Concordia Parish allocates $200,000 for drainage repairs; jurors back equipment purchases, study

The Concordia Parish Police Jury voted on Jan. 27 to move forward with $200,000 in drainage repairs and related work, approving a mix of equipment purchases and studies to improve parish drainage.

President Cornell Lewis opened the discussion on how to use the funds. Collin Edwards recommended buying a small new trackhoe with a heavier trailer and attachments and suggested a large mulching head; Maurice Bachus proposed hiring someone with a boat capable of cleaning pond pads. Superintendent Guillory said he would obtain quotes for a long‑stick rake; Adam Probst noted the rake could also assist with canal clearing. Lewis asked jurors to consider an engineering study for the ditch running behind the Airport, Mooselodge and Guido Roads.

Edwards also advised contacting Bill Beaslye about a recently completed drainage study in the parish and noted that Bryant Hammett & Associates could conduct a hydro flow study. On a motion by Red Tiffee, seconded by Adam Probst, jurors voted to proceed with the improvements; the motion carried unanimously.

The approved superintendent work orders appearing elsewhere in the minutes list specific maintenance quantities and culvert purchases for Poole Road and other locations, which the jury approved later in the meeting.