[StBernard] A few questions

[Westley Annis]

 Hey Howard,
 
Let me take a stab at your questions and comments.
 
1. If your home is structurally sound do they need to be raised to heights
higher than pre-Katrina levels.  If so, what will be the impact to our cost
for flood insurance if we decide not to raise the house.  I have heard that
are limits to how much the flood insurance can be raised on an annual basis.
Is this true.
 
There is no new height requirement at this time.  There is discussion about
the construction of new homes and if there should be changes to that.
However, if you build or repair now, there are no new requirements.  If
there is a change after you do your repair or rebuild then you would be
grandfathered in and no penalties on your premiums.  Remember that flood
insurance comes from a national program so the premium is set by a national
average then adjusted by your location and your community's complaince with
program requirements, etc.
 
2. Since the insurance industry isn't paying much in the form of homeowners
claims, are we to expect the cost of homeowners to not increase
dramatically.  

Howard, the best answer that I can tell you is ask your agent.  There have
been discussions which insurance reps have said that there would be no
problems with future coverage and other discussions during which we were
told that the coverage may be difficult and more costly.  The only saving
grace may be that the region tends to share the increases in premiums.  But
the best thing to do is to call a company directly and see if you can get a
written quote.

3. Under what circumstances do you have to completely rewire your home.  If
your home has double insulated ROMAX wiring, does it need to be replaced.
If not, what is needed to get permit approval.

This is a question that will be answered by the community development
department 278-4310 as there may be specific situations that have to be
followed and criteria that will determine the actual course of action.
 
There are numerous people who are anxious to get things going if these
simple questions can be answered.  Of course, this doesn't apply to those
homes that are structurally damaged or within the Murphy Oil affected zone.

I also believe that we should do as much to support the return of residents
as long as it is safe to do so (like we are doing for businesses).  Without
the residents, how long can we expect the businesses to survive.
 
Howard, I agree with the idea of supporting residents returning.  Please
keep in mind that there are several issues for residents and businesses
alike to consider- the level of support services, school functions,
utilities development, etc.  We encourage people to consider returning but
make sure that the information must be considered.
 
I believe that it is also prudent to have more non-business owner residents
on the rebuilding committee.  Their perspective may be a bit different and
their needs most certainly will.  We have a unique opportunity to design a
better place to live.  One that balances the needs of the business and
residental communities.

Howard, I think that your sentiments are well founded.  Mr. DiFatta has
appointed the committee, but is open to adjusting the membership.  I think
you would be a welcomed addition.

Thanks again for all you do for us.  I know that they is so much that you do
that is not apparent to the naked eye.
 
Your welcome- just doing what I can for our parish.
 
Good luck and God Bless,
Craig