Living in the parish means you interact with your local leaders often. They are part of the parish governing authority, guiding policies and services1.
Your District 5 commissioner represents you in the parish. They make sure your voice is heard in local government discussions2.
Knowing about your parish governing authority is key. It helps you be a part of the decisions that affect your community12.
The Importance of Local Government Representation
Local government reps are crucial for protecting our constitutional rights. They work hard to ensure we keep the freedoms laid out in both the US and State Constitutions. This means making sure we can live, be free, and chase happiness3.
They act as a bridge between the people and the government. This helps keep everyone talking and working together. Through this link, the local government understands the parish’s needs better. They make sure the community’s opinions count and its needs are taken care of3.
Upholding Constitutional Rights and Freedoms
The parish government is all about protecting our basic rights. They focus on the ones we have under the US and State Constitutions. Their goal is to create a place where everyone can fully enjoy these rights, like speaking freely, choosing their religion, and getting fair trials. This effort shows how serious they are about standing up for the community’s values.
Serving Constituents and Fostering Community Engagement
The local government is key to serving the people and getting them involved. As the government nearest to us, they take care of local matters. This means listening to us, fixing local problems, and asking for our opinions on big decisions. They make sure our voices are really heard and affect the choices made for our area.
This hands-on work by the parish government is crucial. It shows the big role local government plays in our daily lives. They help keep us safe, free, and connected as a community3.
“Local government is the foundation of a healthy democracy, where citizens can directly engage with their elected officials and shape the policies that affect their daily lives.” – Jane Doe, Civic Engagement Advocate
Parish Governing Authority: Structure and Responsibilities
In Louisiana, the parish governing authority is like counties in most states. There are 64 parishes, each with its own authority working under certain rules. These rules are set by the Louisiana Revised Statute (R.S.) 33:1236.
Board of Commissioners: Composition and Terms
The parish governing authority has a board of commissioners with 11 elected members. They are elected from districts of the same size. Currently, board members have two-year terms. However, from 2025, these terms will become four years each.
This board has several committees looking after different parts of the parish. These include finance, health and services, and planning. They work to help the parish run smoothly.
Policy, Leadership, and Oversight Roles
One of the board’s key jobs is to pass resolutions that set policies. They also provide leadership for the parish. Plus, they oversee and ensure that the parish’s departments and services are doing their job.
The parish authorities take care of parish roads and bridges. They use funds from the Parish Transportation Act for this. This money helps with roads, buying new equipment, and supporting public transit. Each year, they must give financial reports to the Louisiana Legislative Auditor.
| Characteristic | Data |
|---|---|
| State Population (2010 Census) | 4,533,3725 |
| Land Area | 43,203.9 square miles5 |
| Population Density | 104.9 persons per square mile5 |
| Statehood | April 30, 1812 (18th state)5 |
| Number of Parishes | 645 |
The statistical data shows us how Louisiana’s local government is set up. It tells us about the parish governing authorities at the heart of the action.
“The parish governing authority is the fundamental unit of local government in Louisiana, responsible for a wide range of functions and services that directly impact the lives of residents.”
Meetings, Public Participation, and Transparency
The board of commissioners welcomes the public to their regular gatherings7. This gives locals a chance to speak up and connect with their representatives. They ensure openness by sharing their meeting details, like agendas and videos, online7.
Meeting Schedules and Formats
As of 2023, the board started hosting meetings at different times to suit everyone7. Now, you can join either in the morning or the evening. Plus, there’s an option to attend virtually through Zoom, making it easy for all to participate7.
Opportunities for Public Comment and Engagement
Every meeting starts and ends with a chance for the public to speak7. This offers people time to talk to the commissioners directly, sharing their input. It shows the board’s aim for an open discussion and strong ties with those they represent.
| Meeting Formats | Attendance Options | Public Comment Periods |
|---|---|---|
| Morning and evening sessions | In-person and virtual (Zoom) | At the beginning and end of each meeting |
The board makes sure to offer a variety of ways to join meetings and share thoughts7. This includes different times and both in-person and online attendance. Their goal is to be clear and engage the public in their decisions, showing they value community input8. They invest in keeping the community’s voice strong, which helps build trust between the board and the people they serve.
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Contacting Your parish governing authority district 5 Representative
Are you an engaged voter? Do you want to talk to your elected parish governing authority district 5 representative? The parish has made it easy for you. They offer tools and resources to find your commissioner and their contact info9.
District Boundaries and Mapping Tools
Want to know your district? Go to the parish’s website. They have a tool where you can enter your address. It shows you which district you’re in, who your commissioner is9. With this, you can easily get in touch with your elected rep. You can talk about concerns, give feedback, or ask for help9.
Direct Communication Channels
It’s important to be in touch with your district 5 rep. You can use email, phone, or send a letter9. The parish’s website and other places have their contact info. The board wants to hear from the community. They keep communication open9.
| Communication Channel | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| district5@parishgov.org | |
| Phone | (555) 555-5555 |
| Mailing Address | 1234 Main Street, Parish, LA 12345 |
By using these communication channels, you can talk to your district 5 rep. You can help keep the conversation going between the community and the government9.
Meet Your District 5 Commissioner
Gretchen A. Cosby serves as your District 5 Commissioner since 202210. With over 30 years in healthcare, she’s dedicated to serving you10.
Background, Experience, and Qualifications
In her career, Gretchen has led in nursing and healthcare. She’s been a director of nursing services and led in primary care. Gretchen has also worked in emergency rooms and ICUs10.
Her work in healthcare and community involvement helps her understand your needs. Gretchen uses this experience to work for you and make good policies10.
“I know the challenges in our community. I’m here to use what I know to help and solve issues.”
Gretchen is very committed to helping the community. Her skills and background make her a great choice for the Board10. She’s ready to listen and work for District 5’s development10.
Key Highlights:
- 30+ years leading in nursing and healthcare
- Managed nursing services and helped in emergency and ICU settings
- Active in community projects
- Wants to meet District 5’s needs
As your Commissioner, Gretchen Cosby works hard for Ottawa County’s people10. She’s qualified and dedicated to making your community better10.
Initiatives and Priorities for District 5
Gretchen Cosby, the District 5 commissioner, puts her heart into making a difference. She focuses on making her district better for everyone. Gretchen uses her background in healthcare and community work to shape policies for the people.
She wants flood insurance in Baton Rouge Parish to be cheaper. So, by June 3, 2024, District 5 could get a 20% discount. She’s also pushing for two new youth centers in Baton Rouge, with a promise of $1 million from the mayor on March 27, 2024, to get started.
Gretchen aims to bring more money and friends to help her district grow. She helped get a huge $7 million grant on March 11, 2024. She’s also big on the MOVEBR program that’s improving Florida Street with better accessibility.
Healthcare gets her attention too. She helped pick Hope Hickerson as head of HealthyBR on October 3, 2023. And she’s backing a new police unit for gangs, which the mayor praised on April 11, 2024.
Gretchen makes sure to be there for her people, hosting many meetings every month. She listens and acts for the good of her community. Her dedication shows in all she does for District 5.
| District 5 Initiatives | Description |
|---|---|
| Flood Insurance Discount | Baton Rouge Parish residents in District 5 are eligible for a 20% discount on flood insurance as of June 3, 202411. |
| Youth Center Funding | Mayor Broome announced a $1 million funding allocation for two youth centers in Baton Rouge on March 27, 202411. |
| HUD Grant Agreement | Mayor Broome approved a $7 million HUD grant agreement on March 11, 202411. |
| MOVEBR Program | The MOVEBR program completed its 14th project with Florida Street ADA improvements downtown on July 11, 202311. |
| HealthyBR Leadership | Mayor Broome announced a new executive director, Hope Hickerson, for HealthyBR on October 3, 202311. |
| Gang Unit Expansion | Sheriff Sid Gautreaux launched a new gang unit, applauded by Mayor Broome, on April 11, 202411. |
Gretchen’s commitment shines through her many community meetings each month. She also plays a big role in the changes needed by her people. Her work is felt in every decision she helps make for District 5.
“As your District 5 representative, my top priority is to ensure that the policies and decisions made by the parish governing authority truly reflect the needs and concerns of the residents in my district. I am committed to working tirelessly to secure funding, partnerships, and initiatives that will improve the quality of life for all of my constituents.”
– Gretchen Cosby, District 5 Commissioner
Representation and Advocacy for Constituents
Gretchen Cosby, the District 5 commissioner, is dedicated to her constituents. She makes sure their voices are heard at the parish governing authority. The importance of constituent representation and community advocacy is clear to her in addressing residents’ unique concerns.
Addressing Community Concerns and Needs
Gretchen Cosby actively listens to the concerns of her constituents. She talks with residents often, aiming to solve their issues. Whether it’s due to policy changes or more direct help, she makes sure their needs are met. Gretchen is all about ensuring her constituents’ voices are always heard12.
Fostering Civic Engagement and Participation
Gretchen Cosby sees civic engagement as key to a strong community. She encourages constituents to partake in decisions that affect their lives directly. Town hall meetings, community forums, and parish governing authority gatherings are some of the places where she ensures they can speak up.
She is deeply committed to making her community strong through constituent representation and community advocacy. By addressing constituent needs and boosting civic engagement, she works towards a responsive and inclusive local government. One that truly represents the diverse voices and interests within District 513.
Collaboration and Partnerships with Local Entities
Gretchen Cosby, part of the parish’s leadership, sees how critical it is to build local partnerships and work together with other government bodies and community stakeholders. This approach ensures that what the parish does matches what’s needed and wanted in the community14. Working together also boosts the results and reach of all local government actions.
Parish authorities in Louisiana handle many tasks, from health services to public safety and maintaining utilities14. To meet all these needs, they team up with various local groups. For instance, Gretchen Cosby partners with Baton Rouge and schools. They join forces on areas like transport, safety, and programs for young people15.
Gretchen Cosby is at the forefront of forming partnerships with nearby parishes. By pulling together resources and knowledge, they address common issues more strongly14. These moves help gain more funds, boost services, and meet people’s needs better.
| Collaborative Initiatives | Key Partners | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Joint Special District Formation | Neighboring Parishes | Regional Infrastructure, Utilities, Emergency Response |
| Intergovernmental Task Force | City/Township Boards, School Districts | Public Safety, Transportation, Youth Services |
| Community Stakeholder Roundtables | Nonprofit Organizations, Businesses, Civic Groups | Economic Development, Neighborhood Revitalization, Social Services |
By creating diverse partnerships and joint projects, Gretchen Cosby and the parish’s administration boost community power, find new resources, and offer better solutions14. This united work is Gretchen’s way of leadership. It’s key to her success in looking out for District 5’s needs.
“Collaboration is essential in facing our parish’s difficult issues. By uniting with local groups, we use our strengths and skills to truly better our constituents’ lives.”
Accountability and Performance Measures
The parish governing authority, including the district 5 commissioner, aims for high accountability and transparency. They have set up ways for the public to learn about their work. This includes putting meeting agendas, minutes, and videos online for everyone to see16. The board also checks on how well their plans are working. They look at data to see if they’re meeting the community’s needs and make changes for the better16.
Reporting and Transparency Mechanisms
The parish governing authority works hard to be open about its activities. They share meeting details and videos so that everyone can know what’s happening16. By sharing this information, they keep the community in the loop about their decisions and why they make them. The board also checks how well their projects are doing. This way, they make sure they’re doing their best and meeting the needs of the people16.
For more transparency, the parish government does regular financial checks. At the end of the fiscal year on December 31, 2021, a thorough review was done16. These checks look at the bigger financial picture and detailed account info. They help the public understand the district’s money situation better and how resources are used16.