Dist. 8 a rematch for representation

The 2011 race for Terrebonne Parish Council District 8 is a rematch from the 2007 face-off with the same three contenders involved. That election resulted in current Councilman Joey Cehan upsetting then incumbent Peter Rhodes, who had filled two terms in the government seat. Candidate Dirk Guidry placed third in that election, but with familiar opponents each hopes to finish first this time.

Addressing what they view as the most critical issues for District 8, the three candidates agreed that flood control, hurricane protection and coastal restoration lead the list.

“The top issue for me is completion of Morganza reaches in our area, completing the Houma Navigational Canal, [Bayou] Grand Caillou and [Bayou] Little Caillou floodgates,” Cehan said. “I also want to see the completion of the Thompson Road extension and complete sewer service to the Smith Ridge community.”

“Flood protection and hurricane protection,” Guidry said. “We’re supposed to be getting $500 million from BP for coastal restoration. I want to see some of it come to Terrebonne Parish.”

Guidry said he would also like to see rock placement for the building of barrier islands and completion of the Morganza to the Gulf project.

Rhodes noted his concerns in three phases. “Barrier islands, coastal restoration and levee projects,” he said. “I would work with the levee board to complete Morganza to the Gulf and do more with the state to help rebuild barrier islands with rocks.”

When it comes to what sets each candidate apart from his opponents in their ballot rematch, each man drew upon his own personal characteristics.

“I brought honesty and integrity to the council for the last four years,” Cehan said. “Being involved with each project for the last four years means no transition and being sure projects move forward.”

“Hard work, dedication and a love for Terrebonne Parish,” Guidry said regarding traits that set him apart. “I run a business and employ 35 people. I know how to run a budget. I want to make sure generations from now can live in Terrebonne Parish.”

“I’m dedicated, honest and dependable,” Rhodes said to add his credibility to the mix.