It’s hard to believe we find ourselves at the end of 2018 ready to close out the year and prepare for 2019 as it approaches in the next week.

As we reflect on our year, we need to be mindful of where we were, where we are and where we want to be as a community.

The last 40-plus years we have fought hard for flood protection in the River Region.

We all have played a strong role in the West Shore Flood Protection Advocacy. Now that West Shore is here and the funding is real, it’s time prepare for it.

Our parish drainage arteries must be cleared from Garyville to LaPlace — we must be able to get the water to the pumping stations to be able to get the water over the levee.

Digging ditches, cleaning out ditches, unblocking culverts and replacing collapsed culverts are all real solutions towards a better drainage system. We must be mindful about the amount of trash and debris that collects in ditches or accumulates in catch basins.

We must reevaluate our LaPlace water system and find a long-term solution as our current well system will be outside of the levee protection area.

We need a viable utility billing system and functioning water meters so residents can get an accurate reading and an accurate bill every 30 days.

We must expand our current grant capabilities to pursue more funding sources resulting in cost savings for the parish.

We must continue to advocate for St. John Parish and the River Region as a large industrial player and economic driver in our nation’s economy.

As we all enter the last year of this term, we need to make sure we are laying the groundwork for future leaders and future generations to come.

We’ve had our challenges along the way, but what organization doesn’t? I look forward to our future together and am optimistic that it will be a bright one.

The ride will not always be smooth, but we have a common destination.

As I reflect on my last seven years in office and entering my last year in this position, they have been tough, challenging and yet rewarding at the same time.

Much has been accomplished, so much more to be finished, and much more to begin.

Public service is a huge sacrifice with a large responsibility that isn’t taken lightly.

From the bottom of my heart, I thank you, the community, for allowing me to serve you and represent you.

On behalf of the entire Parish Council, I hope you had a very Merry Christmas and I wish you and your family a very healthy and prosperous new year.

Michael P. Wright is St. John the Baptist Parish Council District 5 representative. Contact him at District5@sjbparish.com or m.wright@sjbparish.com.