Pineville council condemns dilapidated house at 16 Joanne Drive; owner given 30 days to clear or demolish

The Pineville City Council on Dec. 10 voted to condemn a multifamily dwelling at 16 Joanne Drive, finding the structure severely dilapidated and unsafe.

A city official told the council that inspections revealed foundation problems, plumbing and electrical failures and other conditions that make the building “not the kind of housing that we hope to provide people for decent, safe and sanitary living.” The official recommended condemnation and said the property was not a candidate for rehabilitation.

The property owner addressed the council and said the house has been in the family for many years and that family members had begun renovations. “My son wanted to be here tonight… we really wanna keep it up,” the owner said, asking for a chance to finish work. The owner later provided a name for the record during public comment.

Council members and staff discussed an available parish demolition program and an active state deadline for grant applications. City staff said condemning the property and noting that status with the parish would improve chances of obtaining grant-funded demolition assistance. The council voted to condemn the property and give the owner 30 days to voluntarily demolish and clear the site, with the mayor’s office to coordinate next steps.

Why it matters: Council described the action as a public-safety measure and a way to preserve the broader housing stock by removing a structure the city deems unsafe. The condemnation triggers a period in which the owner may clear the site voluntarily; if not, the city can pursue further action under its local code and work with the parish demolition program.

What the record shows: The inspection and staff recommendation were presented at the hearing; the owner described family ties to the property and asked for time to complete work. The motion to condemn and to allow 30 days for voluntary demolition passed by voice vote.