Chataignier council discusses "dangerous" intersection

An issue raised during the public comment portion of the Chataignier Village Council meeting on Monday, October 21, involved the need to correct a potentially hazardous intersection.
Amos Pollard said on the evening of October 16, he almost collided with another vehicle approaching the intersection of Vine and First streets. The intersection has two stop signs, and people approaching the intersection can be confused about what approaching cars have the right of way, Pollard said.
He suggested a third stop sign be placed at the intersection and flashing caution lights be installed above it.
Another Chataignier resident, Gail McDavid, said he also has experienced problems at the intersection, causing him to immediately stop. He said some people approaching the intersection think it’s a four-way stop. “I’m amazed we don’t have more accidents there,” he said.
The road passing through the intersection is a state highway, but the state has not made any improvements. Mayor Jackie Thomas suggested Pollard get residents to sign a petition calling for the stop sign and caution lights that can be presented to the state.
Also during the council meeting, the council gave the village’s new attorney, Justin “Bo” West, gave him one of his first tasks.
That issue involves the village entering into a contract with the independent Chataignier Water System, Inc. that involves payment of cut-off fees when users of the system fail to pay the village for use of the village’s sewer system.
Councilman Joseph Semien said the issue needs more legal scrutiny because “it doesn’t feel right.” McDavid, who is president of the water system, said the Louisiana Public Service Commission has ruled that municipalities can legally enter into contracts with private organizations.
West said he had first heard about the issue just before the council meeting, and he would need to study the issue before offering an opinion. The council tabled the issue until next month’s meeting.
In other council business:
•The council approved the mayor’s request that Halloween truck-or-treating be on Thursday, October 31, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wilbur Rozas, village clerk, reminded residents to make sure children wear bright clothing and only go to houses that are lit up.
•Debra Fontenot, Christmas parade coordinator, announced this year’s grand marshal will be Chataignier Fire Chief Daniel “Mr. Pinky” Brasseaux. This year’s parade will be on Sunday, December 15, starting at 3 p.m. A reception will be held at the community center just before the parade.