The St. Tammany Parish Council convened on September 4, 2025, to address several key issues, primarily focusing on nominations for the Library Board of Control (LBOC). The meeting began with nominations from council members, including Cheryl Godwin, La Rae Kitchen, and Al Hamway, as potential candidates for the board.

Public comments followed, with several residents expressing their concerns regarding the influence of external groups on library decisions. Jamie Segura, a Covington resident, raised alarms about the Slidell Ministers Association and the Republican Parish Executive Committee, suggesting they exert undue influence over council members and library decisions. She emphasized the need for a diverse library board that reflects the broader community's interests, rather than catering to specific political agendas.

Penny Petrie, another nominee, shared her extensive background in education and library science, highlighting her commitment to serving the community and fostering a love of reading among children. She expressed her desire to contribute positively to the library system.

Iris Gatlin echoed the call for a conservative nominee, arguing that the board should represent the majority of the parish's conservative population. Devin McGee emphasized the importance of transparency and public engagement in library board discussions, criticizing any attempts to silence community voices on library policies.

Lisa Rustemeyer voiced concerns about the current state of the library board, describing it as dysfunctional and toxic. She urged council members to prioritize qualified candidates who would work for the library's best interests, rather than aligning with special interests.

Lorraine McKension, another nominee, presented her qualifications and commitment to collaboration, asserting that she would bring a fresh perspective to the board.

The meeting concluded with a clear call from the public for a library board that prioritizes community needs and maintains a commitment to inclusivity and transparency. The council is expected to deliberate on the nominations and the future direction of the library board in upcoming sessions.