There was a Planning Commission meeting this morning in the Council Chambers. The four proposed housing developments were on the agenda. They initially discussed the traffic report and how the added traffic would impact the Parish. This was a pretty mild discussion with no big news to report. Next the St Bernard Fire Dept talked about how a major fire at any one of the projects would draw 50% of the Department, leaving the rest of the Parish in a less than optimal position. The Department also expressed concern over the availability of water and hydrant's to fight a fire in the project, and finally they were concerned that the traffic both in and out during an emergency would be a big problem. With so many people trying to get out during a fire, and the Fire Dept, Sheriff, and other emergency responders trying to get in, it could be a real problem. The two Fire Dept member's who spoke obviously knew their business, answered all the question's, and brought up some legitimate concerns.
Commission Chair Earl Dauterive then listed some of the reason's he was against approving the developments, including ( in my word's ) ....1 they did not present an orderly layout of land use...2 there was no plan of street lines and building lines inside the developments.....3 they were not beneficial to the people of St Bernard Parish.......4 they don't provide for economic stability in the Parish.........5 the developments would compromise the integrity of the neighborhoods around them. Mr. Dauterive presented a very well reasoned, thought out list.
The Commission then voted unanimously to deny approval to all 4 developments.
Where this leaves things is not clear. Whether it goes back to the Council, where it would need a 2/3 majority to grant approval, or whether the Courts will make the final decision, is unclear. Stay tuned.
