CANTRELLE: A response to our editorial

norm – fiscal conservatism. You know the answer, and you don’t need a reporter with only half the story to tell you what is right.

2. Let’s throw another $25,000 of taxpayer money at South Central Planning and Development. Is the money in the budget passed by the Council? Yes. That doesn’t mean it’s exercising good judgment and responsible management of the People’s money. Fortunately, the Houma Times reporter at least admitted that even Terrebonne Parish has found that they are not getting good value for the cost from the South Central Planning Development organization. I’m looking closely at whether this is a good value and responsible cost to be paid by the taxpayers. I choose to “spend smart”.

3. That brings us to the big ticket item, a new building for the Coroner. The price tag is $260,000, $190,000 to buy a building + another $70,000 to renovate that building. Interestingly, I met with Dr. King and his staff a few days before this story came out. Contrary to what the Houma Times reporter would have readers believe, my Administration and Dr. King are working together to find the best possible solution. The fact is that the Parish already owns a number of buildings that would likely be better facilities than the $190,000 proposed building purchase. Facilities with more space and more security. Dr. King himself indicated that one of the sites I proposed would probably be his first choice. AND, the taxpayers would not have to spend $190,000 of hard to come by tax dollars to buy another building when the Parish already owns surplus buildings.

There is no disagreement that the Coroner’s Office needs proper facilities. The Parish maintains his current facility, and Dr. King stated he was very satisfied with the repairs and maintenance, but did think that it is important to get into a more secure and well equipped location.

I encourage the Council to watch a great business negotiation take place so the People of Lafourche Parish CAN continue to enjoy the services of Dr. King’s outstanding Coroner’s Office and at a giant savings!

The Council bullies made a “no confidence vote.” It means nothing. The People of Lafourche Parish have given ME their Votes of Confidence. These are difficult times. The economy is tight. The bills are growing and the income is shrinking.

I CAN and will continue to do MORE for Lafourche Parish!