LAPLACE – After three weeks of reviewing over 100 resumes, Parish President Elect Bill Hubbard has filled three spots on his 13-member cabinet.

Hubbard Transition Coordinator Buddy Boe announced Thursday that the President Elect has made decisions on Chief Administrative Officer, Public Safety Director, and Economic Development Director.

“Of all the positions open for review, we felt that CAO and Public Safety Director were of utmost importance,” said Boe. “The CAO is certainly the most vital of all the positions, but we wanted to nail down a Public Safety Director, a position that goes beyond politics, just as quickly.”

Out of a pool of about 15 applicants, Hubbard selected Pat McTopy to serve at his side as Chief Administrative Officer. McTopy previously served in the same capacity under former Parish President Arnold Labat.

“In order to make the changes needed to move St. John Forward, we need a knowledgeable and respected person in the CAO position,” said Hubbard of McTopy.

For the position of Pubic Safety Director, Hubbard reappointed Paul Oncale to the position he has held since 2001.

“This position is the most critical because it deals with the safety of the public,” said Hubbard. “I am honored to have Paul stay on with my administration to allow for a seamless transition and to maintain public protection.”

Oncale has a background in fire and hazardous materials training from LSU, and is also certified by FEMA. Hubbard said Oncale’s tireless service to St. John Parish during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina made him an excellent candidate to return to his post.

The third position announced Thursday was that of Economic Development Director, which will be filled by current director Julia Remondet. Remondet returns to the post she has held over the past eight years.

“Julia’s extensive experience will allow her to partner with the Port of South Louisiana in many aspects of economic development,” said Hubbard. “I look forward to making the necessary changes in the department to put St. John in the drivers seat steering the economic development of the area and no longer waiting for development to come to us.”

(See CAO, page 3A)