Board authorizes emergency legal action after Roseland construction blocks teacher parking

The Tangipahoa Parish School Board authorized the superintendent July 21 to file an emergency temporary restraining order and take necessary legal steps to secure teacher parking at Roseland Elementary after the town fenced two lots and began demolition without the agreement the district sought.

Board member Mister Toler summarized the timeline: the city and contractor began demolition and reportedly sold lumber taken from a building the district considers its property; construction crews have since placed fences and piles of dirt that block the school's access and teacher parking ahead of the new term.

"They demoed the building... the contractor actually started selling the lumber, our lumber, our building, off our property without our consent," Mister Toler said, noting the district had asked the town repeatedly to meet and finalize a cooperative agreement that would preserve teacher parking.

Board counsel Andre Kudrans said the motion authorizes whatever action is necessary, including a TRO, to secure the parking and to pursue associated remedies and costs. The board also asked the superintendent to attempt a cooperative endeavor agreement with the town, but authorized immediate legal steps given the imminent start of school and teachers who will have no parking in three weeks.

The motion was seconded, discussed briefly and passed on roll call. The superintendent and counsel said they will report back to the board about the lawsuit and any further necessary steps.

Provenance: Roseland item, discussion, motion and roll call, SEG 2595'SEG 2850.