Parish rescinds condemnation order and grants 60-day extension for 3506 Pine Knowles Street in Sulphur

The Calcasieu Parish Police Jury on Thursday rescinded a condemnation order and granted a 60-day extension for repairs at 3506 Pine Knowles Street in Sulphur, after the property owner told jurors he had invested time and money in cleanup and repairs and requested more time to finish the work.

The jury rescinded an earlier condemnation vote (motion to rescind moved and seconded during the meeting) and then voted to defer the condemnation for 60 days (motion to defer moved by Police Juror [Mister] Markantel and seconded by Police Juror [Mister] Steli). Jurors specified conditions: the owner must contact parish staff (Inspector Robinson and building-permit staff), renew any expired permits and provide progress updates; staff said inspectors would follow up during the extension.

Owner Floyd Christopher Esprit told the jury he had worked on the house since storm damage and had spent money clearing the yard and removing debris. “I used that money as much as I could … I spent about $16,000 in cleaning the property,” Esprit said, adding that the structure still needs final work such as siding, a window and paint and that electricity must be turned on before occupancy. He said he holds a permit and has done demolition and removal work but that additional work and a permit renewal remain.

Parish staff disagreed with the owner’s assessment of readiness. A staff member who had inspected the property two weeks earlier told the jury the house was not ready for occupancy. Staff also said the owner’s permit had expired and would need renewal before final inspections could occur. The building department (staff member comments on record) urged the owner to maintain direct communication and to arrange inspections so staff could verify progress during the extension.

Jurors who discussed the item said they have tried to work with the owner over many months but must balance neighbors’ concerns about property condition. One juror noted the parcel’s neighbors have repeatedly reported problems over an extended period and urged that any extension include clear milestones and regular contact with parish staff.

The jury also heard routine condemnation hearings on multiple properties across Calcasieu Parish; most items were carried as motions to condemn with no speakers present. Several other matters were deferred or rescinded where owners appeared and requested additional time; for example, the jury deferred action 30 days on 415 Prater Road, Mossville, on staff recommendation.

What happens next: The owner at 3506 Pine Knowles Street must renew permits and coordinate with parish inspectors; staff will monitor progress and may return to the jury at the end of the 60-day deferment. If work does not proceed, the jury retains authority to re-list the property for condemnation at a future meeting.