Construction firm drops rezoning request for expansion in Louisiana's Hungarian settlement

PALA, an industrial construction firm, has dropped its request to rezone approximately 37 acres in Louisiana’s Hungarian settlement from light commercial to heavy industrial. The decision comes after over 70 residents attended a Livingston Parish zoning meeting to express their concerns about the potential for increased industrial activity in their community. Residents feared that a heavy industrial zoning classification would attract further industrial development, altering the character of their rural settlement, the largest of its kind in the United States.

PALA Group President and CEO Scott Barringer stated the company will proceed with its expansion plans under the existing commercial zoning, calling the rezoning request a “misunderstanding.” The company previously announced a $1.9 million investment to build a new shop and expand operations, a move initially celebrated by some parish leaders for the creation of 14 new jobs and retention of 35 existing ones. PALA already operates a 70,000-square-foot fabrication facility in the area under the current zoning.

While Parish Councilman Joe Erdey expressed cautious optimism, stating he would “believe it when I see it,” residents remain vigilant. Concerns center around preventing the settlement from becoming a hub for further industrial expansion, despite welcoming businesses like PALA’s existing facility.

(Source：The Advocate)