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By Alexander Moraski

The Daily News

The Bogalusa City Council met June 3 to discuss ongoing financial reporting, introduce new ordinances, and hear from residents on a range of public safety and infrastructure concerns, while also receiving information on state-supported grant opportunities.

Leslie Durham, representing the Louisiana Infrastructure Technical Assistance Corporation, gave a presentation on a program designed to help rural cities, such as Bogalusa, access federal funding for infrastructure improvements.

Funded by the Louisiana Legislature, the program provides free grant writing, consulting, and assistance with local matching funds. Since its launch in 2022, it has helped more than 200 communities pursue nearly $263 million in federal infrastructure grants.

During the public comment period, several residents voiced concerns. Reverend Keith Merrill criticized the absence of the city’s Facebook administrator from public meetings, arguing that transparency and accountability were lacking.

Deborah Corti requested an update on the city’s 2022 legislative audit and was informed that approximately 10 items remain unfinished, with city officials aiming for completion by the end of June.

Richard Cort reported a safety hazard on Marshall Richardson Road, where a piece of tin fell from a damaged building façade onto his vehicle during a recent storm. He urged the city to take action on the property.

Another resident, Mr. Ferrell, expressed frustration over neglected drainage and cemetery maintenance, saying these issues had gone unaddressed for too long.

Mayor Tyrin Z. Truong responded by confirming that the audit had been “qualified,” meaning it had not yet received complete verification, but he said the city is working toward finalization. He also assured residents that city staff would inspect the property on Marshall Richardson Road and that work orders were being processed to address drainage and cleanup. Truong reminded the public to prepare for hurricane season by keeping ditches clear and staying alert, and said zoning enforcement remains a priority.

The council introduced two new ordinances, including one related to the hours of alcohol sales and another concerning a contract for property tax services. Hearings for both are scheduled for the June 17 meeting. Council members also congratulated recent high school graduates and acknowledged the success of local sports teams. The city’s upcoming Juneteenth celebration, planned for June 19, was also announced as an opportunity to promote unity and reflect on the meaning of freedom.