In light of the age-old issue of heavy trucks causing damage to parish roads, especially during wet conditions, the Winn Parish Police Jury in its June session took another look at an ordinance that’s been on the books since 1998 entitled “Abusive Use of Parish Roads Prohibited.”

Bringing up the discussion matter was President Frank McLaren who noted that the existing ordinance that states “road abuse” by vehicles is prohibited, outlining permits, rules and regulations for logging contractors.

This has always been a two-sided issue as the jury does its best to maintain road access for the public while logging of pine timber here is vital to the economy of Winn.  Juror Darrell Franks, himself part of that industry, pointed out that “instead of picking on just loggers,” the jury should include oil field, rock hauling and solid waste vehicles in its discussion.

Road Superintendent Perry Holmes observed that while loggers and oil field vehicles fall in the “permitted” category, the solid waste trucks are considered a service to residents and don’t required permits.  He went on to say that the problem is not across-the-board.  “There are good loggers and there are bad loggers.”

Juror Author Robinson, also in the logging business, agreed when he observed that “loggers have got to use some common sense.”

Franks added that “this is something we need to look at.  We need to keep our roads passable.  Folks here have to travel.”

Secretary/Treasurer Karen Tyler said that while some loggers clean up the site after job is completed, “some loggers abandon the site when they’re done, leaving the staging area a mess.”

There was no specific action from the discussion other than to remind haulers of the permit requirements of Ordinance 1 or 1998 and to encourage special care during wet road conditions.  Lawmakers did take the opportunity to thank the road crew for doing its best to keep roads up after damage occurs, whether manmade or weather-related.