Annexation of Henderson's I-10 exit heading back to court

Lake Charles – The suit to block Henderson’s annexation of the businesses around the Interstate 10 exit is going back to the trial court.

The Third Circuit Court of Appeal reversed a 2012 ruling by 16th Judicial District Judge Keith Comeaux that the annexation is “unreasonable.”

Judge J. David Painter, writing the decision for the three-judge panel, said, “...this court cannot, without weighing the evidence, assess the reasonableness of the annexation. Therefore, we find that a grant of summary judgment is not appropriate.”

The decision means the case goes back to district court in St. Martin Parish for further trial.

Countering plaintiffs’ contention that the town has nothing to offer businesses and residents in the area proposed for annexation, the town’s attorneys produced affidavits from Henderson Mayor Sherbin Collette stating that the I-10 businesses have inadequate sewage systems that present a hazard to the public, and from Police Chief Leroy Guidry saying St. Martin Sheriff’s Office frequently calls upon his department to respond to calls from the I-10 exit businesses.

They stated that the Town of Henderson stands ready to extend police protection and municipal sewerage to the annexed area.

Representing the town were Michael D. Hebert of Lafayette and the town attorney, Jerry L. Mallet.

Glenn Soileau of Breaux Bridge represented the plaintiffs, Little Capitol of Louisiana, Inc., Diesi Development Corporation, Sal Diesi, Tommy Diesi, Jackie Serrette, Karen Serrette, Kimberly Serrette, Susy Breaux, and Freddie Breaux.

The plaintiffs were assessed the cost of the appeal.