Saint Charles Parish Council Approves Vendor Compensation Ordinance and Appoints Patrick O'Malley

The St. Charles Parish Council convened on July 21, 2025, to address several key issues impacting the community, including vendor compensation for sales tax and engineering services for local infrastructure projects.

One of the primary discussions centered around File Number 2025-0192, which proposed an ordinance to reinstate vendor compensation provisions. Paula Janssen, the director of tax collections, explained that this compensation allows registered vendors to deduct 1% from the sales taxes they collect and remit to the parish. This provision had been inadvertently omitted during a previous legislative session but was reinstated in the 2025 regular session. The council unanimously approved the ordinance, ensuring that local vendors can continue to receive this financial relief for their tax collection efforts.

Another significant topic was the approval of File Number 2025-0193, which authorized an amendment to a professional services agreement with GIS Engineering LLC. This amendment, amounting to $422,160, includes the addition of resident inspection project representatives and construction administration for the installation of new pump stations. The council discussed the importance of budgeting for these services at the appropriate time in the project timeline, ultimately passing the amendment unanimously.

Additionally, the council confirmed the appointment of Patrick O'Malley to the St. Charles Parish Civil Service Board, filling a vacancy created by the expiration of his term. This appointment is set for a three-year term beginning August 1, 2025.

The meeting concluded with announcements of upcoming meetings, including a housing authority meeting scheduled for July 22 and a hospital service district meeting on July 30. The next parish council meeting is set for August 4, 2025.

Overall, the council's decisions reflect a commitment to supporting local businesses and enhancing community infrastructure, which are crucial for the ongoing development and well-being of St. Charles Parish residents.