Two-term St. Charles Parish council member is campaigning for at-large seat

After serving two terms as District III councilwoman, Wendy Benedetto has announced she will run for council-at-large to represent both sides of the river.

“I look forward to continuing to invest in our infrastructure and maintaining the high quality of life enjoyed by our residents,” Benedetto said.

“I promise to work tirelessly to support the next administration in building our parish’s complete flood protection system as quickly as possible to keep our homes dry and our flood insurance rates low. This is the top priority of our parish government and must be done aggressively and correctly.

“Throughout both terms, I have met many people and been blessed by their engagement in local government. I’ve been honored with the experience gained by serving in public office. It is invaluable and I believe public service is part of citizenship.”

Recently, Benedetto helped fight large increases in flood insurance rates while approving funding and construction of the parish’s levee system. Additionally, she supported passage of the wastewater and sewage millages that will provide needed funding for these vital services.

“I’ve worked with two councils and an administration for the past eight years to improve the quality of life in my district, and supported major drainage and flood protection projects throughout the parish,” she said.

As a council member, Benedetto was instrumental in getting Ormond Park built, as well as the splash park, in Destrehan, and allocated annual funding for the continued stabilization of Dunleith Canal. Also, she said Ormond Boulevard will be resurfaced this fall.

Benedetto served as council chairwoman and two terms as  vice chair.

When she first ran for council, Benedetto promised to improve recreation, help resolve issues with Dunlieth Canal for the residents who are losing backyards, continued to maintain and improve drainage issues and flood protection, and to continue to improve the quality of life in St. Charles Parish.

Over the past eight years, she kept those commitments and added other services, such as recycling centers, supported the Miracles to Milestones Playground and expanded pump station capacity that kept her district from flooding.

“I’ve been honored with the experience gained by serving in public office,” Benedetto said. “It is invaluable and I believe public service is part of citizenship. I am proud of my record of accomplishments and believe that there are still opportunities to positively impact St Charles Parish.”Benedetto also served as the council’s representative on the River Region Caucus, Hospital District board and South Central Planning and Development Commission.

“I will continue to work with the community to keep the size of government as small as possible while maintaining vital services and continually improving the amenities throughout the parish,” she said. “Also, as council member at large, I will apply my background in real estate to make sure that the investments we make increase the value of our residents’ property and supports the growth and sustainability of our vibrant business community.”

Benedetto has been a member of the Ormond Civic Association, a board member of the United Way of St. Charles, and GNO Inc. board member.

A native of New Orleans, Benedetto has been a Destrehan resident for more than 28 years. She and husband, Randal Benedetto, have three children: Blake, Katelyn and Brock.

“Looking ahead, I am committed to providing necessary services for our citizens, the challenge of bringing new businesses and jobs to our parish and helping our current businesses remain vibrant and productive,” she said. “With your vote, I will continue my public service and be your voice as an advocate for improvement throughout our parish. I will continue working with all citizens and agencies. Together, we will ensure St. Charles Parish remains a healthy and safe community to reside.”

 

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