Library Board appointment

Strongly supported Chuck Branton, calling his tenure a fix for board 'antics' and warning against ALA influence under Trew.

The retired colonel spoke of his love of libraries, his military leadership, and the value of fresh energy and periodic turnover on boards.

Shared a personal family story about obscene materials and begged the council to keep such books away from children by keeping Branton.

Said 'don't mess up a good thing,' crediting Branton with savings on the library director search.

Opposed Branton, citing one-sided meeting rules, pulled policy changes, and mass book reviews, and backed Trew's fresh perspective.

Longtime Branton acquaintance praised his integrity and said 'don't shoot a good horse' — keep the board's stability.

Said she rarely sees Branton's supporters at board meetings, criticized his gaveling and one-man resolution writing, and backed Trew.

Endorsed Trew as a consensus builder with a distinguished military career.

Said Branton underperformed, had not read 63 challenged books before voting, and cited a petition and emails opposing him.

Cited state library-access law and argued the board's censorship practices invite litigation; asked the council to choose Trew.

A retired teacher and frequent library volunteer said the pedophilia talk is ludicrous, parents trust librarians, and backed Trew.

Speaking as Republican Women of St. Tammany president, praised Branton's orderly meetings, legal expertise and the Lacombe library plans.

Thanked the council for fixing the library turmoil and listed Branton's credentials; urged no 'can of worms' by changing course.

Said the council rebuilt the library system and urged resisting change just for change.

Said Branton gavels everyone fairly and keeps order; 'Chuck Branton is the man. Keep him.'

Said Branton's peers unanimously chose him president and he is always prepared; keep the process going.

Said Branton took chaos to stability, 'you don't remove somebody that does good work,' and claimed overwhelming CCST member support.

Said confidence in the library is restored and defended Branton against criticism for delegating duties to staff.

Said the library is a taxpayer-funded public institution and Branton runs it the way the community wants; keep him.

Representing the Slidell Ministers Association, thanked the council for the restricted area and asked for Branton's reappointment.

Branton's fellow board member described their work together, the in-house director search savings, and upcoming Lacombe, Slidell and Mandeville projects.