Water Sector Commission approves series of extensions and scope changes, declines one special funding request

The Water Sector Commission on April 16 handled a bundle of routine and exceptional requests: it approved deadline extensions and scope changes for multiple local water projects, approved a small additonal award for New Roads, and declined AME City's special request for $10 million in contingent funds.

Commissioners approved the City of Sulphur's request to delay implementing a 7.5% rate increase until fiscal 2027–28, following testimony from Jennifer Thorne, Sulphur's finance director, who said debt service timing tied to a pending Drinking Water Revolving Loan Fund payment justified phasing the increase. Senator Bass moved favorable and the commission approved the extension by unanimous consent.

The commission also approved a four‑year extension for the Town of Faraday (phase 2 state funds), a 30‑day bid‑advertising extension for the Village of Morroville (phase 2) while LDH finalized plans and specs, and a 90‑day extension for the Town of Tillis to secure USDA matching funds.

A requested scope change for Saint Mary Parish Water and Sewer Commission No. 5 (phase 1 ARPA) to replace undersized 2‑ and 4‑inch water piping with 6‑inch mains was approved with no additional funds requested; LDH raised no objections. The commission approved an increase of $35,190 for New Roads (local match $10,909) on a motion moved by Representative Moryak.

AME City asked to be placed in line to receive $10 million if supplemental funds are reallocated; AME representatives said the project is active, with a $34.3 million construction contract and current contractor billings averaging roughly $2 million per month. Commissioners said the request was outside ordinary procedure and advised the town to reapply in the next round; Senator Bass moved to decline the special request and the commission adopted the motion.

Finally, after staff located the missing item, the commission approved a six‑month extension for West Baton Rouge Parish to submit final plans, specs and cost estimates because land‑rights and permitting delays had required an alternate route that will save $275,000. The meeting adjourned after the chair closed the agenda.