The City of Jeanerette has a new mayor this evening.
Carol Bourgeois, Jr. Was sworn in during a ceremony Saturday afternoon. Bourgeois is taking over after winning the election against embattled Mayor April Foulcard.
Bourgeois says he’s hopeful with the help of the community, the city will find solutions and resolve some of its problems.
“I stand before everyone today in very humble gratitude for this opportunity,” Bourgeois said.
During his swearing in speech, Bourgeois urged his citizens to focus on the future of Jeanerette.
“We can’t redo history, but we can chart a new course and that’s what I intend to do along with the assistance of the administration and the council,” said Bourgeois.
The Mayor also acknowledged there are major issues to take care of…including the city’s finances.
Recently, the State took over the city’s finances after three years with no audits.
Bourgeois said, “I vow within the first two years of this administration, we will have this thing resolved.”
The Mayor said the city will have to look for opportunities and think globally to get back on track.
“With the blessings of God, with the grace of God and the participation of the administration, council and citizens, we will continue to sail,” Bourgeois said.
