Board approves graduation venue rentals at Southern University and LSU; several members recuse

The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board approved two graduation venue rental agreements during the Nov. 6 Committee of the Whole meeting.

The district proposed a $132,965 agreement with Southern University for rental of the F.G. Clark Activity Center and a $58,000 agreement with Louisiana State University for rental of the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. Board members noted that the higher cost for Southern University reflected twice as many graduations booked at that venue (8) compared with LSU (4).

Board member Martin announced he would recuse himself from the vote; Board member Carla Powell Lewis said she planned to recuse herself as well. Board member Lanus also stated a recusal based on a public relationship with Southern University. President Stewart moved to approve; the motion was seconded. The board approved the rentals; the clerk recorded that the motion carried.