In her latest column, Business Report Editor Stephanie Riegel explores a fundamental question about real estate that gets debated across America every day: Where do the rights of one property owner begin and those of another end?
“In Baton Rouge, a rapidly growing city in a state preoccupied with property rights, the tenor of the debate is frequently rancorous and often governed by passion over principle,” writes Riegel.
The latest example is the controversy over Heritage Oaks, a subdivision proposed for a 15-acre parcel on Highland Road near Pecue Lane. Riegel says local developer Larry Jordan wants to develop 39 single-family homes on the site, noting he originally wanted to build 46 but has since revised plans downward. That amounts to about three houses per acre.
“Admittedly, the lots will be smaller than in some subdivisions in that area, averaging around 15,000 square feet with lot lines of between 50 and 100 feet. But the homes will be upscale, and the development will include several 200-year-old live oak trees,” Riegel writes. “Though Jordan promises a quality project, residents of the surrounding neighborhood aren’t buying it. They’re concerned about drainage and flooding. They’re worried about increased traffic. Most of all, though, they’re bothered by the density and size of proposed homes, which they say are not in keeping with the surrounding area and could decrease their property values.”
Though Riegel acknowledges the opposing neighbors make a passionate case, she says lost in their eloquence are some facts.
Read the full column. Send your comments to editors@businessreport.com.
