Immediately after the storm passed, the Winn Parish Police Jury, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), and the Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office got right to work assessing damages and preparing the parish so electrical crews could begin restoration as quickly as possible.

 

As time passed, it became clear that no electrical crews were working our outages. I personally reached out to Governor Jeff Landry’s office, Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell, and senior leadership at Entergy. Governor Landry made all state resources available to make sure we were cared for.

 

Swepco stepped up and immediately took care of their customers — thank you, Swepco.

 

Entergy repeatedly assured me that more than 100 workers would be deployed to Winn Parish. I called daily to confirm this information, yet nothing happened. As of today, it appears only four crews have been working to slowly restore power.

 

This is not a criticism of our linemen. They are working hard under extremely difficult conditions, and I am grateful for their efforts. This is a direct criticism of the largest electric utility in our state for not being prepared for this storm.

 

Today, I expressed in detail the true hardships our citizens are facing in this bitter cold:

• Elderly residents struggling to stay warm

• Families spending their last dollars on propane

• Parents worrying about groceries

• Water systems down

• Dangerous live wires hanging in public areas

• Continued school closures

 

Today, Entergy had no excuses — only silence. When they claimed crews were on the way this afternoon, they were actually referring to Jackson Parish, not Winn Parish.

 

I know we have atleast one crew still in the parish tonight working.They have once again promised to send crews tomorrow. We will see.

 

As of now, many Winn Parish residents may be forced to endure freezing temperatures, lack of water, and unsafe conditions until January 31st.

 

I cannot adequately express my frustration, disappointment, and outrage over the lack of urgency shown toward our parish. It is clear that Winn Parish has been overlooked by Entergy in the aftermath of this storm.

 

Please understand that the Sheriffs office has no control over our power companies and I apologize that I do not have better news. However, Winn Parish has always taken care of its own. Please continue to check on your neighbors. If someone needs assistance, speak up. If welfare checks are needed, do not hesitate to call them in!