By MARSHA SHULER
Capitol news bureau

Gov. Mike Foster wants to build a fence around the Governor's Mansion.

The House Ways and Means Committee learned Monday that the Legislature's plans for State Capitol construction includes a $250,00 appropriation for the fence.

"Is it to protect the people from the governor or the other way around?" asked committee chairman Rep. John Alario, D-Westwego.

"The other way around," responded House Clerk Alfred "Butch" Speer, who was detailing legislative capital outlay spending plans.

Later, Foster said the fence project "is just a possibility."

"We had a rash of problems. ... A car was stolen, another time a bum had to be subdued and hauled away," Foster said.

Foster said various security options were eyed, and the fence seems to be the most cost-effective because inmate labor would be used.

Foster said he feels "fairly secure" living at the mansion, which has 24-hour security provided by State Police.

If there's no fence, a security system must be put in place so "people can't just wander up to the place," Foster said.

"It's not a done deal. It's an option we need to look at," Foster said.

Speer said a brick wall with a black iron fence between the brick columns across the front of the mansion is in the plans.

Commissioner of Administration Mark Drennen said discussions were held with historical preservation groups to ensure the fence is appropriate for the time period in which the mansion was constructed.

But the idea didn't sit well with lawmakers. "I pass by there every day. It's pretty like it is," said Rep. Thomas Warner, D-Chalmette.

"Is there any kind of security problem at the Governor's Mansion necessitating the building of a fence?" asked Rep. William Daniel, D-Baton Rouge.

"Is it going to look like the White House with security guards?" asked Rep. Mitch Landrieu, D-New Orleans.

Speer said House Speaker Hunt Downer, D-Houma, and Senate President Randy Ewing, D-Quitman, agreed to finance the fence as part of security upgrades at the State Capitol.

The revelation of the fence project came as Speer outlined the Joint Budgetary Control Council's plans for spending $8.5 million. Of that amount, $6.5 million is cash spending.

Lawmakers wanted to know what projects were in the legislative spending plan, which is put in the governor's proposed $1.8-billion state construction program on only a lump sum basis.

Speer said other projects to be funded with the $8.5 million include:

· Exterior renovation of the Pentagon Barracks.

· Exterior security lighting for the State Capitol building and grounds and placement of security cameras outside the Capitol.

· Improving Memorial Hall lighting.

· Adapting Capitol Complex sidewalks for wheelchair accessibility.

· Repairing leaks in the decking on the 27th, 28th and 31st floors of the State Capitol.