Courthouse entrance procedures was among several items up for discussion at the Sabine Parish Police Jury meeting on Feb. 15.
The procedures, which are now being undertaken, require that visitors must enter and exit the courthouse through the glass facing doors on South Capitol Street. Deputies will be stationed at that entrance to operate a security checkpoint, and every courthouse visitor will be subject to a security screening for weapons and/or dangerous instrumentalities. Visitors to the courthouse are also prohibited to carry a bag, purse, package, briefcase, or other closed container. The other entrances to the courthouse will be closed to the public.
The jury also discussed a $210 million investment in solar energy that could be coming to the parish. The jurors sought to seek out legal counsel with District Attorney Don Burkett before committing to anything.
Thomas “Bo” Stewart became the only dissenting vote regarding the police jury helping with a one-time donation of $5,000 to the old Sabine High School revitalization project and its future use as a recreation center.
Stewart pointed out that lots of people in his district and across the parish were not in favor.
Juror William Ruffin pointed out that the police jury has a responsibility to the parish that goes beyond roads. He also stated that this is an enhancement for the betterment of the parish.
“We are responsible to invest in the children of the parish,” said Ricky “K-Wall” Sepulvado. “If one kid is saved it’s worth it.”
During public comments to start the meeting, Rebecca Stigemeyer asked for the abolishment of a “gag” order and timed comments, which are limited to five minutes. Her points were reiterated by Pat Scarborough. Both public commenters have attended every police jury meeting for the past eight months trying to get roads improved in the parish.
Police Jury Secretary Bill Weatherford retorted that after doing a poll throughout the state, 47 of 64 Louisiana parishes have comment limits and 34 of those entities use a timer.