?PROCEEDINGS
Cameron Parish Beachfront
Development District #1
Johnson Bayou • Holly Beach
MINUTES
The Cameron Parish Beachfront Development District #1 Commission met in regular session on Monday, February 13, 2023, at the Johnson Bayou Community Center. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chairman Richard Burbank, who led the pledge and prayer.
Commissioners present were Chairman Richard Burbank, Vice Chairman Russell Badon, Tammy Erbelding, Michele Long, and Nikki Norman. Secretary Cindy Snead was absent. Guests present were Desiree Derouen with Cheniere Energy and Lauren Noble-Louisiana’s Marine Mammal Stranding Network Coordinator.
On the motion of Michele Long, seconded by Russell Badon, and carried, the minutes for the December 12, 2022, meeting were approved as presented.
Richard Burbank resigned his position from the board effective immediately. The board thanks Richard for his years of service to the Cameron Parish Beachfront Development District #1.
Old Business:
Cody Norman and Nikki Norman reported on the Holly Beach sub-committee. A meeting will be scheduled in late March to discuss potential projects. Holly Beach Jeep Weekend is scheduled for May 19-21st and the parish will provide a roll-off dumpster for their Beach Sweep on the 21st. The beach sweeper parts are in hand, but the subcommittee is searching for a large tractor to pull the machine. Russell Badon suggested a work order be put in to see if the parish could use their equipment to pull the sweeper before major holidays and as needed during the summer.
Craig Broussard reported on the leasing of state beach land. James Turner graciously created a “potential projects” map that was sent to the state commission. The map is comprised of 11 projects that will add beautification and functionality to the west side beaches. The map can be found on the board’s Facebook page. Craig Broussard proposed meeting with Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and/or his assistant Mike Ince in order to expedite the leasing project.
Michele Long reported that local industries have been sent new information regarding the LADOTD-Adopt a Road Program along Hwy 82 from mile marker 20-26. Amy Miller with Cheniere Energy replied that Cheniere Energy is joining the program and will adopt a one mile stretch of road.
Michele Long reported that the board will host a Youth Day Cleanup “Nothin’ But Sand” on Earth Day, April 22, 2023. The Johnson Bayou Recreation Center will provide lunch for all volunteers as well as fun activities such as bouncy houses and games. Door prizes and volunteer thank you gifts will be presented at lunch. The Johnson Bayou High School will promote the cleanup in their Earth Day curriculum. Desiree Derouen reported that Cheniere will donate $5000, and they will provide their own water, trash bags, and gloves. On the motion of Michele Long, seconded by Nikki Norman, and carried, the beach board along with the Recreation Center, Johnson Bayou Fire Department and EMS, Johnson Bayou High School, and Cheniere Energy will host an Earth Day beach cleanup on April 22, 2023. The event will focus on youth but is open to everyone.
Russell Badon reported on three local rip-rap donations for use on Long Beach Road. As material becomes available, a work order will be sent to the parish to get the project moving along.
New Business:
Craig Broussard updated the board as to January’s financial spreadsheet and its expenditures, donations, and account information. He will reconcile 2022 and begin 2023.
Lauren Noble, Louisiana’s Marine Mammal Stranding Network Coordinator, presented the new “Stranded Marine Mammals and Sea Turtles” signs. The information has been streamlined into one contact number for both types of strandings. Lauren will work with Russell Badon to get the signs put out so the public can assist when a stranding is encountered. She also reported there were 9 volunteers for the mammal/turtle stranding class on Saturday. There will be virtual trainings in the future for those who were unable to attend.
Michele Long reported on the 2023 Coastal Master Plan, FY24 Projects. One project, the Cameron Gulf Shoreline Protection Project will start in mid-2023 and continue the 2021 breakwater project at Rutherford Beach and east of Little Florida Beach. On the motion of Michele Long, seconded by Nikki Norman, and carried, the board will send a letter of support to CPRA in recognition of the Cameron Gulf Shoreline Protection Project.
Tammy Erbelding informed the board that the March and April meetings will be held at the Johnson Bayou Recreation Center due to the upcoming exterior work being done on the community center.
Desiree Derouen with Cheniere reported on the Hwy 82 construction at their facility. To aid in lessening traffic congestion, the times of road work will be between 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., and the project will be completed by late March.
On the motion of Michele Long, seconded by Nikki, and carried, the election of officers will be tabled until a new commissioner is added to the board.
On the motion of Michele Long, seconded by Nikki Norman, and carried, the board will advertise for the open commissioner position on the board.
Open Session:
Charlie Snead informed the board of a solution to standing water at the base of Little Florida Beach walkover #1. The parish will cut a narrow drainage ditch extending toward the beach entrance.
The next meeting will be March 13, 2023, at the Johnson Bayou Recreation Center.
There being no further business, on the motion of Michele Long, seconded by Nikki Norman, and carried, the meeting was adjourned at 6:57 p.m.
APPROVED BY:
RUSSELL BADON,
VICE PRESIDENT
ATTEST BY:
CINDY SNEAD, SECRETARY
RUN: Mar. 9 (M 12)