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Council declares LSU AgCenter building surplus; vote fuels debate over historic building and repair costs
Summary
Council approved declaring Parcel 8400500 (LSU AgCenter building) surplus and directing proceeds to government complex renovations after debate over an estimated $2 million repair cost and whether alternatives like grants were explored; the motion passed 6–3.
The Plaquemines Parish Council voted 6–3 on Oct. 10 to declare the LSU AgCenter building (Parcel 8400500) surplus and to use proceeds to renovate the Parish government complex and fund port software updates.
Councilmember Jurcic introduced the resolution and said the facility had pieces failing from the balcony and was a public‑safety risk. He and other supporters argued the building was in deplorable condition and that sale proceeds would be reinvested in government facilities. Councilmember Newsom and others described visible hazards and shared photos of failing masonry.
Opponents, led by Councilmember LaFrance, urged caution. LaFrance said the building sits in his district and argued the council should have explored grants, phased repairs, or alternative financing before selling parish property; he cited preliminary repair estimates of about $1.8–$2.0 million and said he had not seen a scope of work. LaFrance also noted community interest from several local parties that had expressed potential plans for the site if sold and asked whether sale was the only financing option.
Administration said quotes and preliminary estimates exist and that the property had been declared surplus as part of a broader effort to move unused parish property back into commerce; the president’s office said proceeds would be earmarked for urgent repairs to the government complex and port software needs. Council discussion included the tradeoffs of repair vs. sale, the historical importance of the building, and the practical costs and safety concerns.
After debate the council approved the resolution 6–3 (no votes from Miss McCarty, Mr. LaFrance, and Mr. Kognevich). Administration said it would provide detailed scope and cost estimates to council members and pursue next steps for sale and renovation planning.
