Iberia Parish Government is moving forward with two projects funded by the Louisiana State Assistance Grant program, according to Iberia Parish Larry Richard.

Richard said the first project will focus on purchasing a vehicle for the Iberia Coroner’s Office in order to replace a unit that is approaching the end of its service life.

“The Coroner’s Office provides much needed services throughout Iberia Parish and we feel that this is money well spent,” Richard said. “I want to commend Dr. (Carl) Ditch and his staff for the work that they provide, and look forward to seeing this new piece of equipment on the road soon.”

The second project is one that will help to enhance Parish Government’s GIS program by providing a mechanism where residents can view GIS data through a portal system. Geographic Information System (GIS) is a computer-based tool for mapping and analyzing data.

Richard said GIS analyzes spatial location and organizes layers of information into visualizations using maps and 3D scenes. With the capability, GIS reveals deeper insights into data; such as patterns, relationships and situations that help users make smarter decisions.

“We will also utilize the LGAP to upgrade portions of our IT system and Section 8 Housing systems,” Richard said.

The total value of both grants is some $66,800.

The parish president also commented on the recently announced closure of the Iberia Parish School Board’s Summer Care Program. Superintendent of Schools Carey Laviolette announced the closure last week, with the decision being made for budgetary reasons.

“This is something that cannot be avoided and I fully understand how difficult these decisions are as we have been addressing the same type issues since I took office,” Richard said. “I want to let you know that there are other programs within Iberia Parish that may offer an answer to some who did count on the Summer Care Program.”

One of those alternatives is through Iberia Parish Parks and Recreation.

“They have assured me that they are in communication with the school board and are working to help get children into their program if participants want to attend Summer Day Camp at Willow Wood and Coteau Park,” Richard said.

The camp is open to boys and girls ages 4-12, and hours are from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information call 365-6197 or go to www.iberiarecreation.com.

The second program is through the Iberia Parish Library’s Summer Workshops. This year is the 36th year the program has been offered and continues to be successful, Richard said.

“The workshop provides educational and social activities to children and teenagers in the community, all free of charge,” he said. “In the past these have been sponsored by the New Iberia Optimist Club, Cox Communications, Community First Bank, Konriko and the Friends of the Library.

“The program is scheduled for June and July, and registration is required for the workshops. Be on the look-out for the summer workshop booklet, which will be coming out closer to summer. We have many opportunities for our youth throughout Iberia Parish and we hope that you take advantage of these events.”