What’s Next for Shreveport Apartment Complexes After Utilities are Cut Off?
Shreveport, LA – With utilities set to be cut off for three apartment complexes in Shreveport on Friday, May 31, many residents are still scrambling to find a new home. Of the affected complexes, around only 100 people have confirmed that they’ve found a place where they can relocate.
Shreveport City Council’s Strategy
Councilwoman Tabatha Taylor revealed that she began touring the city’s problematic apartment complexes in 2021 after receiving numerous resident complaints. While some property owners initially pledged to address the reported concerns, their commitment lasted barely more than a year.
According to the Councilwoman, the City plans to improve the standard operating procedures for zoning, permits, property standards, and occupancy certificates. Taylor highlighted the need for a more coordinated and streamlined approach for carrying out inspections. “If we have everyone on the same page, when someone applies for a certificate of occupancy, then we can narrow this scope down.
“The fire department, which does annual inspections, is the only department as of now. We need to streamline that,” she stated. Taylor further expressed her concern about some state laws favoring landlords over tenants, which she believes might have contributed to the rapid deterioration of these apartment complexes.
The Utility Debacle
Taylor further revealed that while most tenants regularly paid their rent, the apartment owners or landlords did not consistently pay the utility bills. “The utility companies have been gracious enough to extend this as much as they could, but they have to operate as well,” she noted.
Residents who need assistance can seek help from the Providence House. Taylor assured tenants of their rights and asserted that it is time for change. “We’re going to change that landscape of how you do business in Shreveport, Louisiana,” she said.
The Concern of Fire
The Shreveport Fire Department (SFD) is also on high alert due to the recent spate of fires reported at these troubled complexes. SFD Chief Clarence Reese declared an absolute intolerance toward such behavior, assuring Shreveport residents that arrests would be made.
“Our officers have been already making plans for an increase in emergencies, especially fires. However, when the fires are the work of an arsonist, we’re going to lock you up no matter how big or small it is. We want to take a firm stance,” Reese affirmed.
Demolition Plans Underway
Terrance Green, Director of Property Standards, shared the news of imminent demolition for some buildings, as early as June 2024. Approximately 12 buildings are slated for demolition, with the estimated costs around $450,000. However, it remains unclear where this funding would come from as of now.
In the aftermath of utility cutoffs and the reports of structural concerns and fires, the future of these apartment complexes hangs in the balance, while the residents scramble to find alternative accommodations against the ticking clock.