If you have not voted early, please go to the polls today (April 29) and vote on a proposal to build a hurricane/flood protection levee.

This project has been talked about for decades. Now, St. John has a solid plan to build it. This $718 million, 18-mile-long project of earthen levees, flood gates and pump stations would stretch from the Bonnet Carré Spillway to Mt. Airy.

Our parish’s cost share is $50 million, with annual maintenance of about $5 million.

The ballot issue proposes a 7 mill property tax increase to raise these funds.

The assessor’s office estimates that this millage increase would cost the average property owner $3.44 per month, less than a gallon of milk. Many homeowners and senior citizens with fixed assessments will pay nothing.

It is important that you vote on building a levee to protect lives, property, businesses, schools and vital evacuation routes. All regular polling places will be open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.

Remember to bring a photo ID.

For more information and to sign up for news updates and emergency notices, please visit sjbparish.com.

— Natalie Robottom,

St. John the Baptist Parish President