Baldwin unsure about funds issue

Baldwin received $50,000 from FEMA after Hurricane Gustav caused damage to the town’s wastewater treatment plant in 2008.
However, the funds were never spent on those repairs and the funds were transferred by the previous administration to the town general fund and to meet other obligations.
FEMA has asked for an update, and the board first considered bidding out the project, even though the money is no longer in hand. Members objected to that idea, and tabled the move until a special meeting is held.
The state legislative auditor’s office, which has been closely involved with Baldwin’s financial woes over the last few years, is aware of the situation, the board learned.
“Somebody has to be accountable for this,” Alderwoman Margaret “Faye” Coleman said, noting that the current council and administration should not be held to blame.
“Who’s going to pay for it?” resident Tony Gibson asked. “Get with these people and see what exactly we need to to.”
—Tony Gibson chastised the mayor and board because the town Little League program was not created this year. Mayor Lanceslin said notices were issues for sign-up and there were few participants. A decision was made to not pursue the matter further.
—Alderwoman Coleman said a community meeting was held where residents were able to express concerns, and those concerns were passed on to the mayor.
—A washeteria, a car detailing service and a sno-ball stand are opening in Baldwin, Lanceslin reported.
—Choupique area flooding from rainfall over the last few weeks has prompted the town to borrow an excavator from the parish to dig out drainage outlets.