Development News for Covington, Louisiana

Mark R. Johnson and Blake Bushnell Appointed to Recreation District 10 Board

The City Council appointed Mark R. Johnson and Blake Bushnell to the Recreation District 10 Board of Commissioners. Councilman Enman highlighted that District 10 is 'getting the band back together' and that Johnson and Bushnell are well-suited due to their extensive involvement with CRD (Covington Recreation Department), including coaching and seeing their families grow up playing there. Mayor Johnson expressed appreciation for reconstituting the dormant board and noted that future meetings will be publicized. He emphasized a focus on improving quality of life with existing recreational amenities rather than building new large parks, citing traffic concerns. Councilman Bushnell echoed the need for facilities and amenities in District B.

Official Journal Reappointed for One-Year Term

The City Council passed Resolution 2026-14, selecting the official journal for the City of Covington for a one-year term. Councilman Verret expressed his support, stating, 'If it ain't broke, don't fix it,' and thanked the journal publicly for its service to the city. The motion to accept the resolution passed with a roll call vote.

Community Events, Infrastructure Updates, and Public Service Recognition Highlighted by Council Members

Councilman Callahan (District 8) invited residents to a Juneteenth celebration at Perkins Park on June 19th, featuring a parade starting at 11 AM, followed by food, fun, recreation, games, and job information. Councilman Bushnell (District B) mentioned ongoing drainage projects in his district, including the Ozone drainage project and work in Covenant Point. He also announced upcoming events: Last Friday block party, an 'American 250 Concert' on July 3rd at the trailhead, and 'Sparks in the Park' on July 4th at Buckhorn Park. Councilman Roberts (District C) praised Public Works for their rapid response to drainage issues following recent rains and noted the effectiveness of infrastructure changes in areas like River Forest. Councilman Enman (District D) highlighted numerous events at the library (52 in June, over 30 for children) and commended Public Works and the Covington Police Department for their work. He also listed academic award recipients from various local schools and acknowledged the challenges faced by council members with children at home. Councilman Burrell (District E) reported on recent events in May, including potential python sightings (later identified as large rat snakes), a significant water main blowout impacting 387 homes, and thanked Public Works for their response. He also mentioned the upcoming July 4th 'Sparks in the Park' event will feature enhanced fireworks due to the 250th anniversary. Councilman Verrett highlighted upcoming events like 'Man Up' health screenings on June 4th, congratulated a retiring coach, acknowledged the exceptional work of Public Works employee Charlie Arthur, and provided updates on the food bank's May statistics, highlighting increased need and requesting donations of specific items. He also reminded residents to shop local.

City Council Approves Budget Amendment for Street Repaving Projects

The City Council held a public hearing and took action on ordinance 2026-05-02, which amends the 2026 operating and capital budget. Councilman Roberts explained that this amendment is necessary for repaving projects, including West 28th to North Jefferson, Pine View Middle, and West 8th to South Poke and South Tyler. He noted that such amendments are common as needs become clearer throughout the year and that investing in city streets is a positive use of funds. The motion to close the public hearing and adopt the ordinance passed.