DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 363 Reengrossed 2015 Regular Session Barras
Abstract: Creates the Squirrel Run Levee and Drainage District.
Proposed law creates and provides for the boundary of the Squirrel Run Levee and Drainage District
in the city of New Iberia.
Proposed law establishes a five-member board of commissioners consisting of residents of the
district who are nominated by the New Iberia City Council and appointed by the mayor.
Provides for vacancies to be filled in the same manner as the original appointments.
Proposed law requires commissioners of the initial board to determine by lot their terms of office
at the first meeting, which shall commence immediately upon appointment and expire respectively
as follows: two members in four years, two members in three years, and one member in two years.
Proposed law provides that all commissioners appointed after the initial appointments, shall be
appointed in accordance with proposed law for staggered terms of four years, which shall expire on
July 1st of the fourth year, or until the successor is appointed and takes office. Further provides that
no member shall serve more than three consecutive four-year terms.
Proposed law provides that if a commissioner is appointed to fill more than one-half of an unexpired
term, that person shall be eligible to serve no more than two additional consecutive terms.
Proposed law requires the board to establish the official domicile of the board.
Proposed law confirms the constitutional taxing authority of levee districts created after Jan. 1, 2006,
to levy a tax approved by a majority vote of the electors.
Proposed law authorizes the board to enter into contracts and agreements for the purposes of
acquiring, operating, and maintaining servitudes and works necessary for drainage.
(Amends R.S. 38:291(BB)(1); Adds R.S. 38:291(CC))
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
The House Floor Amendments to the engrossed bill:
1. Change the name of the proposed levee and drainage district from West End to Squirrel Run.
2. Delete the requirement that the proposed levee and drainage district include lands
designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as a special flood hazard area
on March 1, 2015.