By ROBIN SHANNON

L’Observateur

LAPLACE – After more than 15 years in public service on the local and state level, state Rep. Nickie Monica (D-LaPlace) announced Tuesday he would not seek re-election to the Louisiana House of Representatives in 2011.

Monica, 50, said he plans to forgo re-election in favor of pursuing a yet unnamed limestone, sand and gravel hauling business in the area. His first term representing District 57 ends in January 2012.

“I’m ready to move on, but it has been a true honor to serve in the House of Representatives,” Monica said. “I have witnessed and experienced first-hand the struggles elected officials face in Louisiana in passing good policy. I am also no stranger to the personal sacrifices elected officials and their families must make to ensure that citizens receive the good, honest service they want and deserve.”

Monica said the hauling business was something he had done growing up and indicated several opportunities on the horizon in the coming months, one of which includes the large-scale Nucor Corp. construction project in St. James Parish.

“It’s just another way for me to continue to give back to the community,” Monica said. “I love this region, and I love serving it.”

Monica said he chose to make his announcement early in an effort to give potential candidates time to mull over running for office. Monica did not mention any possible candidates who might enter the race. Qualifying for the election does not begin until mid August 2011.

“Doing it now makes it easier on those considering a run,” Monica said. “This is the time of year where families gather and discuss things. Hopefully this will be a topic of discussion.”

Monica was elected to the District 57 seat, which represents part of St. John the Baptist and St. James parishes, in 2008 after serving two terms as parish president in St. John Parish and one four-year term on the St. John the Baptist Parish Council.

He also worked as volunteer fireman in the St. John Parish Fire Department.

During his time in the Legislature, Monica has worked closely with pro-business interests to pass legislation to strengthen the economy and workforce in Louisiana.

He was a strong supporter of MegaFund legislation to provide incentives for businesses and “Rapid Response” legislation to make funds available for the training of employees.

He currently serves as member of the House Commerce, Judiciary, Insurance, Special Veterans Affairs and the House Executive committees.

“I have worked hard for the people of St. John, St. James and our state and have every intention of continuing to give back,” Monica said. “I truly love serving the people of my community, but now is the time for me to move into the private sector as a business owner and invest in my community in a different way.”

The news came as a surprise to Parish President Natalie Robottom, who served as Monica’s chief administrative officer during both of his terms as parish president.

The chief administrator said this week that Monica was an asset to the community and a good connection to Baton Rouge.

“It is disappointing because we will be losing that connection,” Robottom said. “He did a lot of good for us in the time he was there.”