Council introduces lease to reopen portion of Mandalay Park; survey and insurance still pending

Council members introduced an ordinance authorizing a cooperative endeavor agreement to lease a portion of Parcel Number 38055 from private owners so Terrebonne Parish can maintain and reopen the area known locally as Mandalay Park for fishing and limited recreational use. The ordinance calls for a public hearing on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, at 6:30 p.m.

Staff explained the parcel historically appears as part of Mandalay Park on aerial imagery but that no formal parish lease had existed. The Cenac family has agreed to a no‑charge lease for a 10‑year term, and staff said both parties may cancel with a 60‑day notice. Council members pressed staff on the precise footprint and liabilities; staff said a survey is underway to provide a meets‑and‑bounds description that will define exactly which portion of Parcel 38055 the parish will maintain.

Councilman Pledger asked about maintenance and long‑term costs, noting the recorded parcel description in the backup does not clearly show the bayou side that residents visit. Staff said they do not plan to install playground equipment or major infrastructure, and that a contractor has agreed to continue cutting for $60 per cut in the near term. Staff further said the parish will acquire insurance for the property and that, if the area is deemed a public park for recreational purposes, the parish would have immunity for incidents but will still typically obtain insurance as a backup.

Several council members noted high public interest because the site is a popular fishing and relaxation spot; council members also flagged that the area had become a dumping ground after parish maintenance stopped because no lease existed. The ordinance was moved and seconded; council voted 8‑0 to pass the motion to introduce the ordinance and set the hearing.

Next steps: staff will finalize the survey and provide the metes‑and‑bounds description in the backup for the Dec. 10 public hearing.