By David Vitrano
L’Observateur

CONVENT – Following a public hearing at the courthouse in Convent, the St. James Parish Council unanimously passed the 2013 budget, although Chairman James Brazan still had issues with the inclusion of mosquito control.

“I think it’s really a waste of money,” he said, noting much bigger issues, such as sewage and flood control, still linger. “We’re going to have to be very proactive to do some sort of flood control. We’re already having a problem getting people to move into the community.”

He said he also doubts the accuracy of the survey recently mailed to parish residents regarding which services they would be most likely to pay for.

In the 2013 budget, $308,800 has been allotted for mosquito control although the item was moved from the general fund to the section dealing with solid waste disposal.

The total expenditures for the 2013 budget are slightly more than $64 million, while revenues are estimated at slightly more than $62 million.

In other action from Wednesday’s meeting, the council accepted a bid from Industrial Enterprises Inc. of Baton Rouge of $198,000 for the construction of additional parking at the courthouse in Convent. The work will add 62 parking spaces.

The council also agreed to enter into a partnership with Ascension Parish for use of its 9-1-1 two-way radio. According to Emergency Preparedness Director Eric Deroche, Ascension Parish recently upgraded their system while St. James Parish’s is in need of an upgrade. He said the partnership will save the parish $1 million since the parish will only be responsible for its share of maintenance costs. He added the move will require no frequency change.

Also approved was a resolution supporting construction of a freshwater diversion in Convent into the Blind River.

“We’re thinking that’s going to help the swampland rejuvenate somewhat,” said Parish President Timmy Roussel.

Lastly, the council heard from County Agent Ken Guidry concerning the parish’s LSU AgCenter.

He highlighted some of the programs it sponsors, such as 4-H, and discussed some of the issues the AgCenter has faced regarding funding in recent years.

He said their budget has remained the same since 2008 even as costs have risen.

“They’re telling us there’s going to be a mid-year cut,” he added.

To make matters worse, the state’s hiring freeze means any position there that is vacated cannot be filled, noting that Extension Agent Robin Hart is leaving at the end of the year, so the office will be down one more staff member.

“We’re as short-staffed as we could possibly get,” said Guidry.