On the agenda: Ascensionparishla Planning Commission Meeting 12Aug2026 — data center (Aug 12)

Parish of Ascension
OFFICE OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
PLANNING DEPARTMENT
www.ascensionparish.net

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
August 12, 2026 - 6:00 PM
ASCENSION PARISH COURTHOUSE
607 E. Worthey Rd., Gonzales, LA 70737
Council Chambers - 1st Floor

AGENDA
(1)

Call to Order

(2)

Roll Call of Members

(3)

Pledge of Allegiance

(4)

Introduction of Staff

(5)

Chairman's Comments

(6)

Public Comment on any Agenda Item

(7)

Staff Report

(8)

A.

Subdivision Status - August 2026

B.

Discussion - Future Ordinance Changes

C.

West Bank Overlay Status Report
Maggie Gleason - Bayou Rouge Environmental Planning

Minutes
A.

(9)

Consent Agenda
A.

(10)

Affidavit of Mortgage Declaration
John and Linda Lehmann - Lot 31-A (18439 Belle Alliance Rd, Prairieville, LA)

Public Hearing to Approve or Deny the Following Family Partition:
A.

(11)

Approval or Denial of the Minutes of July 8, 2026, Planning Commission Meeting

Kevin Prettelt Property - Lot F-1, F-2 and F-3
Earles and Associates, LLC
(Council District 11)

Public Hearing to Approve or Deny the Following Preliminary Plats:
A.

Arrowhead Industrial Park
Westwood P. S. (CSRS)
(Council District 3)

(12)

By-Laws Committee:
A.

(13)

(14)

Discussion of Proposed Changes to Ascension Parish Planning and Zoning
Commission By-Laws

Old Business
A.

Remove Tabled Item (4/8/2026): To Amend the Ascension Parish Unified Land
Development Code (LDC) Appendix II - Development Code, specifically to add Section
17-2052. - High Impact Development Facility

B.

To Amend the Ascension Parish Unified Land Development Code (LDC) Appendix II Development Code, specifically to add Section 17-2052. - High Impact Development
Facility

Adjourn

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance, please contact the
Council Secretary’s Office at (225) 450-1234 or (225) 450-1233 to submit a request.
Ascension Parish Meeting are accessible for public viewing on YouTube (@ascensionparish), Facebook
(Parish of Ascension), Channel 21 on REV and Cox and the Ascension21 app on Roku, Amazon Firestick,
Apple TV, Android and iOS devices

Description: Subdivision Status - August 2026
ATTACHMENTS:
1.
Monthly Subdivision Report-Aug 2026

Monthly Subdivision Report-Aug 2026.pdf

Subdivision Status
August 2026

August, 2026
Subdivision Name

Location

Number of Prelim. Plat
CD Submitted CDs Approved
Lots
Approved

LA Highway 30 approx.
3,000' W of LA Hwy 73

12

Black Bayou Estates

Black Bayou Rd. between Lobell
Ln. & Hilbert Young Rd.

20

1/11/2017

Gateway Farms

S Side-LA 74, E of I-10 at end of
Faucheaux Rd.

77

12/11/2024

Harvest Fields*

W Side of LA Hwy. 44 approx.
1/2 Mile North of Germany Rd.

115

Moss Side Villas

N Side-LA Hwy 74-Immediately
West of IH-10 Overpass

36

2/8/2023

5/31/2023

Pelican Point-14th F-Phases 1 &2
Sunset Bend (FKA Planation
Commons)

LA Hwy 44, 1/2 mile north of LA Hwy.
22 off end of Green Tree Ave.

77

2/10/2021

1st-5/13/21

Riverton-3rd-5th Filings

LA Hwy 22-1 mile west of LA Hwy
44

220

3/9/2016

12/23/2020

Stone Valley Farm

LA Hwy. 429 (W. Cornerview Rd.)
at Thurston McCrory

117
68

Arrowhead Industrial Park*

N. Side of LA Hwy 621 500' East of Young Road
An asterisk (*) denotes a status change from last month's report

The Farm*

Current Status

PP Conditions

Preliminary Plat Submitted
5/13/2026
Revised CDs
8/20/2021

10/13/2021

Engineer

Developer

Subject to
I.D.D.

CSRS/Westwood

Harvest Companies of LA, LLC

No Industrial

In Construction

No Conditions

Quality Engineering& Surveying

BSC Industries, LLC

Yes

Preliminary Plat Approved12/11/2024

Faucheaux Rd. widened to 20'
Hwy. 74 2-way turn lane to DOTD
and Parish Standards

Quality Engineering& Surveying

KD Development Group

Yes

Preliminary Plat Approved
7/08/2026

Environmental and Geotechnical
concerns addressed prior to
construction

MR Engineering & Surveying

Dantin-Bruce

Yes

2/2/2026

In Construction

Off-site drainage work to be
completed prior to subdivision

MR Engineering & Surveying

Inline Construction

No-Private

6/12/2025

CDs Approved 6/12/2025

No Conditions

Quality Engineering& Surveying

Doug Diez

Yes

CDs Submitted 12/23/2020

As stated in Planning Commission
Meeting Minutes

Quality Engineering& Surveying

SLC, LLC

Yes

Preliminary Plat Submitted
2/11/2026

Quality Engineering& Surveying

Tower Capital

Yes

Preliminary Plat Submitted
7/15/2026

MR Engineering & Surveying

Berthelot Holdings, LLC

Yes

Description: Discussion - Future Ordinance Changes
ATTACHMENTS:
1.
ODA Memo-Planning Commission_REV 2

ODA Memo-Planning Commission_REV 2.pdf

PARISH OF ASCENSION
OFFICE OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT

Memorandum
To: Planning Commission Members
From: Eric M. Poche, PLA, LEED AP in coordination with Spencer Johnson, PE, CFM
Date: August 3, 2026
Subject: Refinements to the Offsite Drainage Assessment Program
Refinements to the Offsite Drainage Assessment Program
The purpose of the Offsite Drainage Assessment (ODA) program is to ensure that new development does
not increase flood risk to nearby properties or infrastructure. The program has been effective in protecting
communities by requiring proposed developments to show no impact when evaluated using Ascension
Parish’s detailed HEC-RAS models.
As the program has matured, opportunities to improve its application have been identified and discussed
with Ascension Parish officials. This memo outlines these refinements and their intent to strengthen the
program by making it more practical, consistent, and focused on meaningful outcomes while maintaining the
program’s core purpose.

Item 1-Storm Event Evaluation Requirements
Opportunity: The current ODA process requires a proposed development to be evaluated for impacts during
multiple storm events (10-, 25-, 50-, 100-year). In most cases, impacts identified during the 1) more frequent
(10-year) and 2) more severe (100-year) storm events adequately characterize the potential effects of a
proposed development. While the intermediate, 25- and 50-year storm events provide intermediate
evaluations, they require additional effort and are unlikely to provide additional information that would
materially change permitting decisions.
Recommendation: Remove the 25-year and 50-year storm events from the standard ODA evaluation
process.
The ODA should focus on minimizing the effort required to provide the most meaningful information
regarding system performance and flood risk. Eliminating intermediate events will simplify analyses, reduce
modeling effort, and improve review efficiency while maintaining the Parish's ability to identify and mitigate
adverse impacts.
What the code says now:
17-506.3.B.1
These proposed projects shall demonstrate no increase in the existing peak water surface
elevations for the ten-, 25-, 50-, and 100-year storm events.
How the code will be revised:
17-506.3.B.1
These proposed projects shall demonstrate no increase in the existing peak water surface
elevations for the ten-, 25-, 50-, and 100-year storm events.

PARISH OF ASCENSION PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
615 East Worthey Road P.O. BOX 1659, GONZALES, LA 70707-1659
TELEPHONE (225) 450-1300 FAX (225) 450-1352

Item 2-Refocusing on the Core Purpose
Opportunity: The fundamental goal of the ODA program is to mitigate increases in flood risk from new
development, particularly to homes, infrastructure, and developed areas. However, in practice, some
proposed developments were required to mitigate small increases in flood risk or increases in isolated,
undeveloped areas, or areas away from critical conveyance paths. While these impacts are measurable in the
model, they do not always result in any significant adverse impact.
The current program applies a uniform no-adverse-impact (≤ 0.00 feet) standard across all areas.
A more targeted approach allows the program to focus resources on protecting people and property while
reducing unnecessary mitigation requirements in low-risk areas.
Recommendation: Adopt a two-tier impact threshold framework to focus on maintaining an impact standard
where it matters most; protecting people and property first, reducing time spent on negligible or isolated
impacts.
Under the refined approach, flood risk impacts will be evaluated based on (1) the magnitude of water surface
elevation increases (impact), and (2) where the increases occur (feature/location).
A tiered approach that defines varying impact thresholds based on location or impacted feature (Table 1)
provides clarity and consistency, ensuring that engineering effort is focused where it delivers the greatest
benefit.
Table 1: Feature/Location Tiers and Allowable Impacts

Teir and Associated Feature/Location

Impact
Threshold (ft)

Tier 1: Existing buildings, residential structures, and critical facilities

≤ 0.08*

Tier 2: All other areas, including roads, open space, agricultural land,
undeveloped land, wetlands, and wooded areas

≤ 0.16**

*1 inch, **2 inches

Under this approach, the existing impact threshold would be revised to 1 inch (0.08 feet) for structures and
facilities where excessive increases in water surface elevation can create real, additional risk.
For all other areas, a maximum allowable increase of 2 inches (0.16 feet) would be permitted. This threshold
acknowledges that minor increases in modeled water surface elevation outside of developed areas do not
necessarily translate into meaningful increases in flood risk and allows the program to focus on impacts that
are most important to the public.
What the code says now:
17-506.3.B.2
No increase in water surface elevation shall be defined as an increase in water surface
elevation of less than 0.00 feet in the post-development simulations as compared to the
existing conditions.
How the code will be revised:
17-506.3.B.2
No increase in water surface elevation shall be defined as an increase in water surface
elevation of less than the amounts noted below 0.00 feet in the post-development
simulations as compared to the existing conditions.
a. 0.08’ for existing buildings, residential structures, and critical facilities.
b. 0.16’ for all other areas, including roads, open space, agricultural land, undeveloped
land, wetlands, and wooded areas.

PARISH OF ASCENSION PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
615 East Worthey Road P.O. BOX 1659, GONZALES, LA 70707-1659
TELEPHONE (225) 450-1300 FAX (225) 450-1352

Item 3-Clarification of Non-Actionable Impacts
Opportunity: As the ODA program has evolved, it has become clear that not all modeled increases in water
surface elevation represent meaningful or actionable impacts.
In some cases, comparisons of water surface elevations between two hydraulic models can show increases
in water surface elevation because of minor differences in terrain, cell face alignment, etc., between the two
models. This is often the case when impacts are isolated and not contiguous with the project location.
A successful ODA program requires flexibility to identify true adverse impacts.
Recommendation: Continue to incorporate engineering judgment into the ODA review process.
Some modeled increases in water surface elevation may result from numerical differences between model
runs ("model noise"), while others may represent real but inconsequential changes occurring in isolated or
low-risk areas. Although these impacts may be identifiable within the hydraulic model, they do not
necessarily represent a meaningful increase in flood risk or require mitigation. Engineering judgment will be
applied to distinguish between actionable impacts, non-actionable impacts, and model artifacts, ensuring that
reviews remain focused on protecting people, property, and critical infrastructure.
Engineering judgment should be used to:
•

Evaluate whether identified impacts represent a real increase in flood risk;

•

Distinguish meaningful impacts from model artifacts or numerical noise;

•

Consider the location, extent, and significance of impacted areas;
Address unique site conditions not fully captured by established thresholds.

•

This flexibility helps ensure that the program remains focused on protecting people and property while
avoiding unnecessary costs associated with mitigating impacts that are not practically significant.
What the code says now:
17-506.3.B.4
ODA Process. The first stage is the ODA screening, which will include a preliminary check
by parish staff to determine if there is a potential for flood impacts outside of and beyond
the proposed boundaries of the development. The second stage is the ODA, which is
triggered if the ODA screening shows that there is a potential for flood impacts as
previously described based on existing data in the parish model.
How the code will be revised:
17-506.3.B.4
ODA Process. The first stage is the ODA screening, which will include a preliminary check
by parish staff to determine if there is a potential for flood impacts outside of and beyond
the proposed boundaries of the development. The second stage is the ODA, which is
triggered if the ODA screening shows that there is a potential for flood impacts as
previously described based on existing data in the parish model. Parish engineers, along
with the ERA will use engineering judgement and best engineering practices to determine
actional impacts vs. non-actionable impacts based on the following criteria.
a.
b.
c.
d.

Whether identified impacts represent a real increase in flood risk.
Distinguishing meaningful impacts from model artifacts or numerical noise.
Considering the location, extent, and significance of impacted areas.
Addressing unique site conditions not fully captured by established thresholds.

PARISH OF ASCENSION PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
615 East Worthey Road P.O. BOX 1659, GONZALES, LA 70707-1659
TELEPHONE (225) 450-1300 FAX (225) 450-1352

Item 4-Pre-Screening Review Process
Opportunity: Ascension Parish currently evaluates many proposed developments through an informal
screening process before determining whether a full Offsite Drainage Assessment (ODA) is required.
This process has proven effective in focusing resources on proposed developments that could have the
greatest potential to impact flood risk.
However, the screening process has not been formally documented. Formalizing this process during the
preliminary plat stage would improve consistency, provide greater transparency to applicants, and allow
potential drainage concerns to be identified earlier in project development.
Recommendation: Establish a more formal Pre-Screening Review Process to determine whether a
proposed development should be required to undergo a full ODA.
The purpose of the Pre-Screening Review is to identify proposed developments that have the potential to
adversely affect drainage conveyance, flood storage, neighboring properties, or downstream
infrastructure.
Factors considered during the Pre-Screening Review may include:
•

Proximity to existing channels, ditches, streams, and major drainage features

•

Existing modeled flood depths, flow rates, and flow velocities on or adjacent to the site

•

Location within FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas

•

Potential impacts to adjacent properties

•

Connectivity to major drainage conveyance corridors
Site location relative to known drainage problem areas

•

The Pre-Screening Review is intended to be a planning and coordination tool rather than a regulatory
analysis. The outcome of the review would be a determination of whether a full ODA is required and
identification of any drainage concerns that should be considered during the proposed development’s
design (construction document) process.
What the code says now:
17-506.3.B.4
ODA Process. The first stage is the ODA screening, which will include a preliminary check
by parish staff to determine if there is a potential for flood impacts outside of and beyond
the proposed boundaries of the development. The second stage is the ODA, which is
triggered if the ODA screening shows that there is a potential for flood impacts as
previously described based on existing data in the parish model.
How the code will be revised:
17-506.3.B.4
a. ODA Process. The first stage is the ODA screening, which will include a preliminary
check by parish staff during the preliminary plat process to determine if there is a
potential for flood impacts outside of and beyond the proposed boundaries of the
development. Factors considered during the Pre-Screening Review may include;
i. Proximity to existing channels, ditches, streams, and major drainage features.
ii. Existing modeled flood depths, flow rates, and flow velocities on or adjacent to the
site.
iii. Location within FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas.
iv. Potential impacts to adjacent properties.
v. Connectivity to major drainage conveyance corridors.
vi. Site location relative to known drainage problem areas.
b.
The second stage is the ODA, which is triggered if the ODA screening shows that
there is a potential for flood impacts as previously described based on existing data in the
parish model. This analysis may take place at any point either prior to or during final
design and the construction document process, but must be completed before construction.
PARISH OF ASCENSION PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
615 East Worthey Road P.O. BOX 1659, GONZALES, LA 70707-1659
TELEPHONE (225) 450-1300 FAX (225) 450-1352

Description: West Bank Overlay Status Report
Maggie Gleason - Bayou Rouge Environmental Planning
ATTACHMENTS:

Description: Approval or Denial of the Minutes of July 8, 2026, Planning Commission Meeting
ATTACHMENTS:
1.
July 8, 2026 Minutes

July 8, 2026 Minutes.pdf

The minutes below are taken from the meeting to represent items addressed and actions taken by this board.
All meetings are recorded with video and audio for our records. In the event these minutes are ever in question
or controversy, the audio/video archive shall be used to determine the actual item or action taken by individuals
present at this meeting.

MINUTES
PLANNING COMMISSION
JULY 8, 2026
The Planning Commission of the Parish of Ascension held a Public Meeting on Wednesday, July
8, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Ascension Parish Courthouse, 607 E. Worthey Road, Council
Chambers – 1st Floor, Gonzales, Louisiana in regular session convened.
I.

Called to Order
The meeting was called to order by Vice-Chairman Max Nassar.

II.

Roll Call of Members
The following members were present:
Michele Unitas, Mark Villa, Erik Jones, Max Nassar, Cross Marchand, Wade
Schexnaydre
The following members were absent:
Nicholas Miller

III.

Pledge of Allegiance

IV.

Introduction of Staff
Stacie Webb – Recording Secretary, Planning Commission
Jarius Carey – Information Technology (IT)
Kenneth Dupaty – Parish Attorney
Eric Poche – Director, Planning and Development
Shaun Sherrow – Engineering Review Agent, Westwood
Lance Brock – Zoning Official, Planning and Development

V.

Vice Chairman’s Comments
Vice Chair had no comment.

VI.

Public Comment on any Agenda Item
No comments.

VII.

Staff Report
A. Subdivision Status – July 2026
Mr. Eric Poche presented and explained the attached report on subdivisions.
(ATTACHMENT A)

VIII. Engineering Staff Report
Engineering had no report.

Planning Commission Minutes
July 8, 2026
Page 2

IX.

Minutes
Approval or Denial of the Minutes of June 10, 2026, Planning Commission
Meeting
Commission Action: Moved by Mr. Erik Jones, seconded by Mr. Mark Villa and
unanimously adopted, to approve the June 10, 2026, Planning Commission minutes as
presented.

X.

Consent Agenda
A. Affidavit of Mortgage Declaration
Adrianne and Charlie Thibodeaux – Lot A-2-A-1 (10302 Hwy 937, St. Amant,
LA)
B. Affidavit of Mortgage Declaration
Calob Leindecker – Lot 29-A-2-B (18648 Oak Grove Pkwy, Prairieville, LA)
Commission Action: Moved by Mr. Mark Villa, seconded by Ms. Michele Unitas
and unanimously adopted, to approve the consent agenda as presented.

XI.

Public Hearing to Approve or Deny the following Family Partitions:
A. Dewayne A. Pack Property – Lot B-2-B-1, B-2-B-2 & B-2-B-3
The subject property is located on the east side J. D. Broussard Road,
approximately 1,875’ north of LA Hwy. 621 at the end of Patriot Lane in Council
District 9 and is zoned Medium Intensity Residential (RM). The application is on
behalf of Dewayne A. Pack by Earles and Associates, LLC, Professional Land
Surveyors.
The Applicant is proposing a family partition of Lot B-2-B (5.87 acres) into Lot
B-2-B-1 (3.608 acres), Lot B-2-B-2 (1.131 acres) and Lot B-2-B-3 (1.131 acres).
Lot B-2-B-1 is being retained by the applicant; Lot B-2-B-2 is being donated to a
Mother-in-Law; and Lot B-2-B-3 is being donated to a father.
STAFF REVIEW COMMENTS
Comments sent to Earles and Associates, LLC on 5/27/2026.
1. Show routing and discharge point of individual sewer treatment systems to
parish maintained ditch with public drainage servitude and/or to ‘blue line
stream’. It is the responsibility of the Owner to consult with the Ascension
Parish Board of Health to confirm routing for permitting purposes.
Show/make statement of such on final plat. Plat will not be signed and
recorded without this information.
2. Add road name "Patriot Lane" to Ex. 30' Private Servitude of Passage.
3. Remove 'proposed before submitting plat for signature.
4. Records show correct spelling for mother's name is 'Deana'. Verify and correct
as necessary.
5. Records show correct spelling for father's name is 'Pearce'. Verify and correct
as necessary.
6. Remove existing SOP where proposed turns north as it is no longer necessary.

Planning Commission Minutes
July 8, 2026
Page 3
7. Owner of Lot B-2-A must also sign plat. You cannot 'propose' a Private
Servitude of Passage onto someone else's property without their knowledge
and/or permission.
8. Revise zoning classification, Medium Intensity 'Residential'.
9. Note is not required. Three (3) or more lots are not being created.
10. Submit final plat in CAD prior to final plat being signed.
STAFF ANALYSIS
This property division meets all current requirements of the family partition
section of the subdivision regulations. The owner has owned the property for at
least three years as required by Paragraph 17-4026. B. This family partition is
creating two (2) new lots.
Should the commission approve this family partition, staff will have the Chairman
sign the plat when all comments have been addressed on the final map as listed
above and the required conveyance documents completed and recorded according
to Paragraph 17-4026.F of the Subdivision Regulations.
Mr. James Falgout with Earles and Associates, LLC presented this family
partition.
Public hearing was opened.
The following spoke:
1 – Londra Williams
2 – Letitia B. Polar
The speakers’ main concern was culvert issues and drainage/flooding.
Public hearing was closed.
Commission Action: A motion was made by Mr. Wade Schexnaydre to approve
this family partition. Motion died for the lack of a second
A Substitute Motion was made by Mr. Mark Villa, seconded by Mr. Wade
Schexnaydre and unanimously adopted, to approve this family partition as
presented.
B. George Valentine Property – Lot A-1-B-1-A, A-1-B-1-B & A-2-A-1-A
The subject property is located on the east and west side of Serenity Ct just
outside of the northeast corner of Lake at Twin Oaks Subdivision in Council
District 8 and is zoned Medium Intensity Residential (RM). The application is on
behalf of George Valentine by Earles and Associates, LLC, Professional Land
Surveyors.
The Applicant is proposing a family partition of Lot A-1-B-1 & A-2-A-1 (6.467
acres) into Lot A-1-B-1-A (1.499 acres), Lot A-1-B-1-B (1.452 acres) and Lot A2-A-1-A (3.516 acres). Lot A-1-B-1-A is being donated to a son; Lot A-1-B-1-B
is being retained by the applicant; and Lot A-2-A-1-A is being donated to a
daughter.

Planning Commission Minutes
July 8, 2026
Page 4

STAFF REVIEW COMMENTS
Comments sent to Earles and Associates, LLC on 6/3/2026.
1. Property is covered by FEMA Map 0040E, not 0065E. Verify and correct if
necessary.
2. Records show property on FEMA map in Flood Zone "A", not "AE". Verify
and correct as necessary.
3. Owner(s) of Lot A-2-A-1 must also sign plat.
4. Ref Map#3 shows distance to be 29.34'. Verify and correct as necessary.
5. Ref Map 2 & 3, show existing monuments with distances of 50' between
each. These should be shown on plat.
6. Note is not required. Three (3) or more lots are not being created.
7. Submit final plat in CAD prior to final plat being signed.
STAFF ANALYSIS
This property division meets all current requirements of the family partition
section of the subdivision regulations. The owner has owned the property for at
least three years as required by Paragraph 17-4026. B. This family partition is
creating one (1) new lot.
Should the commission approve this family partition, staff will have the Chairman
sign the plat when all comments have been addressed on the final map as listed
above and the required conveyance documents completed and recorded according
to Paragraph 17-4026.F of the Subdivision Regulations.
Mr. James Falgout with Earles and Associates, LLC presented this family
partition.
Public hearing was opened.
No comments.
Public hearing was closed.
Commission Action: Moved by Mr. Erik Jones, seconded by Ms. Michele Unitas
and unanimously adopted, to approve this family partition as presented.
C. Benton Frederic Estate – Lot 2-E-1-A & 2-E-1-B
The subject property is located on the east side Benton Frederic Road,
approximately 880’ south of Stringer Bridge Road in Council District 6 and is
zoned Rural (R). The application is on behalf of Michael W. Frederic by McLin
Taylor, Inc. Engineering and Land Surveying.
The Applicant is proposing a family partition of Lot 2-E-1 (1.106 acres) into Lot
2-E-1-A (0.553 acres) and Lot 2-E-1-B (0.553 acres). Lot 2-E-1-A is being
donated to a daughter; and Lot 2-E-1-B being donated to a son.
STAFF REVIEW COMMENTS
Comments sent to McLin Taylor, Inc. on 6/9/2026.
1. Verify road name with the Parish's address coordinator. Road names can no
longer have initials or abbreviations.
2. Add Private Use and Maintenance note.
3. Submit final plat in CAD prior to final plat being signed.

Planning Commission Minutes
July 8, 2026
Page 5
STAFF ANALYSIS
This property division meets all current requirements of the family partition
section of the subdivision regulations. The owner has owned the property for at
least three years as required by Paragraph 17-4026. B. This family partition is
creating one (1) new lot.
Should the commission approve this family partition, staff will have the Chairman
sign the plat when all comments have been addressed on the final map as listed
above and the required
conveyance documents completed and recorded according to Paragraph 174026.F of the Subdivision Regulations.
Ms. Ellen Jackson with McLin Taylor, Inc. presented this family partition.
Public hearing was opened.
The following spoke:
1 – Michael Frederic - applicant
Public hearing was closed.
Commission Action: Moved by Mr. Mark Villa, seconded by Mr. Wade
Schexnaydre and unanimously adopted, to approve this family partition as
presented.
XII.

Public Hearing to Approve or Deny the following Preliminary Plat:
A. Harvest Fields
The proposed major subdivision is located on the West side of LA Hwy. 44
approximately 350’ south of Bertville Road. The project lies in Council District
11 and is zoned Mixed Use 2 (MU2) and Medium Intensity Residential (RM).
The application is on behalf of Dantin-Bruce Development by MR Engineering &
Surveying, LLC.
The property consists of +/-37.8 acres. The applicant is proposing a subdivision
containing 115 lots with a minimum size of 6,250 square feet. There are 48 lots at
a 50’ width range, 46 lots at a 60’ width range, 19 lots at a 70’ range and 2 lots at
an 80’ range. The proposed subdivision will require 2.3 acres of park space, and
the developer is providing 3.05 acres of dedicated park space with 1.68 acres of
upland park space (not including detention pond of 1.38 acres). This complies
with the major subdivision regulations. Approximately 25% of the property is
within the AE flood zone with a base flood elevation of 16.0’ and existing
elevations across the project between 13.0’-18.0’. The project drains to Bert
Delaune Lateral thence into Black Bayou to the south. The applicant is proposing
a sewer system discharging along this route from a private treatment system. All
sewer discharge permitting is subject to approval from LDH.
STAFF REVIEW COMMENTS
All elements of the subdivision as per ordinance have been provided and
addressed on the plat along with the required notes, labels, setbacks and

Planning Commission Minutes
July 8, 2026
Page 6

servitudes as per Paragraph 17-406 of the Subdivision Regulations. All other
comments have been addressed by the consultant as noted in ERA Review Letter.
ENGINEER REVIEW COMMENTS
Preliminary Plat:
The Preliminary Plat has been reviewed by Staff and the Engineer Review Agent
(ERA) Comments are attached. (ATTACHMENT B)
Drainage impact study:
The drainage impact study has been reviewed by the Engineer Review Agent
(ERA) Comments are attached. (ATTACHMENT B)
Off-Site Drainage Analysis:
An off-site drainage analysis was required for this project and has been reviewed
by the Engineer Review Agent (ERA) Comments are attached. (ATTACHMENT
B)
Traffic impact study:
The traffic impact study has been reviewed by the Ascension Parish Traffic
Engineers and the Engineer Review Agent (ERA). Comments are attached.
(ATTACHMENT B)
STAFF ANALYSIS
The proposed plat/map having been denied at the February 2026 meeting had the
option of resubmitting if either of the following conditions had been met:
1. At least 12 months have passed since the original hearing date; or
2. Changes have been made to the original application that address the
concerns stated in the Commission’s decision to deny the application.
The applicant chose to submit a new application addressing the concerns stated in
the Commission’s decision. The major concerns being a revised traffic study
analyzing all required intersections as well as clearing any confusion about the
maximum density allowed in the project. Staff conferred with the Planning
Commission attorney and found that the revised application met the second
requirement as stated in the Subdivision Regulations.
The proposed plat/map meets all guidelines for a major subdivision per current
ordinance. Traffic, Drainage and the Offsite Drainage Analysis conform to code
requirements. An additional entry/exit point has been included and studied based
on requirements of the Subdivision Regulations, and a new traffic study provided
based on additional scoping requirements by Ascension Parish. The Drainage and
Offsite Drainage Analysis conform to code requirements and will be studied in
greater detail through the construction document phase and only approved to
move forward should the refined design conform to all code requirements. All
densities have been recalculated based on previous Commission comments and
conform fully to the subdivision Regulations. Any acreage within drainage
servitudes not mitigated in the development have been removed for the
calculation, and each maximum density for the Mixed-Use 2 (MU2) and Medium
Intensity Residential (RM) zoning categories have been calculated and do
conform to requirements. This additional information has been added to the
proposed Preliminary Plat.

Planning Commission Minutes
July 8, 2026
Page 7

The Commission must determine through discussion based on the engineering
analysis whether any traffic impacts are a direct result of the development and
have the option of approval, approval with conditions or denial. Should the
commission approve this subdivision preliminary plat, staff will ensure any
comments and/or conditions are noted, and that the development will not move
beyond the construction document phase until all conditions and code
requirements are met upon final design.
Vice Chairman Max Nassar said he wanted to get clarification on a procedural
issue. He said there has been a lot of conversation that this item should not be on
the agenda because of some belief that there should be a 12-month waiting period
before it comes back on the agenda since it was denied. In preparation for
addressing this issue, he said he wanted to get a clear legal opinion that whatever
the ULDC requires for this to be back on the agenda tonight, he wanted it cleared
up before taking up this item.
Mr. Eric Poche stated, in Subdivision Regulations, Section 17-4096 under Resubmittal Procedure, it states:
A. If the Planning Commission denies an application, the applicant has the option
of appealing the decision as defined in section 17-4092 or re-submitting the
application if the following conditions have been met;
1. At least 12 months have passed since the original hearing date; Or
2. Changes have been made to the original application that address the
concerns stated in the Commission’s decision to deny the application.

Mr. Poche said the two major concerns that were addressed in resubmission of
this preliminary plat were the additional connection out to the west end of the
project with the additional trips and the intersections studied to have a more
complete Traffic Impact Analysis. The second item being there was a lot of
concern about the densities and the number of units that would be allowed. He
said they went back through and did the traffic study to include all the additional
counts at the intersections that were scoped by staff and the transportation
department. The applicant also went through and put specific lists on the plat to
denote the different densities, what was removed, and how the densities were
calculated and that the lot count matches the code. He said he conferred with the
attorney for the Planning Commission, Mr. Spencer Long. He stated Mr. Long
watched the previous meeting and agreed with his assessment before it was
allowed to be placed on the agenda and to begin the review process for the
project. Also, a meeting was held last week in anticipation of Mr. Long being
absent from the meeting tonight. Mr. Kenneth Dupaty and Mr. Jean Paul Robert,
attorneys for the Parish, were also in attendance at that meeting, agreed with the
assessment and that it should be allowed to be on the agenda tonight.
Mr. Erik Jones stated he would be abstaining due to a relative owning the
property.
Mr. Wade Schexnaydre stated he would be abstaining due to having a business
contract with a third-party that involves the current landowner and left the
meeting at this time.

Planning Commission Minutes

July 8, 2026
Page 8

Mr. Tom Easterly, on behalf of the applicant, and Mr. Jonathan Bradley with MR
Engineering, LLC, presented this preliminary plat.
Public hearing was opened.
The following spoke: Not In Support
Denise Drago (Attachment C)
Susan Jordan
Mark Wilson
Ray Mouch
Brenda Whitney
Mark Taylor (Attachment D/email)
Cheryle Totten (Attachment E/email) Rowan Taylor
Amanda Taylor
Lisa Guidry
William R Guidry (Attachment F/email) Jason Cassard
Gina Billiot
Theresa Robert (Attachment G)
Joe Rozier
Kathy Koehl
Darin Pensyl
Larry Powell
Jamie Powell (Attachment H/email)
Dina LeJeune
Donald Borey
John Lee
Jeffrey Nolan (Attachment I/email)
Cheryl Nolan
Polly Glover
Susan Buckley
Andres Monterrey
Walter Beach (Attachment J/email)
The following did not wish to speak but signed in as Not in Support
Larry P Braud Jr
Melissa Lee
Melissa Cassard
Renee L Cole
Jasper N Cole Jr
Patricia Borey
Phil McLaurin
Ricky P Lambert
Darrell J Fontenot
Sheila Anderson
Nathalie S Bagwell
Margaret Bonnecarrere
Burt Rentz
Lindsey Falcon
Jody Falcon
Mary Ashford
James Harrell
Louise Harrell
Wanda Ward
Peggy J Watts
Pamela Resweber
Dylan Boudreaux
C Peyton McGivaren
Sebastian Billiot
Laurie Lavigne LeGrange
Franny Guillot
Julie Rivett
Sonya Guedry (Attachment K/email)
Yvette Froisy
Steve Guillot
Darryl W Bourgeois Jr
Brad Rivett
Adam Guidry
Henry Guidry
Trish Jones
Bill Jones
Jasper Taylor
Delane Hathcock
Grace Hathcock
Jim Hathcock
Cynthia Savoy
Stephanie Conerly
Nicholas Conerly
Skylar Demourelle
Billy Demourelle
Robert Demourelle
Khristina Odom
Chris Odom
Pedro Alfaro
Beth Wilson
Lisa Abrams
Keith Abrams
Luke Stears
Coty Naquin
Jeff L.
Brandy Pitre
Michelle Pranskey
Aubree Pranskey
Leah Pranskey
Sharon Laiche
Clay Laiche
Hugh Richard Jordan

Planning Commission Minutes
July 8, 2026
Page 9
Denise K Emmons
Ian Smith
James V Totten

Benny Drago
Jennifer Pensyl

Did not wish to speak but signed in as In Support
Cornelius Calhoun
Was not present, sent in email, Not in Support
Patrick Murtagh (Attachment L/email)

Public hearing was closed.
Mr. Easterly addressed some of the concerns addressed by the public. He stated
that a great deal of documentation has been presented to the Planning
Commission by the Planning staff, and that the entire process in terms of the
different areas of inquiry that go into the evaluation, are extensive. He went on to
say the UDC requires that the development be evaluated on many different levels.
There are several different studies, which were all performed. In particular, the
Traffic Impact Study (TIS), was performed by the Parish’s representative/agent.
It was an independent study. There were no defects pointed out by the Parish’s
engineering review agent.
Mr. Jonathan Bradley said the two intersections that were mentioned, Causey
Road and Braud Road. The traffic study identifies some issues in the AM peak
hour. He said if you read the specific language of the code, it states:
“When a proposed development that is subject to the TIA requirements
of the section shall be denied when the results of the required TIA
demonstrate that the proposed development will over burden the
existing roadway system.”
He said there is no level of service change at the intersection of Causey Road and
Hwy 44.
Mr. Bradley stated the only requirement for the development is for a left and right
turn lane into the development and traffic impact fees.
Mr. Easterly said there was a comment, a long report (regarding a buried oil well)
generated by Mr. Jeffrey Nolan (public speaker). Mr. Easterly stated it is not
something the UDC delves into. It is governed by state law. He said if there was
an issue about being refused entry, then DNR and DEQ can deal with that. He
reiterated at this point, that they meet the criteria of a preliminary plat. They have
provided a Phase 1 ESA, and it satisfies everything they need on that front.
Vice Chair Nassar asked Ms. Kimberly McDaniels, with Intelligent
Transportation Systems, the state(s) in which she is licensed, how many years,
etc. and in her opinion, does the traffic study that was performed meet the
requirements of the UDC for a preliminary plat. Ms. McDaniels stated her firm
has a contractual agreement with Ascension Parish to perform the study. She said

Planning Commission Minutes
July 8, 2026
Page 10
she is a licensed civil engineer and has been practicing in the state of Louisiana for over
23 years. She is also licensed in the state of Texas and previously licensed in the state of
Michigan. She is a certified professional traffic operations engineer and a professional
transportation planner, both of which are national certifications and can be practiced in
any state which she is licensed as a professional engineer. She stated it is her
professional opinion that all the requirements of a traffic study for this type of
development in this particular situation for Ascension Parish were met. They were also
all done in accordance with standard engineering practice as set forth by not only by
Ascension Parish but also Louisiana Department of Transportation Development and
United States Department of Transportation through the Federal Highway Administration
and in accordance with ITE Methodologies.

Ms. McDaniel stated their firm was simply selected in a rotation process, in which
there are three (3) other firms, with each having a retainer contract with the Parish
with similar qualifications. She said she had no introduction to the developers
prior to performing the study.
Vice Chair asked the same of Mr. Shaun Sherrow with Westwood, Engineering
Review Agent for the Parish. Mr. Sherrow stated he is a licensed civil engineer in
Louisiana and Texas. He said he has been in Ascension doing engineering review
work since 2005. For over 21 years licensed, specifically codes, ordinances,
drainage reviews, traffic reviews, development reviews. He does this for
Ascension Parish, City of Central, Calcasieu Parish and codes and ordinances for
multiple parishes. He expressed that he also lives in Ascension Parish.
Mr. Eric Poche stated, looking at the density, lot counts, connectivity, all things
related to the mapping and requirements of the preliminary plat have been met
and is confident it meets the code.
Mr. Mark Villa stated the Parish needs to think about going forward more
collaboratively and engage more groups within the parish to have them part of the
Planning application, like the School Board, to have a complete package to review
and make sure that every stone is unturned.
Mr. Villa also mentioned that better funding methods need to change regarding
how we fund infrastructure here in Ascension Parish.
He also questioned the dates, times and length of the traffic counts. Ms.
McDaniel said the actual count used in the supplemental in the additional counts
that they did were taken March 25, 2026, between the AM and PM peak hours
(7day/24-hour count) and schools were in session. They look at 7 days and 24
hours’ worth of traffic. They determine the highest 2 hours or sometimes 3 hours.
But this time they used 2 hours that were significantly higher than others.
Presenting a worst case 1 hour scenario in the morning and a worst case 1 hour
scenario in the evening. She stated that it is standard practice and the hours that
were counted for the additional data.
Mr. Cross Marchand questioned the conflicts with the proposed ponds and the
existing pipelines that are on site. He also questioned the intention of the ponds.

Planning Commission Minutes
July 8, 2026
Page 11

Mr. Jonathan Bradley said regarding pipelines, there are strict requirements that
each company has that they must meet. There are required steps and permitting
that vary for each pipeline company.
Mr. Bradley stated some of the ponds were for detention, to send the extra runoff
into and some for mitigation, to create flood zone storage.
Mr. Nassar wanted to clarify that the current Ascension Parish code requires
connectivity through the adjacent subdivision. Mr. Poche confirmed. And from
the standpoint of the Cottonfield roadway, Mr. Nassar said they asked at the last
public hearing when this proposed subdivision was considered, there was
comment about bringing that road up to standard. Previous public hearing and
conversation, that roadway does meet the current Ascension Parish standard. Mr.
Poche stated yes, according to the section and information from DPW.
Ms. Michele Unitas said regarding the environmental risk that was brought up by
the Nolans, a memorandum was sent stating a Level 1 ESA had been done to
determine whether a recognized environmental condition existed. She stated they
do not have that report. She said they have a memorandum that rebuts what was
said in the documentation that was provided by Mr. Nolan, which is part of the
record. Ms. Unitas expressed, under the code, the Commission’s mandate is that
their first responsibility is to the health, welfare and safety of the public. She
noted there exists public record that there were toxins, things that are potentially
risky to substructure that was done under different regulations and codes that we
have to abide by now when we build new things. She said she understands the
triggers for phase 1 and phase 2; we have a recognized condition that would
trigger a phase 2 sampling.
Ms. Unitas said she would move, that they ensure a phase 2 ESA is attached to
whatever decision they come to tonight.
Mr. Jonathan Bradley stated a Phase 1 ESA is not a requirement in the UDC at the
preliminary plat stage. They did it for their own due diligence. He also
mentioned that all state and federal laws will have to be followed with regard to
this.
Mr. Sherrow went through, step by step, the different stages of review that a
development goes through for a conditional final plat of approval from Parish,
State and Federal agencies. Mr. Sherrow also mentioned that for this particular
project, knowing that things got communicated regarding environmental risks,
they required them to submit, by a certified person, a Phase 1 ESA. The Phase 1
ESA says it is clear. There is no requirement to move forward to a phase 2 ESA.
Mr. Mark Villa said there was a lot of discussion on a lot of different things. In
his opinion, the one thing that hadn’t changed was the roads surrounding project.
He stated part of their responsibility is the safety and welfare of the parish, the
people. He said he is not faulting any developer or engineer in their work, but
until we address our roads, it’s a problem.

Planning Commission Minutes
July 8, 2026
Page 12

Commission Action: A motion was made by Mr. Mark Villa to deny, based on the
safety and welfare of the public. Motion died for the lack of a second.
9:35 PM – At this time the Vice Chair called for a 5-minute recess.
Commission Action: A motion was made by Mr. Max Nassar to approve this
preliminary plat as it meets the requirements under the Unified Development
Code.
A Substitute Motion was made by Ms. Michele Unitas, seconded by Mr. Cross
Marchand to approve this preliminary plat as it meets all the requirements of the
code, with the condition that those environmental and geotechnical studies are
validated prior to any construction being done to ensure that the safety of the land
is suitable. This motion was approved by the following roll call vote:
YEAS: Michele Unitas, Cross Marchand, Max Nassar
NAYS: Mark Villa
ABSTAINED: Erik Jones
ABSENT: Nicholas Miller, Wade Schexnaydre
(3) YEAS; (1) NAYS; (1) ABSTAINED; (2) ABSENT and motion carried.
XIII. Adjourn
A motion was made and meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m.

_____________________________
Max Nassar, Vice-Chairman

Description: Consent Agenda
ATTACHMENTS:

Description: Affidavit of Mortgage Declaration
John and Linda Lehmann - Lot 31-A (18439 Belle Alliance Rd, Prairieville, LA)
ATTACHMENTS:
1.
A. John & Linda Lehmann

A. John & Linda Lehmann.pdf

PARISH OF ASCENSION
OFFICE OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
PLANNING DEPARTMENT

August 12, 2026

A) John and Linda Lehmann – Lot 31-A )18439 Belle Alliance Rd, Prairieville, LA)
Affidavit of Mortgage Declaration
Staff has reviewed and approved this simple division of property. The lending institution
has been notified via certified mail that the loan holder wishes to subdivide his/her
property. The Planning Department has not yet received a response.

615 E. Worthey Street
Gonzales, Louisiana 70737
Phone: (225) 450-1002 / Fax: (225) 450-1352
Web: www.ascensionparish.net

Description: Kevin Prettelt Property - Lot F-1, F-2 and F-3
Earles and Associates, LLC
(Council District 11)
ATTACHMENTS:
1.
A. Kevin Prettelt

A. Kevin Prettelt.pdf

August 12, 2026
FAMILY PARTITION
A)

Kevin Prettelt Property – Lot F-1, F-2 & F-3
The subject property is located on the south side Merrit Evans Road, approximately 730’ east of
LA Hwy. 44 in Council District 11 and is zoned Medium Intensity Residential (RM). The application
is on behalf of Kevin Prettelt by Earles and Associates, LLC, Professional Land Surveyors.
The Applicant is proposing a family partition of Lot F (3.703 acres) into Lot F-1 (2.142 acres), Lot
F-2 (0.780 acres) and Lot F-3 (0.781 acres). Lot F-1 is being retained by the applicant; Lot F-2 is
being donated to a son; and Lot F-3 is being donated to a daughter.
STAFF REVIEW COMMENTS
Comments sent to Earles and Associates, LLC on 7/21/2026.
1. Records show four (4) structures on property. Verify if they no longer exist, or they must be
shown on plat.
2. Private servitude of passage widens as it gets to the rear of Lot F-1. This either needs to be
corrected, or distance/bearings and width needs to be labeled.
3. Distance and bearing must be shown on all property lines.
4. Property lies in two flood zones and must be identified on plat.
5. Records show property is covered by FEMA map number "...045 E", not 065 E.
6. Submit final plat in CAD prior to final plat being signed.
STAFF ANALYSIS
This property division meets all current requirements of the family partition section of the
subdivision regulations. The owner has owned the property for at least three years as required
by Paragraph 17-4026. B. This family partition is creating two (2) new lots.
Should the commission approve this family partition, staff will have the Chairman sign the plat
when all comments have been addressed on the final map as listed above and the required
conveyance documents completed and recorded according to Paragraph 17-4026.F of the
Subdivision Regulations.

Description: Arrowhead Industrial Park
Westwood P. S. (CSRS)
(Council District 3)

ATTACHMENTS:
1.
A. Arrowhead Industrial Park
A. Arrowhead Industrial Park.pdf
2.
Arrowhead Indus Park-PPlat Letter to PC
Arrowhead Indus Park-PPlat Letter to PC.pdf
3.
Arrowhead Industrial Park - Proposed PPlat Arrowhead Industrial Park - Proposed PPlat.pdf

August 12, 2026

MINOR SUBDIVISION PRELIMINARY PLAT
A)

Arrowhead Industrial Park
The proposed industrial subdivision is located on the north side of LA Hwy. 30 approximately
2,700’ north of the intersection of LA Hwy. 30 at LA Hwy. 73. The project lies in Council District
3 and is zoned Light Industrial (LI) and Conservation (C). No development is to take place in the
Conservation district. The application is on behalf of Harvest Companies of LA by Westwood P.S
(CSRS).
The preliminary plat application is for an industrial development consisting of office warehouse
and laydown yards. The application consists of +/-48.35 acres and there are +/-125.97 acres owned
by the applicant that are not part of the development or this application. There are 12 buildable lots
ranging in size from 1.74 acres to 3.48 acres. Included in the +/-48.35 acres are Lots 1-12, DP-1,
STP-1 and PS-1 as well as all areas to be dedicated as public rights of way.
The applicant is requesting variances to:
1. 17-4035 – Alley Requirements - This request is for a waiver of the requirement to
provide alleys at the rear of all industrial/commercial lots.
2. 17-4034-A – To allow for the use of asphalt streets in lieu of concrete.
The proposed plat is submitted for a minor industrial subdivision per the provision of the Unified
Land Development Code. All developed lots lie within the Light Industrial (LI) zoning
classification. The proposed subdivision is exempt from the major subdivision guidelines, Section
17-4020 of the Unified Land Development Code. The infrastructure development district
requirements do not apply due to industrial zoning classification.
Approximately 40%-50% of the property owned by the developer is within the ‘X’ flood zone with
the remainder in the ‘A’ flood zone. Of the 48.35 acres of development currently being proposed,
approximately 25% is within the ‘A’ flood zone, and only 10% is within a buildable lot. The project
directly drains into the Coco lateral, thence into New River Bayou and eventually into Bayou
Francois. There are approximately 39.21 acres of Jurisdictional Wetlands on the property owned
by the developer, and the applicant is proposing to mitigate approximately 15.68 acres, which meets
code requirements. According to Section 17-506.2 of Appendix V-Drainage, up to 40% of existing
wetlands may be mitigated to allow for development.

STAFF REVIEW COMMENTS
The preliminary plat addresses Parish ordinance for required notes, labels, setbacks and servitudes
as per Paragraph 17-406 of the Subdivision Regulations.
Access to this development is via LA Hwy 30, a state highway under the jurisdiction of LA DOTD.
The applicant is proposing a community sewer treatment plant to accommodate all lots within the
development. The developer is required to coordinate with LDH to ensure that discharge routes
comply with State requirements. Water service will be provided by Ascension Water Company.
The applicant is requesting a variance for the installation of asphalt streets as opposed to concrete.
The Parish supports the variance as our maintenance department is not equipped to handle concrete
street maintenance and would have to contract with a 3rd party provider. The proposed street section
also calls for a 60’ ROW with curb and gutter and subsurface drainage. This is desirable as there
will be no required ditch maintenance for the parish.
The applicant is requesting a waiver to section 17-4035 regarding the requirement to have rear
alleys for off-street loading. Section 17-4035 allows the Planning Commission to provide a wavier
to the alley requirement provided the developer provides “other definite and assured provision is
made for service access, such as off-street loading, unloading, and parking consistent with and
adequate for the uses proposed.” Parish staff would recommend approval of the variance for all
lots. All lots should have more than adequate area to conduct business and meet those requirements.
ENGINEER REVIEW COMMENTS
Preliminary Plat:
The Preliminary Plat has been reviewed by Staff and the Engineer Review Agent (ERA).
Comments are attached.
Offsite Drainage Assessment:
The Offsite Drainage Assessment has been reviewed by the Engineer Review Agent (ERA).
Comments are attached.
Drainage impact study:
The drainage impact study has been reviewed by the Engineer Review Agent (ERA). Comments
are attached.
Traffic impact study:
The traffic impact study, and supplement, has been reviewed by the Ascension Parish
Transportation Department. Comments are attached.
STAFF ANALYSIS
The applicant wishes to vacate their prior approval and has revised the project to reflect a more
realistic approach based on past performance and current market conditions going from 14 lots to
12. The traffic impact study has been revised to reflect the current application. It has also been
reviewed by DOTD with no objection to the results/comments contained within the TIA. The
proposed plat/map meets all guidelines for a minor subdivision per current ordinance. Traffic,
Drainage and the Offsite Drainage Analysis have been provided and conform to code requirements.

The Drainage and Offsite Drainage Analysis will be studied in greater detail through the
construction document phase, once detailed survey data has been obtained, and only approved to
move forward should the refined design conform to all code requirements. The Commission must
determine through discussion based on the engineering analysis whether any traffic impacts are a
direct result of the development and have the option of approval, approval with conditions or denial.
Should the commission approve this subdivision preliminary plat, staff will ensure any comments
and/or conditions are noted, and that the development will not move beyond the construction
document phase until all conditions and code requirements are met with final design.

PARISH OF ASCENSION
OFFICE OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
PLANNING DEPARTMENT

August 5, 2026
Mr. Zach Schmidt, P.E.
Westwood, P.S. (CSRS)
8555 United Plaza Blvd., Suite 100
Baton Rouge, LA, 70809
RE:

Arrowhead Industrial Park-(PZ-3919)
Preliminary Plat Submittal Review

Mr. Schmidt:
The ERA and Staff have reviewed the Preliminary Plat, Drainage Impact Study Offsite Drainage
Assessment, and Traffic Impact Analysis submitted for the above referenced development for
compliance with the Ascension Parish Subdivision Regulations and the Ascension Parish Development
Code, and we offer the following comments:
Preliminary Plat
1. Label flood zone as 'A' flood zone. Comment has been addressed.
2. Include addresses on adjacent property owner information, as required. Comment
has been addressed.
3. List acreage including Lots 1-12, DP-1, STP-1 and PS-1 as “Arrowhead Industrial Park”
property. Also, list a separate acreage account for property ‘owned by the developer
but not included in this project’. Comment has been addressed.
4. Zoning must be delineated on map since the property owned by the developer is in 2
zoning districts. Comment has been addressed.
5. Add instrument no. 956469 for 1st Filing, Stoney Point Estates and instrument no.
998842 for 2nd Filing, Stoney Point Estates to map label. Comment has been
addressed.
6. State method of sewer treatment. Comment has been addressed.
7. If property is vacant, make statement of such. Comment has been addressed.
8. Show detention pond boundary on Tract DP-1, if possible. Comment has been addressed.
9. Street names must be checked with 911 and approved. Comment has been
acknowledged.
10. On note 17 under, ‘General Notes’, remove “…sewer development and…” Comment
has been addressed.

615 E. Worthey Road
Gonzales, Louisiana 70737
Phone: (225) 450-1002 / Fax: (225) 450-1352
Web: www.ascensionparish.net

PARISH OF ASCENSION
OFFICE OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
PLANNING DEPARTMENT

Drainage Impact Study
1. Provide photos of existing channels, ditches and drainage structures. Comment
has been addressed.
2. Please label the roadways on the watershed maps. Comment has been addressed.
3. Verify that there are no existing servitudes on the site. Comment has been addressed.
4. Delineate the flood zone and label the BFE on the watershed maps. Comment has been
addressed.
5. Please show and label the pond outfall pipes. Comment has been addressed.
6. Please verify all inputs for Area A and B. The area is decreasing from pre to put but the
calculations are showing an increase in runoff. Comment has been addressed.
7. Provide calculations for all storm events. Comment has been addressed.
8. Provide capacity calculations for the ditch at ll, 2L, and 4L. Comment has been
addressed.
9. Provide the permit from DOTD approving the culvert sized in the roadside ditch.
Requested information has been provided.
10. Provide fill mitigation calculations. Comment has been addressed.
11. Please delineate any wetland sites. Comment has been addressed.
12. Provide slab elevations for adjacent existing homes. Comment has been addressed.
13. Provide a model that includes all offsite drainage, showing that 3L has the capacity and
can handle the flow. Comment has been addressed.
Drainage Impact Study Summary:
Consulting Engineer:
Date of Study:
Size of Development:
Existing Land Use:

Zach Schmidt, P.E., Westwood, P.S. (CSRS)

-

May 2026
48.35 acres (currently under development) 174.32 acres (total)

Receiving Basin:
FEMA Flood Zone:
100-year Flood Elevation:
Record Inundation:

Undeveloped land with a mix of woods, tributaries and open
greenspace.
Onsite areas flow into New River.
The site is located within flood zone X and A.
17 feet
None provided by Parish.

Fill Mitigation:

Fill mitigation is being addressed with the proposed pond.

The Drainage Impact Study substantially conforms to the requirements of the Drainage Impact Study
Procedure included in the Subdivision Regulations. The Engineering Review Agent has performed a review
of the input parameters and results of the submitted drainage calculations for compliance with the
Subdivision Regulations and generally accepted practices for storm water hydrologic design. Upon
approval of the preliminary plat, the applicant can proceed with final drainage design in accordance with
the concepts submitted in the study
615 E. Worthey Road
Gonzales, Louisiana 70737
Phone: (225) 450-1002 / Fax: (225) 450-1352
Web: www.ascensionparish.net

PARISH OF ASCENSION
OFFICE OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
PLANNING DEPARTMENT

Preliminary Offsite Drainage Assessment
1. The peak water surface elevations from each storm event were extracted from the Effective
Hydraulic Model and Post-Development Hydraulic Models and compared to one another. The
comparisons reveal the following impact on peak water surface elevations beyond the
development site for all storm events: At the time of this letter, the applicant’s latest
run is showing a minimal increase due to the proposed development. However,
Staff & the ERA feel that these minimal edits can be refined during the construction
plan review process which will require no increase in order to obtain approval.
a. Increases of 0.01 to 0.4 feet along the north side of the developed area drainage ditch
running east-west for all 10yr, 25yr, 50yr, and 100yr events.
b. Increases of 0.01 to 0.1 feet near the southwest corner of the site for 25yr, 50yr, and
100yr storm events.
2. As final site design has not been completed, full analysis of the proposed project cannot be
completed at this time; therefore, an additional Offsite Drainage Assessment will be required to
evaluate the full impacts on drainage. Note that all ditches and laterals, including hydraulic
structures, will need to convey flows resulting from events up to the 100yr event with no
adverse impacts. Will be reviewed during the construction document submittal when
more detailed information is available.
Traffic Study
• The Parish Staff recommended analyzing two intersections on LA 30 to determine the impact of
the proposed development. The two intersections included LA 73 at LA 30 as well as the
proposed development driveway on LA 30. The Parish Staff recommended collecting a 48-hour
traffic count on LA 30 within the study area as well as turning movement counts at the LA 73 and
LA 30 intersection and at the proposed development driveway. Consultant has addressed.
• Appendix G (Synchro Analysis): The existing synchro analysis included the default 2% value for
the heavy vehicle (truck) percentage for each turning movement at the study intersections. The
LA 30 corridor has a substantial percentage of heavy vehicles (trucks) based on the data collected
as part of the study. The heavy vehicle (truck) percentage in the synchro analysis should be
updated at the two study intersections to accurately reflect the existing conditions. Consultant
has addressed.
Traffic Impact Study Summary:
Consulting Engineer:
Rebecca Murray, PE, PTOE, RSP1; Gresham Smith
Date of Report:
June 2026
Date of Traffic Counts:
September/October 2025
Number of Proposed Lots:
12 Lots (172,080 square feet – total)
Peak Hour Trips:
38 AM Trips / 40 PM Trips
Study Threshold Level:
2
Additional Turn Lane
Analysis: The Build condition at all intersections is anticipated to
Warrant Analysis:
operate at level of service (LOS) D or better during the build condition
of the proposed development. For the proposed development driveway
615 E. Worthey Road
Gonzales, Louisiana 70737
Phone: (225) 450-1002 / Fax: (225) 450-1352
Web: www.ascensionparish.net

PARISH OF ASCENSION
OFFICE OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
PLANNING DEPARTMENT

Sight Distance:

off LA 30, the analyses indicate that a westbound right-turn lane and an
eastbound left-turn lane are not warranted at the unsignalized
intersection under the build condition.
Sight Distance was determined to be sufficient at the proposed
development driveway

Below are summary tables of traffic analysis for the intersections studied:
LA 30 at LA 73 (Signalized Intersection)
The traffic impact study evaluated how trips from the new development would affect the nearby
signalized intersection at LA 30 and LA 73. Based on the Synchro analysis results, the approaches at the
signalized intersection experience very minimal impacts on delay and no LOS degradation. The signalized
intersection will operate at LOS D or better on all intersection approaches with the development trips.

LA 30 at Proposed Development Driveway
The traffic impact study evaluated how trips from the new development would affect the proposed
access point on LA 30. Based on the turn lane warrant analysis, turn lanes are not warranted in either
the eastbound or westbound directions on LA 30.
The following Synchro analysis results at the unsignalized intersection show the future operations of the
intersection with the proposed development trips. The unsignalized intersection will operate at LOS C
or better on all intersection approaches.

The following items should be considered by the Planning Commission in their analysis of the case:
• Based on the 12 lots included in this development, (172,080 total square feet) turn lanes on LA
30 are not warranted at this time. However, if the site is expanded in the future and additional
trips are generated beyond those analyzed in the Traffic Impact Study, the total trips generated
by the property as a whole should be reevaluated to determine whether turn lanes are
615 E. Worthey Road
Gonzales, Louisiana 70737
Phone: (225) 450-1002 / Fax: (225) 450-1352
Web: www.ascensionparish.net

PARISH OF ASCENSION
OFFICE OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
PLANNING DEPARTMENT

warranted at the development’s access on LA 30. This approach ensures that all trips associated
with the property, both the 12 lots and any future additions, are fully accounted for when
assessing the need for turn lane improvements at LA 30 and the access drive.
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to email or give me a call.
Sincerely,
Eric M. Poche, PLA, LEED AP
Director of Planning and Development
[email protected]

615 E. Worthey Road
Gonzales, Louisiana 70737
Phone: (225) 450-1002 / Fax: (225) 450-1352
Web: www.ascensionparish.net

PROPOSED PRELIMINARY PLAT
Site 1|4
174.32 Ac.

Site

FOUND MONUMENT
SET MONUMENT
RIGHT OF WAY MON.
TEMP. BENCH MARK
DRAIN MANHOLE
DROP INLET
CATCH BASIN
DRAIN LINE
SEWER MANHOLE
SEWER CLEANOUT
SEWER BLOWOUT VALVE
SEWER LINE
POWER POLE
POWER POLE & GUY POWER
DROP
POWER TRANSFORMER
POWER JUNCTION BOX
POWER VAULT
POWER LINE
GAS METER
GAS VALVE
GAS VENT
GAS LINE
TELEPHONE MANHOLE
TELEPHONE PEDESTAL
TELEPHONE CROSS CON. BOX
TELEPHONE FIBER OPTIC LINE
CABLE LINE
WATER METER
WATER VALVE
WATER CLEANOUT
FIRE HYDRANT
WATER LINE
TRAFFIC CONTROL BOX
TRAFFIC SIGN
SPOT ELEVATION
CONTOUR LINE
FENCE LINE
FLAG POLE
MAILBOX
LIGHT
TREE
TREELINE

S

TRACT 6-C-2
0

E

G

G G

TFO

C

G
G
G
G

W

G
G

X

G

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FLOODZONE 'A'
WETLAND (PRESERVED)

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WETLAND (MITIGATED)

TRACT 6-C-3
Revisions:

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DP-1

STP-1
0.09 Ac.

LOT 7
2.63 Ac.

a Westwood
company

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LOT 6
3.48 Ac.

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8555 United Plaza Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Telephone: 225 769-0546 Fax: 225 767-0060
www.csrsinc.com

LOT 8
2.63 Ac.

MAP SHOWING
PRELIMINARY PLAT

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LOT 9
2.35 Ac.
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LOT 5
1.74 Ac.

TRACT 6-C-1

LOT 4
1.74 Ac.

OF

ARROWHEAD
INDUSTRIAL PARK

PS-1
0.03 Ac.

LOT 3
1.74 Ac.

BEING FORMERLY A PORTION OF
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LOT 10
3.08 Ac.

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TRACT 6-A, TRACT 6-B,
TRACT 6-C, & LA-1

LOT 2
1.74 Ac.

INTO

LOT 12
3.44 Ac.

LOTS 1-12, DP-1, STP-1, PS-1
LA-1 & REMAINDER OF
LA-1,
TRACT 6-C-1, TRACT 6-C-2, &
TRACT 6-C-3

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LOT 1
2.61 Ac.

LOT 11
3.17 Ac.

0.025'/,

VARIES

0.025'/,

ll
G

REMAINDER OF
LOT LA-1
0.32 AC.

LOT 1
2.61 AC.

LOCATED IN
SECTIONS 21, 22, 28, 29 & 63
T-9-S R-2-E
SOUTHEAST LAND DISTRICT
ASCENSION PARISH
LOUISIANA

LA-1
2.77 Ac.

TYPICAL STREET SECTION - 60' R/W

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FOR

N.T.S.

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HARVEST COMPANIES

G

G

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F

G

REMAINDER OF
LOT LA-1
0.32 AC.
G

D

A
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Date:

APRIL 27, 2026

Project Number:

223241

Drawn By:

dch

Checked By:
NOT TO BE USED FOR CONSTRUCTION,
BIDDING, RECORDATION, CONVEYANCE, SALES,
OR AS THE BASIS FOR ISSUANCE OF A PERMIT.

K. CHRISTIAN ARMSTRONG, P.L.S.
License No. 5247

DATE

TBO

Sheet:

1

Sheet No: 1 of 1

Description: By-Laws Committee:
ATTACHMENTS:

Description: Discussion of Proposed Changes to Ascension Parish Planning and Zoning
Commission By-Laws
ATTACHMENTS:

Description: Old Business
ATTACHMENTS:

Description: Remove Tabled Item (4/8/2026): To Amend the Ascension Parish Unified Land
Development Code (LDC) Appendix II - Development Code, specifically to add Section 17-2052. High Impact Development Facility
ATTACHMENTS:

Description: To Amend the Ascension Parish Unified Land Development Code (LDC) Appendix II Development Code, specifically to add Section 17-2052. - High Impact Development Facility
ATTACHMENTS:
1.
Ord_17-2052_HIDF_V4_Final DRAFT (08 05 Ord_17-2052_HIDF_V4_Final DRAFT (08 05
26)
26).pdf

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
STATE OF LOUISIANA
PARISH OF ASCENSION
ORDINANCE
PURPOSE:
To amend the Ascension Parish Unified Land Development Code (LDC) Appendix II – Development Code,
specifically to add Section 17-2052. – High Impact Development Facility.
WHEREAS, Ascension Parish is a local governmental subdivision as defined by Article VI, Section 44
of the Louisiana Constitution of 1974, and
WHEREAS, the Parish of Ascension is the governing and responsible body over the planning and zoning
regulations within this jurisdiction, and

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WHEREAS, Article VI of the Home Rule Charter of Ascension Parish, adopted May 4, 1993, identifies
the process and manner in which to adopt ordinances regulating the lands of this parish, and
WHEREAS, High Impact Development Facilities may require substantial electrical capacity, cooling
infrastructure, water resources, emergency-response coordination, transportation improvements, and other public
and private infrastructure, and

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WHEREAS, the Parish Council finds that objective, performance-based standards are necessary to protect
public health, safety, welfare, utility reliability, emergency-response capability, infrastructure capacity,
environmental resources, and compatible land use, and
WHEREAS, the Parish Council further finds that regulation based upon operational characteristics and
reasonably anticipated land-use impacts, rather than any particular technology or business model, will provide
durable and equitable standards as digital infrastructure evolves, and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Ascension Parish Governing Authority that the Unified
Land Development Code (LDC) of Ascension Parish Louisiana, Appendix II – Development Code, is amended as
follows, as more fully described in Exhibit A attached hereto and made a part hereof:
REPEAL: All ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby and henceforth repealed.

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SEVERABILITY: In the event that any portion of this Ordinance is ever held invalid or unconstitutional
for any reason by any court of competent jurisdiction over it, such portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct, and
independent provision and shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of the Ordinance.
EFFECTIVE DATE: This Ordinance shall be in full effect as permitted by law.

This ordinance having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

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Yeas: ________________________________________________________________

Nays: ________________________________________________________________
Not Voting: ________________________________________________________________
Absent: ________________________________________________________________
And this ordinance was passed on this _____ day of ________________, 2026.

(NEW Section)
Exhibit A
A. Purpose: The purpose of this ordinance is to set minimum standards and requirements for the permitting
and operation of High Impact Development Facilities (HIDFs) in Ascension Parish. This ordinance shall
apply to Heavy Industrial (HI), Medium Industrial (MI) and Light Industrial (LI) zoned properties unless
otherwise noted in the code. Specific sections shall not apply to property zoned Heavy Industrial (HI).

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B. HIDFs may be permitted in the following Zoning districts, subject to the applicable minimum standards:
Heavy Industrial (HI), Medium Industrial (MI) and Light Industrial (LI). HIDFs in Heavy Industrial (HI)
shall be a use by right and shall follow all applicable regulations contained in this section and any other
applicable Ascension Parish codes or ordinances.
1. An application for a Conditional Use Permit for HIDFs in Medium Industrial (MI) and Light Industrial
(LI) shall be heard by the Ascension Parish Zoning Commission who shall submit recommendation(s)
to the Ascension Parish Council who shall give final approval or denial under the following procedure
at two (2) meetings.
a) he Parish Council shall vote to accept or deny the recommendation of the Zoning Commission at
the first meeting.
b) A public hearing shall be held at the second meeting, noticed as required under Appendix II
Development Code to approve or deny the Conditional Use Permit.
c) If denied, the application will be eligible for resubmission one (1) year from the date of the denial.
2. If approved, the petitioner shall have one (1) year to obtain the appropriate building permits or
commence construction (as defined in Appendix IV, Section 17-40100) at the site and have thirty-six
(36) months to complete from the date of approval of the Ascension Parish Council, unless otherwise
stipulated by the approval.

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C. Applicability: This ordinance applies to any land use where High Impact Development Facilities are
constructed in the unincorporated areas of Ascension Parish.
1. A High Impact Development Facility (HIDF) is a principal land use consisting of one or more
buildings, structures, equipment yards, substations, cooling systems, backup power systems,
communications infrastructure, or accessory improvements whose primary purpose is the processing,
storage, transmission, management, or support of digital information or computing services and which,
because of its operational characteristics, electrical demand, cooling requirements, water use, backup
generation, utility infrastructure needs, or potential impacts on surrounding properties, requires
additional review and regulation under this Section.
2. HIDFs include, but are not limited to, enterprise data centers, colocation data centers, cloud-computing
facilities, artificial-intelligence computing facilities, high-performance-computing facilities, edgecomputing facilities, digital-storage facilities, cryptocurrency or blockchain-computing facilities,
server farms, and any substantially similar digital-infrastructure facility determined by the Ordinance
Administrator to possess operational characteristics consistent with this definition.
3. The determination of whether a facility constitutes an HIDF shall be based upon the facility’s principal
use and objective operational characteristics, including connected electrical load, rack or equipment
power density, cooling capacity and method, water demand, backup power generation,
communications infrastructure, and utility requirements, rather than solely upon the specific
technology, customer, or business model employed.
4. The following shall be exempt from these regulations:
a) This ordinance shall not apply to any person or entity subject to the regulatory jurisdiction of the
Louisiana Public Service Commission (“LPSC”) or the Federal Communications Commission
(“FCC”) to the extent such person or entity is engaged in activities governed by applicable state
or federal telecommunications or broadband laws and regulations.
b) A telecommunication switching facility, network operations center, office information-technology
room, or similar accessory use that does not independently meet the principal-use and operationalOrdinance 17-2052 - Page 1

characteristics test stated above shall not be deemed an HIDF solely because it contains servers,
communications equipment, or data-processing equipment.

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D. Interpretations and Definitions.
1. For the purposes of this Ordinance, certain words shall be defined or interpreted as follows: The word
“Parish shall mean Ascension Parish, Louisiana in the unincorporated areas of Ascension Parish.
2. The words “Zoning Commission” shall mean the Ascension Parish Zoning Commission.
3. The word “Ordinance” or “Section” shall mean Section 17-2052 of Appendix II–Development Code
of the Ascension Parish Unified Land Development Code.
4. Words used in the singular in this Ordinance include the plural and words used in the plural include
the singular.
5. Words used in the present tense include future tense.
6. The word “person” includes a firm, association, organization, corporation, company, trust, and
partnership as well as an individual.
7. The words “used” or “occupied” shall mean “intended, designed, and arranged to be used by or is
used/occupied by persons.”
8. The word “lot” shall include the words “plot,” “parcel,” “site,” “acreage,” “tract,” and “premises.”
9. The word “structure” shall include the word “building.”
10. The word “includes” shall not limit the term to specified examples but is intended to extend its meaning
to all other instances or circumstances of like kind or character.
11. As used in this section, the following terms shall have the meanings as dictated:
a) Accessory Structure - means a structure located on the same parcel of property as the principal
structure and the use supports the principal structure. Garages, carports and storage sheds are
common accessory structures.
b) Assisted Living Facility - A residential housing option for seniors needing help with daily
activities such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and housekeeping—but who do not
require 24/7 skilled nursing care.
c) Authorization to Construct – A development or construction permit issued by the Ordinance
Administrator authorizing the construction of a new entity or facility listed in Paragraph C of this
Section. The Chief Building Official or his designee shall have the power and control over the
issuance of any building permit(s) once a development permit has been issued by the Ordinance
Administrator.
d) Buffer – A strip of land or an area of separation between properties or land uses measured from
different property boundaries, different property uses, or surface waters as defined by Appendix
II, Section 17-2084, or as amended by this Section.
e) Church - A Christian place of worship or the body of believers, often used for services and
communal gathering.
f) Commercial – Use for an occupation, employment, or enterprise that is carried on for profit by the
owner, lessee, or licensee.
g) Cryptocurrency – A digital currency in which encryption techniques are used to regulate the
generation of units of currency and verify the transfer of funds.
h) Daycare - Daycare is the professional supervision and care for children or disabled adults provided
during the day, often for compensation.
i) Day time – For the purposes of this Ordinance, the time of day between the hours of 7 a.m. and 6
p.m.
j) Dwelling – as defined in Appendix II Development Code, Section 17-20100.
k) High Impact – A use listed in Paragraph C of this Ordinance.
l) Hospice - specialized, holistic care for individuals with a terminal illness (typically a life
expectancy of six months or less) who have chosen to stop curative treatments.
m) Hospital - A hospital is a licensed health institution providing inpatient and outpatient medical,
surgical, and psychiatric care, staffed by doctors and nurses, and equipped for diagnosis and
treatment.
n) Night Time – For the purposes of this Ordinance, the time between the hours of 6 p.m. and 7 a.m.
Ordinance 17-2052 - Page 2

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o) Development Permit – A required permit to operate a facility listed in Paragraph C issued by the
Ordinance Administrator.
p) Ordinance Administrator – An individual designated by the Ascension Parish Council and charged
with upholding the provisions of this chapter and having the power to enter all lands at reasonable
times to ensure that these provisions are being carried out. Unless otherwise appointed, the
Director of Planning and Development or his designee shall be the Ordinance Administrator.
q) Principal Use - The primary purpose for which land, buildings or other improvement(s) is/are
arranged, designed, intended or used, including the storage or use of supplies, inventory, materials,
equipment or products associated therewith.
r) Private School - A school operated by a private, non-governmental entity. A private school
provides a facility (campus) and curriculum similar to public schools.
s) Public School – A non-commercial, elementary, secondary, or post-secondary school that is
supported by public funds, that is guided by local, state, and federal government policies and
procedures, and that provides free education for children of a community or district. For the
purposes of this Chapter, a “charter school” shall be considered a Public School.
t) Screening – The use of any device or natural growth including but not limited to fencing, walls,
berms, vegetation, or any combination thereof that serves as a barrier of vision between adjoining
properties.
u) Separation – Where separation restrictions are required, no portion of the active area on which the
regulated use is located shall be situated within the stated distance from the protected use(s)
whether such protected uses(s) are located within or outside Ascension Parish.
v) Setback - A continuous strip of land, or an area of land, or a specific minimum distance measured
from defined, identifiable places such as property lines, streets, watercourses, or lakes that border
or traverse the property (whichever is closer to the active area, principal use or building) in which
no principal use is permitted. Limited development, including buffers and related development,
parking lots and accessory structures and buildings, access road corridors, and interior service
roads, may occur within the setback or as directed by the Zoning Official.
w) Artificial Intelligence Computing Facility – An HIDF principally used for training, inference, or
other computation involving artificial-intelligence or machine-learning models. The term
describes a type of use and does not independently determine applicability under Paragraph C.
x) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) – One or more devices, assembled together, capable of
storing energy in order to supply electrical energy at a future time, together with associated
controls, enclosures, fire-protection systems, and electrical equipment.
y) Closed-Loop Cooling System – A cooling system that recirculates cooling media through a
substantially closed circuit and minimizes routine withdrawal and discharge of water, excluding
limited makeup water, maintenance drainage, and emergency discharge.
z) Connected Electrical Load – The maximum aggregate electrical demand, expressed in megawatts,
that the facility is designed or contractually authorized to receive at the point or points of utility
interconnection.
aa) Critical Equipment – Electrical, mechanical, communications, cooling, fuel, life-safety, or control
equipment whose failure or inundation could materially impair safe operation, emergency
shutdown, or environmental protection.
bb) High Performance Computing (HPC) – Computing systems designed to perform complex
calculations or process large quantities of data at high speed, including systems used for scientific
computing, simulation, modeling, artificial intelligence, or similar intensive computational
purposes.
cc) Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) – The ratio of total facility energy consumption to the energy
consumed by information-technology equipment, calculated in accordance with a generally
accepted industry methodology identified in the permit application.
dd) Utility Availability Letter – A written statement from the serving electric, water, wastewater, gas,
or communications utility, as applicable, identifying whether service is available or may be made
available subject to stated conditions, studies, improvements, or agreements.
ee) Waste Heat – Thermal energy produced by facility equipment or cooling systems that is
discharged to the ambient environment or is otherwise not reused within or outside the facility.
Ordinance 17-2052 - Page 3

E. The Parish Office of Planning and Development is responsible for the initial evaluation of all HIDF
conditional use applications to ensure the development is constructed and operated in compliance with the
requirements of this ordinance. HIDF permit applications shall be evaluated and processed in accordance
with Sec. 17-2052. No HIDF development permit will be issued unless the application conforms to these
requirements.
F. Lot size: On property zoned LI or MI, the minimum lot size of the facility shall be twenty (20)
contiguous acres or greater.

In order to establish permitted locations, the separation measurement shall be made in a straight
line from the closest or nearest property line of the lot containing the building, structure, outdoor
storage, principal use, or active area of the high impact development to the nearest property line
of the above listed protected facilities. Presence of a city, Parish or other political subdivision
boundary shall be irrelevant for purposes of calculating and applying the spacing requirements of
this Section.
Reciprocal separation requirement. In the event that a protected entity chooses to establish a new
location of operation which is within the controlled proximity of a pre-existing, regulated entity, then,
the proposed, protected entity shall comply with the full separation distance requirements stated within
Paragraph H of this Section; and the full separation distance shall be upon the tract of the proposed,
protected entity and not upon the pre-existing, regulated entity.
Vegetative Buffer. A continuous vegetative buffer shall be maintained along any property line of a
high impact development use which is adjacent to a public right-of-way or adjacent to property on
which is located a public or private school, childcare institution/facilities, church, day care center,
hospital, nursing care home or hospice center, retirement facility or assisted living institution, dwelling
unit or correctional facility. The vegetative buffer strip shall not be less than twenty-five feet in width
at a reasonable maturity and shall be composed of evergreen trees or shrubs approved by the Ordinance
Administrator and which are of a type that at planting shall be a minimum of five feet in height and
which at maturity shall not be less than ten feet in height.
Plans for buffering shall be provided with the permit application. Plants required in the buffer shall be
carefully planted and shall be maintained in effective condition. Failure to maintain the buffer in
reasonable, effective condition shall constitute a violation of this Ordinance and incur penalties in
accordance with Paragraph N.3 of this Section. This planting requirement may be modified by the
Ordinance Administrator where adequate buffering exists in the form of natural vegetation or terrain.
Stream Buffer. The closest point of building, structure, or outdoor storage of a high impact
development use shall be set back from all surface waters, the minimum horizontal distance specified
in Paragraph H of this Section.

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2.

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G. Locational, Screening and Mitigation Requirements.
No high impact development, as defined herein, on a parcel or parcels of land shall be permitted,
constructed, operated, or maintained except in accordance with the following standards:
1. Separation. The location of the closest point from the property line of a principal use, active area,
building, structure or outdoor storage of a high impact development use shall be the minimum distance
(measured in feet) specified in Paragraph H of this Section to the nearest property line for any existing:
a) Public and Private School
b) Childcare institution/facilities
c) Church
d) Daycare center
e) Hospital
f) Hospice
g) Family care, intermediate care and nursing care facilities
h) Retirement facility or assisted living institution
i) Correctional Institution (including local jail and state prisons)
j) Dwelling unit

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3.

4.

5.

Ordinance 17-2052 - Page 4

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6. Principal Use Setback. All buildings, structures, or other improvements constituting the principal use
for any high impact development shall be set back from the property lines the minimum distances
specified in Paragraph H of this Section.
7. Screening. All high impact development uses shall be effectively screened. The screening may be
located within any required buffer or setback. The screening may consist of the required continuous
vegetative buffer described in subsection 3 of this Paragraph or, upon approval of the Ordinance
Administrator, a combination of the vegetative buffer, opaque wooden fences, masonry walls, or
landscaped earthen berms that are approved for use.
8. Setback Uses. Any legal, permitted (excluding the regulated entities herein) use may be located within
the building setbacks of any high impact development use located on the same parcel of land.
9. Equipment Siting. To the maximum extent practicable, substations, cooling equipment, backup
generators, fuel-storage areas, loading areas, and other exterior mechanical equipment shall be located
on the portion of the site farthest from protected uses identified in Paragraph G.1 and shall be screened
by a principal building, acoustical barrier, earthen berm, or equivalent measure approved by the
Ordinance Administrator.
10. Flood-Sensitive Equipment. Critical electrical, communications, cooling-control, fuel-transfer,
emergency-power, and life-safety equipment shall be located or elevated in accordance with applicable
Parish floodplain and drainage requirements and the flood-resilience provisions of this Section.

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H. Setbacks:
On property zoned LI or MI or property zoned HI adjacent to residential zoned property or
residential use at the time of construction, all buildings, support structures, storage, and mechanical
equipment within the HIDF shall be setback at least the greater of:
1. High Impact Development Facility
a) Separation from items G.1.a. through j.
(1) 2,640’ (1/2 mile)
b) Setback
(1) 750’
c) Buffer from drainage way
(1) 500’
2. All HIDFs shall be a minimum of 2,640’ (1/2 mile) from the boundary of any nearby area designated
for Residential Neighborhood.
3. On property zoned LI or MI, all lease/property boundaries of a HIDF shall be a minimum of 300'
from any public road right of way to allow for commercial or residential corridor development.
4. Agriculture uses are permitted within the setback areas.
5. The setback and separation requirements of this Paragraph shall apply to exterior mechanical and
electrical equipment, including generators, cooling equipment, transformers, substations, batteryenergy-storage systems, and fuel-storage installations. Such equipment shall not be used to satisfy or
reduce any required screening or buffer width.
6. Where a principal building can serve as an effective acoustical and visual barrier, exterior mechanical
equipment shall, to the maximum extent practicable, be placed on the side of the building opposite the
nearest protected use or residentially designated area.
I.

Fire Protection:

Areas of the HIDF susceptible to fire shall be equipped with a fire monitoring system. The system shall
automatically notify off-site emergency personnel listed in the facility's Emergency Response Plan. These
efforts will be coordinated with the local fire district. The facility will be designed and built to the
applicable editions of the electrical, building, fire, and life-safety codes adopted by the State of Louisiana
and Ascension Parish, including applicable standards governing data-processing equipment, emergency
and standby power systems, fire-alarm systems, and battery-energy-storage systems. The facility shall
comply with all applicable codes and regulation standards for fire protection and shall be designed and
constructed utilizing engineering controls to limit the spread of fire.

Ordinance 17-2052 - Page 5

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The facility will comply with Chapter 8 of the Ascension Parish Code of Ordinances, Emergency
Management.
1. Battery-Energy-Storage Systems. Any battery-energy-storage system shall comply with all applicable
adopted codes and standards and shall include listed equipment, thermal-runaway detection and
mitigation, ventilation where required, emergency isolation, hazard signage, and access for emergency
responders. The application shall identify battery chemistry, aggregate storage capacity, enclosure
type, fire-protection features, and emergency procedures.
2. Emergency and Standby Power. Generator installations, fuel tanks, transfer systems, and associated
piping shall comply with applicable adopted codes. Aboveground fuel storage shall include secondary
containment, impact protection, leak detection or inspection procedures, and emergency isolation
appropriate to the installation.
3. Fire Protection Water Supply. The applicant shall demonstrate that an adequate and reliable water
supply, or an approved alternative fire-protection system, is available for the hazards presented by the
facility. Any dedicated fire-water storage tank or reservoir, pumps, or private mains shall be sized for
fire-flow demand and maintained, inspected, and tested in accordance with applicable adopted codes.
4. Hazardous Materials Inventory. Prior to commercial operation and annually thereafter, the owner or
operator shall provide the applicable Fire Chief and Parish emergency-management office with an
updated inventory and site map identifying reportable fuels, batteries, coolants, treatment chemicals,
and other hazardous materials, together with current safety data sheets, subject to lawful protection of
security-sensitive information.
J. Safety/Access on property zoned LI or MI:

A minimum eight (8) foot opaque security fence shall be placed around the perimeter of the HIDF to
prevent unauthorized access and to provide screening and security. The fencing shall encompass the
perimeter of facility inside of the vegetative buffer required under subsection G.3. Lock boxes and keys to
the facility shall be stored at locked entrances for emergency access. Entrances shall be equipped with
lights for nighttime illumination.
1. Security Lighting. Security lighting shall be fully shielded, directed downward, and limited to the
illumination reasonably necessary for safety and security. Emergency lighting may operate at full
output during an emergency or response event.

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K. Signage on property zoned LI or MI:

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One or more signs shall be affixed to the fence at the main entrance identifying the owner of the facility
and emergency contact information.
1. The main entrance and each emergency-access point shall also display the facility address, twentyfour-hour emergency contact information, and hazard-identification placards required by applicable
law or adopted code. Signs shall be maintained in legible condition and shall not disclose securitysensitive information beyond that required for emergency response.

L. Emergency Services:

A copy of the electrical schematic and site plan shall be submitted to the Fire Chief of the Fire District.
The owner or operator shall develop an emergency plan and provide it to the Fire Chief for approval prior
to commencing commercial operations. Emergency plans for the HIDF will be updated (or confirmed as
current) in writing to the Fire Chief by March 1 of each year, and shall be reviewed annually by the Fire
Chief, prior to April 1 of each year. Copies of the emergency plan and approval(s) shall also be provided
to the Planning and Zoning Department as part of the Conditional Use permit.
1. Emergency Response Plan Contents. The Emergency Response Plan shall address, as applicable: fire
and smoke events; battery thermal runaway; fuel or chemical release; electrical fault or arc-flash event;
loss of cooling; utility interruption; severe weather and flooding; emergency shutdown and isolation;
evacuation and accountability; emergency communications; and coordination with utilities,
contractors, and public responders.
Ordinance 17-2052 - Page 6

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2. Emergency Coordinator. The owner or operator shall designate a primary and alternate emergency
coordinator who are available twenty-four hours per day and authorized to initiate shutdown, isolation,
evacuation, contractor response, and other protective actions. Current contact information shall be
provided to the Fire Chief, Parish emergency-management office, and Ordinance Administrator.
3. Pre-Incident Planning and Drills. Before commercial operation, and at least annually thereafter, the
owner or operator shall participate in a pre-incident planning meeting with the applicable fire district
and Parish emergency-management office. A tabletop exercise or site drill shall be conducted at
intervals determined by the Fire Chief based upon facility hazards, but not less frequently than once
every two years.
4. Emergency Shutdown Information. Clearly identified emergency-disconnect, fuel-isolation, batteryisolation, and utility-shutdown procedures shall be maintained on site and made available to authorized
emergency responders. Any remote shutdown capability shall be identified in the Emergency
Response Plan.
5. Private Response Capability. The owner or operator shall identify specialized contractors, equipment,
and technical resources needed for incidents that exceed the ordinary capabilities of local responders.
Where required as a condition of approval, the owner or operator shall maintain contracts or other
binding arrangements for such specialized response and shall bear the reasonable facility-specific costs
of required training, equipment, or technical assistance to the extent permitted by law.
6. Incident Notification. The owner or operator shall notify the Parish emergency-management office
and Ordinance Administrator as soon as practicable following any fire, explosion, hazardous-material
release, emergency shutdown, evacuation, or other incident requiring an off-site emergency response,
and shall submit a written incident and corrective-action report within thirty (30) days.
M. OPERATIONS - Applicable to all High Impact Development Facilities.

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1. Any facility governed by this ordinance with equipment using 15kW of power or greater per rack, or
1 Megawatt of power for the entire system/facility, must have a cooling system designed as a closed
loop or recirculating system. Cooling media shall be restricted to industry approved heat transfer
fluids, such as glycol-based solutions, synthetic dielectric fluids, or non-potable process water,
provided it is managed through a closed-loop chemical treatment program. Air-cooled and open-loop
cooling prohibited. No withdrawal from parish or municipal water systems for cooling will be allowed.
a) Any non-potable supply lines or equipment must be clearly labeled "NON-POTABLE WATER DO NOT DRINK" per standard safety codes.
b) Discharge cooling water, chemicals or heated effluent may not be discharged into municipal
stormwater or drainage system.
2. Any facility governed by this ordinance shall be responsible for 100% of the cost of any power
generation, substation or transmission line upgrades required to serve the facility.
a) Before commercial operation, the owner or operator shall provide written documentation from the
serving electric utility confirming the approved service capacity, point of interconnection, required
system upgrades, anticipated energization schedule, and any load-management or curtailment
obligations applicable to the facility.
3. All facilities must comply with IEEE 519 standards at the Point of Common Coupling (PCC) with
limits on the Total Harmonic Voltage Distortion depending on the voltage level.
4. On property zoned LI or MI, all facilities must be fully enclosed and screened from public view as
per Section G of this ordinance.
5. On property zoned LI or MI, the HIDF shall not exceed fifty (50) A-weighted decibels (dBA) or
five (5) dBA over existing ambient levels, whichever is greater, as measured at the facility's
immovable property boundary(s) while the facility is in operation. No sound shall be objectionable
due to intermittence, best frequency or shrillness. A noise analysis demonstrating compliance with this
noise standard shall be provided with the application. The study shall be conducted in conformance
with American National Standard ANSI/ASA S1.13-2020: Measurement of Sound Pressure Levels in

Ordinance 17-2052 - Page 7

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Air (as supplemented and updated as an American National Standard) and shall be completed by an
independent third party.
a) Tonal Penalty: If a prominent, discrete industrial hum is identified via narrow-band analysis, the
permitted threshold shall automatically drop by 5 dBA.
b) Continuous, automatic sound monitoring stations shall be required for any facility operating
within 1/2 mile of a residential neighborhood.
c) The acoustical analysis shall evaluate low-frequency sound, tonal components, impulsive or
modulating sound, simultaneous operation of cooling equipment and generators, and reasonably
foreseeable full-load conditions. Measurements shall include octave-band or one-third-octaveband data sufficient to identify low-frequency and tonal impacts.
d) Within ninety (90) days after commercial operation begins, and annually for the first three (3)
years thereafter, the owner or operator shall submit an independent post-construction acoustical
verification demonstrating compliance under representative maximum operating conditions. The
Ordinance Administrator may require additional testing following a material equipment change or
a substantiated complaint.
6. No vibrations which are perceptible without the aid of instruments shall be permitted as measured on
a lot outside of this land use.
7. On property zoned LI or MI, backup generator testing shall only occur during daylight hours
between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
a) Routine generator testing shall be scheduled and sequenced to minimize cumulative noise and airemission impacts. This restriction shall not prohibit operation during an actual utility outage,
emergency, required commissioning event, or legally required load test that cannot reasonably be
performed within the stated period.
b) All stationary engines and generators shall comply with applicable federal and state air-quality
requirements, permit conditions, fuel specifications, operating limitations, maintenance
requirements, and recordkeeping obligations.
8. On property zoned LI or MI, no emission of odorous matter in any quantities so as to produce a
public nuisance shall be permitted, as measured on a lot outside of this land use.
9. On property zoned LI or MI, the emission of smoke, soot, fly ash, fumes, dust or other types of
pollutants borne by the wind shall be controlled so that the rate of emission and quantity deposited do
not create a public nuisance, as measured on a lot outside of this land use.
10. Exterior lighting shall be used in a manner that produces no glare on public highways or on a lot
outside of this land use.
a) Exterior lighting shall be fully shielded and directed downward. Except for lighting required for
active work, security response, or an emergency, lighting shall use timers, dimming, motion
controls, or other adaptive controls to reduce illumination during periods of inactivity.
11. Material Operational Changes. . On property zoned LI or MI, the owner or operator shall notify the
Ordinance Administrator before implementing a material operational change that may increase
approved, noise, traffic, emissions, drainage requirements or the area of exterior equipment. Any
change that amounts to more than a 10% variance from the originally approved amount shall constitute
a substantial change and require an amended site plan, supplemental study, or modification of the
Conditional Use Permit.

N. Maintenance . On property zoned LI or MI:
The owner or operator of the HIDF shall maintain the HIDF in good condition. This should include,
without limitation, painting, structural repairs, vegetation control, non-public roads, perimeter fencing and
locks, perimeter landscaping, and integrity of security equipment.
1. The Ordinance Administrator may periodically inspect the development activities subject to the
requirements of this Section and shall request, from the applicant, permission to inspect the high

Ordinance 17-2052 - Page 8

impact development during construction and thereafter. The Parish may require adherence to the plan
regarding maintenance.
2. If voluntary entry is denied, the Ordinance Administrator may seek any legal means to inspect the high
impact development and the facility shall be considered to be in violation of this ordinance.

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3. In the event an inspection notes a failure to adhere to the plan, the Parish may levy a fine of up to $100
if the applicant fails to remedy the failure within one day of such notice. Each day thereafter shall be
an additional violation and shall be subject to an additional $200 fine for each violation until the failure
is remedied. After five consecutive days of violation, the per day fine shall increase to $500. A repeat
violation within the same month as a prior violation is remedied shall be subject to a fine of $500.
Such fine shall apply to each day of the repeat violation and written notice shall be provided to the
permittee of the deficiency, which notice shall be deemed provided upon delivery by mail or electronic
means. The permittee shall have five days from the date of delivery of the notice to remediate the
deficiency. If the permittee fails to remediate the deficiency, the permittee shall be fined $500.00. The
permittee shall be fined $500.00 for each day, or part thereof, for each subsequent day that the
deficiency is not remediated, with each day considered a separate violation.
4. The Ordinance Administrator, or his designee shall be responsible for all inspections, plan review and
approval, engaging code enforcement, and other responsibilities as outlined in this Section.
O. Landscaping . On property zoned LI or MI:

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Prior to commencing construction of the HIDF, a perimeter landscaping buffer shall be planted (but with
allowances for construction ingress and egress). The buffer shall be designed and certified by a Louisiana
registered Landscape Architect to create an opaque vegetative 'hedge' within 2 years of commercial
operation along all property lines that are oriented to public roads, highways and existing occupied
residences within two hundred fifty (250) feet of the HIDF boundary. The vegetative perimeter shall
consist of trees, foliage, bamboo, etc. such that the facility equipment is concealed from public view.
Vegetation shall be maintained for the duration of the HIDF's operation. The Zoning Commission/Parish
Council may require visual screening with fabric or solid fencing where special circumstances related to
adjacent occupied structures warrant such treatment.

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1. Species Selection. The landscape plan shall favor native or well-adapted, non-invasive species selected
for year-round screening, storm tolerance, site hydrology, mature size, and compatibility with utilities
and emergency access. Species known to be invasive or likely to damage drainage, pavement, security
fencing, or utility systems shall not be used.
2. Replacement. Dead, diseased, damaged, or ineffective required vegetation shall be replaced during the
next appropriate planting season, but not later than one hundred eighty (180) days after written notice
unless the Ordinance Administrator approves an alternative schedule based on seasonal conditions.

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3. Irrigation and Establishment. The plan shall provide for irrigation or an equivalent establishment
program sufficient to achieve the required screening. Temporary irrigation may be removed after the
landscape architect certifies that the plantings are established and self-sustaining under ordinary
conditions.

P. HIDF Permit Application:
The following information shall be submitted to the Ascension Parish Office of Planning and Development
for each proposed HIDF, or an addition to an existing HIDF.
1. Facility description and rationale: Identify the name of the facility, the names of the entities engaged
in the design and construction of the facility, along with a description of their licensing and/or
professional credentials. All engineers, surveyors, other professionals and contractors shall be licensed
in the State of Louisiana. The type, size, rated power output, performance, safety and noise
characteristics of the proposed system should be identified.
2. Permits: The HIDF shall not begin delivering services in commercial quantities until all required
permits from the local, state, and federal levels have been obtained. A list of permits already obtained
and permits anticipated to be obtained along with a timeline to obtain said permits shall be provided
Ordinance 17-2052 - Page 9

with the HIDF Permit Application. The failure to obtain any Construction and Development Permits
required by this Section, the Ascension Parish Unified Land Development Code or the Ascension
Parish Code of Ordinances shall be a violation of this Ordinance subject to penalties stated herein.
3. Lease: If the immovable property site of the facility is leased, the facility owner and/or operator shall
submit a copy of the recorded notice of lease (or similar recorded instrument), which shall contain the
following: (a) a declaration that the property is leased and the names and addresses of the lessor and
lessee; (b) an immovable property description of the leased property and size of the leased property;
(c) the date of the lease; (d) its term and the provisions of any extensions and renewals of the term
provided for in the agreement; and (e) if a sublease, a reference to the recordation information of the
primary lease of notice of lease that is subleased.
4. Boundaries: Identify all immovable property boundaries and actual dimensions upon which the HIDF
will be located, including total acreage, with bearing and distances. Identify on same plat, the names
and addresses of all adjacent property owners.

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5. Site Plan: A site plan shall be submitted showing streets, circulation, driveways, service building(s),
easements, arrangements and locations of all systems and equipment on the immovable property.
Include the location of all facility signage, including any warning signage. Site plan shall denote all
FEMA Flood Zones and designated Base Flood Elevations (BFE's) within the facility with all
buildings and equipment meeting Ascension Parish elevation requirements as per Appendix VDrainage of the Unified Land Development Code.

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6. Transportation Management: Applicants shall be required to adhere to Section 17-4060. - Traffic
Impact Analysis, contained in Appendix IV-Subdivision Regulations of the Unified Land
Development Code. The traffic impact analysis shall consider the number of trips generated by
temporary construction jobs and the number of permanent jobs associated with the facility. The traffic
impact analysis shall meet DOTD in addition to Parish requirements. The application shall include a
dust control component to mitigate the traffic impact indicated by the analysis during construction,
and shall provide for limestone, hard surface, or similarly durable materials on all access roads during
construction. All HIDFs shall be subject to Parish Transportation Impact Fees for total building square
footage under the 'Industrial Park' category.

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7. Transportation Plan: All HIDFs shall provide an access plan for both the construction and operation
phase of the facility. The plan must show proposed facility service road ingress and egress access onto
the primary and secondary routes and the layout of the facility service road system. Projects shall be
required to maintain and/or repair all parish roads to pre-construction condition or better.
8. Visual Impacts: Applicant shall demonstrate the visual impact of the proposed HIDF using renderings
and drawings with the consideration of the vegetative buffering. Renderings shall be provided to
illustrate the visual appearance of the facility from relevant public roads and from areas of existing
occupied residential or commercial development.

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9. Wildlife: Submit a report summarizing the potential effects of the facility on wildlife and endangered
species in the area. This report must be prepared by a qualified third-party consultant with expertise
in wildlife management and environmental studies. To the extent that a proposed facility will impact
a natural wildlife habitat, the report shall comply with the March 20, 1996, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service "Habitat Evaluation Procedures," Publication 870 FW I (as supplemented and updated).
10. Archaeological and Cultural Resources: All applicants shall submit clearance as per Section 106
guidelines.
11. Environmental and Health Safety Standards. All applicable environmental, health and safety
regulations and standards shall be complied with during construction and operation of the facility to
protect the public health and the environment.
12. Drainage Impact: Applicant shall provide a Drainage Impact Study according to Attachment B. Drainage Impact Study Procedure contained in Appendix V - Drainage of the Unified Land
Development Code.

Ordinance 17-2052 - Page 10

13. Solid and Hazardous Waste: Identify any solid waste or hazardous waste that will be generated by the
HIDF. The application shall include a plan for spill prevention, clean-up and disposal of obsolete
materials, fuels, oils and hazardous wastes, as well as collection and storage methods for solid waste
generated by the HIDF.
14. Lighting: Provide lighting plans showing all lighting within and on the perimeter of the facility. Dark
Sky lighting shall be employed to prevent 'spill over' to adjacent properties.
15. Vegetative Maintenance Plan: Submit a plan for the upkeep and maintenance of the vegetation in
compliance with Paragraph 17-2052.O.
16. Public Safety: Submit a copy of the Emergency Response Plan to the Parish Director of Homeland
Security and Emergency Preparedness in compliance with Chapter 8 of the Ascension Parish Code of
Ordinances, Emergency Management. Note that sole dependance on local fire department(s) and
public employee emergency responders are not the primary responders and that independent
fire/emergency responders must be secured by contract to perform these services.

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17. Sound Limitations. On property zoned LI or MI: Identify anticipated noise levels at the fence line
of the facility when construction is complete and when in operation. Project must adhere to the
limitations as set forth in Paragraph M.5.
a) An existing condition analysis should be performed to establish a baseline “before development”
noise level.

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18. Magnetic Field Limitations: Identify anticipated magnetic field levels in mG at various distances from
representative equipment.
19. Telecommunications Interference: Identify electromagnetic fields and communications interference to
be generated by the facility when construction is complete and when the facility is in operation.
20. Reliability and Load Management Plan: Identify numeric limits on Total Voltage Harmonic Distortion
at the point of utility connection to prevent power sags, flickers, or brownouts for neighboring
residents.
21. Utility Availability Study. Submit written documentation from each serving electric, water,
wastewater, gas, and telecommunications utility, as applicable, identifying existing capacity, proposed
demand, required improvements, the party responsible for each improvement, anticipated service
dates, and any conditions necessary to protect existing customers and planned growth.
22. Construction Management Plan. Provide construction phasing, anticipated workforce, hours of work,
haul routes, delivery staging, parking, dust and mud control, road-protection measures, temporary
lighting, construction noise controls, complaint contact information, and procedures for coordinating
oversized or unusually heavy deliveries.
23. Operational Traffic Management Plan. Identify routine staffing, deliveries, fuel deliveries, waste
removal, maintenance traffic, emergency access, parking, gate queuing, and measures to prevent
trucks from staging on public roads.
24. Decommissioning Plan. Describe the process, schedule, and estimated cost to remove equipment,
buildings and foundations not approved to remain, fuels, batteries, chemicals, waste, underground
improvements, and security facilities; close or transfer utility services; stabilize and restore the site;
and maintain drainage and erosion controls. The plan shall identify triggering events, including
abandonment or cessation of operations.

Q. Application and Permit Fee:
The HIDF permit application fee shall be $5,000.00 plus 1.2 cents per square foot of gross area of
structures located within the facility's fenced boundary. This fee shall be paid with the HIDF permit
application. No processing or review of the HIDF permit application will begin until the permit fee has
been paid. The permit fee shall be adjusted annually in accordance with the Consumer Price Index
published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov/news.release/cpi.t04.htm or its successor
URL) using Table 4, Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U): Selected Areas, All Items
Index, South Region, Size Class B/C, or that index's successor indicator.
Ordinance 17-2052 - Page 11

The permit application fee is intended to cover the expenses to the parish, which include, but are not limited
to, the cost of advertisement, hiring of consultants to guide the review process, and administration and
supervision of any approved project by the consultant(s) as authorized by the parish. The fee is not
refundable. If the parish, in its administration and enforcement of this ordinance, requires expert assistance
that exceeds the application fee, the cost of such assistance shall be borne by the applicant or
owner/operator and shall be deposited into escrow upon request, with any balance of any unused portion
of the deposit returned to the applicant, owner or operator.
R. Conflict of Laws:
Whenever the requirements of this ordinance conflict with each other or with the requirements of any other
applicable federal or state statute, rule, regulation, permit, or other provisions of the Unified Land
Development Code, the provision imposing the more protective or restrictive standard shall apply to the
extent permitted by law. Nothing in this Section shall be construed to authorize conduct prohibited by
federal or state law or to regulate a matter preempted from local regulation.

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S. Variances:
The Zoning Commission/Parish Council may recommend/approve variances from the strict application of
this section when reasonably warranted by site conditions or project features that are not fully accounted
for by the provisions of Sec. 17-2052. To be effective, any such variance must be explicitly stated in the
Zoning Commission's recommendation and approved by the Parish Council as a condition of the
Conditional Use Permit.
T. Cessation of Operations, Decommissioning, and Financial Assurance On Property Zoned LI or MI.
1. An HIDF shall be considered abandoned when commercial operations have ceased for twelve (12)
consecutive months, excluding a documented temporary shutdown for maintenance, reconstruction,
casualty restoration, utility-directed interruption, force majeure, or another period approved in writing
by the Ordinance Administrator based upon demonstrated intent and ability to resume operations.
2. Within ninety (90) days after abandonment, the owner or operator shall commence implementation of
the approved decommissioning plan unless the Parish approves a transfer, repowering, reuse, or
revised schedule. Decommissioning shall be completed within twelve (12) months after
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3. Decommissioning shall include removal or lawful reuse of equipment, generators, batteries, fuels,
chemicals, waste, security systems, utility connections, and structures or foundations not approved to
remain; remediation of contamination; stabilization of disturbed areas; restoration of drainage; and
maintenance of erosion control until the site is stable.

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4. Before issuance of the Authorization to Construct, the owner or operator shall provide financial
assurance in a form approved by the Parish Attorney and acceptable to the Parish, such as a surety
bond, irrevocable letter of credit, cash escrow, or other legally enforceable instrument. The amount
shall equal the independently estimated net cost of decommissioning and site restoration, without
credit for speculative salvage value.
5. The financial assurance amount shall be reviewed at least every five (5) years and after a material
expansion, and shall be increased when the updated estimate exceeds the available assurance. The
instrument shall permit the Parish, after notice and opportunity to cure as required by law, to draw
funds necessary to complete required work if the responsible party fails to do so.

Ordinance 17-2052 - Page 12