LAPLACE — Danny Becnel Jr. has announced his candidacy for St. John the Baptist Parish President.

The election is Oct. 24, with qualifying beginning Sept. 8.

Born, raised and currently residing in St. John, Becnel said he is determined to continue to give back to the community that has given so much to him. He vows to take no campaign contributions, saying he will owe no one except the people of the parish.

Once elected, Becnel said he will not draw a salary as parish president but will use the budgeted funds to bolster local charities and organizations in need.

“Together, we can build a better St. John Parish — a better parish to raise a family and a better parish to call home,” Becnel said.

“Yesterday’s mistakes cannot continue to be today’s problems. Together we can change that direction.

“It’s time to create a government that works for the residents of St. John. With a fresh, bold and energetic approach to parish leadership, we can accomplish just that.”

Becnel said St. John’s current political climate is in chaos, with many ill-conceived and poor decisions being made.

“Oppor-tunities for the growth and the health of our parish are becoming more and more non-existent,” he said.

A local businessman and a trial lawyer over the last 48 years, Becnel said some of his greatest success has come from working with local charities and institutions such as the River Region Chamber of Commerce, the River Parish Arts Council and the Knights of Columbus.

“There is no more humbling experience than to see the success of a community through the hearts and minds of those local institutions ready to serve our residents,” he said.

“Success can take many forms. In many cases it’s as simple as creating an atmosphere to foster economic development and the opportunity for our citizens and local businesses to succeed. Our residents are resilient and strong, and we only need to provide the opportunity for success.”

Becnel’s administrative priorities are parish’s drainage, the drinking water system and future hurricane protection levee development. He noted the importance of streamlining the planning and zoning office and permitting process and providing residents with access to government.

Becnel, who is married to Judge Mary Hotard Becnel of the 40th Judicial District, said there is a strong need to enhance the parish’s recreational  programs to help reduce juvenile criminal activity.

Becnel has four sons and five grandchildren.