Residents press planning board to protect neighborhood character and drainage in multiple hearings

Multiple members of the public used the July 9 meeting to press the planning board on two recurring themes: preserve established neighborhood character (opposing mobile/modular homes in Norco) and address drainage and levee concerns for proposed development near Lagatouda.

In Norco several residents argued against a rezoning that could permit manufactured homes; Mark Brady said the change would be "spot zoning" and could "devalue property," while Rose Bridal said allowing modular and mobile homes "would be a significant step backwards" for a neighborhood that has seen steadily increasing property values. Steven Weber, president of the Narco Civic Association, said nine out of 10 of his board members objected to the proposed change. In the Lagatouda discussion neighbors such as Thomas Foshee and an architect-resident (Steve) warned that using a Diane Drive cul-de-sac for access and cutting through a subdivision levy could worsen drainage; one resident warned the change could "equalize just like Katrina in New Orleans." Applicant representative Julie Hebert and staff responded that drainage improvements and stub-out streets mean the two proposed homes would meet municipal code and would not overburden infrastructure.

The meeting record shows written opposition (11 letters) and repeated public testimony raising both character and infrastructure concerns. The planning board recorded those objections in its recommendations and forwarded/resolved several items accordingly. Those concerns will likely reappear when the parish council considers the forwarded rezoning items.