HAHNVILLE – Former Purchasing Officer Bobby Donaldson has taken the reins as chief operating officer for St. Charles Parish government, overseeing the departments of waterworks, government buildings, animal control and public works and wastewater.
The administrative change comes on the heels of the retirement of John “Rusty” Walker, who had served as chief operating officer since January 2008. Walker is a former St. Charles Parish Public Schools administrator, principal and teacher.
“In my time with parish government, I have formed great relationships with many folks who genuinely care about the well-being of our parish and its citizens,” Walker said. “I count myself as lucky to be able to assist in their endeavors and help move St. Charles Parish forward in a positive direction.”
Donaldson is a former manager with Shell Norco and has multiple decades of experience in management and supervision.
“My role as COO will be to help simplify and facilitate the projects and operations of the five departments within my charge,” Donaldson said. “These particular departments are ones that directly affect citizens in their daily lives, so I take these responsibilities very seriously.”
Members of Parish President V.J. St. Pierre’s executive staff include Donaldson, Grants Officer Holly Fonseca, Chief Financial Officer Grant Dussom, Executive Assistant Anedra Coleman, Emergency Preparedness Director Ron Perry, Chief Administrative Officer Buddy Boe and Legal Department Director Leon “Sunny” Vial.
Different members of the staff oversee other parish departments and offices, including purchasing, risk management, community services, parks and recreation, personnel, planning and zoning, economic development, information technology, geographic information systems and workforce investment.