Transition District Members Sworn In

Although it has been operating informally for several years, the members of the St. George Transition District were sworn in June 24  and began official operations.

The district was created by the Louisiana Legislature in 2020 as a result of a bill authored by former Sen. Bodi White.  It tracks similar legislation Sen. White passed to assist in the creation of the City of Central in 2005.

Securing funding for start-up activities of the city is a priority of the district.

On Wednesday, July 10, Transition District Treasurer Chris Rials met with State Treasurer John Fleming, M.D. to discuss the State Bond Commission approving St. George having the authority to incur a $1 million loan.

The City of St. George is accruing sales taxes collections of about $4 million a month.  These funds are held by the City-Parish Finance Department and should be released after about 75 days.

Until the City-Parish releases those funds, the City of St. George has an urgent need for funds to bridge the gap.

Treasurer Fleming appeared at the swearing in of St. George city officials June 10 to assure them that his office will do everything necessary to secure those funds.

The $1 million will come in the form of a loan from Hancock Whitney Bank.  No state funds are involved.  Nevertheless, the State Constitution requires that the State Bond Commission give approval to obligations in any form when incurred by a state agency or local political subdivision.

The St. George Transition District previously announced that it has designated Hancock Whitney as its official bank.

On behalf of the transition district, Chris Rials expressed his appreciation to Treasurer John Fleming for taking the initiative and helping the City of St. George secure needed funds.

The State Bond Commission is chaired by Dr. Fleming.  It will meet later this month.