Former assistant director steps up with retirement of Gerald Falgoust

By CALEB FREY

Staff Reporter

CONVENT – St. James Parish has wasted no time in choosing a successor for retiring Director of Emergency Preparedness Gerald Falgoust. The appointment by Parish President Dale Hymel Jr. was confirmed June 7.

Assistant Director Eric Deroche, a 16-year veteran with the office of emergency preparedness, will be taking over for the retiring Falgoust who will vacate the post officially on July 31.

Deroche is not only a longtime employee with the department but is also a certified Louisiana Emergency Manager and has completed various continuing education programs through LSU.

Deroche noted that much like in St. John Parish, they have seen an influx in the St. James area of FEMA trailers and he says that shelters for these people will open at St. James High School and Lutcher High School as the need arises.

With Hurricane Katrina and the damage it caused still fresh in many minds, Deroche said his department is prepared for the upcoming season and any other emergency that crosses the department’s path.

&#8220I feel we’re very well prepared at this point and don’t see us making any major changes in the near future to any of our plans,” Deroche said.

Deroche concluded, &#8220We’re updating things as we need to but overall it’s business as usual.”