By BEN LUNDIN

Staff Reporter

GARYVILLE – For the second time in one month, the government is lending a helping hand to one of the largest oil refineries in Louisiana.

Following a decision by the St. John Parish Council in early April to authorize up to $1 billion of state and parish bonds for the Marathon Oil Corporation, the Louisiana State Bond Commission approved the bonds’ use for an expansion of the Marathon Oil Refinery in Garyville.

The decision, by far the largest project approval by the State Bond Commission, will aid the corporation’s $3.2 billion expansion expected to begin later this year.

State Treasurer John Kennedy called the decision &#8220one of the (State Bond Commission’s) most exciting approvals,” and expects the grant to bring St. John Parish 4,000 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs.

The $1 billion approval, which allows the state and parish to act as government sponsors if Marathon Oil sells bonds, is part of $7.9 billion in Louisiana state Gulf Opportunity Zone bonds, of which $4.9 billion remains for future projects.

The bonds will give Marathon Oil a favorable tax exemption while placing no financial obligation on any government entities.

&#8220We’re showing good faith that we want to help Marathon in their endeavor,” Councilmember Steve Lee said following the council’s decision to approve the bonds.

The State Bond Commission also approved $920,000 in bonds for St. Charles Parish to acquire buildings, machinery and equipment for fire protection.