I’d like to begin my column by wishing everyone a safe and happy New Year and hope that 2019 brings you and your family great peace and joy.

As my Administration moves into the final year of my term, we do so with enthusiasm and optimism despite the loss of several critical staff members whose vision and contributions were critical to the parish’s recovery and growth over the last several years.

In addition to those recently departing for opportunities in state government and other government positions, I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to all who have served in my Administration since 2010.

The recent losses will pose a significant challenge because of the work left to be done, but I take pride in the thought that your opportunity to serve the people of St. John Parish showcased your skills and talents, thus opening doors for you to greater service.

At times serving the public may have seemed to be thankless, but your efforts are greatly appreciated by those of us who recognize and appreciate your efforts, many times at the expense of your families.

You left the parish better than it was when your arrived and your accomplishments during your tenure will be here for many years to come.

In addition to me, many residents and business owners express gratitude and appreciation for your professionalism and the work you’ve done.

My colleagues in other parishes and consultants working across parishes have also taken note of the amount of work done by such a small staff.

A diverse group of individuals, including those who have moved on, worked together in times of crisis, emergencies and disasters toward ensuring public safety.

They spent numerous nights, holidays and weekends away from family and countless hours without sleep in the name of public service.

As a community, we agree and disagree on things, but hopefully we can agree on the fact that true public service is selfless, and it takes a lot of time, effort and accountability.

The decisions we make impact people’s lives, which is a weight that comes with serving.

But this service can also be very rewarding, which makes it worthwhile.

This final year in office is bittersweet as it marks my last year as Parish President and I cannot help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for those who have served and tried to make St. John a better place to live, work and raise a family.

For this, I say thank you!

We wish our colleagues who moved on the best; and assure our residents that those of us remaining are committed to finishing the tremendous amount of work that was started.

Natalie Robottom is St. John the Baptist Parish President. She can be reached at communications@stjohn-la.gov.