Opelousas Historic District Commission members held a meeting on Thursday, August 3rd to review applications concerning properties within the district. The members reviewed three applications, however because there was not a quorum present, the items were discussed but not voted on. Another meeting to vote on the applications presented will be set for some time next week.
The meeting also included a presentation by Opelousas Downtown Development District (ODDD) chairperson Lena Charles and Historic Preservation Consultant Kelly Calhoun of the New Orleans area. Ms. Charles told the group the mission of the ODDD is to plan and develop the designated commercial district to its potential, through economic development and historic preservation. She introduced Ms. Calhoun, who appeared at the meeting via a Zoom call.
Calhoun presented the potential of expansion of the present Opelousas National Historic District to include as many properties as possible that could be utilized as income-producing properties and commercial structures. According to Calhoun this expansion would extend approximately 3 blocks and may include up to 300 building structures.
What are the requirements to be eligible for expansion?
According to information presented at the meeting, the first requirement for an expansion of the National Historic District is to conduct a formal survey from a National Historic consultant with knowledge and forms specific to the area. The next step is to file an Amendment for the expansion with a narrative on the purpose of the expansion and provide evidence in the survey to present to a board at the state level and once approved is sent off for national approval.
Tax Credits
The hot topic of the meeting was utilizing and taking advantage of the National Tax Credits, and State of Louisiana Tax Credits for qualifying commercial and residential buildings that were being utilized as income-producing properties.
Opelousas Historic Districts
There are two types of historic districts in Opelousas — a local historic district and a National Register Historic District.
What is the Opelousas Local Historic District?
Created in 1898 with revisions made in 2001, the Opelousas local historic district covers a portion of what would be considered old Opelousas.
- It is a district designated by a local ordinance, which falls under the jurisdiction of a local historic preservation review or historic district commission.
- It is a section of the city which contains older buildings considered valuable for historical or architectural reasons.
- It receives, in some cases, legal protection from certain types of development considered to be inappropriate.
- A local historic district offers protection for your property as well as your neighbor’s Property.
What is the Opelousas National Historic District listed on the National Register of Historic Places?
The Opelousas National Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
- A National Register District Identifies an area in the town that has a collection of historic buildings that can be contributing elements to that district.
- It’s an honor to be entered on the National Register of Historic Places.
- However, it really offers only limited protection to the historic property, district or archeological site.
A Search for New Commission Members
Historic District Commission Chairperson Jonathan Sebastian stated the group is in the process of looking for possible new members to add to the commission. He asked that anyone who is interested and has a knowledge of historic preservation and Opelousas history to please contact him or Melanie Lee Lebouef with Opelousas Main Street.
For More Information
The City of Opelousas website has information on the Opelousas Historic District Commission, as well as a map of the district and contact information for those involved.
