One Picayune City Councilor walked out of Tuesday’s meeting during discussion of appointing a new member to the Planning Commission.
The matter at hand dealt with appointing or reappointing members of the Commission, consisting of seven people. Six of the members expressed an interest in staying on to continue for another three-year term, but one submitted her resignation.
During the meeting, Councilor Wayne Gouguet made a motion to reappoint the six members who wished to remain, Martha Ford, Dennis Collier, Louise Harvin, David Mooneyham, Luddia Williams and Bryan Cooper. Patricia Barnett decided to step down, leaving an opening.
During the discussion phase of the matter, Code Enforcement officer Tom Milar and several Council members expressed concern of the current schedule of appointments, which all occur on the same year, meaning that if for some reason a majority decided to step down, the next Commission would be comprised of people who would need to gain knowledge of city codes.
Milar and the Councilors came to the agreement that a system of staggering the terms should be reached.
The existing members who wished to stay were reappointed. When it came time to appoint a new member to replace Barnett, Councilor Lynn Bogan Bumpers nominated George Janet. Councilor Larry Breland seconded that motion.
Gouguet interjected, saying he would like to take the matter under advisement for two to four weeks to consider the matter. Councilor Tammy Valente agreed.
Breland then asked the Council for the rationale in waiting. Valente said part of the reason was because Janet’s resume was submitted for review the same day as the meeting and she wanted to review it.
At that point Bumpers abruptly stood up, said she was sorry but she had to leave the meeting, walking out before an official vote was cast.
After some additional discussion, the Council took a vote, and appointed Janet to the Commission.
Earlier in the meeting, the Council approved a motion to proclaim Oct. 16 through 22 as Safe Schools Week. Mayor Ed Pinero requested that Picayune Memorial High School Security Council President Taylor Gregory read the proclamation, which stated that the safety of everyone at schools is paramount, and that it is the responsibility of all teachers, administrators, students and police officers to ensure that safety. The proclamation was approved by the Council.
The next Council meeting will be held on Nov. 1, at 5 p.m. in City Hall.