Louisiana Senate Bill SB172

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Report Pass: 4/6/10
• Engrossed: 4/14/10
• Refer: 4/15/10
• Report Pass: 5/18/10
• Enrolled: 6/1/10
• Chaptered: 6/8/10
• Passed: 6/8/10

Caption

Authorizes Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to transfer certain state property in Vermilion Parish. (8/15/10)

Impact

The enactment of SB172 will result in a straightforward shift of land ownership that could potentially enhance local educational facilities by providing the school board with additional land resources. In practical terms, this means that the school board can utilize the acquired property for educational purposes, possibly expanding current facilities or developing new ones. The bill ensures that the process of transferring these properties includes appraisals to ensure fair exchange values, thus providing transparency and accountability in the transfer process.

Summary

Senate Bill 172 authorizes the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to transfer ownership of certain state property located in Vermilion Parish to the Vermilion Parish School Board. The bill outlines specific tracts of land to be transferred, ensuring that mineral rights remain with the state. This legislation primarily involves a land exchange, whereby the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will also receive property from the school board as compensation, which is also specified in the bill. The intent behind SB172 is to facilitate the use and management of these lands in a manner beneficial to local governance and educational infrastructure.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB172 appears to be generally positive, particularly among local education officials and community members who see the benefits of enhancing the resources available to the Vermilion Parish School Board. The agreement to leave mineral rights with the state speaks to a sentiment of cautious engagement with natural resources, balancing educational needs with state economic interests. There did not appear to be significant public controversy reported regarding this legislation, indicating broad consensus on its passage.

Contention

While there is a positive reception toward SB172, potential points of contention could arise concerning the management of the newly acquired properties by the school board and how these lands are ultimately utilized. Ensuring that the exchanged land serves the intended educational purpose effectively will be crucial in preventing any future issue concerning property management and community expectations. Additionally, the legislative process does not specify how ongoing maintenance and development of the properties will be funded or managed, which might raise questions in the future.