The Mamou Town Council introduced an ordinance during Wednesday’s meeting which would raise water and sewage rates for water system improvements. They were also updated about the upcoming Veterans’ Day Parade, and approved new staff hires.
Mamou’s residents currently pay a flat rate of $17.00 for utilities, but, starting in January, the water and sewage rates will be increasing by $5 each for in-town residents. Rural, out-of-town residents will see their water rate increase by $10. Fontenot said the auditors recommended raising the utility rates since the town has not raised them in 10 years.
Mayor Ricky Fontenot said, “We met with our engineers and decided what we needed to do. It’s a $3.5 million project, which consists of digging new water wells and a new water treatment plant, another tank, and replace lines and add meters.” Estimates are a year-and-a-half for the project to be completed. Fontenot said many people, including his wife, complain about brown water in Mamou. The plan is to first purchase the property and put the bids out to start the ground work. “We’re fortunate that this town doesn’t have any debts. Now we’ll have one, and we’ll pay it off,” said Fontenot. Money is already allocated for the improvements. “It’s a big project, but we have no choice than to do it,” added Fontenot. They will take public comments at the next town council meeting.
In other action, Charles Perdices spoke about the annual Veterans’ Day Parade to be held November 11, kick off at 11:00 a.m. from the school, concluding at the American Legion Hall. Perdices also announced the Hall is for rent for public or private events. The cost is $300 for just the hall, $350 with the kitchen.
In other business, the council approved the hire of a full time patrolman. They also approved the promotion of part-time assistant police chief to full-time assistant police chief. Police Chief Brent Zachary thanked Walmart, who gave the police a $1,000 grant for equipment.
Councilman Charles Reed commended Chief Zachary on his work with audit recommendations. “You’re really doing a good job,” said Reed. Zachary responded, “Thank you. I appreciate hearing that from you. I look forward for us to work together.”
The council set the trick-or-treat hours from 5:30 – 8:00 Thursday, October 31, which is Halloween night
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Nancy Duplechain
Associate Editor