we are now experiencing in the town. First on any new development, we can require multiple exits from the developments to multiple roads wherever possible. We could look at making Level St. one way east and Main St. one way west, which would also greatly assist the problem at the intersection of hwy 59/36 at the traffic light. We need to find a street that can be used to divert some of the traffic off of hwy 59 trying to get through the town and bring it to the traffic light from another direction.

Troy Dugas: All our major highways are state highways that we have little control over. We must continue to work with the Parish and local legislative delegation to move the traffic circle and hwy 1088 and other projects forward. We have negotiated with the Parish to build the Harrison extension at no cost to our taxpayers. The town needs to work to extend the Harrison extension past hwy 36 to hwy 435 and Range Line Road to create an inner circle to diffuse traffic. We also passed a grid ordinance to require future development to match the existing traditional town grid design that diffuses traffic.

Patricia Edmiston: Abita Springs has three state highways running through it and as a result, town officials, including the Alderman, attend all meetings regarding the development of new roadways both in and around Abita. Many of the streets in town were laid out a long time ago so we have enacted ordinances that ensure any new developments include paved streets that meet our engineer's specifications. Developments must complete a traffic study and demonstrate the ability for the current road to handle the additional traffic. Developments, whenever possible, must conform to the existing grid of the town. When this is not possible, developments are required to have two or more in/outlets allowing for a better traffic flow within and through the development and its surrounding neighborhoods. Greg Lemons: Abita is unique that it has three state higways that pass through the center of town.. These state highways are owned and operated by LA DOTD. We should work with LA DOTD to rush the traffic circile in the center of town as quick as possible. Even if we had trafic circle today its effective usleful life would only be three to 5 years. We need to work with the parish and state to open as quick as possible the much talked about trafic deversions in and around Abita. Such as the Harrison Road Extension to Highway 36. We need to divert most of the traffic passing through Abita to alternate routes around Abita.

Pat Patterson, III: This is not necessarily the case. Mayor Fitmorris and the city engineer do regularly meet with both the Parish and the State DOTD to discuss roadways that directly affect Abita Springs. We need to work closely with these agencies to come to short term relief but also for 5, 10 and 15 year growth. The Parish is now in meeting discussing continuing growth of unincorporated St. Tammany and how to address growth. We NEED to be part of that planning process. Some proposals for alternative routes around Abita will be controversial. Harrison Ave. is already in the final stages of planning to be extended to Hwy 36 past the Recreation Fields. Franklin Kyle, City Engineer, is working with the Parish to make sure the extension benefits Abita. Hwy 59 needs to be extended from south of Abita to the Hwy 59/36 intersection. This would allow cars and trucks to by pass downtown Abita which eases congestion and noise.

3. What are the three most important issues facing the town council of Abita Springs and what are your specific recommendations regarding these issues?

Sheri Sable Campbell: Traffic. The traffic in Abita Springs has dramatically increased since Hurricane Katrina. I would like to work wit the Mayor, DOTD, and parish to assure that our lists of needs are met. Growth. Obviously we are having a big jump in population here. We must insure that new homes and businesses being built do not negatively affect our current neighborhoods, but enhance our town. Also with this growth put forth an effort to attract desirable new businesses to our area that will benefit all who live here, both by convenience of shopping locally and increased sales tax revenue. Quality of Life. We must work always with this in mind. With the growth and change we are seeing around our parish, we must remember why we have chosen to live here in Abita Springs. The charm and quality of life here is unmatched, and we have to be constantly focused that nothing jeopardizes that.

Daniel Curtis: My top issue is safety and security and I will fully fund the police department in order to increase and keep more officers on the street in the town. Second is to maintain the "small town charm" that we have all come to know as Abita Springs. Third is to stop the growth of government at the tax payers expense, we need to do more with less.

Troy Dugas: Growth and Infrastructure: Economic Development and Tourism: and Quality of Life. Continue to get public input and involvement in establishing our priorities, goals, and plans to achieve the result desired. We must continue to explore ways to direct more funds to these areas as we have in the past attempting to accomplish those that reduce annual expenditures in the future first to free up dollars for other uses in future budgets. The Long-Term recovery committee has proposed new commissions composed of citizens to govern Economic Development, Tourism and Quality of life concerns to assure that they receive the attention that they require. There will be a presentation by the Town Engineer at 5pm tomorrow before our town meeting to explore needs, establish priorities and estimate costs of needed infrastructure for our present and and future.

Patricia Edmiston: Water/Sewer System + Both systems are very old and need to be updated. I would like to have a bond issue with the funds designated to updating our old smaller water pipes to larger capacity pipes. Our current work on the sewer system needs to continue and be expanded. Traffic + It is important that we continue to work with state and parish officials to obtain a roadway that would take truck traffic and through traffic around our town, thus alleviating in-town traffic congestion. Commercial Growth/Tax Base + We need to encourage economic growth by attracting new businesses to the area. Why take our tax dollars elsewhere if we can shop closer to home? These taxes can then be used to maintain town streets, water and sewer systems and to enhance the quality of life in Abita Springs through civic projects such as the Abita Park and Trailhead. Greg Lemons: Growth . Incomming new houising developements . Make sure our ordinaces are up to date to deal with this new growth. Infrastructure. Abita current infrastructure cannot deal with the pending growth. A five year infrastructure plan be develope to include funding be developed. Lack of parks and beautification. Develope a citizen commission to oversee the Town's parks and beautification. To include trail head developement, additional park area, citizen volunteers, repair and expansion of existing park, and funding.

Pat Patterson, III: 1. Construction growth. Here again the usage of St. Tammany Ordinance #499 for overseeing development and expansion. Broadened the Historical Building codes to all new construction. 2. Traffic Concerns For Traffic to work very closely with the DOTD and the St. Tammany Engineering Department to map out short and long term plans for moving traffic in and around Abita Springs. To also draw up 5, 10 and 15 year plans for the unincorporated St. Tammany Parish around Abita Springs as this WILL BE the next area to developed. 3.Streets, Drainage, sewage and gas. Raise our impact fees to be equal to our surrounding area. I know this is controversial but with our limited tax base and growth for the foreseeable future we, the citizens of Abita Springs, can not continue to solely fund this expansion. It should be in the hands of the developers to extend city services to what ever new construction is proposed

4. Why do you want to be an alderman and what is your background?

Sheri Sable Campbell: My reasons for wanting to be an alderman are quite simple. This is my home town. I grew up here, I know and love the people here, and I want to contribute to my community. I currently serve on the Abita Springs Historic Commission. All new construction and renovations for commercial and residential development must come before our board. I own and operate Bot & Nola's Snoballs and Other Cool Stuff. It is a successful local business in Abita Springs and a favorite in town for families to meet and children to play. My hard work and dedication have made my business a success. I will, if elected, bring that same work ethic with me to the town council.

Daniel Curtis: I have been in the "people helping" business all my life whether teaching kids or being in the military. It is what I miss the most since being retired. I do not want to be part of the problem, I`d rather be part of the solution so I'm running for alderman.

Troy Dugas: To continue to build upon the foundation of the last 4 years that I served as Mayor Pro Tem to make Abita a better place in which to live. A native of Baton Rouge, lawyer and now bank loan officer and 8 year resident of Abita Springs. I am married To Susan Sykes CPA for 7 years.

Patricia Edmiston: As an incumbent, I would like to have the opportunity to continue to protect and preserve those things that make Abita Springs a wonderful place to live. I am secretary of the Abita Springs Ladies Progressive Club and treasurer of Abita Springs Business Association. I also volunteer at many of the fund-raisers and benefits, including the holiday programs for the children and senior citizens of Abita Springs. My educational background includes a BS in Mathematics Education, a MS in Science Education and a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, specializing in Mathematics and Science Education. I have been a teacher for 17 years and currently teach at Covington High School. I teach Calculus, Algebra 2 and as of this year, I am piloting a new course in Robotics. I am married to Ron Edmiston and together we have raised four wonderful children and have recently become grandparents. Greg Lemons: I was born and raised in Abita, this is my home. My Father was fire chief, my Uncles was an Alderman. I was raised to give back to the community. I am currently Planning & Zonning Commissioner , Fire Board Commissionor Fire District # 9 , Liaison to the Emergency Operations Center Town of Abita, Long Range Recovery Committee, and was part of the Operation Committee and the beginning of the current Mayors administration , to review Town Operations and make change recommendations.

Pat Patterson, III: I truly feel a need and desire to serve. I CHOSE to live in Abita Springs and was draw here by the history and charm of our town. I would like the opportunity to help us move into the next chapter of the history of Abita Springs as we are inundated with new issues and opportunities. Our future lies in the hands of those elected to serve. I want to be part of the solution for the future. I want to make sure as we grow we do it correctly and strive to maintain the Character or our town so that our children will in the future understand why we wanted to call Abita home. My back ground is in sales working in multiple state with sales, marketing, shipping and finance. I also have worked with many State agencies in Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi.

5. Unincorporated St Tammany Parish surrounds the town of Abita Springs. Should Abita Springs have the same ordinances as St. Tammany? If not, what differences should there be?

Sheri Sable Campbell: Although we have a very good working relationship with and cooperate with the parish, Abita Springs is a special place. We are a community like no other, and because of this and our historic significance we should abide by our own ordinances.

Daniel Curtis: As a minimum yes, however I do believe we need to protect the character of our town as long as it is within reason. We should not infringe on the rights of property owners.

Troy Dugas: No. We look for guidance and direction from the Parish and other municipalities to fashion laws that fit the needs of our particular needs as a distinct community. There should only be transitional ordinances for the annexation areas around town for zoning and architecture. Patricia Edmiston: While many of the ordinances in Abita Springs are similar to those found in the parish, we are a unique town and as such sometimes require unique ordinances. There are those times that our ordinances require stricter restrictions/guidelines than the parish since we are interested in protecting and encouraging the characteristics of "small town" charm. Greg Lemons: I don't think what is necessary a good ordinance for the Parish is good ordinance for a Town. I do think that are some ordinances and parts of ordinances that are applicable, but not all. There is a uniqueness for the Town on Abita that should be preserved.

Pat Patterson, III: As stated before St. Tammany Ordinance #499 is an extremely comprehensive document covering all aspects of construction and development in St. Tammany Parish ,both incorporated and unincorporated, and should be the template of our own development plans.

6. Are the changes recommended by DOTD to improve the intersection of Highways 36 and 59 adequate? What additional improvements to the state highways and bridges in and around Abita Springs are needed?

Sheri Sable Campbell: The traffic circle sounds like a good solution, just not a quick solution. It is unfortunate they have made us wait this long, and it would be helpful to temporarily have a turning signal at the stoplight until the permanent improvements to the intersection are made. As far as other highways and bridges to be improved, there is a dangerous curve on Hwy 435 I would like to see addressed also.

Daniel Curtis: I do not think it is adequate and I believe there are other things that need to be tried before we make this drastic of a change to our town. I would like to see the state raise the bridge over the Abita River on hwy 435 so that in a flood situation that highway could be used to get around, or in and out of the town.

Troy Dugas: Yes along with those ideas expressed in my answer to question #2 the traffic circle will keep traffic moving through town without the necessity of 3 or 4 lanes through town dissecting it in half as originally proposed by DOTD.

Patricia Edmiston: I do not think the traffic circle is necessary, simply updating the light signals by including a turning lane and designating a turning signal would alleviate the problem of traffic backing up highway 59. The construction process of the turning circle will only increase the current traffic backup. The funds used by DOTD could be put to better use by updating the bridges over the creeks, re-asphalting the highways, and the creation of catch basins along the highways to remove water quickly from the intersection and surrounding streets. Once the new highway corridor from Mandeville to Bush/Bogalusa is developed, the trucks that travel through our town will have a quicker and more efficient alternate route. This will go a long way to alleviate the traffic problems in our area, particularly with large trucks and traffic that travel through town on their way north. Greg Lemons: As I previously said the traffic circle is a short term solution. The long tern solution is diversions from the center of Abita.

Pat Patterson, III: I would have to answer this in 2 ways. For the short term, YES. For the long term NO. The traffic circle for the short term will allow for faster movement of traffic through Abita. In the long term as we continue to grow if we do not have in place by passes around Abita the traffic circle will be obsolete with in 5 years. By passes would include but not be limited to the extension of Harrison Ave. to Hwy 36 and the extension of Hwy 59 around Abita connecting to Hwy 59 at the Hwy 36 intersection near the Longbranch Restaurant.

7. Abita Springs is often identified as "that charming little town". What makes Abita "charming" and should these attributes be protected and continued or is it time for growth and change? Or how do you think both objectives can be achieved?

Sheri Sable Campbell: The list is long when it comes to "charm" in Abita. Our quiet tree lined streets, beautiful old homes with wrap around porches, and an eclectic mix of people from all walks of life are just the start. Absolutely our charming attributes should be protected. One of the primary reasons for the growth here is because of the charm and allure of this town, and the changes that I foresee for Abita only accentuate our attributes and history. Projected plans such as the building of a trailhead near the Tammany Trace, reminiscent of where our long gone train depot used to be, and the refurbishing of our historic Pavilion are both examples of how we can preserve our past while still growing and changing.

Daniel Curtis: I think it is the people, the history, and the landscape of the town that makes it the "charming little town", and I do think it needs to be protected. I think to balance it out we must only allow smart growth such as having the infrastructure already in place, making those who want to become part of the town financially responsible for the increase cost of services.

Troy Dugas: ] Its distinct traditional street design, its history, architecture, location and more importantly its people. Both objective have been achieved as the town has endured similar growth spurts in the past. Its people and the type of people it attracts have brought us a citizen base of concerned and active individuals who work to preserve and improve our community. People not government or any new ordinance is what makes Abita abita and is how it will be not only protected and continued but improved.

Patricia Edmiston: Charming intones pleasant, attractive, amiable, and enchanting. I believe Abita Spring is all these things and yes, I definitely feel these attributes should be protected and encouraged. I believe we can have growth and accommodate change while still maintaining our charm. New growth must meld with the current town gridlines wherever possible encouraging neighborhood interactions, homes must meet certain criteria ensuring pleasant and attractive qualities, and as money permits, we work hard to maintain the enchanting quality by updating our parks, the trailhead and green space throughout the town. The people who live in Abita are one our greatest assets. Those who have always lived here want to preserve these "charming" qualities" and many of the people who move here do so because these qualities exist. We must find a way to preserve our past while embracing the future growth and change. Greg Lemons: In my opinion what makes Abita charming is its rural feel with its "Green Space" areas. The ability to walk or ride you bike around Abita is part of that feel. This is very important to me and I will do every that I can to preserve that feel and look. Also what makes Abita is sense of community , we need to do more to develop that .

Pat Patterson, III: Abita is charming because of its location, topography, period construction and rich history. One would be naive to state that we are not going to grow, this is already a given. to do it CORRECTLY is another question. We need short term, 5, 10 and 15 year plans to address, Construction, both commercial and residential Traffic short and long term solutions. Infrastructure. Gas, Water, Sewage, Streets and Drainage. We continue to over tax these daily. Security both Fire and Police. with growth comes the increased need for both Police and Fire Protection. We will need to find way to properly fund these departments. With all of this in mind I feel working with the Mayor and our city engineer we can come to compromise on growth and maintain the quality of life we enjoy now and look forward to the future.

8. What changes do you forecast for public services in Abita Springs? Public services include drainage, water, sewage, libraries, police, and fire protection? Does Abita Springs have sufficient revenue to upgrade and improve these services or will additional tax revenues be required?

Sheri Sable Campbell: There are current plans to expand our sewer system, and water is adequate with a well only a few years old. We do need work done on our water and sewer lines. However, sales tax revenue is up and our annexing agreement with the parish will help a lot. Hopefully, these improvements will be able to be made without any new taxes.

Daniel Curtis: There are now somewhere in excess of 400 home sites going to be built in the town, and I see an increase need for drainage, water, sewage, police, and fire protection in the very near future. The town does not have the money to maintain, repair, or expand the infrastructure. I am NOT for raising taxes rather I think the town needs to trim the fat from its own budget before anything else is even considered. The town must be fiscally responsible, we cannot spend more than we make.

Troy Dugas: We must look for economies of scale and improved efficiency. We must continue explore all alternatives to determine the best methods to increase services without raising taxes. We have done this through the annexation agreement that creates a revenue stream at no cost to the tax payers that allows us to address infrastructure needs and free up more funds for public services and public safety along with the increased sales tax and property tax revenue expected from growth not increasing taxes on our present citizens.

Patricia Edmiston: Updating our antiquated water and sewer systems is essential. Updating our water system will provide increased fire protection as new larger pipes replace older smaller pipes and adequate fire hydrants are installed. As residential growth continues, it is time to request that the parish expand and update our library and the resources it provides. Additionally, we need to attract and retain quality police officers that can help ensure the safety of our citizens and enforce the laws that help to retain our quality of life. Encouraging commercial growth will speed this process up. The mayor and council have negotiated a tax revenue sharing deal with the parish in which we receive tax revenues along highway 36 and along highway 59 down to Interstate 12. As both the parish and town commercial growth increase so will our revenue and our ability to provide and maintain our public services. Greg Lemons: As I stated earlier infrastructure (drainage, water, sewers, police ect.) are one of our top priorities. I believe that developers wanting to develop in our community should pay their fair share of these additional cost.. I also believe we need to develop additional revenue streams for the Town such and new business. I am not a proponent of additional taxes.

Pat Patterson, III: At some point we will have to do a major overhaul of the water and swage systems. They are aging and need to be modernized. A comprehensive drainage plan needs to be researched and implemented as we grow and expands our town. Libraries fall into the St. Tammany parish Column. we need to actively solicit funds for upgrades and expansion of our facility. Police and Fire are doing a fantastic job but with the expansion we will need to add additional Police and Firemen. We will also need to provide to them the necessary equipment to effectively do there jobs. We have a very small tax base. One way to fund these projects would be to increase impact fees to the current level around us and to have new developments pay to have city services run to there projects.

9. What have been the direct and indirect effects of Hurricane Katrina on Abita Springs? What ordinances and resolutions are required, if any, to address these effects?

Sheri Sable Campbell: Our biggest problem from Katrina came from trees. They destroyed homes, clogged waterways, knocked down power lines and made navigating roads impossible. And now a year later, yet another Katrina related tree problem. We are currently having a tree crisis, with pine beetles attacking our pine trees that were weakened by the storm. Many of these trees are on town property, threatening homes and businesses. The town is working hard to get these dangerous trees taken down.

Daniel Curtis: The loss of the trees and the increased growth. We definitely need to do a better job controlling growth and need to encourage the replanting of trees whether through ordinances or resolutions.

Troy Dugas: My answer to question 1 and traffic. The one positive is that it has made Abita more viable for economic development and tourism. We are courting local grocers and a national drug chain. These sales tax dollars will allow us to improve town services and improve public safety and the quality of life without raising taxes. No ordinances are required as most issues have already been addressed.

Patricia Edmiston: Even before Hurricane Katrina, increased population growth and development existed. The hurricane has put that growth on an even faster track. It is important therefore, that we continue to enact ordinances that guarantee this growth does not detract from our quality of life here in Abita Springs. We have already enacted ordinances that provide for maintaining our ecological footprint despite residential growth, that provide for attractive housing, that provide for the safety of our citizens and increased public services such as renovation of the town park and maintenance of green space. These ordinances are constantly being reviewed and amended as needed to ensure that if we must grow, Abita Springs grows from a "charming little town" to a "charming city" in which to live. Greg Lemons: We have temporary feeling in some parts of the town. I feel we need to get on with repairing houses that are damaged from the storm and get rid of the FEMA trailers as soon as possible. I also feel we should have a "Blighted Property" ordinance to to enforce the removal of such property . We have has some of these properties before Katrina and we had added to that list. I am not sure if the current ordinances have enough enforcement powers to make this happen.

Pat Patterson, III: Direct effect was deforestation of our town and surrounding areas. Double digit traffic increases along with accidents and tickets. Request to the Board of Alderman for numerous building permits including commercial and residential. As far as ordinances or resolutions are concerned, using St. Tammany Parish Ordinance #499 and by updating our Historical Building guidelines with extension of those to new construction will certainly help us to control and direct our destiny for the foreseeable future.

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1st Congressional District Written Responses of Candidates

1st Congressional District Candidate Responses
EACH CANDIDATE WAS ASKED TO RESPOND TO THREE OF THE FIVE QUESTIONS. THEIR RESPONSES HAD TO BE LESS THAN 150 WORDS PER QUESTION.
1. WHAT SHOULD BE DONE, IF ANYTHING, AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL TO REDUCE OUR USE OF AND DEPENDENCE ON FOSSIL FUELS?
PETER BEARY: We need to invest in cleaner, more efficient, less expensive fuel and energy sources, while we maximize oil refinement and fight to secure as much offshore oil revenue as possible between now and whenever those newer fuel and energy sources are ready for mass-use.
DAVID GEREIGHTY: Energy policy in the U.S. is a travesty. Sound energy policy should be based on U.S. energy independence. As long as we buy oil from countries that promote anti-American policies, American security is at risk. The current administration with the support of Representative Jindal has continued to support this flawed policy that undermines the basic security and quality of life of every American.
Alternative fuel sources and feed stocks must be developed in this country and federal policy must support this critical area of our economy. The U.S. is a technological power, it is time to direct that energy into long term economic security.
BOBBY JINDAL: I believe that we must begin to explore alternative fuel sources that are environmentally friendly and will help break our dependence on foreign oil. This is needed to counter rising gas prices and help end our dependence on foreign energy. Increased dependence on renewable fuel sources can create new opportunities for our farmers and new markets for agricultural waste products. We must continue to research technologies to utilize these alternative fuels, such as producing more cars that will be able to operate using renewable fuels, like E85 ethanol fuel and fuels produced using sugarcane.
I am confident we can move our country toward a more sustainable, independent, and innovative energy system. I am committed to dependable, affordable and environmentally clean production of energy for America's future. We must emphasize conservation, as we cannot simply drill ourselves to energy self-sufficiency. We have made great progress in reducing the amount of energy ...
STACEY TALLITSCH: There needs to be an Apollo level energy program to find new technologies that provide clean, renewable energy. The private sector has proven itself incapable of doing this because it directly conflicts with the corporate interests of the big oil companies. It's our future, we need to take control of it and dictate what that future will be. To leave this up to the private sector is to secure our own doom on this planet.
2. WHAT SHOULD BE OUR SHORT TERM AND LONG-TERM GOALS IN IRAQ?
PETER BEARY: Short term, we should focus more on teaching Iraqis how to competently and justly police Iraq themselves. Long term, we should set defineable, achievable goals that can lead to us gradually withdrawing from Iraq and allowing Iraqis to take the reins of Iraq themselves.
DAVID GEREIGHTY: There is no reason for Americans to continue to be killed in Iraq. An immediate withdrawal of American troops from combat zones in Iraq is required. Additionally, U.S. taxpayer support for Iraq needs to be eliminated. The overseas welfare program that is currently in place in Iraq is ineffective and is draining the pocketbooks of Americans while our infrastructure which has been destroyed is left in chaos.
The Iraq people, not Halliburton, need to decide what and where to build in their country. We need to support Iraq in this process by insuring that factions seeking to destabilize Iraq are not allowed to. This can be accomplished without combat troops through diplomacy and economic pressure.
Representative Jindal has and still continues to support allowing our soldiers to die and our money to be wasted all for the greed of a few corporations and the egos of self serving politicians.
STACEY TALLITSCH: We need to get out and leave the pirates of the Persian Gulf to their own devices. Iraq will either take care of itself, or the international community will ensure that it does. The United States has overstayed its unwelcomed invasion.
3. WHAT SHOULD BE DONE AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL, IF ANYTHING, TO COMBAT THE HIGH COST OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGS?
DAVID GEREIGHTY: The current administration with the full support of Representative Jindal is artificially keeping the cost of prescription drugs high. Generally, prescription drugs are sold in other countries and to the Veterans Administration in this country at 50% the cost that they are available to the American public. Without these artificial barriers the cost of prescription drugs would drop by one-half.
Representative Jindal has been a supporter of maintaining the high cost of prescription drugs and is the recipient of large amounts of campaign contributions from drug companies.
BOBBY JINDAL: I believe that we must find ways to improve the quality, affordability and accessibility of health care in our country. Too many seniors, confronted with the rising costs of paying for their prescription drugs, are finding themselves having to choose between their medications and other necessities. Research has shown that proper use of prescription drugs can vastly improve and extend a person's life, but if the cost of that medication is so exorbitant as to require a person to abstain from other needs, then it is a fool's gold. We must find a way to lower prescription drug costs for our nation's seniors.
BOBBY JINDAL continued: My experience as Louisiana's Secretary of the Department of Health and Hospitals, Executive Director for the National Bipartisan Commission on the Future of Medicare, and Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services provide me with a unique perspective on ways to make high quality health care more ...
STACEY TALLITSCH: The pharmaceuticals have abused the privilege of running their business in the United States. They must be reined in from many of the tactics they've used to market their products and "encouraged" to fight diseases instead of treating symptoms. Patent law also needs to be revisited in the way drugs are re-patented and repackaged to control markets and hold monopolies on drugs, driving up the price. The United States also should have the right to negotiate for cheaper pricing for government programs, like Medicare and the VA.
Mr. Gereighty and Mr. Tallitsch submitted answers to all five questions. The answers to the first three questions have been included for your review.
4. ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT THE INCREASING AMOUNTS OF SECRECY + AND DECREASED PUBLIC ACCESS TO PUBLIC INFORMATION + AT ALL LEVELS OF GOVERNMENT? IF SO, WHAT SOLUTIONS DO YOU SUGGEST?
5. HOW WOULD YOU PROPOSE TO STOP UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANTS FROM ENTERING THE UNITED STATES?
PETER BEARY: I believe we should tighten our borders with more new fencing and more patrols, though more patrols requires more patrollers, which can be achieved by offering border patrollers higher pay and by strongly recruiting from colleges and universities.
BOBBY JINDAL: We owe it to everyone who lives in our country legally to enforce our immigration laws, both for the security of our country and the continued prosperity of our economy. I am very concerned that without proper security along our borders, biological or nuclear weapons could be smuggled into our country across unmanned portions of our border and used against the residents of our country. As the only member from Louisiana on the Homeland Security Committee, I have made protecting our nation a priority, and I have been a vocal advocate for legislation to ensure the security of our nation.
I have supported legislation to: develop a national border strategy; devise a plan to increase surveillance along our borders to combat illegal alien smuggling; reaffirm state and local law enforcement's existing authority to apprehend, detain, remove and transport illegal aliens; train local and Southwest border for the purposes of gaining ...

January 2007 Home Rule Charter Discussion

LWVST Press Release of
St. Tammany Parish voters chose to move from the old Police Jury System form of government and back to the Home Rule Charter form of government in October 1998. The vote was close and the Home Rule Charter passed by only 123 votes. St. Tammany Parish is the only parish in Louisiana who tried a Home Rule Charter form of government and voted to return to the Policy Jury System back in the early `80s. We've been operating under the provisions of the Home Rule Charter since 2000. We've gone through two election cycles and will once again be asked to vote for our elected parish officials this October and November. Amendments to the Charter may be initiated by a 2/3 vote of the Parish Council or a petition signed by 20% of the registered voters. So far, neither the parish council members nor the citizens have undertaken this process. Any changes to the Charter must be approved by a vote of the people.
The League of Women Voters is a non-partisan political organization. After studying the Home Rule Charter and comparing it to the Police Jury System, local League members chose to support the adoption of the Home Rule Charter and worked with other groups and individuals who had come to the same conclusion: it wasn't a perfect document, but the Home Rule Charter form of government was a better choice for St. Tammany.
The Bureau of Governmental Research (BGR), a non-partisan organization based in New Orleans, prepared a report in May 2002 entitled `The St. Tammany Parish Home Rule Charter: An Assessment'. The report and an appendix document illustrating changes between the 1979 and 1998 documents may be viewed at their website http://www.bgr.org. BGR, like the League, concluded that the Charter form of government was working well, but there were a number of significant issues that warrant further study and possible action.
BGR RECOMMENDATIONS (2002) LWVST RECOMMENDATIONS (1998) Independent Legal Counsel Independent Legal Counsel Council Size and Composition Reduction in Council Size to 9 Reapportionment--Time Frame Reapportionment--Independent Consultant Comprehensive Planning No Term Limits for Parish President
It may be that the conclusions BGR and the League arrived at will need to be re-evaluated since so much time has passed. St. Tammany Parish has continued to grow faster than anyone anticipated. Even though building permits were down 15% in the first eleven months of 2006 when compared to the hyper-growth of 2004, the 2,420 issued permits far outpace the number of building permits issued by any of the other parishes in the greater New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas in 2006.
Councilmember Henry Billiot discussed a couple of charter amendments in August 2006 in The St. Tammany Farmer. Billiot discussed a smaller council comprised of seven district and two at-large council members. He also proposes that term limits be applied to both the Council and the President or neither. (Currently, the Parish President is limited to three four-year terms, but there are no limits as to how many times a council member may be elected.)
Steve Stefancik has been a member of the Parish Council and the Police Jury. Stefancik was a vocal critic of the Home Rule Charter form of government back in 1998. However, he has since praised the parish's move to the council/president form of government.
This program will be taped and shown on the parish's Access St. Tammany government access channel (Charter Communications Channel 10) at a later date. For more information on this program and other League activities, please visit our website at http://www.lwvst.info or contact Sandra Slifer at (985)-875-9388.

Comments, suggestions, questions? Contact our webmaster. Last revised: July 29, 2010 08:37 PDT.