A motion of intent on a long-discussed ordinance on livestock was approved by the Winn Parish Police Jury during its August 19 session.

The parish already has laws on the books regulating (the owners of) livestock that get out on parish roads.  The new legislation centers instead on complaints on a loophole since problems with loose livestock getting into your yard, garden or carport are not covered, as cited in some lively meetings past.

After some discussion in the interim, the parish body has put together a three-page document to spell out control measures for the problem.  With Monday’s approval, this will be printed in the Official Journal, then put before a public hearing before being voted on at a future jury meeting.

Looking at the proposed measure, District Attorney Chris Nevils made two observations on terminology.  He questioned the stand-alone word “livestock,” asking if that means just cattle or does it also include horses, pigs, chickens and such.  President Frank McLaren said it is understood in the broader view.  (Jury Secretary Karen Tyler later found law on the parish books that defines livestock as everything from cattle to fish and may incorporate that into the ordinance).

He also said that this is a criminal ordinance, so if the unlawful action of owners in regard to their livestock is “willful or knowing,” that wording is suitable.  But “negligent” does not fit within the criminal scope.  That change will be made.

In separate action prior to beginning the business potion to Monday’s agenda, McLaren took a moment to pay tribute to the recent passing of former police juror Walter Williams, holding up an office photo of Williams to display to jurors and the audience.  Williams served from January 1972 until December 1987.