Iberia Parish Council-man John Berard has announced he will seek re-election to his District 7 seat.

Berard, 68, who works for Omega/Natchiq Inc. at the Port of Iberia, said since taking office in 2008 he and his fellow council members have worked hard for the people of Iberia Parish, and have made significant strides toward getting storm surge protection against future hurricanes, helped with the creation of an in-house permit office and approved the development of a “state-of-the-art” public health unit.

If re-elected, Berard said he intends to fight the levying of the parish’s “TIF tax” and instead work to create tax breaks and tax incentives for local businesses.

“I still enjoy walking around in my district and talking with my neighbors and hearing their concerns,” Berard said. “In the coming weeks I look forward to seeing everyone and talking about their needs and ideas.”

Qualifying for the election is scheduled for Sept. 6-8, and the election will be held Oct. 22.