Louisiana task force backs pilot programs and clearer definition as first steps on 'blight'
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Summary
State task force members agreed to pursue pilot neighborhood-stabilization programs (two urban, two rural) and to prioritize drafting a clearer civil definition of 'blight' to reduce confusion and improve due process; staff were asked to research legal and funding options.
The Louisiana Task Force on Blight voted to prioritize two immediate steps: narrow, pilot programs to test remedies in urban and rural communities and a clearer, civil-oriented definition of “blight” that separates criminal conduct from property-condition standards. The decision came after local elected officials and legal experts described how ambiguous language and heavy criminal connotations have deterred owners from responding to notices.
Members said pilots will test communication methods, funding approaches and data tools before recommending statewide legislation. Chair opened the meeting by asking whether the state’s statutory definition of blight is sufficient; participants—including council members, mayors and the Southern University Law Center—urged language that lists observable conditions rather than relying on a catchall “criminal blight” designation.
Supporters described pilots as a way to measure what works in different contexts. Shreveport officials proposed a block-by-block pilot already in development, and members recommended two urban and two rural test sites to capture geographic variation. Senator members and local mayors cautioned the panel to design pilots that produce measurable outcomes and to be mindful of legislative timing for any funding requests.
The task force emphasized communication and due process: municipal practice often gives owners 30, 60 or 90 days to submit a plan (repairs, sale or demolition) and is intended to avoid summary takings. Panelists said clearer notice language and public-facing databases could help absentee heirs and landlords learn how to act without fearing criminal penalties.
Attorney Benton outlined a five-part implementation strategy—data-driven prioritization, streamlined legal processes, community engagement, land banks and adaptive reuse—that members instructed staff to refine for the next meeting. The task force requested model materials and directed legal staff to return with options on funding structure, pilot footprints and statutory constraints at or before the panel’s next meeting.
