By Monique Roth

L’Observateur

LAPLACE – The St. John the Baptist Parish Housing Authority authorized Executive Director Trina Henderson to submit paperwork calling for the demolition/disposition of 12 individual housing units.

The action was taken at the April 21 meeting. Henderson said the units the agency is seeking to demolish are all empty except for one, and that family will be offered relocation within the same complex.

Housed in nine different buildings, the 12 units the agency is seeking to demolish have all sustained significant fire damage throughout the years, Henderson explained. She said no additional units will be built in their place at this time.

Six of the units in question are located in LaPlace, while four are located in Reserve and the remaining two are in Garyville.

With the board voting to approve Henderson to submit paperwork, the next step is for the agency to receive approval from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for the demolition.

HUD also requires an environmental assessment prior to the demolition of severely damaged dwelling units as a result of fires. The Board also voted to authorize Henderson to begin to solicit those services.

The next Housing Authority meeting is set for May 19 at 5 p.m.