Abbeville council votes to accept Hibernia Bank building and cultural center amid debate over costs

The Abbeville City Council voted April 7 to accept conveyance of the old Hibernia Bank building and the adjacent cultural center from the Vermilion Parish Police Jury, a move supporters say would consolidate city offices and provide space for cultural organizations but opponents warned could saddle the city with large repair bills.

Architect David Hammonds of Duplantis Architects told the council his independent assessment found moisture-driven foundation damage likely caused by tree roots, widespread window and stucco deterioration, third-floor leaks and HVAC units near the end of their service life. Hammonds recommended phased repairs, with an "essential repairs" estimate around $740,000 and a full envelope-and-renovation scenario that could reach roughly $1.7 million depending on the scope.

"You're looking at about $740,000 of essential repairs," Hammonds said during his presentation, adding that total renovation costs could be much higher if the council chose a comprehensive restoration.

Supporters on the council argued acquiring the buildings would let the city consolidate departments, reduce insurance premiums through a single facility and make the cultural center and other downtown assets more viable. One council member said the sheriff had committed to a five-year occupancy in the bank building, and that the city could pursue phased renovations and grant funding.

"We can do this in stages. We can do this without money from your pocket," a council member said, urging a long-term plan that relies on outside funding and gradual work.

Opponents cautioned that the police jury's terms left the city little room to negotiate and described the Hibernia building as a potential "money pit." A finance committee member said he would not vote for the acquisition because of competing fiscal priorities and ongoing operating costs the city faces.

Council members then took a roll-call vote after discussion; the motion to accept the properties passed with three yes votes, one no and one abstention. The mayor said staff would pursue next steps, including attending the police jury meeting to confirm transfer details and exploring grant options and phased remediation plans.

The council did not approve a construction schedule or funding source at the meeting; the mayor told the audience the city will outline a plan and pursue grants and capital-outlay options before major work begins. The issue will be part of further agenda items and follow-up sessions with the police jury and city staff.

What happens next: the council's acceptance clears title transfer hurdles so the city can plan upgrades and consolidation; staff were directed to investigate funding options and to return to the council with follow-up recommendations.