By ROBIN SHANNON

L’Observateur

LAPLACE – Richard “Dale” Wolfe’s nearly 40-year career in St. John the Baptist Parish government essentially came to an end Thursday evening with his appointment as executive director for the St. John Housing Authority.

Wolfe was chosen over former Housing Director Joseph Johnson during an executive session at a special meeting of the housing board Thursday night in LaPlace. Commissioners Art Smith, Paula Hart Evelyn Williams and Priscilla James voted in favor of Wolfe. Commission Chairman Allen Smith chose to abstain from voting.

Wolfe said Friday he was pleased to have the support of the commissioners and looks forward to the challenge ahead to correct the problems of an office that has come under fire in recent months.

“First thing I want to do is go in and meet with all the employees to find out the needs of the agency,” Wolfe said. “We need to look at the audits and the maintenance reports and things like that, but we also need to work with the tenant board, which serves as the mediator between the housing authority and its residents.”

Wolfe said he intends to bring in a strong support staff but does not want to force anyone out of a job. He said he will look to the community, specifically the Sheriff’s Office and the Parish President’s Office, for support.

“I think we need to see what our business leaders can do to support us,” Wolfe said. “I think a few sponsorships here and there can go a long way.”

Wolfe, who works as a heavy equipment operator for the St. John Parish School System, was selected for the position despite not meeting the qualifications set forth in the job description. He does not have a bachelor’s degree or housing authority experience. Wolfe said where he lacks in qualifications he makes up for in government experience. He spent nearly 35 years as a member of the St. John Parish Council and Police Jury.

“I’ve made many friends in my time in office,” Wolfe said. “I’ve always been a people person who stands up for everyone. We all deserve a fair shake, and that will carry over to this new position.”

Although he continued to enjoy his time on the council, Wolfe explained that in recent years his work has not seemed as rewarding as it once was.

He said his public image following an unsuccessful bid for parish president earlier this year took a bit of a toll on him.

“After the election people said I was bitter in defeat,” Wolfe said. “That is not the kind of person that I am. My goal is to help, not tear people apart. I think my time will be better spent here. I will miss the council and appreciate that time, but life is short, and you have to do what is best for you.”

Wolfe said his official start date has not been determined because his contract is still being worked out. He said Tuesday night’s Parish Council meeting will likely be his last. At that meeting, Wolfe will recommend a replacement for his position as Division A Councilman-at-Large and the council will vote. The council must also arrange a special election to determine a permanent replacement.

The winner will serve out the remaining term, which ends in 2012.