House Bill No. by Representative Bayham amends existing law to enhance the governing authority of St. Bernard Parish regarding the management of grass, weeds, and other deleterious matter. The bill allows the parish to enact ordinances that regulate or prohibit the growth and accumulation of such matter on properties within its jurisdiction. Notably, the proposed law reduces the timeframe for property owners to comply with removal requests from 15 days to 7 days after receiving notice. If property owners fail to act within this period, the parish can cut or remove the matter and charge the property owner accordingly.

Additionally, the bill maintains provisions that allow the parish to file liens against properties for unpaid charges related to the removal of deleterious matter, with these liens having the same ranking as ad valorem tax liens. The governing authority may also add these charges to the annual ad valorem tax bill of the property involved. The bill emphasizes that St. Bernard Parish will be the sole defendant in any legal actions contesting the addition of such charges to tax bills. Overall, the legislation aims to streamline the process for maintaining public health and safety in the parish by expediting the removal of unhealthful growths and debris.

Statutes affected:
HB200 Original: 33:1236(21)