The WBR Fire Civil Service Board waived all certification requirements for an upcoming captains exam — citing a State Examiner recommendation. The State Examiner says she never made that recommendation for this exam. Part 3 of WBR Independent's Fire District investigation.
February 25, 2026
A shooting outside the Port Allen Walmart left one person injured and a second diving for cover. Caleb Harris, 29, was caught in Mississippi overnight and faces two counts of attempted first degree murder.
February 24, 2026
Port Allen approved 44 new lots at Westview Crossing — now on track for 646 homes total — while advancing a federal gas line grant, redirecting over-budget levee bathroom funds, and approving a 14% health insurance increase.
February 23, 2026
Port Allen's 20-year search for a new sewer plant site is narrowing. Two properties are now in play — one a football field from Westside Village homes, the other offering 300 more feet of buffer but sitting outside city limits.
February 19, 2026
WBR Fire District fired Deputy Chief James Hartley for attending his son's football game and a casino while on sick leave. His attorney says it was retaliation. The full 66-page disciplinary file is published.
February 18, 2026
Dwayne Cedotal, 41, walked off a North Street job site in Baton Rouge while on work release from the West Baton Rouge Parish detention center. He's originally from the Plaquemine area and is serving time for simple burglary.
February 16, 2026
West Baton Rouge Parish Council approved 4.7% raises for all parish employees, adopted new bridge construction standards, and tightened junk vehicle rules at its January 22 meeting — while a water quality notice went out for the Erwinville area.
February 12, 2026
A viral council meeting moment brought outside attention to Port Allen's blighted properties — but Mayor Pattan says the enforcement work has been going on for years. Here's where a dozen active cases stand.
February 11, 2026
WBR Fire District No. 1 fired Deputy Chief James Hartley, accepted his appeal, and made five provisional leadership appointments — all within two weeks. Part 1 of WBR Independent's ongoing investigation into Fire District No. 1.
February 10, 2026
