Public Notice

LEGAL NOTICE

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 21(D)(1) of the Louisiana Constitution of 1974, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Concordia Electric Cooperative, Inc. (Concordia Electric) seeks an increase in base rates and has filed an Application for Approval on May 16, 2025 with the Louisiana Public Service Commission.

This application will affect all consumers of Concordia Electric, which are located with the Parishes of Caldwell, Catahoula, Concordia, Franklin, Grant, LaSalle, Rapides and Tensas.  The application filed by Concordia Electric, if granted, will increase the average rate currently paid by consumers of electricity from Concordia Electric. The amount requested to be placed into base rates by this application is $0.01193/kWh in the Distribution Energy Charge, $6.50 increase in the Service Charge while eliminating the 22.89% Formula Rate Plan Rider. This change equates to approximately a $11 increase per month for an average residential consumer (Rate 101, 201) using 1,000 kilowatt hours per month.

Anyone having questions regarding this notice may contact the Louisiana Public Service Commission at 1-800-256-2397 with questions or comments or the Louisiana Public Service Commission may be contacted in writing as follows:

Louisiana Public Service Commission

Records Division

602 North 5th Street, 12th Floor

Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Phone: 225-342-3157

Questions or comments may also be directed to Concordia Electric Cooperative, Inc. at the following address:

Concordia Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Attention: Lori Jackson

P. O. Box 98

Jonesville, LA 71343-0098

Phone: 318-339-7969

(PUBLISHED: JUNE 4, 2025)

6/4

Cost is $33.60

Tensas Parish School Board

REQUEST FOR BIDS

(Newellton Elementary School Football Field)

The Tensas Parish School Board will receive SEALED BIDS for the SALE of a 3.444 certain tract or parcel of land located at 115 Jacoby Street, Newellton, Louisiana. This property is commonly known as the Newellton Elementary School Football Field and is being SOLD AS IS. The sale is for surface rights to the property only, with the School Board reserving all mineral rights that it might possess on the property.

Sealed bids will be accepted until 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at the Tensas Parish School Board Central Office.   At 1:00 p.m. on that day, all proposals in hand will be publicly opened and read aloud and any proposals received after the opening will be returned unopened. General conditions and instructions to bidders may be acquired from the Tensas Parish School Board, 512 Plank Road, St. Joseph, Louisiana 71366, or by contacting Superintendent Joyce M. Russ at the number below.

Questions should be directed to Joyce M. Russ, Superintendent at 318-766-3269 or jruss@tensaspsb.org.

Bids should be submitted by CERTIFIED MAIL to the Tensas Parish School Board, P.O. Box 318, St. Joseph, LA  71366 ATTN: Property Bid (“NES Football Field”) or may be dropped off in a SEALED ENVELOPE marked ATTN: Property Bid (“NES Football Field”)  to the board office at 512 Plank Road, St. Joseph, LA. Bidders are solely responsible for the timely delivery of their respective bids.

Asbestos–containing building materials may have been used in the construction of the improvements on the property.  The property and its improvements are sold “as is”, and any existence or discovery of asbestos-containing building materials or other hazardous materials, such as mold or lead paint therein, shall not be considered sufficient grounds for a recession or cancellation of the Act of Sale or for diminution of the purchase price.  Furthermore, the Tensas Parish School Board shall not be responsible for the removal of any such materials, for paying the cost of having such materials removed or for any damages of any nature whatsoever arising from the existence or removal of such materials.  The successful bidder assumes any and all costs and liabilities regarding any hazardous materials on or at the site including any improvements thereon.

Award of the purchase will be made to the HIGHEST BIDDER, subject to acceptance and approval by the Tensas Parish School Board. The Tensas Parish School Board reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

5/21, 5/28, 6/4

Cost is $48

Tensas Parish School Board

REQUEST FOR BIDS

(Newellton Elementary School)

The Tensas Parish School Board will receive SEALED BIDS for the SALE of a 3.420 certain tract or parcel of land located at 103 Jacoby Street, Newellton, Louisiana. This property is commonly known as the Newellton Elementary School and is being SOLD AS IS. The sale is for surface rights to the property only, with the School Board reserving all mineral rights that it might possess on the property.

Sealed bids will be accepted until 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June11, 2025, at the Tensas Parish School Board Central Office.   At 1:00 p.m. on that day, all proposals in hand will be publicly opened and read aloud and any proposals received after the opening will be returned unopened. General conditions and instructions to bidders may be acquired from the Tensas Parish School Board, 512 Plank Road, St. Joseph, Louisiana 71366, or by contacting Superintendent Joyce M. Russ at the number below.

Questions should be directed to Joyce M. Russ, Superintendent at 318-766-3269 or jruss@tensaspsb.org.

Bids should be submitted by CERTIFIED MAIL to the Tensas Parish School Board, P.O. Box 318, St. Joseph, LA  71366 ATTN: Property Bid (“Newellton Elementary School”) or may be dropped off in a SEALED ENVELOPE marked ATTN: Property Bid (“Newellton Elementary School”)  to the board office at 512 Plank Road, St. Joseph, LA. Bidders are solely responsible for the timely delivery of their respective bids.

Asbestos–containing building materials may have been used in the construction of the improvements on the property.  A copy of report(s) identifying known areas containing asbestos products is attached as Exhibit A to these General Conditions and Instructions to Bidders.  The property and its improvements are sold “as is”, and any existence or discovery of asbestos-containing building materials or other hazardous materials, such as mold or lead paint therein, shall not be considered sufficient grounds for a recession or cancellation of the Act of Sale or for diminution of the purchase price.  Furthermore, the Tensas Parish School Board shall not be responsible for the removal of any such materials, for paying the cost of having such materials removed or for any damages of any nature whatsoever arising from the existence or removal of such materials.  The successful bidder assumes any and all costs and liabilities regarding any hazardous materials on or at the site including any improvements thereon.

Award of the purchase will be made to the HIGHEST BIDDER, subject to acceptance and approval by the Tensas Parish School Board. The Tensas Parish School Board reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

5/21, 5/28, 6/4

Cost is $50.40

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

05/21/2025

The Tensas Parish Police Jury (herein referred to as the “Owner”) will accept sealed bids marked for the construction of the project described as follows:

Tensas Parish Police Jury – Tensas Parish Port

Preliminary Sitework

Bids shall be addressed to the Tensas Parish Police Jury and received by the Engineer (via delivery or mail) located at 6885 Hwy. 84, Ferriday, LA 71334, not later than 3:00 p.m., Local Time, on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. At that time, the Bids will be opened and read.

Bidders may submit bids electronically to the Engineer at kcapdepon@bha-engineers.com and medwards@bha-engineers.com. Electronic bids must be received before 2:30 p.m., Local Time on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. Any Electronic bid received after this time will not be considered. Bidders submitting bids electronically are required to provide the same documents as bidders submitting through the mail or in person. These items include but are not limited to the Bid Form and Corporate Resolution. Regardless of the bid results, the bidder will have 48 hours from opening of the bids to provide the original bid documents. If a bidder fails to provide the original hard copies of these documents within 48 hours of the bid opening, their bid shall be considered non-responsive. The Owner and the Engineer will not be responsible if the bidder cannot complete and submit a bid due to failure or incomplete delivery of the files submitted via the internet. Original bid documents shall be addressed to the Engineer located at 6885 Hwy. 84, Ferriday, LA 71334 and must be received 48 hours after bid opening, if not, the bid will be considered nonresponsive.

All bids must be submitted on the proper form. The contractor must display his contractor’s license number prominently on the outside of the envelope. Any bids received after the specified times and date will not be considered.

Each bona fide bidder must be registered with the Engineer and obtain Bid Documents from the Engineer in order to submit a bid. The Bidding documents may be requested by email at bhallc@bha-engineers.com, or calling (318)757.6576, upon payment of $250.00. In accordance with R.S. 38:2212(D), deposits on the first set of documents furnished to bona fide prime bidders will be fully refunded upon return of the documents; deposits on any additional sets will be refunded less the actual costs of reproduction. Refunds will be made upon return of the documents if within ten days after receipt of bids. Refunds will be given on the first set of documents furnished to bona fide prime bidders upon return of the clean, unmarked documents no later than ten days after receipt of bids in accordance with LSA R.S. 38:2212(e).

Prime Bidders may also obtain an electronic set of bidding documents in PDF format. Contractors are responsible for reproduction/printing. There is no fee for the electronic set of bidding documents. Contractors desiring to bid shall prove that they hold an active State License of proper classification in full force and effect in Heavy Construction.

In accordance with RS 38:2212 G(2) plans and specifications shall be available to bidders until twenty-four hours before bid opening date.

The Corporate Resolution must be signed and sealed. The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all bids for just cause; such actions will be in accordance with title 38 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes.

Each bidder must deposit with his/her bid, security in the amount, form, and subject to the conditions provided in the Information for Bidders. Bid bonds shall be written by a surety or insurance company currently on the U.S. Department of the Treasury Circular 570 list of approved bonding companies which is published annually in the Federal Register.

No bidder may withdraw his/her bid within forty-five (45) days after the actual date of the opening thereof.

Any interpretation of the bid documents shall be in writing addressed to Bryant Hammett & Associates, L.L.C. at 6885 Hwy. 84, Ferriday, LA 71334 or emailed to kcapdepon@bhaengineers.com and to be given consideration must be received at least ten days prior to the date fixed for the opening of bids. No communication after this date.

The Contractor shall begin mobilization and procurement of materials within ten (10) working days of the receipt of the Notice to Proceed.

The successful bidder will be required to execute the Owner’s Standard Form of Agreement/Contract for construction together with the Performance and Payment Bonds within ten (10) working days after issuance of the Notice of Award. Sureties used for obtaining bonds must appear as acceptable on the U.S. Department of Treasury Circular 570. All awarded contractors will be required to attend a monthly meeting, with mandatory attendance from the Project Engineer, Resident Inspector and Contractor, or their authorized representatives, at the beginning of each month to review quantities for pay estimates, process change orders, review work performed during the month and to discuss any problems which may have arisen. Please notify the Tensas Parish Police Jury (318) 766-3542 seven (7) days in advance of the scheduled bid opening if special accommodations specified under ADA are required.

The Owner hereby notifies all offerors that in regards to any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, that Minority Business Enterprise will be afforded equal opportunity to submit offers in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, sex, national origin or disability in consideration for an award.

Tensas Parish Police Jury

Bubba Rushing, President

212 Hancock Street

St. Joseph, LA 71366

5/21, 5.28, 6/3

Cost is $111.16

PUBLIC NOTICE

INVITATION FOR CONSULTING ENGINEERING SERVICES

TENSAS Parish invites qualified engineering firms to submit a Statement of Qualifications for the following project:

TENSAS PARISH – PARISH WIDE GENERATOR PROJECT

PARISH PROJECT NO. 4559 AND 4611

RFQ NO. 2025-1

ENGINEERING FEE: TO BE NEGOTIATED

This project and the procedures for the selection of this firm will be in accordance with all requirements of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA), Federal Code of Regulations (2CRF200), the State of Louisiana, and the standard of Tensas Parish Police Jury. All responses received will be evaluated in accordance with the selection criteria identified in the Request for Qualifications information packet available from Tensas Parish Police Jury. That information also identifies the scope of services to be performed by the selected   firm.

All engineering firms shall also be registered with the Louisiana State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors, in accordance with LA RS 37:689. A copy of the current Certificate(s) of Registration shall be attached to each Statement of Qualification. Failure to be registered and in good standing with the aforementioned board will lead to the rejection of qualifications statement.

TENSAS Parish will award the project to the respondent obtaining the highest recommendation and points based upon a section committee review of the submitted Statement of Qualifications and work references.

Interested firms are invited to secure an informational packet from Tensas Parish Police Jury, Pauline Doyle, Secretary-Treasurer, paulinedoyle@tppj.org or download an electronic copy of the official Request for Qualifications packet from Central Bidding website: www.centralbidding.com. Only those firms that have responded in accordance with the official RFQ packet for this project obtained from Tensas Parish Police Jury or Central Bidding will be considered by Tensas Parish Selection Committee. Additionally, the firm selected for this project will be required to execute the Parish standard contract for Engineering Services as amended for this project. The overall level and scope of services will be determined by TENSAS Parish. A fixed sum contract will be negotiated with the selected firm. Responding firms must be prepared to provide an audited overhead rate for the purpose of contract negotiation and determination of cost reasonableness.  Any questions or problems related

to the download of the RFQ packet should be directed by email to Pauline Doyle, paulinedoyle@tppj.org.

The response to this RFQ must be hand delivered or mailed to the above-named person at Tensas Parish Police Jury, 212 Hancock Street, St. Joseph, LA 71366 in such a manner that it is received no later than 1:00 P.M., June 27, 2025. Statements of Qualifications that have not been received by the deadline date and time will be rejected.

TENSAS Parish Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Responding firms are encouraged to utilize minority participation in this contract through the use of disadvantaged and women-owned businesses as suppliers or sub-contractors. TENSAS Parish Government encourages submission by DBE, minority, veteran, and/or women owned businesses.

TENSAS PARISH POLICE JURY

Pauline Doyle-Secretary-Treasurer

5/28, 6/4, 6/11

Cost is $67.20

VILLAGE OF NEWELLTON

REGULAR MEETING

APRIL 16, 2025

CALL TO ORDER: The Board of Alderman met in a regular session, on April 16, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in the Newellton Conference room. Those present were Deborah Parson, Richard Harris, Marvin Brady, Mayor Frankie Robinson, and Patricia Washington. Also Present was Chief Desmond Ford, Iris Rollins, Glenda Gumbelot, Jeffery Ford, Lisa Abshire, Todd Abshire, Jainee Frazier, Alex Watson, Derrick Thomas, and Bubba Rushing.

PRAYER: There being a quorum present Marvin Brady opened the meeting with a prayer.

MINUTES: On a motion by Richard Harris seconded by Marvin Brady and unanimously carried the minutes were approved as appeared in the Tensas Gazette.

BILLS: On a motion by Marvin Brady seconded by Richard Harris and unanimously carried the bills were approved for payment as funds become available.

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

NEWELLTON EASTER COMMITTEE: Jainee Frazier spoke with board members in regards to blocking a portion on the street on Jacoby that leads to Verona St for parade and vendor purposes. On a motion by Marvin Brady seconded by Richard Harris and unanimously carried permission was granted.

GLENDA GUMBELOT: Ms. Glenda spoke with the board, just to update them that she is still working on a few projects, for the village and that she will need to get with David Rimmey to take a few pictures at the sewage pond.

DERRICK JOHNSON (Louisiana Municipal Gas Association) LMGA: Mr. Johnson spoke with the board members and advised them of the services that LMGA offers and stated he was willing to work with the village to offer his services.

EXECUTIVE SESSION: On a motion by Marvin Brady seconded by Richard Harris and unanimously carried the board went out of regular session into executive session. On a motion by Deborah Parson seconded by Richard Harris and unanimously carried the board went out of executive session back into regular session.

Action Taken: NONE

ADJOURN: On a motion by Richard Harris seconded by Marvin Brady the meeting was adjourned.

FRANKIE ROBINSON, MAYOR

PATRICIA WASHINGTON, CLERK

6/4

Cost is $44.40

VILLAGE OF NEWELLTON

REGULAR MEETING

MAY 21, 2025

CALL TO ORDER: The Board of Alderman met in a regular session, on May 21, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in the Newellton Conference room. Those present were Deborah Parson, Richard Harris, Marvin Brady, Mayor Frankie Robinson, and Patricia Washington. Also Present was Chief Desmond Ford, Rosa Carter Murray, Teri Pickens, Pastor James London, Deloris Gentry, Michael Kelly, Jeffery Ford, Isaac Brooks, and Roy Chase.

PRAYER: There being a quorum present Rosa Carter Murray opened the meeting with a prayer.

MINUTES: On a motion by Marvin Brady seconded by Deborah Parson and unanimously carried the minutes were approved as appeared in the Tensas Gazette.

BILLS: On a motion by Richard Harris seconded by Deborah Parson and unanimously carried the bills were approved for payment as funds become available.

PUBLIC COMMENTS:  James London spoke with the board members and requested to continue to hold his monthly street ministry in the village parking lot on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday or Saturday only. On a motion by Richard Harris seconded by Marvin Brady and unanimously carried approval was granted.

JEFFERY FORD: Mr. Ford spoke with the board members in regards to his trailer that was reported to be in the road in front of his resident on Texas St. He told the mayor that he had moved it over and that it was not in anyone’s way.

TERRY PICKENS: Mrs. Pickens shared her concern about vehicles on Ferrington St that are in the road way, and requested that the village board members address the situation.

MICHAEL KELLY: Mr. Kelly spoke with the board members and shared his concerns about the Chief of Police Desmond Ford currently not having any help in his department.

BUDGET: The new physical year budget was presented to the board members for review. On a motion by Deborah Parson seconded by Richard Harris and unanimously carried the budget was accepted for review.

EXECUTIVE SESSION: On a motion by Deborah Parson seconded by Marvin Brady and unanimously carried the board went out of regular session into executive session. On a motion by Deborah Parson seconded by Marvin Brady and unanimously carried the board went out of executive session back into regular session.

Action Taken: NONE

ADJOURN: On a motion by Deborah Parson seconded by Marvin Brady the meeting was adjourned.

FRANKIE ROBINSON, MAYOR

PATRICIA WASHINGTON, CLERK

6/4

Cost is $51.60

Public Hearing

The Village of Newellton will hold a Public Hearing at the meeting room

June 12, 2025 at 4pm

1876 Hwy 605

Newellton,La 71357

Purpose: To hear the public input on the proposed budget.

Village of Newellton Proposed Budget Is also available for review at the Village Town Hall, 1876 Hwy 605 Newellton, La 71357 during regular business hours.

6/4, 6/11

Cost is $8.40

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Sixth Judicial District District Public Defender’s (a/k/a “Sixth Judicial District Chief Indigent Defender’s”) Proposed Budget for FY2026 and Proposed Amended Budget for FY2025 will be available for public inspection beginning June 10, 2025, at the Sixth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office (a/k/a “Sixth Judicial District Indigent Defender’s Office”) located at 1602A Felicia Drive, Tallulah, Louisiana 71282, during regular weekly office hours from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Friday.  On Thursday, June 26, 2025, beginning at 2:00 p.m. , a Public Hearing will be held at the Sixth Judicial District Public Defender’s Office (a/k/a “Sixth Judicial District Indigent Defender’s Office”) located at 1602A Felicia Drive, Tallulah, Louisiana 71282 on the Proposed Budget for FY2026 and Proposed Amended Budget for FY2025.  The Proposed Budget for FY2026 and Proposed Amended Budget for FY2025 will also be available beginning June 10, 2025, for public inspection at the Police Jury’s Office in East Carroll, Madison, and Tensas Parishes during their regular business hours as noted below:

EAST CARROLL PARISH POLICE JURY

EAST CARROLL PARISH COURTHOUSE

400 FIRST STREET, SUITE 5

LAKE PROVIDENCE, LA 71254

TELEPHONE: 318-559-2256

FAX: 318-559-1502

Email: ecpj400@att.net

Office Hours: Open 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. AND 1:00 p.m to 4:30 p.m. (Monday thru Friday)

(closed for lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.)

MADISON PARISH POLICE JURY

COURTHOUSE BUILDING

100 NORTH CEDAR STREET

TALLULAH, LA 71282

TELEPHONE: 318-574-3451

FAX: 318-574-3122

EMAIL: msmith_mppj@bellsouth.net

Office Hours: Monday thru Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

TENSAS PARISH POLICE JURY

212 HANCOCK STREET

ST. JOSEPH, LA 71366

TELEPHONE: 318-766-3542

FAX 318-766-4580

EMAIL: paulinedoyle@tppj.org

Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Monday thru Friday)

SIXTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT PUBLIC DEFENDER’S OFFICE

JOHN HOGUE

DISTRICT PUBLIC DEFENDER a/k/a CHIEF INDIGENT DEFENDER

6/4, 6/11, 6/18, 6/25

Cost is $50.40

 

The Water We Drink

ST JOSEPH WATER SYSTEM

Public Water Supply ID: LA1107004

We are pleased to present to you the Annual Water Quality Report for the year 2024. This report is designed to inform you about the quality of your water and services we deliver to you every day (Este informe contiene información muy importante sobre su agua potable. Tradúzcalo o hable con alguien que lo entienda bien). Our constant goal is to provide you with a safe and dependable supply of drinking water. We want you to understand the efforts we make to continually improve the water treatment process and protect our water resources. We are committed to ensuring the quality of your water. Our water source(s) are listed below:

Source Name	Source Water Type
WELL #4	Ground water
WELL #5	Ground water

The sources of drinking water (both tap water and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over the surface of land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally-occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material, and can pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity. Contaminants that may be present in source water include: Microbial Contaminants – such as viruses and bacteria, which may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural livestock operations, and wildlife. Inorganic Contaminants – such as salts and metals, which can be naturally-occurring or result from urban stormwater runoff, industrial, or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining, or farming. Pesticides and Herbicides – which may come from a variety of sources such as agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential uses. Organic Chemical Contaminants – including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, which are by-products of industrial processes and petroleum production, and can also come from gas stations, urban stormwater runoff, and septic systems. Radioactive Contaminants – which can be naturally-occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining activities.

A Source Water Assessment Plan (SWAP) is now available from our office. This plan is an assessment of a delineated area around our listed sources through which contaminants, if present, could migrate and reach our source water. It also includes an inventory of potential sources of contamination within the delineated area, and a determination of the water supply’s susceptibility to contamination by the identified potential sources. According to the Source Water Assessment Plan, our water system had a susceptibility rating of ‘HIGH’. If you would like to review the Source Water Assessment Plan, please feel free to contact our office. In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, EPA prescribes regulations which limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. Food and Drug Administration regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water which must provide the same protection for public health. We want our valued customers to be informed about their water utility. If you have any questions about this report, want to attend any scheduled meetings, or simply want to learn more about your drinking water, please contact CARL OLDS at 318-766-3713.

There is no safe level of lead in drinking water. Exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups, especially pregnant people, infants (both formula-fed and breastfed), and young children. Some of the health effects to infants and children include decreases in IQ and attention span. Lead exposure can also result in new or worsened learning and behavior problems. The children of persons who are exposed to lead before or during pregnancy may be at increased risk of these harmful health effects. Adults have increased risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or nervous system problems. Contact your health care provider for more information about your risks. The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals – Office of Public Health routinely monitors for constituents in your drinking water according to Federal and State laws. The tables that follow show the results of our monitoring during the period of January 1st to December 31st, 2024. Drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The pre8ence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. In the tables below, you will find many terms and abbreviations you might not be familiar with. To help you better understand these terms, we’ve provided the following definitions:

Parts per million (ppm) or Milligrams per liter (mg/L) – one part per million corresponds to one minute in two years or a single penny in $10,000.

Parts per billion (ppb) or Micrograms per liter (ug/L) – one part per billion corresponds to one minute in 2,000 years, or a single penny in $10,000,000.

Picocuries per liter (pCi/L) – picocuries per liter is a measure of the radioactivity in water.

Treatment Technique (TT) – an enforceable procedure or level of technological performance which public water systems must follow to ensure control of a contaminant.

Action level (AL) – the concentration of a contaminant that, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements that a water system must follow.

Maximum contaminant level (MCL) – the “Maximum Allowed” MCL is the highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. MCL’s are set as close to the MCLG’s as feasible using the best available treatment technology.

Maximum contaminant level goal (MCLG) – the “Goal” is the level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to human health. MCLG’s allow for a margin of safety.

Maximum residual disinfectant level (MRDL) – The highest level of a disinfectant allowed in drinking water. There is convincing evidence that addition of a disinfectant is necessary for control of microbial contaminants.

Maximum residual disinfectant level goal (MRDLG) – The level of a drinking water disinfectant below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MRDLGs do not reflect the benefits of the use of disinfectants to control microbial contaminants.

Level 1 assessment – A study of the water system to identify potential problems and determine (if possible) why total coliform bacteria have been found in our water system.

Level 2 Assessment – A very detailed study of the water system to identify potential problems and determine (if possible) why an E. coli MCL violation has occurred and/or why total coliform bacteria have been found in our water system on multiple occasions.

During the period covered by this report we had the below noted violations.
Compliance Period	Analyte	Type
6/30/2024 – 6/4/2024	CONSUMER CONFIDENCE RULE	CCR REPORT
10/16/2024 – 1/16/2025	LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS LSL	INVENTORY-INITIAL

Our water system tested a minimum of 2 sample(s) per month in accordance with the Total Coliform Rule for microbiological contaminants. With the microbiological samples collected, the water system collects disinfectant residuals to ensure control of microbial growth.

Disinfectant	Date	HighestRAA	Unit	Range	MRDL	MRDLG
CHLORAMINE	2023	2	ppm	0.04 – 2.9	4	4
Typical Source: Water additive used to control microbes

In the tables below, we have shown the regulated contaminants that were detected. Chemical Sampling of our drinking water may not be required on an annual basis; therefore, information provided in this table refers back to the latest year of chemical sampling results.

The State of Louisiana regularly monitors source water per State and Federal Regulations. Treated water samples are monitored to further evaluate compliance.

Source Water Regulated Contaminants	Collection Date	Highest Value	Range	Unit	MCL	MCLG
BARIUM	12/17/2023	0.86	0.83 – 0.86	ppm	2	2
Typical Source: Discharge of drilling wastes; Discharge from metal refineries; Erosion of natural deposits
FLUORIDE	12/17/2023	0.3	0.3	ppm	4	4
Typical Source: Erosion of natural deposits; Water additive which promotes strong teeth; Discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories

Treated Water Regulated Contaminants	Collection Date	Highest Value	Range	Unit	MCL	MCLG
BARIUM	11/6/2023	0.34	0.34	ppm	2	2
Typical Source:  Discharge of drilling wastes; Discharge from metal refineries; Erosion of natural deposits
NITRATE-NITRITE	2/4/2024	1.1	1.1	ppm	10	10
Typical Source: Runoff from fertilizer use; Leaching from septic tanks, sewage; Erosion of natural deposits

Source Water Radiological Contaminants	Collection Date	Highest Value	Range	Unit	MCL	MCLG
COMBINED RADIUM (-226 & -228)	12/17/2023	1.83	0.743 – 1.83	pCi/l	5	0
Typical Source: Erosion of natural deposits
GROSS ALPHA PARTICLE ACTIVITY	12/17/2023	3.14	0 – 3.14	pCi/l	15	0
Typical Source: Erosion of natural deposits
GROSS BETA PARTICLE ACTIVITY	12/17/2023	3.35	3.23 – 3.35	pCi/l	50	0
Typical Source: Decay of natural and man-made deposits.
RADIUM-226	12/17/2023	1.05	0 – 1.05	PCI/L	5	0
Typical Source: Erosion of natural deposits
RADIUM-228	12/17/2023	0.783	0.743 – 0.783	PCI/L	5	0
Typical Source: Erosion of natural deposits

Lead and Copper	Date	90TH Percentile	Range	Unit	AL	Sites Over AL
COPPER, FREE	2022 – 2023	0.3	0 – 0.3	ppm	1.3	0
Typical Source: Corrosion of household plumbing systems; Erosion of natural deposits; Leaching from wood preservatives
LEAD	2022 – 2023	3	0 – 4	ppb	15	0
Typical Source: Corrosion of household plumbing systems; Erosion of natural deposits

Disinfection Byproducts	Sample Point	Period	Highest LRAA	Range	Unit	MCL	MCLG
TOTAL HALOACETIC ACIDS (HAA5)	131 LEVEE STREET	2023 – 2024	7	5.4 – 9.6	ppb	60	0
Typical Source: By-product of drinking water disinfection
TOTAL HALOACETIC ACIDS (HAA5)	306 MARTHA STREET	2023 – 2024	7	5.3 – 8	ppb	60	0
Typical Source: By-product of drinking water disinfection
TTHM	131 LEVEE STREET	2023 – 2024	10	5.3 – 12.2	ppb	80	0
Typical Source: By-product of drinking water chlorination
TTHM	306 MARTHA STREET	2023 – 2024	10	5.4 – 12.9	ppb	80	0
Typical Source: By-product of drinking water chlorination

Source Secondary Contaminants	Collection Date	Highest Value	Range	Unit	SMCL
ALUMINUM	12/17/2023	0.06	0.06	MG/L	0.2
CHLORIDE	12/17/2023	30	27 – 30	MG/L	250
HARDNESS, TOTAL (AS CACO3)	12/17/2023	258.7	244.6 – 258.7	MG/L	0
IRON	12/17/2023	9.99	9.41 – 9.99	MG/L	0.3
MANGANESE	12/17/2023	0.54	0.48 – 0.54	MG/L	0.05
PH	12/17/2023	6.3	6.13 – 6.3	PH	8.5
POTASSIUM	12/17/2023	4	3.7 – 4	MG/L	0
SODIUM	12/17/2023	51.9	46.8 – 51.9	MG/L	0

Treated Secondary Contaminants	Collection Date	Highest Value	Range	Unit	SMCL
ALUMINUM	11/6/2023	0.01	0.01	MG/L	0.2
HARDNESS, TOTAL (AS CACO3)	11/6/2023	136.7	136.7	MG/L	0
IRON	8/4/2024	0.03	0.02 – 0.03	MG/L	0.3
MANGANESE	10/27/2024	0.03	0.02 – 0.03	MG/L	0.05
POTASSIUM	1/6/2023	3.7	3.7	MG/L	0
SODIUM	11/6/2023	133	133	MG/L	0
ZINC	11/6/2023	0.7	0.7	MG/L	5

Unresolved significant deficiencies that were identified during a survey done on the water system are shown below.
Date Identified	Facility	Code	Activity	Due Date
8/7/2023	MAIN WATER TREATMENT PLANT	20OT101	GWR ADDRESS TT45 DEFICIENCIES	11/25/2023
Description: LAC 51:XII.319.D.24 – System shall ensure that no critical water system component is in poor condition or defective.;
8/7/2023	WATER SYSTEM	20CC17A	GWR ADDRESS TT45 DEFICIENCIES	11/25/2023
Description: LAC 51:XII.344.A-B – A. As used in this Section, “mandatory containment practices” means the containment practices prescribed in and required by the state Uniform Construction Code, LAC 17:I, including maintenance and testing requirements, and any additional or related requirements of this Part. B. In order to protect its water supply from potential contamination, each water supplier shall make a reasonable effort to ensure that only customers who comply with mandatory containment practices connect or remain connected to its water supply.;

++++++++++++++Environmental Protection Agency Required Health Effects Language++++++++++++++ Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. EPA/CDC guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800–426–4791).

Lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. ST JOSEPH WATER SYSTEM is responsible for providing high quality drinking water and removing lead pipes, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components in your home. You share the responsibility for protecting yourself and your family from the lead in your home plumbing. You can take responsibility by identifying and removing lead materials within your home plumbing and taking steps to reduce your family’s risk. Before drinking tap water, flush your pipes for several minutes by running your tap, taking a shower, doing laundry or a load of dishes. You can also use a filter certified by an American National Standards Institute accredited certifier to reduce lead in drinking water. If you are concerned about lead in your water and wish to have your water tested, contact ST JOSEPH WATER SYSTEM and CARL OLDS BUS Phone: 318-766-3713. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

Additional Required Health Effects Language:

Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially-harmful, bacteria may be present. Coliforms were found in more samples than allowed and this was a warning of potential problems.

There are no additional required health effects violation notices.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Thank you for allowing us to continue providing your family with clean, quality water this year. In order to maintain a safe and dependable water supply we sometimes need to make improvements that will benefit all of our customers. We at the ST JOSEPH WATER SYSTEM work around the clock to provide top quality drinking water to every tap. We ask that all our customers help us protect and conserve our water sources, which are the heart of our community, our way of life, and our children’s future. Additional information on the water system can be found at www.ldh.la.gov/watergrade. Please call our office if you have questions.

Our water system grade is an “A”. Our water system report card can be found at https://www.ldh.la.gov/assets/oph/Center-EH/drinkingwater/Watergrade/WaterGrade-2024/Tensas/LA1107004_WaterGrade_2024.pdf

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Cost is $475.20