LEONARD GRAY

LAPLACE – A resolution to close out a completed construction contract at the Port of South Louisiana’s Globalplex facility was approved Monday, but not without some revision. Commissioner Joey Murray initially wanted to hold up approval of the Kostmeyer Construction contract closure for expansion of the marine dock and apron at Globalplex, until all contractors were pleased and payments for the completed work were made. “You’re asking me to vote to close out a contract, and the contract’s not closed out,” Murray said. Initially, he moved to table the matter, supported by Commissioner Bill Hubbard. However, further discussion prompted him to accept a revision to the contract, omitting any reference to final payments. In other matters, the commission accepted the closeout of contracts with Guy Hopkins Construction for the general cargo dock landside improvements and with Morrill & Associates and Gator Towing for the removal of a sunken barge at mile marker 138 near LaPlace. Executive Director Joseph Accardo reported that tree screen work along W. 10th Street in Reserve had been completed by Riverlands Horticultural Service, while Vaughn Contractors had been mobilized to the site of the former Godchaux Sugar Refinery to begin demolition of the remaining buildings. Abatement Services was also mobilized to the demolition site to proceed with asbestos removal. Accardo added the internal roadway improvements are making progress at Globalplex, with more funds in the shape of a Community Development Block Grant of $300,338 for the roadway. In addition, federal consideration is now being given to the proposed Reserve interchange for Interstate 10, in order to take heavy truck traffic away from LaPlace. Meanwhile, at Globalplex, ships arrive every three weeks at the general cargo dock, while cement arrives weekly at Holnam Cement, also at Globalplex. Accardo urged attendance by the commissioners at a planned July 23 meeting with U.S. Coast Guard officials, and local and state emergency operations officials at the Globalplex Guest House in Reserve. The commission also approved adoption of the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire, required by the Legislative Auditor’s office, and held a 50-minute executive session on internal audit matters which involved potential litigation.