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Robideaux: We need to push reset button on LUS project

Posted at 1:07 PM, Oct 28, 2018
and last updated 2018-10-28 14:07:18-04

Mayor-President Joel Robideaux on Wednesday told the Advocate that Lafayette “needs to push the reset button” on any possible LUS deal.

In the interview with our media partners at The Advocate, Robideaux admitted to some missteps in his handling of proposed changes to the Lafayette Utilities System.

Specifically, Robideaux said he should have publicly discussed the concept of private management before allowing a single company, Bernhard Capital Partners, privileged access to Lafayette Utilities System facilities and data.

“I could have done a better job of rolling out the discussions, in engaging the council and the public, but I didn’t,” Robideaux said in an interview Wednesday. “So we need to push the reset button and start these conversations over. With other entities now showing interest, I think that’s the way to go.”

Since the dealings were made public by The Current, Robideaux has faced backlash from the council and the public. Additionally, two other companies – Cleco and Entergy – have requested the same opportunity that was given to Bernhard.

To read the Advocate’s full interview with Robideaux, click here.