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CARIE EDWARDS

CORRESPONDENT TO THE DAILY NEWS 

The Washington Parish Road Committee met on Monday to discuss three proposed ordinances designed to address ongoing infrastructure concerns and improve public service efficiency. After thorough discussion, the committee voted to send all three ordinances to the full Parish Council for consideration.

Ordinance No. 25-758 centers on the installation and maintenance of drainage culverts on private property. Officials raised concerns about culverts installed too high, too small or too shallow and leading to drainage failures, creating flooding issues. The ordinance proposes requiring a permit for all new installations and inspections by the parish to ensure proper placement and sizing. The policy would also allow the parish to recoup installation costs if its crews perform the work. Committee members emphasized that consistent standards are needed to prevent costly hazardous issues for residents.

Ordinance No. 25-759 proposes amendments to logging operation permit requirements in the parish. Discussions included the possibility of increasing permit fees, along with tighter regulations on where logging trucks may enter and exit public roads. Officials called for greater clarity on access ramp construction, site restoration responsibilities, and remediation plans in case of road damage. Excessive mud, rocks, and debris left on roads during operations were noted as recurring problems. The ordinance would hold logging companies accountable for cleanup and repair, protecting parish-maintained roads.

Ordinance No. 25-760 deals with debris and material removal. Parish crews often perform ditch work along roadsides, which generates large amounts of material. The ordinance would authorize crews to leave debris on private property with the landowner’s written consent, reducing the need for costly hauling and disposal. The committee called it a “win-win,” as it benefits both the parish and willing property owners. The ordinance also helps formalize cooperation with outside agencies in broader cleanup efforts.

Each ordinance reflects Washington Parish’s efforts to enhance public safety, improve infrastructure management, and ensure long-term sustainability, which is considered especially critical during hurricane season and during peak logging operations.