GONZALES - Two organizations applied for a grant through the city of Gonzales, but neither received one, and it sparked a heated conversation during the meeting.

City leaders who voted against Arc of East Ascension getting the $5,000 grant say they want to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly, a key point that shaped the evening's deliberations.

The Arc of East Ascension helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities find work opportunities in the community, serving approximately 50 individuals during the workweek.

During pecan season, the group cracks pecans using two large machines. However, as Arc leader Raven Labiche explains, the machines are old and getting worn down. For this reason, she applied for the $5,000 grant the city was offering, even though an en

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