St. Tammany Council reappoints library-board chair after hours of public comment

The St. Tammany Parish Council voted 9–4 on June 4 to reappoint Chuck Branton to a five‑year term on the Library Board after an extended public‑comment period that featured competing testimonials and sharp criticism over library policy and governance. The council conducted a paper roll‑call vote and the clerk read the tally before adopting the appointment.

The debate drew more than two dozen speakers during a public‑comment period that stretched across the meeting. Supporters, including business leaders and veterans‑service advocates, credited Branton and the board with restoring order, complying with state law and saving the parish money during the search for a new library director. “You have rebuilt the library system and restored public confidence,” said AG Crowe (speaker 39), one of several supporters urging the council to keep current leadership in place.

Opponents urged the council to appoint Colonel Jason True instead, saying Branton’s leadership reduced public participation and inserted a restricted section for adult materials. Critics raised concerns about policy changes that limit statement‑of‑concern procedures and argued some board practices have curtailed community input. “I support Colonel True’s approach to listening to all sides,” public commenter Kevin Marino said, arguing the board had made procedural changes without adequate engagement.

Council members probed the record and the board’s process during deliberations. Several members noted legal and administrative work completed by the board, while others said the parish still needed a period of healing and more outreach. Finance staff and council discussion confirmed that appointments to the library board are five‑year terms and that policy changes were implemented to comply with state guidance.

After the roll call, the council moved a separate motion to formally adopt the resolution appointing Branton. The council also noted it will continue to receive community input and oversight on library policies through future meetings.

The reappointment is effective immediately. The Library Board will continue to report to the parish council and execute library operations under the policies adopted by the board; council members said they will monitor implementation and any further policy revisions.