Public Notice: SCPDC Looking for Land to Begin Building “Starter” Homes

South Central Planning and Development Commission, Inc. (SCPDC) will begin constructing “starter” homes to replenish the damaged and short supply of housing in our region. To accomplish this task, SCPDC is appealing to the public for property donations to construct these homes. SCPDC has created the South Central Regional Affordable Community Housing Authority, (SCRACH) a New 501(c)3 Affordable Housing support agency to accept the donations and handle the resale to members of the public.

South Central Planning and Development Commission has always been a leading advocate for community development and social impact, and is reaching out to the local communities, including parishes and individuals, to actively participate in its innovative Affordable Housing Program. Designed to combat the pressing housing crisis in our area, SCRACH welcomes property donations in Assumption, Lafourche, St Charles, St James, St John the Baptist, St Mary, and Terrebonne Parish to expand its reach and impact.
As the need for cost effective housing continues to escalate, SCPDC & SCRACH recognizes the invaluable role that property donations can play in making these homes affordable. By contributing lots, individuals can directly contribute to the revitalization of neighborhoods and strengthen our community.

BENEFITS OF PROPERTY DONATIONS:
1. Tax Advantages: Donors may be eligible for tax benefits associated with charitable contributions. [South
Central Planning and Development Commission (SCPDC)] encourages interested parties to consult with their
financial advisors for personalized guidance.

2. Community Impact: Property donations directly support the new Housing Program, enabling SCPDC &
SCRACH to offer affordable homeownership opportunities to those in need while revitalizing our community.
The impact of these donations extends beyond the individual property to transform the lives of families,
individuals, and neighborhoods in our community.

3. Legacy of Giving: Donors have the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy by supporting a cause that addresses
a critical need. By contributing property, individuals and parishes can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of
our community.

4. Estates: SCRACH is willing to work with estates to take care of liens, successions to clear title to bring
ascendents properties back in to use.

SCRACH welcomes property donations of all types, including vacant land, blighted, adjudicated residential and
commercial properties. To explore the possibility of donating property, please contact REBECCA BOQUET at
rebeccab@scpdc.org.

Press Release SCRACH introduction and donations

Public Notice: LED Rural Entrepreneurship Initiative 2024 – Open Application Period

Louisiana Economic Development (LED) is now accepting applications for its 2023 Rural Entrepreneurship Initiative. This unique program aims to accelerate the growth of second-stage businesses in rural areas of Louisiana with populations less than 50,000. With the unique challenges rural entrepreneurs face, program participants will be able to identify what scaling means for both their companies and their communities. They will then move on to develop and refine their business strategy and will be connected to the right tools and expertise to execute the strategy.

Participation consists of three components starting with a virtual kickoff retreat that helps to create an overall growth strategy and establish your commitment goals. The three monthly virtual roundtables allow participants to discuss pressing issues in a confidential environment. The customized Strategic Research engagements will provide business intelligence related to specific growth challenges delivered by a team of highly-skilled specialists.

Applications will be accepted between April 1 and April 30 for participatory consideration in the program beginning in May. For more information and eligibility requirements on the program, visit LED’s Rural Entrepreneurship Initiative or contact Johnna Johnson at Johnna.Johnson@La.Gov or (225) 342-4492.

Rural Entrepreneurship Initiative

Public Notice: Employment Opportunity – Permit Technician/Specialist

South Central Planning & Development Commission is accepting resumes for a Permit Technician/Specialist at its Baton Rouge location. The main responsibility   of this position is to provide top-quality customer service and various duties   related to the permitting process. Duties include, but are not limited to accepting & reviewing permit applications, assessing permitting fees, researching public record requests, scheduling inspections, as well as providing coordination related to the permitting process for inspection & plan review staff members. These positions involve professional-level services and judgment, good communication skills, good computer skills, routine administrative tasks, works well with the public, and coordinates well  with  office   personnel.  Knowledge of   the   East   Baton Rouge Parish’s permitting  process and  experience  related to permitting preferred. Certification as a Permit Technician and/or prior parish, municipal or regional  experience  is  a  plus.  The individual should possess a high school diploma as a minimum and have 5 years’ minimum similar work experience, or possess an    Associate’s Degree from and accredited  University.  This is a full-time, hourly positions with permanent status and fringe benefits. Starting pay will be approximately $20.90 – $26.50 an hour depending on experience.  Benefits include retirement, health/dental/vision/life insurance, paid holidays, vacation & sick leave.   SCPDC is an EOE/AAE

Resumes will be accepted until the position is filled. Send resumes to: SCPDC Permit Specialist PO Box 1870, Gray, LA 70359 or email to: employment@scpdc.org

Public Notice: Employment Opportunity – Planning Specialist II

South Central Planning & Development Commission is seeking a Planning Specialist to oversee activities related to collaboration efforts with Federal, State, Regional and Local stakeholders in the development, implementation and evaluation of Louisiana’s Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP).   Responsibilities include, but not limited to, planning & conducting regional safety coalition meetings, manage social media communications, and attending conferences related to SHSP. This position is also responsible for coordinating public transportation safety outreach efforts, such as public awareness campaigns, training sessions, community events, and educational presentations. The candidate must have excellent oral and written communication skills, have the ability to work effectively with local,state, and federal officials, interest groups, and the general public. This position will require public speaking, as well as some travel, and occasional attendance of night & weekend events. The ideal candidate would have experience in project management, data analysis, and/or community engagements. Prior knowledge of highway safety principles & initiatives a plus.  The individual should possess a high school diploma as a minimum and have 5 years’ minimum similar work experience, or possess an Associate’s Degree from   an   accredited   University. This is a full-time, hourly position with permanent status and fringe benefits. Starting pay will be approximately $18.50 – $24.00 an hour depending on experience. Benefits include retirement, health/dental/vision/life insurance, paid holidays, vacation & sick leave. SCPDC is an EOE/ AAE

Resumes will be accepted until position is filled. Send resume to: SCPDC Planning Specialist   PO Box 1870, Gray, LA  70359 or email to: employment@scpdc.org

Public Notice: Employment Opportunity – Assistant Neighborhood Revitalization Manager

South Central Planning & Development Commission is seeking an Assistant Neighborhood Revitalization Manager at its Baton Rouge location. The main responsibility of this position is to assist the Neighborhood Revitalization Division Manager in oversight of code enforcement programs and staff for the purpose of reducing and eliminating blight across the City of Baton Rouge & East Baton Rouge Parish. Other responsibilities include overseeing City-Parish codes and ordinances pertaining to signs, housing, litter, overgrowth, abandoned vehicles, garbage containers, and dump sites. The candidate must be able to exercise independent judgment and use delegated authority with respect to the interpretation and enforcement of the laws, rules, regulations, codes, and ordinances applicable to blight code enforcement and elimination. Knowledge of East Baton Rouge Parish’s Plan of Government, Code of Ordinances, and Resolutions is desired. The Assistant Manager will work closely with the Neighborhood Revitalization Division Manager, Chief Building Official, Development Director, and Mayor’s Office on key issues related to blight elimination programs. Minimum qualifications should include a High School Diploma with 10 years’ experience in a related field or a bachelor’s degree with 5 years’ experience. Prior parish, municipal or regional experience a plus. Knowledge of or certifications in Building Codes is a plus. This position is a full-time, salaried position with permanent status and fringe benefits. Benefits include retirement, health/dental/vision/life insurance, paid holidays, vacation & sick leave. Starting Pay will be approximately $70,600 -$94,500 annually depending on experience. SCPDC is an EOE/AAE.

Resumes will be accepted until the position is filled. Send resume to: SCPDC Assistant NRD Manager, PO Box 1870, Gray, LA 70359 or email to: employment@scpdc.org