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Council approves contingency debris-removal contract to ensure FEMA support after storms
Summary
The Bogalusa City Council approved a resolution to secure Wilkes Great Services of Mississippi as a secondary contractor for emergency debris removal so the city will have documented arrangements in place if a catastrophic hurricane strikes and FEMA assistance is needed.
The Bogalusa City Council voted to approve a contingency contract to secure Wilkes Great Services of Mississippi as a secondary emergency debris-removal contractor.
Council member (speaker 4) told the council the contract is "just something to put in place as an insurance" and said, "If we put it in place, we will have documents in place to where when FEMA comes in to help, FEMA will come in to help the city." The resolution was moved by speaker 4, seconded by speaker 5, and roll call recorded affirmative votes from Councilman Cates, Councilman Dunaway, Councilman Hillman, President Irvin and Councilwoman Douglas.
Supporters said the measure is a routine, preventive procurement designed to reduce legal and financial exposure if the city experiences a catastrophic hurricane late in the season. Opponents and public commenters raised broader concerns about storm cleanup and local infrastructure maintenance during earlier public discussion, urging the council to prioritize clearing debris already affecting the community. The council recorded the passage of the motion and will proceed with the contract process and required documentation for FEMA coordination.
