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Commission approves rezoning on Cruden Road to allow smaller rural lots amid affordability argument
Summary
The planning commission approved rezoning of 22.67 acres on Cruden Road from R‑1 (5‑acre minimum) to R‑2 (3‑acre minimum). Proponent said R‑2 creates more affordable buildable lots; opponents cited flood concerns but commissioners approved the change.
The St. Tammany Parish Planning Commission approved rezoning 22.67 acres along Cruden Road from R‑1 (rural residential, 5‑acre minimum) to R‑2 (rural residential, 3‑acre minimum), permitting creation of smaller parcels.
Developer representative Mike Saucier said R‑2 lots would be more affordable and marketable and that the request aligns with several nearby rezonings and the parish’s housing‑supply needs. He provided a conceptual subdivision showing six buildable lots in place of four 5‑acre tracts and noted there would be no central sewer/water requirement for the proposed lot sizes.
Opponents and at‑large speakers raised flood concerns and questioned whether additional lots in flood‑prone areas increase risk and insurance costs. A citizen speaker noted the parish’s broader exposure to flood‑hazard development and urged caution. Saucier said the property owner has discussed drainage improvements and that parish and Corps permits and recent clearing work in local canals are part of addressing drainage.
Commission action: Commissioner Seager moved to approve; the motion was seconded and carried. Commissioners noted the parish has active programs and Corps coordination to manage drainage and that future development must meet the UDC’s drainage and elevation rules.
Why it matters: the rezoning reduces minimum lot size in a local area, which proponents say increases affordability and supply; opponents stressed it may add housing within flood‑prone corridors and that careful engineering review is still required.
