By LEONARD GRAY

HAHNVILLE – A final act of dedication for Fashion Plantation Estates Phase Two got unanimous approval this week from the St. Charles Parish Council, including for a recreational park of nearly three acres.

The new subdivision has access from La. Highway 3127, between Interstate 310 and La. Highway 3160, and will include 104 lots, developed by Dr. Ray Matherne of Des Allemands.

Matherne had to have sole access to the subdivision by way of Highway 3127 when residents of Phase One, along River Road, fought having access pass along their streets, north of the Union Pacific Railroad tracks. The Phase Two section, including paved streets, streetlights and utilities, has been ready for marketing for two years, but problems with railroad access and opposition from Phase One, stymied Matherne, who was then forced to get state and local approval for the rear entrance.

The new phase has all improvements, including drainage structures, in place, with stormwater to be moved to the rear, beyond the highway. The streets, including Union Drive, Fashion Boulevard, General Lee Drive and General Taylor Drive, pay recognition to the Civil War era and also to Fashion Plantation resident and Confederate general, Richard Taylor, son of President Zachary Taylor.

The park will be located at the rear of the subdivision, close to the access road. A third phase is contemplated, but not before three to five years, Matherne said.

In other activity at the Oct. 21 parish council meeting:

• The parish government paid tribute to Steve Wilson of Destrehan, who served nearly 10 years on the parish’s Planning and Zoning Commission before stepping down. He continues to serve on the Pontchartrain Levee Board.

• Discussed whether to mandate that subdivision developers provide replacement streetlights, standards and fixtures, if those streetlights are of custom, specialized or ornate design. The matter was tabled after some discussion.

• Voted to approve a grass-cutting ordinace making it illegal to allow nuisance grass to stand beyond five days after notification of the property owner. A change was made in the ordinance, proposed by Councilwoman Dee Abadie, when it was pointed out if approved as written, it would prohibit hay production. The section was removed.

• Heard Victor Buccola’s comments regarding the need for a standard form for acts of subdivision dedication.

The next meeting of the parish council is scheduled for Nov. 4. The final budget review is Oct. 24. Both meetings start at 6 p.m.