EDGARD — St. John the Baptist Parish is joining with St. Charles Parish in the re-establishment of a Regional Planning Commission that also includes Jefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Tammany and Tangipahoa parishes.

Parish President Natalie Robottom told Parish Council members last week St. John currently does not participate as a full member, adding inclusion would allow the parish to increase its representation and fully represent the parish’s interests in regional planning and decision-making.

Speaking during the Parish Council meeting Nov. 7, she added full membership, which adds $12,000 to the current membership fee of $28,000, affords St. John grant opportunities to collaborate with regional partners on planning and development goals.

Robottom noted the Regional Planning Commission has in the past assisted the parish with funding on several projects.

“We are anticipating getting more dollars and looking forward to getting more assistance,” Robottom said.

Parish Council members unanimously approved the measure during their meeting in Edgard.

— By Richard Meek