Many ask how and what we do, but few ask WHY. I’m confident my experiences differentiate me from other candidates and that my knowledge in other areas will contribute to the betterment of the Town. My goal is for a SAFE, CLEAN, TRANSPARENT TOWN for all to live and enjoy. Why? Because everyone wants a clean, safe city or town to live, raise a family that is represented by an honest government. Being the size we are, and given the technology that is available, we should set the example for the rest of the Nation.
At the beginning of my first day, I can only hope that the newly elected Mayor will embrace transparency of the Town’s finances. We are a town of approximately 2900 residents. Abita Springs, under the right leadership, could set an example for the United States of how a city government should conduct itself and give its citizens—the tax payers—the dignity and respect they so deserve. Many Politicians act as if they are beyond reproach, that their decision is best for all. It is my goal that we no longer have an administration that fails the people of Abita. This means restoring communication between the government and the people we serve and promising transparency in all that we do.
First fight for transparency. As stated above, , I will work tirelessly in getting Abita Springs, up and running with a daily transparent overview of the Towns fiscal status. Clean (just not from debris, but pot holes repaired, etc.…), and work with those less fortunate to improve their own properties. Long before entering the curve on Hwy 59 into Abita, You will notice, you’re arriving in a Town that not only talks about being clean but practices what it preaches. Being fully transparent for all to see, but more importantly for all to understand.
Many years ago our local fire district was spiraling downward at a rapid pace. Equipment wasn’t being purchased, morale was low, and there was talks of a possible merger with another district just to survive. Former board members didn’t possess the skills warranted to turn on a fire hydrant much less run a fire department. As difficult as it was, I began the process of eliminating those, whose practices were detrimental to the department. I ask every citizen to visit with our local fireman and ask them to what degree, has Jay Hawkins, currently running for Alderman, turn the fire department around for the positive.
The citizens of Abita must become more involved to decide the future of Abita and steps to get there. I believe if administration and the citizens are sailing their vessels parallel to one another, we can achieve a greater amount in a shorter period of time. Synergy will be achieved, with a significant amount of support from one another. As an owner of a large parcel of land in the Historic district, I’m very concerned about preservation while progressing forward. My personal hope is that Abita remains substantially residential and the tax dollars of businesses are not needed for growth. I realize we must have the essentials, as well as, attractions for our citizens and our visitors, but at what cost to disrupting Abita’s uniqueness.
Great Question: These figures may not be exact but this is what I was supplied. Property mileage rates are to be questioned. Currently the total tax payers is approximately 1700. The Gross tax revenue is $350,655.06. Abita Springs total millage is 15.860. The majority of our property tax revenue is residential; We can increase the number of homes, we can increase the property mileage rate, we can increase the number of businesses, we can entertain annexing greater land mass of both residential and business to increase tax revenue or we can fight to increase what percentage we are currently receiving in property taxes. With the current gross tax revenue of $350,655 that equates to approximately $250.00 /house hold. I know from my own property tax, that I contribute approximately 7% to the town and the remaining 93% to the Parish. WHY???
I’m ignorant of all the ordinances at present but they should be reviewed and considered in composing the master plan. Are we under or over restricted?
We must have a minimum of a five-year plan in front of us that is updated and extended out annually.
The sewage system is a priority. Newer subdivisions and how they may negatively disrupt the natural flow of water. Infrastructure issues that will need to be addressed before additional subdivisions are built.
I am a native of New Orleans, and my family has been in Louisiana since the 1800’s. My fraternal grandfather, Walker Saussy, married Virginia Parker, Daughter of Governor John M. Parker. My mother, father, and wife are also natives of New Orleans. The Parker/ Saussy descendants are embedded in the culture of the State of Louisiana, and the culture plays a significant role in who I am today. I am also the father of three daughters. As I mentioned in a previous question, my greatest personal accomplishment to date is to have three inspiring young daughters. The eldest received her Medical Degree, May 2017, Louisiana State University, School of Medicine, the second received her Pediatric Nurse Practitioner degree August 2018, Vanderbilt University, and the third, twin of the second, Summa Cum Laude, University of Alabama (please don’t hold against me) is pursuing a post graduate degree.
My teenage years through high school were spent on the Mississippi Gulfcoast. I returned to New Orleans after completing Paramedic School in 1987. My Paramedic degree provided the funding to complete my undergraduate studies. I began a career in the medical sales industry in 1992. I’ve been infatuated with the clinical aspect of medicine since the age of twenty-two, when I began teaching ACLS to physicians, nurses and paramedics. Since then, I have been intrigued with medical technology. My first resuscitation involved an elderly gentleman, lying apneic and pulseless in Ventricular Fibrillation, defibrillated twice and literally within minutes the gentleman was speaking and wanting to return to his previous activity.
My relationships within the medical sales industry grew as I sought to possess the traits that I believe build an enduring relationship—honesty, curiosity, and support. My time in the field as a paramedic, medical salesman, law enforcement officer, and forensic death Investigator have taught me how to listen, learn, love and lead. These characteristics/attributes will exude as an Alderman.
Outside of family and work, I enjoy my hobbies—many of which are not just the average hobby. Many years ago, I attended a Police Academy night program. Upon completion of the Academy, I accepted a position as a Reserve Deputy. The time devoted to law enforcement is in the evenings, on weekends and holidays in an unpaid volunteer capacity. My second public hobby is participating in charitable events. My current charitable event is Hogs for the Cause. Hogs for the Cause is quickly becoming one of the nation’s premiere fundraisers for children with pediatric brain cancer. In 2017, teams raised 1.3 million. Flying is my childhood passion that I still participate in, 35 years later. My “brain dead” hobbies include gardening, wood working and fishing/hunting.
Just reflecting back on my career and the experiences and opportunities I’ve been provided, I can say that I am one of the most fortunate people in the world. I am blessed that I’ve been a part of something that has changed the lives of millions. Saving lives, improving lives, witnessing lives change for the better—while simultaneously improving the results of the clinicians treating patients—has been of great reward.
Thank you for your time. I ask for your support, your prayers and to “Believe in Abita”. “Believe in Stephen”. I can be reached at 504-232-6324 (c) or by email:stephensaussy@att.net. I look forward to hearing from you, hearing of your ideas, your concerns and how you may contribute.