By LEONARD GRAY

In my L’Observateur reporting career, I’ve had the opportunity to cover all three parish councils in the River Parishes, each for a fair amount of time. Therefore, as I’ve done in the past, I feel qualified to make some comparisons – not of the individuals themselves but of how the meetings are conducted.

I’ve covered St. Charles Parish’s council for some time now and at the last meeting, there appeared some lapses of professionalism and decorum which should be addressed.

They should be noted, not only because next year is an election year, but also because it’s just good sense to act like adults when the cable television cameras are on you.

Both incidents involved Stanford Caillouet, a New Sarpy resident who is notorious for his outspoken and often slanderous views, where he frequently accuses public officials of accepting bribes, among other crimes.

On the first instance Monday night, Caillouet asked why the parish wanted to hire engineering firms to oversee tasks in the public works and wastewater treatment departments.

The response, from the director of both departments, Greg Bush, (obviously peeved at the constant criticism), snapped, “We did it to aggravate you.”

In the next instance, while using his scheduled time to address the council, just as any other resident may, Caillouet recalled his World War II military service and commented if he had known what he was fighting for was the continuance of such government as he’s seen in the council chambers, he wished he hadn’t; and if asked to do so again, he wouldn’t.

Councilman Brian Fabre, in a fit of pique, snapped back at the veteran, and said, “You ought to take a one-way ticket and go back overseas!”

Granted, Caillouet has done much to provoke a heated reaction in the course of possibly hundreds of meetings. Chairman after chairman of the St. Charles Parish Council have had to come up with creative ways to control and direct the meetings and attempt to bring Caillouet’s regular tirades under control.

However, one must keep a few things in mind.

First of all, Caillouet is a valid resident of St. Charles Parish and, in that, worthy of respect as a fellow citizen. One doesn’t have to like him or agree with his viewpoint, but one should not stoop to the level of childish insults – on either side.

Second, Caillouet is a military veteran, and therefore worthy of more respect for making that sacrifice of his younger days in the service of his nation. Anyone who serves in the military honorably is worthy of honor.

Finally, keep in mind that elections ARE next year and if one has a mind to further their political career, just remember the camera is on, and many are watching and taking note of their remarks.

LEONARD GRAY is assistant managing editor of L’Observateur. He may be reached at (985) 652-9545.