[StBernard] Craig Taffaro

[Westley Annis]

Hey Kenny,
 
The fact is this:  if your house was compliant with the base flood elevation
before the storm, then you are able to rebuild.  If your house was
non-compliant with the base flood elevation and damaged greater than 50%
(which you report you are) you are required to become compliant either
through raising the structure or demolishing and rebuilding an elevated
structure.
 
Hope this helps.
 
Good luck and God Bless,
Craig
 
-----Original Message-----

Hi Craig,

You have been very good with responding to resident's questions, so here is
another for your enjoyment.  With the June 9th deadline approaching fast, I
am facing the decision to rebuild vs. demolish.  My home is located on
Prince Dr in Buccaneer Villa North which was proposed, and now rescinded, to
become green space.  My home is currently gutted, but was deemed 60-100%
damaged along with the majority of homes in my area.  With that being said,
I have seen only 1 home in BVN actually being renovated which is not very
promising.  I know that guidelines are not in stone; however, my main
question to you is "If my home has more than 50% damage, am I required to
elevate to new codes?"  If I must elevate to maintain flood coverage, them I
must tear my home down and start from scratch.  I do not want to pass on
free demolition if I willbe forced to demolish in upcoming months at my own
expense.

I understand these questions are difficult to answer b/c we want our
residents to come home and rebuild the parish house-by-house.  Please
continue your good service to St. Bernard.  You have been very resourceful
through out this difficult time.

thanks,

Kenny Hartdegen



--
Kenny