Ponchatoula
CITY OF PONCHATOULA
CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
A regular meeting was held Monday, September 8, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall in Ponchatoula, LA.
Mayor Daniels called the meeting to order and Mrs. James gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Council members present: Vergil Sandifer, Melvin Toomer, Danny Elstrott,
Roslind Batiste
Council member absent: Melvin Toomer
Public Input – none
Mr. Wright motioned to accept the minutes of the August regular meeting. Mrs. Batiste second the motion which carried with all present in favor.
Mayor Daniels noted that the Building, Downtown, Fire, and Police reports are in the council packets.
Mayor Daniels advised monthly Financials are in their packets.
Mayor Daniels asked if he could get a motion and second to add an Ordinance Introduction to the Agenda. Mr. Wright motioned to amend the agenda to add an item. Motion second by the Elstrott. Motion passed with all present in favor.
Mr. Elstrott introduced and called to a public hearing on October 20, 2025 for an Ordinance to Amend Ordinance 814-Appendix B- Subdivision Ordinance, Section 4.11-B.1. General Requirements for Improvements and Standards for Design and Construction Drainage and Storm Sewers – Pipe Specifications and Catch Basins, of the City’s Code of Ordinances.
Mayor Daniels opened the floor to a Resolution Renewing the leases with the Non-Profit Organizations Strawberry Festival Board, Kiwanis Club, Ponchatoula Jaycee’s and Ponchatoula Rotary. Mr. Wright motioned to remove the item from being tabled. Motion second by Mr. Sandifer. Motion passed with all present in favor. After discussion Mr. Wright motioned to approve the Lease agreements with condition upon the Mayor and City Clerk receiving all required documentation from each organization. Motion second by Mr. Elstrott. Resolution passed with all present in favor.
Mayor Daniels opened the floor to a Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to sign a Mutual Servitude Agreement with Williams Land Company. Mr. Elstrott motioned to approve the Resolution. Motion second by Mrs. Batiste. Resolution passed with all present in favor.
Mayor Daniels opened the floor to the Approval of an Alcohol Permit for LA 22 Enterprises LLC- LA 22 Quick Stop located at 701 E Pine Street. After discussion Mrs. Batiste motioned to approve the permit. Motion second by Mr. Elstrott. Motion passed with all present in favor.
Mayor Daniels opened the floor to the Approval of a Temporary Alcohol Permit and Variance for the Toula Q & Fall Fest – Strawberry Festival Inc at Memorial Park on November 14th & 15th 2025. After discussion, Mr. Sandifer motion to approve the permit. Motion second by Mr. Elstrott. Motion passed with all present in favor.
Mayor Daniels opened the floor to Mrs. Karen Pea, Director of the After School Program. Mrs. Pea spoke about the program and the success it has had so far. Teachers came forth and spoke about their duties and testimonies as well with working with the students. Council and Mayor expressed how proud they are of the progress so far.
Mayor Daniels called for Officials Rights of Personal Privilege.
Mr. Elstrott motioned to adjourn the meeting at 6:38p.m., which was seconded by Mrs. Batiste. Motion passed with all present voting in favor.
****UNOFFICIAL****
J. Wesley Daniels, Mayor
Nikki James, City Clerk
Cost of notice: $51.75