In The News
Today is a great day for the City of Zachary, we broke ground on a project that marks a significant step forward in our public safety infrastructure. The construction of a new 310-foot self-supporting communications tower is not just a structure—it’s a lifeline for our first responders.
Located near Pride Port Hudson and Hwy. 19, this new tower will greatly enhance communication capabilities between our police, sheriff’s department, fire services, and EMS teams. For too long, our radio communications in this area have been unreliable and inconsistent. With the nearest tower located on Gurney Lane in Central, having a tower here in Zachary means quicker, clearer, and more dependable communication when seconds count.
We are incredibly grateful to the East Baton Rouge Communications District Board for allocating the necessary funding to make this project possible. "Your commitment to improving public safety is deeply appreciated. We also want to extend our sincere thanks to Mr. Larry Powenski, the landowner of this site, for his unwavering support and dedication in helping us bring this vision to life," says Mayor David McDavid.
Once completed, the City of Zachary will proudly maintain the tower’s generator, lighting, and surrounding grounds—ensuring that it continues to serve our community for many years to come.
This tower represents progress, preparedness, and partnership—and we are proud to see it rise right here in Zachary.
All Zachary Municipal offices will be closed on Thursday, April 17 in observance of the Good Friday holiday —with the exception of Zachary City Court, which will remain open.
Garbage & Recycling Pickup will not be affected and will run on its regular schedule.
Early Voting Alert for Zachary Residents!
Early voting for the May 3rd Municipal General Election runs from April 19 to April 26 (closed Sunday, April 20) between 8:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
What’s on the ballot for City of Zachary voters?
- A Parishwide Proposition: District Attorney East Baton Rouge Millage
- A City of Zachary Proposition: Home Rule Charter Amendment
Make your voice heard — vote early!
On May 3rd, 2025 Zachary residents will vote on an updated Home Rule Charter, which outlines how the city is run. This is the first update in 15 years. The changes are intended to improve clarity and efficiency in the city's Plan of Government.
ZACHARY HOME RULE CHARTERUPDATE: What You Need to Know
Key Changes in the Charter:
1. Council Members (Section 2-01 & 2-02):
Provides Council Members with clearer rules on residence.
If a council member no longer meets qualifications, they automatically lose their position.
2. Council Meetings (Section 2-08):
Provides flexibility to schedule meetings.
The Mayor Pro Tempore, not the mayor, will run council meetings.
3. Mayor’s Absence (Section 3-06):
Sets up a clear plan for who takes charge if the Mayor is temporarily unavailable or disabled.
4. Mayor, Police Chief and Council Pay (Sections 2-03 & 3-07 & 4-06):
Clarifies how compensation for elected officials is to be set and adjusted.
5. City Administration (Sections 4-01 to 4-05):
Department heads don’t have to live in Zachary.
Lists responsibilities for Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Financial Officer.
6. Police Department (Section 4-06):
Confirms the Police Chief also serves as the City Marshal.
Allows the Police Chief to appoint a Deputy City Marshal.
6. City Budget (Section 5-02):
Reduces the budget proposal timeline from 60 to 45 days.
Provides if the council doesn’t approve a budget, 90% of the previous year’s budget becomes the default
7. City Bonds (Section 5-08):
Requires majority council approval to issue bonds and take on debt.
These updates aim to strengthen city government, improve clarity, and make operations more efficient. Be sure to vote on May 3rd.
Note: The amended charter may be reviewed on the official website of the City of Zachary – here
🚧 Attention Residents of Zachary! 🚧
The City Parish Traffic Engineering Division announces right-of-way clearing on MacHost Road. This project will begin on Monday, April 14, 2025, and will include tree trimming, tree removal, and other necessary preparations.
What to Expect:
- Partial lane closures and moving lane closures will be in effect throughout the project.
- Flagging operations will be set up to guide traffic safely through the area.
- "Closed to Through Traffic" signs will be placed daily at both ends of the road.
This project is expected to run from Monday, April 14th, 7 AM through Friday, August 29th, 2025.The work will be taking place on the side of the road, and safety measures will be in place to minimize disruptions.
We ask for your patience and cooperation as we work to improve the infrastructure in your community.
Thank you for understanding!
Attention: City of ZacharyUtility Customers:
Go Green with Paperless Billing! Help us reduce postage costs!
Make the eco-friendly choice by opting in for paperless billing! With paperless billing, your bill is conveniently emailed to you—no paper clutter. You can still pay your bill using any method you prefer. Choose convenience, reduce waste, and make the switch today!
Earlier today, Evan Canzoneri of Louisiana Workers' Compensation Corporation and Tre' Hendry of John Hendry Insurance Agency presented Mayor David McDavid, Safety Officer Bob Whitaker, and Human Resources Director Ashlee Pratt with the LWCC 2024 Safest 70 Award on behalf of the city. This prestigious award will be proudly displayed in the City Council Chambers.
The Safest 70 Awards recognize businesses and organizations that prioritize employee safety by fostering secure work environments. Their commitment to safety not only reduces risks and workplace accidents but also contributes to a stronger, safer Louisiana for everyone.
Mayor McDavid has officially proclaimed April as Flood Awareness Month in the City of Zachary. During the City Council meeting, Bryant Dixon, the City’s Floodplain Manager, emphasized the importance of flood awareness and preparedness in the community. “With our region’s history of severe weather events and the increasing risks associated with heavy rainfall and hurricanes, it is essential to take proactive measures to safeguard our homes, businesses, and infrastructure,” said Dixon. “Flooding remains the most common and costly natural disaster, impacting countless families and communities each year. By recognizing April as Flood Awareness Month, we aim to educate residents about flood risks, encourage preparedness, and promote mitigation strategies. This includes understanding flood zones, ensuring proper drainage, maintaining infrastructure, and staying informed about flood insurance and emergency response plans.”
Mayor McDavid echoed these sentiments, urging residents to take necessary precautions. “We encourage everyone to take steps to protect their families and properties from potential flooding. Through awareness and preparedness, we can work together to build a more resilient Zachary,” he said.
April showers bring May flowers, but they also bring more storm water runoff. It’s important to keep our drains clean—remember, only rain belongs in the drain! As you tidy up your yard this spring, be sure to dispose of leaves, yard waste, and debris properly, not in storm drains.
The City of Zachary encourages residents to participate in Storm Water Prevention Awareness Days on Monday, April 7th, and Tuesday, April 8th, during your regular Bulky Waste Pickup Day. Please pre-bag green waste like leaves, flowers, stalks, stems, and tree trimmings, then place them by the road for Waste Depot pickup.
Bulky Waste Collection runs from 6 AM to 8 PM. Not sure of your pickup day?
North of Main Street/Hwy. 64:1st & 3rd Mondays
South of Main Street/Hwy. 64:1st & 3rd Tuesdays
Remember, please avoid blowing or sweeping grass clippings into storm drains also. Let’s keep our drains clear and our city clean!
The City of Zachary is updating its Master Plan, and we want YOUR input! The draft Master Plan and Future Land Use Map are now available for review, and public comments are open until April 14th.
🔍 How to Participate:
✅ Review the draft plan
✅ Send your feedback to:
📩 Stephen Villavaso – svillavaso1@cox.net
📩 Fred Neal – frednealjr@gmail.com
📩 Bryant Dixon – bryant.dixon@cityofzachary.org
📅 Upcoming Events:
📌 April 7th: Representatives from V&A will be at the Planning & Zoning meeting to answer questions.
📌 April 23rd: A public workshop will be held to review comments and discuss potential updates.
Your voice matters in shaping the future of Zachary! Let’s work together to create a plan that reflects our community’s vision.
#ZacharyMasterPlan#CommunityGrowth #HaveYourSay