Chris Workman was named the chairman of the Washington Parish Council on Monday, during the council’s first meeting of the 2019 calendar year.

Workman, who represents District 3, was picked to serve as the council’s chairman and David Anthony, who represents District 7, was named the vice chairman.

During the same meeting, Thomas “Rusty” Fornea was sworn into office by Clerk of Court Johnny Crain. Fornea, who represents District 5, was elected in December’s runoff election.

A resolution was passed Monday to recognize Washington Parish government employees Gary Nathaniel Sumrall and Shirley Lynn Cox, for their actions that saved a life during a flood on the night of Dec. 27.

The two employees were scouting parish roads in the flooded areas, when they saw headlights and heard cries for help. They spotted an elderly man, who was partially submerged by the floodwaters and was standing on top of the vehicle.

They were unable to reach the victim initially, but Sumrall retrieved a 50-foot length of hose from his vehicle, and they were able to use that hose to save the victim.

Sumrall and Cox then observed the victim showing signs of hypothermia, and placed the man into their heated parish vehicle until assistance arrived to take the man to the hospital.

“Be it resolved that Washington Parish Government proudly honors parish employees Gary Nathaniel Sumrall and Shirley Lynn Cox, for their extraordinary courage, skill and expertise at risking their own lives to save the life of another,” Parish President Richard “Ned” Thomas said, reading from the resolution.

Thomas then presented Sumrall and Cox with a plaque of appreciation.

The council also adopted three ordinances, approved five resolutions (including the one for Sumrall and Cox), and heard several presentations.

The ordinances were to revise the Planning and Building Permit Fee Schedule, to repeal Ordinance No. 18-638 establishing security zones around towers and matters related thereto, and to amend and restate Ordinance 05-353 concerning telecommunications towers.

Taffy Morrison, with the Louisiana Department of Health, spoke about awards and recognitions for State Rep. Malinda White and the Bogalusa Mayor’s Wellness Council. White was honored for her contributions to rural health, and the Wellness Council was recognized for its commitment to educating the public about healthy habits and lifestyle.

The next meeting of the Washington Parish Council will be Monday, Jan. 28.