Baudoin submits resignation as director, but will now work at city’s water plant

Trenton Baudoin has officially resigned as Abbeville Parks and Recreation Director and has been moved to the city’s water department.
The Abbeville City Council voted to ratify Baudoin’s resignation during Tuesday’s regular meeting. Mayor Mark Piazza announced that he has moved Baudoin to the water department. Baudoin requested the voluntary demotion upon his resignation as parks and rec director.
The move comes more than a month after a Vermilion Parish Grand Jury indicted Baudoin on multiple charges, including molestation of a juvenile and sexual battery. Piazza initially placed Baudoin on paid leave on June 21.
In a letter submitted to the mayor and council, Baudoin said he is doing what he feels is best for both him and the city. Baudoin, an Abbeville native, had served as parks and rec director since October of 2014.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working as the city’s director of parks and recreation,” Baudoin said. “It has been a rewarding and fulfilling time for me. As you know, I have been indicted in Vermilion Parish. While I deny the charges against me, and will vigorously defend myself in the proper venue, I understand the difficult position the charges put the city council in.”
Baudoin requested the demotion to the water department in the letter. The department did have an opening for an operator.
“I am qualified for this position,” Baudoin said. “While I understand this action will result in a decrease in may pay, and will affect contributions made to my retirement plan, I feel that such a move is in the city’s and my own best interest.”
While the council voted to accept Baudoin’s resignation, it did not have a vote in the transfer. Piazza said earlier on Tuesday prior to the meeting that he is allowed by law (Act 52) to move Baudoin to that position.
“That particular position is one the mayor hires,” Piazza said. “The council doesn’t have to ratify or vote.”
Piazza noted that he was able to make the transfer because there was an opening. The city’s electrical department also had an opening.
“We all felt the water plant was more suitable,” Piazza said. “It’s shift work over there and there is no contact with the public.”
Piazza has said since the announcement of Baudoin’s indictment in June that the city will allow the legal process to work itself out. The handling of Baudoin’s leave and now transfer has all been conducted by the letter of civil service and legislative law. Terminating Baudoin’s employment with the city has not been discussed.
“That wasn’t an option because he hasn’t been convicted of anything,” Piazza said.