At the December 10 meeting of the Pine Prairie Council, an increase in the mayor’s salary and expenses was approved. The title of mayor will now garner $26,400 in salary with an expense allowance of $8,400, annually. This is nearly a $5,000 increase in salary and a $2,400 increase in expense allowance. The reason for the raise was because the office of mayor had not received a raise in many years, though the exact number of years is unknown. Also, while Mayor Quint West is considered a part-time mayor, the council feels he works more than just part time.
In other business, Mayor West said the Christmas parade and tree-lighting were a success, adding it was not a big crowd, and it looked like people were trying to social distance. “I think it really went well,” he said.
Police Chief L.C. Deshotel asked if he could hire a new officer. West said a new officer is needed because they are down one, leaving them with only three officers. West told Deshotel they can have a meeting to “discuss what we can do.”
Further in the meeting, West reported the town was awarded $68,680.44 in round three of the CARES Act. Also, the council adopted the 2021 budget.
It was also announced councilwoman Debbie Ogé is retiring after 12 years serving on the council. “It’s going to be different, Debbie. I’m going to miss you a lot,” said West.
The rest of the council agreed.
“Thank you. I’m going to miss all of y’all, too,” said Ogé.
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Nancy Duplechain
Associate Editor