As we approach 2017, Parish priorities will take center stage during upcoming budget discussions.

Our No. 1 priority is levee protection, however a close second is constructing a reliable and sustainable water system. Despite significant progress, there was no comprehensive plan and improvements were dictated by compliance orders, time constraints and funding limitations.

In late 2013, our water infrastructure committee developed conceptual plans and cost estimates for a comprehensive water system. This strategy abandons the problematic well system and moves the water source from LaPlace to the Mississippi River.

This is not a new idea, but repeated flooding, transmission line failures and limited access during severe weather events forced the development of an alternate water source. In the interim, emergency procedures were developed through connectivity to St. Charles Parish and the Lions Plant to withstand 30 hours of emergency support.

With regard to the Lions plant, compliance and capacity issues remain despite millions of dollars of investments. Those investments did not account for growth and increased capacity primarily on the plant’s limited footprint.

Land acquisition is vital for proper expansion in Reserve and LaPlace and this process is underway.

Plans are also underway for improvements in Pleasure Bend and for water meter replacements parishwide.

The proposed projects are prioritized based on operations, compliance and funding, and the Administration is aggressively pursuing additional funding options.

For the future of St. John the Baptist Parish, we will need a commitment from residents and business owners as we pursue more than $50 million in water infrastructure projects. Once completed, the Parish will be on solid footing for many years to come.

Natalie Robottom is St. John the Baptist Parish President. She can be reached at communications@stjohn-la.gov.