Bienville Place Owners Association

Thanks for the info

I lived at 108 St Andrews Drive from 1979-1982 and Hurricane Frederick arrived the day after I did. It was a kitten compared to Katrina. I know that most of my neighbors no longer abide there. I am, nevertheless, glad to hear that St.Andrews has surviwed, though barely, another one. This one will take some doing to get back to a near normal existence. But you guys and gals can do it as you always have! My best to you all. Pat Williams

Sixth-Month Update

Here are my cursory impressions. Generally, progress is slowed by the shortage of craftsmen, lack of money, and our inchoate do-it-yourself skills. Initial FEMA $5K relocation grant assistance money has been distributed. The bulk of any grant money is still pending (FEMA $25K and homeowners?’ $150K disaster grants). We are concerned that the grants may be so conditioned that they will become practically unavailable. Undisputed insurance money has been received and disputed insurance claims are being mediated and negotiated. Lastly, SBA loan distributions have begun.

Volunteers from all over are still available through local churches and they are focusing on initial home cleanout in drywall installation. However in the neighborhood, the need has shifted mostly to craftsmen. On Tantallon, the last condemned house was razed last week. There are now about 7 and 5 cleared housing slabs on the south and north sides of Tantallon, respectively. Marylyn and Terry have reframed their slabs but progress seems to have stalled. Others are generally at the roofing and sheetrocking stages of repair.

On Inverness, Zack and Lynn are struggling to get satisfactory contractor work. Judy and John have hired a mold removal contractor. Larry and Caroline are tying in cabinets and appliances. Allen and Maurine, Bernie and Dee, and Becky and I are generally at the flooring stage. Other homeowners generally seem to have completed their repairs.


By Al Pettigrew