The Winnfield City Council approved a series of police and fire department appointments, confirmed property condemnations and reviewed updates to the city’s preservation ordinance at their most recent meeting, Aug 12.
The council confirmed multiple personnel changes, beginning with Ashley Holden’s transition from full-time to part-time due to nursing school, while Alazea McMiller, an intern for Judge Gates, was approved as a part-time dispatcher during holidays. Police appointments also included Emma Fredieu as a full-time jailer and Brandee Sweat as a part-time jailer and dispatcher. Ashley Carpenter and Deontray Means moved from provisional to probational sergeant after passing civil service exams, and Troy Rogers was confirmed as a reserve officer.
Chief Carpenter confirmed Charles Curry as assistant chief, saying he “could not begin to express how tirelessly the assistant chief works day and night.” Fire Chief Brian Montgomery also brought forward personnel changes, with the council approving Cody Lockridge as a part-time firefighter and accepting the resignation of full-time firefighter Matthew Harrell.
Shonna Moss, representing the Winnfield Historic Preservation Commission, told the council the city’s preservation ordinance must be updated to meet state regulations. She noted the passing of a board member and the need for two new appointments. Moss stressed the importance of maintaining certified local government status for Main Street funding and requested permission to introduce the updated ordinance at the next meeting.
Councilwoman Teresa Phillips reviewed condemnations on Holmes Street. The property at 400 Holmes St. was condemned following discussions with relatives of the owner, while the council granted 60 additional days for improvements to 406 Holmes St. after a request from the property representative, Jeffery Konley.
Mayor Gerald Hamms presented Chief Carpenter with a civil award from the Louisiana Municipal Association in recognition of his 20 years of service. Carpenter thanked the council and noted he is already working toward 25 years.
Hamms also addressed ongoing concerns about vandalism and poor road conditions, citing projects underway to improve both before adjourning the meeting.
