St. Charles Parish · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in St. Charles Parish public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Housing Choice Voucher funding shortfall
HUD is projecting a shortfall in the federal HAP voucher program that will hit St. Charles Parish along with agencies nationwide. Cost-saving measures and a shortfall grant application are underway, and staff expects this shortfall to be smaller than the 2024 one that paused leasing for months.
Flood insurance discounts via CRS Natural Floodplain Function credits
Planning & Zoning announced the parish's CRS rating improved to a Class 6 — about 20% off full-risk flood premiums starting in October, and staff is pushing for a Class 5.
Monsanto Property Tax Appeal Denied
Monsanto has appealed its Luling plant's assessment for a third straight year, citing financial impairments and global glyphosate competition. The assessor argued the company must show how market conditions reduce the actual value of physical assets — not just accounting write-downs — and the council backed him.
Low-income energy and emergency assistance programs
The monthly report showed hundreds of households getting help with electric, water, gas, and rent bills, plus home repairs, wheelchair ramps, and HVAC replacements. A state rule change on Section 8 utility allowances is causing denials and complaints the office has to explain.
2026 Property Tax Levy Ordinance Introduced
The parish's annual tax ordinance passed with the rate held flat, and because assessments dropped ~3%, total taxes will dip slightly. Assessed value fell about $70 million, partly tied to industry changes.
Housing Authority audit findings
The Housing Authority is no longer designated as troubled by HUD, meaning it's out of danger of receivership. The upgrade came from a record-high 31-point physical inspection score, though the agency still scores substandard in management due to occupancy rates and aged payables/receivables, and may appeal.
Parish pay plan update following market study
A consultant is evaluating every parish position for pay market data — now 53 percent done, with only Public Works left. Results are expected by June and will factor in both market data and internal equity.
2026 Hospital Millage Levy
The board locked in property tax rates supporting the hospital: 2.13 mills for operations and 2.06 mills for bonds. The rate was reduced again this year, continuing a multi-year trend after voters renewed the operations millage.
State and federal lobbying contracts
The parish landed millions in the legislative session: $33 million toward the West Bank Water Plant, $4 million+ for Fifth Street drainage, $3.25 million for Primrose Drive drainage, and money for Dufrene Parkway and Norco bridge lighting.