Madison Parish jury approves consent agenda, hires and contracts at June 24 meeting

At its June 24 meeting in Tallulah, the Madison Parish Police Jury approved routine business items and several operational measures for public works.

The jury approved the consent agenda covering the June 10 minutes, May financials and the outstanding invoice report after a motion by Mr. Jerry Hicks and a second from Mr. Johnny Hughes. The Secretary/Treasurer requested permission to pay outstanding invoices based on available funds; the jury approved a motion by Mr. Hicks, seconded by Mr. Ogden, authorizing payment of invoices as funds are available.

Superintendent Epps asked for permission to hire two new employees for the parish public-works department. The jury approved hiring Frank Young Jr. as a grader operator at an hourly rate of $20.20 and Kirkland Collins as a laborer at $15.83, both positions effective June 26, 2024. Mr. Hicks moved to hire Young; Mr. Wilson seconded. Mr. Hughes moved to hire Collins; Mr. Wilson seconded. Both motions carried.

The jury accepted a proposal from ChemPro Services to spray 25 miles of custom-blend herbicides along parish roadways after a motion from Mr. Dave Wilson and a second from Mr. Hughes. Separately, the jury approved contracting Weed Pro of Swartz, LA to clear a bayou; the City of Tallulah agreed to cover 50% of the cost and the parish will cover the remaining 50%.

Mr. R. Denmon updated jurors on replacement of the drawdown gate at the Brushy Bayou Dam, reporting crews are waiting for water levels to fall and that components will be preassembled when work begins; the jury accepted his report. G. Stewart-Moss, representing the school board, requested assistance from the public-works department to remove shrubbery and vines from Tallulah High School; jurors said Superintendent Epps will determine whether his schedule permits assistance once grass-cutting is current.

J. Hogue of the Public Defender's Office outlined his office's services and requested financial assistance related to the potential dismissal of an employee or employees; the jury accepted the report. No public comments were made during the public comment period.

The meeting concluded after the jury adopted Resolution 2024-08 (the Madison Parish Police Jury 2024 Hazard Mitigation Plan) and a motion to adjourn by Mr. Johnny Hughes.