The Newellton Town Council addressed gar‑bage service interruptions, property cleanup and water system questions during its regular monthly meeting on Feb. 17.
Council members Marvin Brady, Deborah Parson and Richard Harris were present along with Mayor Frankie Robinson and Clerk Lacy Washington.
The most exten‑sive discussion of the evening centered on resi‑dential garbage collection. Residents noted garbage had not been picked up for approximately three and a half weeks before service was temporarily restored the previous week by Super D.
The council voted to authorize a second week of contracted service with Super D at a cost of $2,200. Mayor Robinson explained Newellton’s garbage truck is currently out of service, requiring the town to seek outside assistance. She reported speaking with Waterproof Mayor Jarrod Bottley, Wolf Disposals, Waste Pro and Super D, and said she is awaiting additional quotes as the town works to secure a longer‑term solution.
Earlier in the meeting, the council heard from resident Leslie Alexander Smith during the public comment period. Smith expressed concern that correspondence she mailed to the village had been returned and appeared not to have been collected.
Council mem‑bers responded the mailing address she used was correct. Smith noted one earlier piece of mail had been signed for by Police Chief Desmond Ford, but she has received no confirmations since. She also informed the council that she has been in communication with the Louisiana Legislative Auditor regarding the Village’s financial status and said she has dis‑cussed the possibility of a public meeting to provide residents with additional clarity. Smith emphasized she does not blame the current administration, stating the issues predate the present mayor.
Mayor Robinson also addressed ongoing efforts to improve property con‑ditions throughout the community. She reminded residents to remove debris from their proper‑ties, including inoperable vehicles, old appliances and other discarded materials. Her remarks prompted questions from citizens regarding where debris should be taken, how soon removal efforts might begin and whether previously assessed storm-related debris would be collected.
A representative from Tensas Water Distribution provided an update on the Village’s water system and billing. He reported the readometer currently in use is believed to be functioning properly and that recent bills reflect accurate readings. He confirmed the village has an active water supply and chlorine is present in the system, but noted the boil advisory will remain in place until further notice.
He also clarified Tensas Water Distribution is not managing Newellton’s system. Although Tensas Water supplied water to the village on three occasions, Newellton is currently operating from its own water tower. Discussions about possible consolidation remain ongoing.
Following public discussion, the council entered executive session in accordance with standard procedures. The meeting was adjourned upon its conclusion.
