EDGARD — Larry Sorapuru Jr. of Edgard recently announced he is running for the Division A seat in St. John Parish Council.

Division A includes Garyville, Mount Airy, Reserve, Edgard and parts of LaPlace.

As a lifelong resident of St. John the Baptist Parish, Sorapuru said he is personally vested in the place he loves and calls home. Sorapuru is a retiree after 36 years of employment with Monsanto, a large employer in the parish.

Throughout his life, Sorapuru has faithfully served his community in various capacities. He currently serves on the Farmers Market Advisory Board, St. John Parish Utility Board and the Youth Planning Board. He is also a member of 2nd Ward Culture Group, St. John Civic Association, Wallace Indian Organization and West Bank Stakeholders.

Sorapuru is launching his campaign with a commitment to strengthen economic development, enhance the park system and ensure public safety. He will be releasing a detailed platform but stated, “we are hard workers in St. John parish, and it’s important we instill that same work ethic in our young people with youth employment programs.”

“We also need to expand public works projects to ensure safe travel including bike paths and sidewalks, as well as improve flood protection which is long overdue,” Sorapuru said.

Sorapuru is the proud father of five children and five grandchildren. He attends St. John Catholic Church.