Board rejects request to convert Spring Street commercial building to home, 4–3

The Calcasieu Parish Planning and Zoning Board on March 24 refused a request to allow residential use at 1509 Spring Street, turning down an exception to the property’s light‑industrial zoning by a 4–3 vote.

Planning staff recommended denial, saying the parcel remains designated light industrial and that the parish is promoting retention of industrial zoning in the area. Ray Harrington, who identified himself as the property owner, told the board he wants to convert the existing building into a home because his wife is seriously ill and his son requires care. "My wife is real sick. She needs me to be with her all the time," Harrington said.

Board members pressed Harrington about alternatives and timing. One member noted the ordinance allows exceptions in limited circumstances but asked why Harrington would move into an industrial area if he already lives in a residence now. Harrington said he has begun renovations and believes the building can be converted to a dwelling.

After deliberation the roll call produced a 4–3 result and the motion to grant the exception failed. The staff recommendation to deny the request cited existing zoning and the planning division’s interpretation of land‑use policy in the area. No list of required permits or a timetable for remodeling was accepted as a condition of approval because the exception was not granted.

The board did not set a new hearing date for the property. The applicant may explore other options, including purchasing a different property or seeking a different permit route; staff reiterated the standard permitting and site‑plan requirements that would apply if rezoning or an exception were sought later.