The town of Abita Springs wants to know what repair plans owners of storm-damaged homes have, and Mayor Louis Fitzmorris plans to send out letters requesting a written response with a timeline.

The moves signal the town's intention to return, as much as possible, to its pre-Katrina state -- and in some cases fix pre-existing problems. If the letters don't prod property owners to make repairs, they may find themselves facing strict enforcement of regulations and fines.

"If I'm not getting good responses or no responses, then we might have to play hardball," Fitzmorris said. He brought up the issue at Tuesday night's meeting of the Board of Aldermen.

They agreed to send out letters to the owners of storm-damaged properties, including vacant lots on which dangling or leaning trees pose a hazard to their neighbors.

The property owners will be expected to indicate their plans and timeline for repairs and obtain permits for the work. "We can't just allow people to let their properties deteriorate," Alderwoman Regina Benton said.

The mayor and aldermen passed an ordinance this year that gives Fitzmorris the authority to condemn homes whose damage is deemed dangerous. The measure allowed the town to participate in a federally sponsored demolition and debris-removal program.

But Fitzmorris has said very few homes need demolition, and so far the town has relied on residents to request that assistance.

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Abita Springs LA Damaged Property