ST. MARTINVILLE — Debra Landry was sworn in Tuesday to serve on the St. Martinville City Council in the District 4 post that became vacant with the death of Councilman Ronald Charles in June.

Landry, a St. Martinville native, was appointed to the post by Gov. Bobby Jindal. The newly appointed councilwoman will serve the remainder of Charles’ term, which ends June 30, 2014.

“This is absolutely the last place I thought I would find myself, but as the saying goes, life is a journey,” Landry, 61, said. “In other words, keep your bags packed because you never know where life is going to take you.”

Jindal made the appointment because the city’s charter states in the event of a death or a resignation the governor will fill the vacant post, St. Martinville Mayor Thomas Nelson said.

The city had 20 days from the date the seat became vacant to send the nominations to the governor’s office, Nelson said. 

City attorney Allan Durand will request information on how the city could amend its charter to be allowed to appoint someone to a vacant post, rather than rely on the governor, the mayor said.

The mayor and council members welcomed Landry, extending their help, advice and anything else she might need to serve.

Councilman Mike Fuselier, who has served on the council almost 20 years, said council members work together, even if they disagree sometimes. He told Landry to vote with her heart and with what she thinks is right.

Councilman Arthur Champ said his only advice to Landry is to be “quick to listen and slow to speak.” Listening to the public and being approachable makes serving on the council easier, Champ said.

Councilman Craig Prosper said he sat next to Charles on the council for almost eight years. Prosper saidhe  respected Charles and his decision-making. 

“He really thought things out and he looked at the whole picture. I had a great deal of respect for that,” Prosper said. “Then again, I think you’re going to do the exact same job and take everything to context.”

Landry, a graduate of Southern University, said she is looking to settle into the post before addressing any specific issues. She wanted to be nominated for the post because she has a love for her hometown, she said.

“I wanted to serve my community on a higher level and get involvedwithwhat goes on in the community and how things are done and handled,” Landry said.

The councilwoman said she is eager to serve on the council, and she said she thinks it will be a rewarding experience.