Gilbert family rezoning for two homes recommended by planning board despite neighbor drainage concerns

Planning staff recommended approval of a rezoning request by Robbie Robert Gilbert (2026-6-R) to change property from R-1A to OL (open land), arguing the site’s future land use and physical constraints make the lower-density OL zone more suitable.

Julie Hebert, representing the Gilbert family and identifying herself as with Civil & Sports Design Engineering, told the board the family plans two country-style homes and said a biologist’s preliminary review indicates the site is likely "non jurisdictional or just non wet" because improvements to pumping and drainage have altered vegetation. She added the proposed layout would place homes amid wooded buffers, keep impacts small and not "overburden public facilities and infrastructure."

Neighbors raised access and drainage concerns. Thomas Foshee said the proposed entrance on Diane Drive would use a long-standing cul-de-sac and could disturb a subdivision levy and existing drainage patterns. A resident who identified himself as an architect, Steve, said the area is the low corner for the subdivision and warned that cutting through the cul-de-sac could equalize water and ‘‘exacerbate’’ flooding. Julie Hebert and staff responded that stub-out streets exist for future development, the private access will be constructed to municipal code, and that two homes ‘‘won’t overburden public facilities.’’ After public comment the board approved the recommendation and will forward the rezoning to the parish council for final determination.

The exchange highlighted competing views on wetland status, drainage risk and long-term development pressures for larger parcels near Norco and Luling.