— The November meeting of the Breaux Bridge City Council focused on two major topics: the use of tax revenue and several proposed zoning changes.
One of the key actions taken was the adoption of a Master Plan directing how 80 percent of funds from the Special Taxing District will be used. The plan involves approximately $800,000 in spending to address sewer system infiltration issues, cover engineering and construction costs tied to the Mills Avenue and Champagne Boulevard extension projects, and fund the creation of an access road into property located in the northwest quadrant near Interstate 10.
The council also discussed two proposed ordinances related to rezoning sections along Berard Street, South Main Street, and nearby side streets. The proposals would rezone those areas to C-1 zoning, allowing for a mixed-use district combining residential and certain compatible commercial properties.
Mayor Ricky Calais reported that tax revenue for the month totaled $654,751 — an increase of $47,559 compared to October 2024. He noted that year-to-date collections are slightly higher than last year’s totals, which has kept the city under budget by $221,632 through the first four months of the current fiscal year.
Calais also announced that attorneys Robert Klienpeter and Randy Angelle are appealing the September 19 ruling by the Board of Adjustments, which found that the proposed RaceTrac facility north of Interstate 10 qualifies as a truck stop. The appeal will be heard in the 16th Judicial District Court by Judge Keith Comeaux.
In other business, the council authorized the mayor to open public bids for a building at 227 Refinery Street. The city purchased the property a few years ago to allow for expansion of its public works annex. Once sold, the buyer will be responsible for moving the house off the lot.
The council also approved entering into an agreement with attorney Randy Salinger regarding a lawsuit against Lumen Technologies and AT&T over potential lead contamination from old leadwrapped cables once used in the area.
Additionally, the council voted to extend the waiver of PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) payments by the Breaux Bridge Housing Authority for another five years.
Finally, members approved acceptance of two recently completed projects: the wastewater treatment plant upgrade and the paving of Gary Drive and Dell Drive.
