TALLULAH, LA – This week, upon motion by the court-appointed Receiver and with the consent of the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), the 6th Judicial District Court issued a stipulated order granting the withdrawal of Bonton and Associates as the Receiver for the City of Tallulah Water System.

Officials with LDH, the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP), and the Office of the Governor reviewed the Correcting Action Plan in collaboration with the Receiver. As a result of this review, the Office of the Governor issued Executive Order 25-018, declaring a State of Emergency for the City of Tallulah Water System. The Executive  Order mandates the appointment of an experienced, certified operator within three days of issuance to manage the City of Tallulah Water System during the emergency period. 

LDH has indicated that Magnolia Water Utility Operating Company, LLC will serve as the certified operator. Over the next two weeks, Magnolia will collaborate with the former Receiver and the employees are anticipated to work cooperatively with Magnolia personnel to ensure seamless operations. Representatives from Magnolia are scheduled to arrive next week.

Tallulah Mayor Charles Finlayson said he will remain engaged in ongoing discussions and will provide updates to city residents and Tallulah Water System customers as more details emerge. Finlayson said it is essential to emphasize that Magnolia will work alongside existing city water employees  throughout this process. 

The Governor’s Office has also reaffirmed its commitment  to prioritizing  clean water for Tallulah, with all costs associated with Magnolia’s management of the Tallulah Water System to be covered by GOHSEP, city officials said. 

City officials said any questions may contact Tallulah City Hall at 38-574-0964 or his or her council representative, who will receive regular updates as further information becomes available.