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Council debate highlights permit barrier when rescinding condemnations
Summary
Council members and development staff debated rescission of condemnations after property owners applied for permits; staff explained ordinance language prohibits issuing permits on condemned structures until rescission and requires owners to reimburse costs incurred before rescission.
Council discussion on March 11 probed how rescission of condemnations interacts with building permits and the department's procedures for ensuring owners have sufficient proof of readiness to complete repairs.
Development staff explained that under current parish ordinance a condemnation "nullifies and voids" existing open permits and prevents future permits while the condemnation stands. Staff said rescission is possible but requires payment of costs already incurred by the city (recording, inspection and abatement costs) and typically a significant burden of proof showing both physical and financial capability to complete repairs.
Council members debated possible ordinance changes, including escrowed funds or rescission fees to ensure owners have "skin in the game." Staff noted examples where owners obtained plans and applied for permits but could not be issued a permit until rescission is final; staff warned rescission followed by owner inaction could force restarting the condemnation process.
Why it matters: The exchange exposed a procedural loop that can prevent restoration work from proceeding quickly when owners have begun repairs. Council asked staff for tracking of rescinded properties and monitoring outcomes; staff agreed to provide a report on rescissions and follow-up status for the last 12–24 months.
Next steps: Development staff committed to a rescission-status report in a future meeting and said fees/payments for rescission must be paid before the item is scheduled for council action.
