In a pivotal meeting on October 7, 2025, the St. Tammany Parish Board of Adjustments addressed a significant variance request concerning a property owned by Mr. Glass, which has been under scrutiny due to a disputed telco easement. The board's discussions highlighted the complexities surrounding the easement's validity and the urgency of the situation, as Mr. Glass faces a looming deadline to either secure a building permit or face demolition of his structure.

Mr. Glass's representatives presented letters of no objection from adjacent neighbors, the homeowners' association, and Council Member David Kugel, reinforcing community support for the variance. However, concerns were raised regarding the telco easement, which the parish claimed could impact the property. The representatives argued that the easement had been extinguished due to nonuse for over ten years, supported by a legal opinion from a local real estate attorney who could not identify the current owner of the easement.

Board member Mr. Swindell commended the thorough investigation into the easement, emphasizing that the presented evidence regarding the structure's compliance was most relevant to their decision. He expressed his intent to approve the variance based on the findings.

The board deliberated on the necessity of additional documentation to confirm the easement's status. Legal counsel indicated that a declaratory judgment might be required to officially declare the easement invalid. This led to discussions about the potential for extending the timeline for Mr. Glass to provide the necessary documentation, as the current judgment allowed only 120 days for compliance.

Ultimately, the board moved to approve the variance request, contingent upon obtaining a letter of no objection from the utility company or a court judgment confirming the easement's extinguishment. This decision aims to balance the need for legal clarity with the urgency of Mr. Glass's situation, allowing him to proceed with his plans while ensuring compliance with local regulations. The board's actions reflect a commitment to supporting community interests while navigating the complexities of property law.