Rayne City Council hears report of flood prone areas

RAYNE - During a somewhat routine meeting Monday evening at City Hall, the Rayne City Council and guests heard an informative presentation by city engineer Tim Mader of the city’s flood plain.
“Rayne as a whole, is well protected from extensive flooding,” Mader explained. “Because of it’s high elevation, the city is in good shape.”
As compared to other cities throughout the parish from information displayed on four charts, Rayne sits at an elevation of 23 - 31 feet above sea level, at least 10 feet above its neighbors including Crowley and other neighboring communities.
“The city basically sits on a dome and is drained by four major coulees or bayous,” Mader continued. “The city administration has done all it can to drain flood waters when we have downpours like we had last week. Now, its up to the drainage boards to get the flood waters away from the city and into the major waterways, which they are now working on.”
It was noted by Mayor Chuck Robichaux and City Inspector that elevation and flood level maps are available for public viewing on the websites of the City of Rayne and Acadia Parish Assessor.
During the business portion, Robichaux introduced Ordinance 2010 granting CenterPoint Energy Resources Corp. renewal of their contract for their continued services, which was approved by the Council.
New business approved by the Council included:
• surplus by the Water Treatment Plant of two room air conditioners and a water cooler.
• Krewe de Joie de Vie king and queen party at the Rayne Pavilion.
• street drive by Rayne East Side Boxing, Inc.
• reappointed Mica Smith as a member of the Rayne Municipal Fire and Police Civil Service Board.
Concerning a demolition project from the Council meeting in April, the home at 407 Bailey Ave. was given 90 days for demolition since no action has been taken.
Robichaux informed the public that mosquito spraying will begin this week. Two trucks will split the city at the railroad tracks for north and south spraying on a nightly basis.
He also noted the recent purchase and ongoing installation of new playground equipment at the four city parks.
Robichaux and Mader concluded the meeting with an update on the Barbara Street extension project, noting the project is 95% complete, and the Edgewood Subdivision street upgrade -- curb work has begun.