Sinkhole victims demand respect, home replacement

A group of residents affected by the massive Bayou Corne sinkhole—who were introduced to the Baton Rouge Press Club today by retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Russel Honoré—said top Texas Brine officials still haven’t met with the community. Gary Metrejean bemoaned the “lack of respect this company has shown us,” adding, “they couldn’t care less about anything but the bottom line.” Residents said that, beyond the current value of their homes, the company owes them what it would cost to buy another home elsewhere. “We need somebody to buy us out,” said Betty Thibodaux, holding back tears. “I can’t stay there anymore.” Honoré, who is working with Bayou Corne residents and is best known for his work in the Hurricane Katrina response, offered few specific critiques of Gov. Bobby Jindal’s response to the crisis, except to say “I’ve seen him do better.” Honoré is calling for the state to designate someone to coordinate the sinkhole response, and said the EPA needs to be deeply involved. Jindal’s office in May welcomed Texas Brine’s decision to begin making settlement offers, and promised to “continue to hold Texas Brine accountable to make sure they clean up their mess and to ensure they make this situation right for homeowners.” According to Texas Brine, as of late Friday 59 owners of 92 that chose to participate in settlement talks had accepted offers. “Texas Brine has made a sincere effort to assure that the settlement process has been fair and reasonable,” the company’s statement says. —David Jacobs