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Lafourche Council approves two solar radar speed displays after adding funding contingency
Summary
The council approved an ordinance to install two solar‑powered radar speed display signs in Ward 6 (Thibodaux) with an amendment requiring installation only if appropriate funding is available; members debated cost and whether asphalt speed humps would be cheaper and more effective.
The Lafourche Parish Council on Dec. 9 voted unanimously to approve an ordinance to install two solar‑powered radar speed display signs at designated Moore Street locations in Thibodaux, adopting an amendment that conditions installation on available funding.
Councilman William Adams moved the ordinance, seconded by Councilman Perk. The amendment — inserting the phrase “pending appropriate funding is available” into the caption — passed 9‑0 before the final vote on the ordinance as amended, which also passed 9‑0.
The ordinance drew extended debate over cost and effectiveness. Councilman Melvin said conventional signs and some radar devices “do not work,” and urged exploring physical traffic‑calming measures. “A single layer of asphalt is so cheap, and it slows cars down,” Melvin said, arguing asphalt speed humps provide a reliable solution at a lower cost. Councilman Araby raised per‑unit cost concerns, noting that the particular signs discussed “are a little over $4,000 a piece,” and recommended the administration look for cheaper alternatives or regional purchasing agreements.
Councilman Perk urged the council to adopt a standardized approach so officials can compare cost and performance across options, and to coordinate with law enforcement on enforcement strategies.
Parish President Mitchell Ozeron said the administration is already evaluating sign types and costs and will explore whether blacktop‑installed speed humps could be a cost‑effective alternative if installed correctly. “That is absolutely something that we look at every single time we’re evaluating it,” Ozeron said.
The ordinance directs installation of the two radar displays at the named Moore Street locations if funds are available; the amendment explicitly ties any purchase to the parish’s funding availability. The administration said it will return to the council with procurement details and cost‑comparison information as needed.
Next steps: the amended ordinance will be implemented subject to funding; council members asked staff to report back with pricing comparisons and procurement options.
