A special rental task force is being developed to do nothing but assist in the consistent enforcement of the rental ordinance. As it stands currently, any R1 property being rented without a Permissive Use Permit (PUP) is in violation of the law. Exceptions are in place for those properties which were rentals prior to August 29, 2005.

Here is where we need the assistance of the public. Residents know who is living where and what the status of properties are better than we do. Any resident who knows of a R1 property being rented and does not have a PUP should contact parish government with the specific address of the property and, if there is a "For Rent" sign posted, a phone number for the property owner/manager as well. All calls for Rental Property concerns should be made to 278-4200 and email submissions should be made to the sbpg.net website under inquiries.

Any resident who is interested in assisting on the Task Force can use the above contact points as well. Task Force members will be responsible for collecting information about properties, identifying and notifying owners, assisting in posting daily fines for non-compliance, and tracking compliance with the application process and eligibility of applications.

It is hoped that the newly elected and re-elected constables/justices-of-peace will assist on the Task Force as well as this enforcement wave will fit nicely in picking up the Litter Ordinance as well for enforcement. The Task Force and Litter Ordinance will go hand allowing a review of properties which apply for a PUP to be in compliance with parish codes.

This battle has been a long one and it is not over. The commitment by parish government and the citizens of St. Bernard will define how we move forward with our remaining Recovery and Growth. I agree with many of you- it is time to Wait No More.

God Bless,
Craig P. Taffaro, Jr.