PART II.  NORTH LAFAYETTE REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

§4720.171.  North Lafayette Redevelopment Authority

A.  This Part may be referred to as the "North Lafayette Redevelopment Law".

B.  It is hereby found and declared that:

(1)  There exists in the city of Lafayette areas which have become slums, blighted, and distressed because of the unsafe, unsanitary, inadequate, or overcrowded condition of the structures therein, or because of inadequate planning for the area, or because of physically or functionally obsolete structures, or because of excessive dwelling unit density, or because of the lack of proper light and air and open space, or because of faulty street or lot design, or inadequate public utilities, or community services, or because of failure to adequately maintain and repair structures, or because of the conversion to incompatible types of land usage, or because of environmental conditions and circumstances.  Such conditions or a combination of some or all of them have and will continue to result in making such areas economic and social liabilities.

(2)  In the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the resident population of the city of Lafayette in particular has increased dramatically, creating an urgent and immediate need for affordable residential housing.  Persons displaced by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita should be assisted, should they so desire, in obtaining long-term or permanent housing in the city.

(3)  The prevention and elimination of slum, blighted, and distressed properties are matters of public policy and concern, as such areas tend to consume a disproportionate amount of city revenues because of the extra services required for police, fire, accident, and other forms of public protection, services, and facilities.

(4)  The salvage, renewal, redevelopment, and reconstruction of such slum, blighted, and distressed areas will promote the public health, safety, morals, and welfare of the public.

(5)  The powers conferred by this Part are for public uses, purposes, welfare, and utility for which public money may be expended as necessary and in the public's interest.  The provisions herein provided shall apply for residential, recreational, commercial, industrial, or other purposes and otherwise to encourage the provision of healthful homes, safe neighborhoods, a decent living environment, and adequate places of employment for the people.  Such purposes are hereby declared as a matter of legislative determination.

(6)  The object of this Part is to provide for the following:

(a)  A unified and comprehensive response to the housing shortages and other indirect effects of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita upon the city of Lafayette.

(b)  The general and economic welfare of the city through housing, commercial, office, hospitality, recreation, education, infrastructure and utility capacity, manufacturing, industrial, research, retail or other activities which will create or retain jobs, maintain or diversify industry, including new or emerging technologies, or maintain or increase the tax base.

(c)  The improvement of conditions of deteriorated physical development, slow economic growth, and eroded financial health of the public and private sectors.

(d)  The control, abatement, and prevention of pollution to protect public health and safety, and the development and use of indigenous and renewable energy resources.

(e)  Assistance to nonprofit and governmental entities in support of health, educational, charitable, community, cultural, agricultural, consumer or other services benefitting the citizens.

C.(1)  There is hereby created in the city a body politic and corporate which shall exist in perpetuity and shall be known as the North Lafayette Redevelopment Authority, referred to in this Part as the "authority".

(2)  The authority shall be a special district created pursuant to Article VI, Section 19 of the Constitution of Louisiana and political subdivision of the state as defined in Article VI, Section 44 of the Constitution of Louisiana.  The authority, acting through its governing board, is hereby granted all of the rights, powers, privileges, and immunities accorded by the laws and the Constitution of Louisiana to political subdivisions of the state, subject to the limitations provided in this Part.

D.  The authority, for the purposes of this Part, may within its jurisdiction, formulate a workable program or programs for using appropriate private and public resources to achieve the purposes identified in Paragraph (B)(6) of this Section.

E.  The authority, to the greatest extent it determines to be feasible in carrying out the provisions of this Part, shall seek out cooperative endeavors, including partnerships, joint ventures, and equity participation structures, with nonprofit and private enterprise.  The authority shall give consideration to this objective in exercising the powers granted pursuant to this Part.

F.(1)  The North Lafayette Redevelopment Authority shall be comprised of all of the territory included within House of Representatives District No. 44 and Districts 3 and 4 of the Lafayette City-Parish Council as geographically drawn on August 1, 2014, but shall not include the area comprising the Commercial Core subdistrict of the Lafayette Centre Development District created by Act 116 of the 1992 Regular Session of the Legislature.

(2)  The authority shall be activated and implemented by the appropriate governing authority recognizing and confirming the appointment of the initial members of the board.

G.(1)(a)  The North Lafayette Redevelopment Authority shall be governed by a board of commissioners, referred to in this Part as the "board", comprised of seven members, all of whom shall reside or be employed within the geographical boundaries of the authority and shall be qualified electors of the parish of Lafayette as follows:

(i)  Two members shall be appointed by the Louisiana state senator who represents Senate District 24.

(ii)  One member shall be appointed by the Louisiana state representative who represents House District 44.

(iii)  One member shall be appointed by the Louisiana state representative who represents House District No. 96.

(iv)  One member shall be appointed by the councilperson who represents Council District 3 of the Lafayette City-Parish Council.

(v)  One member shall be appointed by the councilperson who represents Council District 4 of the Lafayette City-Parish Council.

(vi)  One member shall be appointed by the mayor-president of the city of Lafayette, parish of Lafayette.

(b)  The appointing authorities referred to in Subparagraph (a) of this Paragraph shall meet within sixty days after August 1, 2014, and shall appoint the members as provided in Subparagraph (a) of this Paragraph.

(2)(a)  Members shall serve terms of five years after initial terms as provided in this Subparagraph.  Two members shall serve an initial term of one year, two shall serve two years, one shall serve three years, one shall serve four years, and one shall serve five years, as determined by lot at the first meeting of the board.

(b)  A member shall hold office until his successor has been appointed and qualified.

(c)  Members shall be eligible for reappointment.  A certificate of the appointment or reappointment of any member shall be filed with the clerk of the Lafayette City-Parish Council, and such certificate shall be conclusive evidence of the proper appointment of any such member.

(d)  Any member of the board may be removed for cause by the appointing authority.  Any person removed for cause shall be ineligible for reappointment to the board unless such reappointment is confirmed by a unanimous vote of the membership of the board.

(e)  Board members shall serve without compensation; however, the board may reimburse any member for expenses actually incurred in the performance of duties on behalf of the authority.

(3)  Any vacancy in the membership of the board, occurring either by reason of the expiration of the term for which appointed or by reason of death, resignation, or otherwise, shall be filled in the manner of the original appointment.  If the appointing authority responsible for the appointment of a member fails to fill a vacancy within thirty days, the remaining members of the board shall appoint an interim successor to serve until the position is filled by the appointing authority.

(4)  The board may adopt bylaws or such other rules and regulations as it deems necessary for conducting its business affairs.  The board may appoint and retain all employees it deems advisable and fix the powers, duties, and compensation of such employees.  The board shall hold regular meetings and may hold special meetings as shall be provided in the bylaws.

(5)  The board shall elect yearly from its number a chairman, a vice chairman, a secretary, and a treasurer and shall establish their duties as may be regulated by rules adopted by the board.  The offices of secretary and treasurer may be held by the same person.  A majority of the members of the board shall constitute a quorum for the conduct of business.

(6)  All actions of the board shall be approved by the affirmative vote of a majority of the members of the board present and voting.  However, no action of the board shall be authorized on the following matters unless approved by a majority of the total board membership:

(a)  Adoption of bylaws and other rules and regulations for conduct of the authority's business.

(b)  Hiring or firing of any employee or contractor of the authority.  This function may by majority vote be delegated by the board to a specified officer or committee of the authority, under such terms and conditions, and to the extent, that the board may specify.

(c)  The incurring of debt.

(d)  Levy of taxes and call for any tax or other election.

(e)  Adoption or amendment of the annual budget.

(f)  Sale, lease, encumbrance, or alienation of immovable property, improvements, or movable property with a value of more than fifty thousand dollars.

(7)  Vote by proxy shall not be permitted.  Any member may request a recorded vote on any resolution or action of the authority.

(8)(a)  The board shall cause minutes and a record to be kept of all its proceedings, and it shall select a newspaper of general circulation within its territorial jurisdiction as its official journal in which it shall publish its minutes and in which it shall publish all official notices required by law.  Except as otherwise provided in this Paragraph, the authority shall be subject to the Public Records Law, the Open Meetings Law, and the Code of Governmental Ethics.

(b)  Notwithstanding the provisions of R.S. 42:14, until thirty days prior to the date the board is scheduled to consummate a final sale or lease of any immovable property owned by the authority, the board may meet in executive session to discuss negotiations between the authority and any prospective seller, purchaser, lessor or lessee of that property.  R.S. 44:31 through 35 shall not apply to any records related to the negotiations of or to the terms of such a sale or lease until thirty days prior to the date the board is scheduled to consummate a final sale or lease.  The board shall give written public notice of its intention to consummate a final sale or lease at least thirty days prior to the date on which the board intends to take such action.  This notice shall comply with the procedural provisions of R.S. 42:19.  Notwithstanding any other provision of this Part to the contrary, that portion of documents evidencing proprietary information or trade secrets of either the authority or the seller, purchaser, lessor, or lessee shall not be subject to the Public Records Law for any reason.

H.  The authority, through the board, shall have all powers necessary or convenient to carry out and effectuate the purposes and provisions of this Part, including but not limited to the following:

(1)  To sue and be sued and as such to stand in judgment.

(2)  To adopt, use, and alter at will a corporate seal.

(3)  To acquire by gift, grant, purchase, lease, or otherwise and to hold and use any property, immovable, movable, mixed, tangible, or intangible, or any interest therein, necessary or desirable for carrying out the objects and purposes of the authority, and to engage in any action, such as the purchase of insurance, necessary or desirable for the maintenance or improvement of such property.  The authority shall not have any power to expropriate, except that power which is granted by the appropriate governing authority.

(4)(a)  To sell, lease for a term of up to ninety-nine years, exchange, or otherwise dispose of or transfer to or with other political subdivisions of this state or public or private persons at public or private sale any residential or subdivision land, property, improvements, or portions thereof, including immovable property, which is, in the opinion of the board, appropriate to accomplish the objectives and purposes of the authority.

(b)  Prior to any sale, lease, conveyance, disposition, or transfer of property pursuant to this Paragraph, the authority shall fix the price and terms of the sale, lease, exchange, or other contract to be made with reference to the property.  Such sale, lease, conveyance, disposition, or transfer shall comply with the terms and provisions of this Part.

(c)  Any sale of industrial land, as defined by Chapter 8 of Title 51 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950 and the statutes referenced therein, shall be in accordance with laws providing for the disposition or transfer of such land.

(d)  Other than the requirements of this Part, no other law limiting or regulating the form or manner of the sale, lease, conveyance, disposition, or transfer of property by public bodies, including without limitation R.S. 41:1338, shall apply to the sale, lease, conveyance, disposition, or transfer of property by the authority.  All such sales, leases, conveyances, dispositions, or transfers of property remain subject to the limitations imposed by the Constitution of Louisiana.

(5)  To convey to the United States, the state, or to any political subdivision of the state any land, property, right-of-way, easement, servitude, or other thing of value, which the authority may own or acquire, for use by such governmental entity to accomplish the objectives and purposes of the authority, pursuant to the terms of any appropriate cooperative endeavor agreement.

(6)  To make and collect reasonable charges for the use of property of the authority and for services rendered by the authority and to regulate fees or rentals charged for use of privately owned facilities located on property owned or sold by the authority when such facilities are offered for use by the public or by a private industrial, commercial, research, or other economic development entity or activity.

(7)  To enter into contracts and agreements with public bodies or public and/or private entities to achieve the authority's objectives and purposes, including but not limited to contracts for professional, legal, and other services and for the purchase, lease, acquisition, sale, construction, operation, maintenance, marketing, and improvement of land, public works, and facilities, as the board may deem necessary or convenient to accomplish the objectives and purposes of the authority.

(8)  To plan, develop, regulate, operate, and maintain activities and planned land uses to foster residential housing development.

(9)  To acquire land and improvements to construct, operate, and maintain facilities, improvements, and infrastructure, including buildings, roads, bridges, drainage, and utilities, and to perform other functions and activities on property owned or leased by the authority to accomplish the objectives and purposes of the authority.  However, the authority is prohibited from constructing, operating, or maintaining any water, electric, or gas utility facilities which duplicate, curtail, impair, or directly compete with a regulated water, electric, or gas utility facility operating in or adjacent to the property owned or leased by the authority.

(10)  To require and issue licenses.

(11)  To levy annually and cause to be collected ad valorem taxes, provided that the amount, term, and purpose of such taxes, as set out in propositions submitted to a vote in accordance with the Louisiana Election Code, shall be approved by a majority of the qualified electors of the jurisdiction of the authority voting in an election held for that purpose.

(12)(a)  To levy and collect sales and use taxes within the boundaries of the authority for such purposes and at such rate as provided by the propositions authorizing their levy, not to exceed in aggregate one percent, which taxes may not exceed the limitation set forth in the Constitution of Louisiana, provided the proposition submitted to a vote in accordance with the Louisiana Election Code shall be approved by a majority of the qualified electors of the jurisdiction of the authority voting in an election held for that purpose.  In submitting a sales tax proposition to a vote, the board may enter into a cooperative endeavor agreement with the parish governing authority providing for the sales tax to be divided into parts between the parish and the authority for such purposes and in such amounts as may be set forth in the proposition.

(b)  The tax shall be levied upon the sale at retail, the use, the lease or rental, the consumption, the distribution, and storage for use or consumption of tangible personal property, and upon the sales of services within the parish, all as defined in R.S. 47:301 et seq.

(c)  Except where inapplicable, the procedure established by R.S. 47:301 et seq., shall be followed in the imposition, collection, and enforcement of the tax, and procedural details necessary to supplement those Sections and to make them applicable to the tax herein authorized shall be fixed in the resolution imposing the tax.

(d)  The tax shall be imposed and collected uniformly throughout the jurisdiction of the authority.

(e)  Any tax levied under this Paragraph shall be in addition to all other taxes which the parish or any other political subdivision within the parish is now or hereafter authorized to levy and collect.

(13)  To develop, activate, construct, exchange, acquire, improve, repair, operate, maintain, lease, mortgage, sell, and grant a security device affecting the movable and immovable property, servitudes, facilities, and works within Councilmanic Districts 3 and 4 of the city under such terms and conditions as the board may deem necessary or appropriate for residential development.

(14)  To borrow money and to pledge or grant a security device affecting all or part of its revenues, leases, rents, and other advantages as security for such loans.

(15)  To appoint officers, agents, and employees, prescribe their duties, and fix their compensation.

(16)  To undertake and carry out redevelopment projects and related activities.

(17)  To apply for and accept advances, leases, grants, contributions, and any other form of financial assistance from the federal government, the state, parish, or other public bodies, or from any sources, public or private, for the purposes of this Part, and to give such security as may be required and to enter into and carry out contracts or agreements in connection therewith; and to include in any contract for financial assistance with the federal government such conditions imposed pursuant to federal laws as the board may deem reasonable and appropriate and which are not inconsistent with the purposes of this Part.

(18)  To make or have made all surveys and plans necessary to the carrying out of the purposes of this Part and to adopt or approve, modify, and amend such plans, which plans may include but are not limited to:

(a)  Plans for carrying out a program of voluntary or compulsory repair and rehabilitation of buildings and improvements.

(b)  Plans for the enforcement of state and local laws, codes, and regulations relating to the use of land and the use and occupancy of buildings and improvements and to the compulsory repair, rehabilitation, demolition, or removal of buildings and improvements.

(c)  Appraisals, title searches, surveys, studies, and other plans and work necessary to prepare for the undertaking of redevelopment projects and related activities.

(19)  To develop, test, and report methods and techniques and carry out demonstrations and other activities for the prevention and the elimination of slums and urban blight, including developing and demonstrating new or improved means of providing housing or continuing care, assisted living, or independent living or other similar type housing for elderly or retired persons or other persons desiring such housing facilities.

(20)  To make and from time to time amend and repeal bylaws, orders, rules, and regulations in order to effectuate the provisions of this Part.

(21)  To exercise all or any part or combination of powers herein granted by this Part.  However, the authority shall not be deemed to be an instrumentality of the state for purposes of Article X, Section 1(A) of the Constitution of Louisiana.

(22)  To purchase property at a sale conducted pursuant to enforcement of judicial mortgages created in accordance with R.S. 13:2575(C) by tendering a bid equal to or greater than the minimum bid advertised, which bid may be a credit bid consisting of the obligation of the authority to satisfy the bid by payment to the political subdivision holding the lien being enforced in accordance with intergovernmental agreements between the authority and such political subdivision.  Such a bid shall be given priority over all other bids regardless of amount.

I.(1)  The authority may incur debt and issue general obligation bonds under the authority of and subject to the provisions of Article VI, Section 33 of the Constitution of Louisiana, and Subpart A of Part III of Chapter 4 of Subtitle II of Title 39 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, for the acquisition and operation of an authority property or to carry out the other public purposes of this Part, and to issue any other bonds permitted by law, borrow money, and issue certificates of indebtedness, notes, and other debt obligations as evidence thereof and provide for the manner and method of repayment in accordance with law.

(2)  The authority may issue revenue bonds to finance the undertaking of a redevelopment project under this Part, or otherwise to acquire, purchase, lease, construct, or improve housing, residential or subdivision development authorized in this Part; and may sell, lease, sublease, or otherwise dispose of by suitable and appropriate contract to any enterprise locating or existing within the jurisdiction of an authority such sites, buildings, or facilities and appurtenances thereto, all or severally.  The funds derived from the sale of such bonds may be disbursed in whole or in part upon delivery of the bonds as shall be provided in the contract between an authority and the residential enterprise to be aided, encouraged, or benefitted subject to the requirements of Paragraph (L)(2) of this Section.

(3)  The issuing authority may enter into, amend, or terminate, as it determines to be necessary or appropriate, any ancillary contracts (a) to facilitate the issuance, sale, resale, purchase, repurchase, or payments of bonds, including without limitation bond insurance, letters of credit, and liquidity facilities, or (b) to attempt to hedge risk or achieve a desirable effective interest rate or cash flow, all subject to the approval of the State Bond Commission.

(4)  Bonds issued under Paragraph (2) of this Subsection shall be authorized by resolution of the board and shall be limited obligations of the issuing authority; the principal and interest, costs of issuance, and other costs incidental thereto shall be payable solely from the income and revenue derived from the sale, lease, or other disposition of the project or facility to be financed by the bonds issued under this Subsection, or from the income and revenue derived from the sale, lease, or other disposition of any existing project or facility acquired, constructed, and improved under the provision of this Subsection, or from any source available for such purpose.  However, in the discretion of the issuing authority, the bonds may be additionally secured by mortgage or other security device covering all or part of the project from which the revenues so pledged may be derived.  Any refunding bonds issued pursuant to this Subsection shall be payable from any source described in this Paragraph or from the investment of any of the proceeds of the refunding bonds authorized under this Subsection and shall not constitute an indebtedness or pledge of the general credit of the parish or municipality, as appropriate, or the authority within the meaning of any constitutional or statutory limitation of indebtedness and shall contain a recital to that effect. Bonds of the authority issued under this Subsection shall be issued in such form, shall be in such denominations, shall bear interest, shall mature in such manner, and be executed by one or more members of the board as provided in the resolution authorizing the issuance thereof. Such bonds may be subject to redemption at the option of and in the manner determined by the board in the resolution authorizing the issuance thereof.

(5)  No bonds or other evidences of indebtedness may be issued under this Subsection without the prior approval of the State Bond Commission of the terms and provisions thereof.

(6)  Bonds issued under this Subsection shall be issued, sold, and delivered in accordance with the terms and provisions of a resolution adopted by the board.  The board may sell such bonds in such manner, either at public or at private sale, and for such price as it may determine to be in the best interests of the authority, subject to the approval of the State Bond Commission.  The resolution issuing bonds shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation within the jurisdiction of the authority, and for a period of thirty days after said publication, any interested citizen may bring an action to contest the bonds and the security therefor, as provided in the Constitution of Louisiana.  If, after the expiration of thirty days, no suit has been filed, the issuance, sale, and security of the bonds shall be incontestable, and no court shall have authority to entertain any action questioning or contesting such matters.

(7)  Bonds issued by the authority under this Part are deemed to be securities of public entities within the meaning of Chapters 13 and 13-A of Subtitle III of Title 39 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, and shall be subject to defeasance in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 14 of Title 39 of Subtitle III of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, shall be subject to the refunding provisions of Chapter 14-A of Title 39 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, and may also be issued as short-term revenue notes of a public entity under Chapter 15-A of Subtitle III of Title 39 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950.

(8)  No bonds, other debt obligations, or contracts of the authority shall be a charge upon the income, property, or revenue of the parish or municipality, as appropriate, nor shall any obligations of the authority be the obligations of the applicable parish or municipality.

(9)  Any bonds issued by the authority shall be subject to the Bond Validation Law (R.S. 13:5121), pursuant to which the issuance of the bonds may be submitted to the courts for validation.

J.(1)  The exercise by a board of the powers conferred by virtue of this Part shall be deemed and held to be an essential governmental function of the state and city.  As the exercise of the powers granted by this Part will be in all respects for the benefit of the people of the state and parish, for the increase of their commerce and prosperity, and for the improvement of their health and living conditions, the authority shall not be required to pay any taxes, including but not limited to sales and use taxes, ad valorem, occupational licensing, income, or any other taxes of any kind or nature, or fees or assessments upon any property held, acquired or used by the authority under the provisions of this Part, or upon the income therefrom.  Any bonds, certificates, or other evidences of indebtedness issued by the authority and the income therefrom shall be exempt from taxation by the state and by any parish, municipality, or other political subdivision of the state.  The authority shall not be deemed to be a public utility and shall not be subject in any respect to the authority, control, regulation, or supervision of the Louisiana Public Service Commission.

(2)  All property of the authority, including funds owned or held by it for the purpose of this Part, shall be exempt from levy and sale by virtue of an execution, and no execution or other judicial process shall issue against the same, nor shall judgment against the parish or authority be a charge or lien upon such property.  However, the provisions of this Subsection shall not apply to or limit the right of obligees to pursue any remedies for the enforcement of any pledge or lien given pursuant to this Part by the authority on its rents, fees, grants, or revenues.

K.(1)  The authority may purchase adjudicated properties within its territorial jurisdictions from any political subdivision of the state of Louisiana.  No such purchase shall be construed to, or otherwise have the effect of, extending or suspending the period prescribed by law for the redemption of the property by the tax debtor or any other person.

(2)  Such purchases by the authority may be in the manner provided for in Chapter 13-A of this Title, or by a direct negotiated purchase and sale agreement between the authority and a political subdivision without any other requirement of a public sale prior to the transfer of such properties to the authority.  Such purchases by the authority shall not be considered the sale of surplus property or of property owned by the political subdivision.

(3)  Effective upon the recordation of the transfer of an adjudicated property to the authority pursuant to a purchase and sale agreement, the rights of the authority in and to such property shall be the rights of a purchaser at a tax sale as contemplated by Chapter 5 of Subtitle III of Title 47 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, subject only to the rights of redemption of the property set forth in Article VII, Section 25(B) of the Constitution of Louisiana, and the property shall no longer be deemed to be adjudicated property as of such recordation.  For purposes of the right of redemption in Article VII, Section 25(B) of the Constitution of Louisiana the three-year period commences on the date of the recordation of the initial adjudication to the political subdivision and not on the date of transfer to the authority.

(4)  Any such purchase and sale agreement shall set forth the total consideration to be paid by the authority and the method and timing of payment of such consideration by the authority.

(5)  The state and any political subdivision with liens on the property may, pursuant to intergovernmental agreements with the authority, cancel such liens contemporaneously with or subject to the transfer of the property to the authority.

(6)(a)  The authority shall have the right, subject to the provisions of this Section, to purchase properties at tax sales conducted in accordance with Part III of Chapter 5 of Subtitle III of Title 47 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, and any and all such purchases shall be a purchase pursuant to those provisions and not an adjudication to a political subdivision.

(b)  Notwithstanding the provisions of Chapter 5 of Subtitle III of Title 47 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, the authority may tender a bid at a tax sale which is a credit bid, consisting of the obligation of the authority to satisfy the component parts of the bid by payments to the respective political subdivisions and taxing entities in accordance with intergovernmental agreements between the authority and such political subdivisions and taxing entities.

(c)  A bid by the authority at a tax sale for the minimum amount shall take priority over all other bids for the same quantity of property.

L.(1)  The authority shall have the power to create and execute redevelopment plans for specified areas within its territorial jurisdiction.  The implementation of all such plans shall not proceed until, to the extent required by law, the authority has obtained the approval of the local planning commission or zoning board.  In the execution of such a redevelopment plan, the authority shall have the powers provided in this Subsection.  The fact that a certain power is expressed or implied in this Paragraph as pertinent to the authority's execution of a redevelopment plan shall not suggest or imply that such power is otherwise denied to the authority.

(2)  A redevelopment plan shall include a definition of the redevelopment area.  This area, or any part thereof, may be further designated as a subdistrict of the authority.

(3)  The authority may sell, lease, exchange, or otherwise transfer immovable property or any interest therein acquired by it for residential or recreational uses or for public use, subject to such covenants, conditions, and restrictions, including covenants running with the land, as it may deem to be necessary or desirable to assist in carrying out the purposes of this Part.  The purchasers or lessees and their successors and assigns shall be obligated to devote such immovable property only to the uses as the authority may determine to be in the public interest, including the obligation to begin within a reasonable time any improvements on such immovable property.  Such real property or interest shall be sold, leased, or otherwise transferred at not less than its fair value for uses in accordance with the redevelopment plan.  In determining the fair value of real property for uses, the authority shall take into account and give consideration to the use provided in such plan; the restrictions upon and the covenants, conditions, and obligations assumed by the purchaser or lessee; and the objectives of such plan.  The authority, in any instrument of conveyance to a private purchaser or lessee, may provide that such purchaser or lessee shall be without power to sell, lease, or otherwise transfer the immovable property without the prior written consent of the authority until such purchaser or lessee has completed the construction of any and all improvements which he has obligated himself to construct thereon.  Immovable property acquired in accordance with the provisions of the redevelopment plan shall be transferred as rapidly as feasible in the public interest, consistent with the carrying out of the provisions of the project plan.  Such plan and any substantial modification of such plan shall be filed as a public record in the office of the clerk of the city, and any conveyances, encumbrances, or other contracts may incorporate the provisions thereof by reference which shall afford notice thereof to all parties.

(4)  The authority may dispose of, sell, exchange, or lease immovable property in a redevelopment area to any private person for the fair market value of the property as determined by a certified and competent appraiser, or to any private person pursuant to reasonable competitive bidding procedures as it shall prescribe subject to the provisions set forth in this Paragraph.  Such reasonable bidding procedures must include public notice, by publication once each week for two consecutive weeks in a newspaper having a general circulation in the community, inviting proposals from and making available all pertinent information to private redevelopers or any persons interested in undertaking to redevelop or rehabilitate a redevelopment area or any part thereof.  Such notice shall identify the area, or portion thereof, and shall state that proposals shall be made by those in interest within thirty days after publication of such notice, and that such further information as is available may be obtained at such office as shall be designated in the notice.  The board shall consider all such redevelopment or rehabilitation proposals and the financial and legal ability of the persons making such proposals to carry them out, and may negotiate with any persons for proposals for the purchase, lease, or other transfer of any immovable property acquired by the authority in the redevelopment area.  The board may accept such proposal as it deems to be in the public interest and in furtherance of the purposes of this Part.  Such notice, and all contracts to sell, lease, or otherwise transfer immovable property under the provisions of this Part, shall be a public record and shall include the name of the redeveloper or purchaser, together with the names of its officers and principal members or shareholders and investors and other interested parties, the redeveloper's estimate of the cost of any residential development and rehabilitations, and the redeveloper's estimate of rentals and sales prices of any proposed housing involved in such redevelopment and rehabilitation.  Thereafter, the board may execute such contract in accordance with the provisions of this Part and deliver acts of sale, leases, and other instruments and take all steps necessary to effectuate such contract.

(5)  The authority may temporarily operate, maintain, or lease immovable property acquired by it in a redevelopment area for or in connection with a redevelopment project pending disposition of the property as authorized in this Part for such uses and purposes as may be deemed desirable even though not in connection with the redevelopment plan.

(6)  Any immovable property within a redevelopment area acquired pursuant to Subsection K of this Section may be disposed of without regard to the other provisions of this Part.  Immovable property acquired in accordance with the redevelopment plan may be disposed of to a public body for public reuse without regard to the provisions of this Subsection.

M.  All banks, trust companies, bankers, savings banks and institutions, building and loan associations, savings and loan associations, investment companies, and other persons carrying on a banking or investment business; all insurance companies, insurance associations, and other persons carrying on an insurance business; and all executors, administrators, curators, trustees, and other fiduciaries may legally invest any sinking funds, monies, or other funds belonging to them or within their control in any bonds or other obligations issued by the authority pursuant to this Part.  Bonds and other obligations shall be authorized security for all public deposits.  It is the purpose of this Subsection to authorize any public or private persons, political subdivisions, and officers, public or private, to use any funds owned or controlled by them for the purchase of any bonds or other obligations. Nothing contained in this Subsection with regard to legal investments shall be construed as relieving any persons of any duty of exercising reasonable care in selecting securities.

N.  For the purpose of aiding in the planning, undertaking, or carrying out of a redevelopment project and related activities authorized by this Part, any public body may, upon such terms, with or without consideration as it may determine:

(1)  Dedicate, sell, convey, or lease any of its interest in any property or grant easements, licenses, or other rights or privileges therein to the authority.

(2)  Incur the entire expense of any public improvements made by such public body.

(3)  Do any and all things necessary to aid or cooperate in the planning or carrying out of a redevelopment plan and related activities.

(4)  Lend, grant, or contribute funds to an authority in accordance with an appropriate cooperative endeavor agreement and borrow money and apply for and accept advances, loans, grants, contributions, and any other form of financial assistance from the federal government, the state, parish, or other public body, or from any other source.

(5)  Enter into agreements which may extend over any period notwithstanding any provision or rule of law to the contrary with the federal government or other public body respecting action to be taken pursuant to any of the powers granted by this Part, including the furnishing of funds or other assistance in connection with a redevelopment project and related activities.

(6)  Cause public buildings and public facilities, including parks, playgrounds, recreational, community, educational, water, sewer, or drainage facilities, or any other works which it is otherwise empowered to undertake to be furnished; furnish, dedicate, close, vacate, pave, install, grade, regrade, plan, or replan streets, roads, sidewalks, ways, or other places; plan or replan, zone or rezone, or make exceptions from building regulations.

O.  Any instrument executed, in proper form and with proper certification of authority, by the authority purporting to convey any right, title, or interest in any property under this Part shall be conclusively presumed to have been executed in compliance with provisions of this Part insofar as title or other interest of any bona fide purchasers, lessees, or transferees of the property is concerned.

P.  As used in this Part, the following terms shall have the meaning herein ascribed to them:

(1)  "Appropriate governing authority" shall mean the governing authority of the city of Lafayette.

(2)  "Appropriate jurisdiction" shall mean the jurisdiction of the North Lafayette Redevelopment Authority.

(3)  "Bonds" shall mean any bonds, notes, interim certificates, certificates of indebtedness, debenture, or other obligation.

(4)  "City" shall mean the city of Lafayette.

(5)  "Federal government" shall mean any department, agency, or instrumentality, corporate or otherwise, of the United States of America.

(6)  "Public body" shall mean the state and any parish and any board, authority, agency, district, subdivision, department, or instrumentality, corporate or otherwise, of the state or any parish.

(7)  "Immovable property" shall mean all lands, including improvements and fixtures thereon, and property of any nature appurtenant thereto, or used in connection therewith, and any other real right therein, including terms for years and liens by way of judgment, mortgage, or otherwise.

Q.  Insofar as the provisions of this Part are inconsistent with the provisions of any other law, the provisions of this Part shall be controlling.  However, the authority shall be subject to the provisions of the Local Government Fair Competition Act, R.S. 45:844.41 et seq.  The authority conferred by this Part shall be in addition and supplemental to the powers conferred by any other law.

R.(1)  In addition to the powers granted to the authority pursuant to this Part, the authority may initiate an expedited quiet title and foreclosure action under this Subsection to quiet title to immovable property held by the authority, interests in property purchased by the authority at tax sales, or in formerly adjudicated properties acquired by the authority from a political subdivision, by recording with the register of conveyances a notice of pending expedited quiet title and foreclosure action.  The notice shall include a legal description of the property; the street address of the property if available; the name, address, and telephone number of the authority; a statement that the property is subject to expedited quiet title proceedings and foreclosure under this Section; and a statement that any legal interests in the property may be extinguished by a district court order vesting title to the property in the authority.  The right of redemption from tax sales in Article VII, Section 25(B) of the Constitution of Louisiana shall be terminated by these proceedings only if the time period for expiration of the right of redemption has expired.  If a notice is recorded in error, the authority may correct the error by recording a certificate of correction with the register of conveyances.  A notice or certificate under this Subsection need not be notarized and may be authenticated by a digital signature or other electronic means.  If an authority has reason to believe that a property subject to an expedited quiet title and foreclosure action under this Subsection may be the site of environmental contamination, the authority shall provide the Department of Environmental Quality with any information in the possession of the authority that suggests the property may be the site of environmental contamination.

(2)  After recording the notice under Paragraph (1) of this Subsection, the authority shall initiate a search of records identified in this Paragraph to identify the owners of a property interest in the property who are entitled to notice of the quiet title and foreclosure hearing under this Subsection.  The authority may enter into a contract with or may request from one or more authorized representatives a title search or other title product to identify the owners of a property interest in the property as required under this Paragraph or to perform the other functions set forth in this Subsection required for the quieting of title to property under this Paragraph.  The owner of a property interest is entitled to notice under this Section if that owner's interest was identifiable by reference to any of the following sources before the date that the authority records the notice under Paragraph (1) of this Subsection:

(a)  Land title records in the office of the recorder of mortgages and the register of conveyances.

(b)  Tax records in the office of the assessor.

(3)  The authority may file a single petition with the district court to expedite foreclosure under this Section listing all property subject to expedited foreclosure by the authority and for which the authority seeks to quiet title.  If available to the authority, the list of properties shall include a legal description of, a tax parcel identification number for, and the street address of each parcel of property.  The petition shall seek a judgment in favor of the authority against each property listed and shall include a date, within ninety days, on which the authority requests a hearing on the petition.  The petition shall request that a judgment be entered vesting absolute title in the authority, without right of redemption for each parcel of property listed, as provided in this Paragraph.  Prior to the entry of judgment under this Paragraph, the authority may request the court to remove property erroneously included in the petition, or any tax delinquent properties redeemed prior to the hearing.

(4)  The district court in which a petition is filed under Paragraph (3) of this Subsection, shall immediately set the date, time, and place for a hearing on the petition for foreclosure.  The date shall be set by the court and shall not be more than ten days after the date requested by the authority in the petition.  In no event may the court schedule the hearing later than ninety days after the filing of a petition by the authority under Paragraph (3) of this Subsection.

(5)  After completing the records search under Paragraph (2) of this Subsection, the authority shall determine the address or addresses reasonably calculated to inform those owners of a property interest in property subject to expedited foreclosure under this Paragraph of the pendency of the quiet title and foreclosure hearing under Paragraph (11) of this Subsection.  If, after conducting the title search, the authority is unable to determine an address reasonably calculated to inform persons with a property interest in property subject to expedited tax foreclosure, or if the authority discovers a deficiency in notice under Paragraph (10) of this Subsection, the following shall be considered reasonable steps by the authority to ascertain the addresses of persons with a property interest in the property subject to expedited foreclosure or to ascertain an address necessary to correct a deficiency in notice under Paragraph (10) of this Subsection:

(a)  For an individual, a search of records of the recorder of mortgages and the register of conveyances.

(b)  For a business entity a search of business entity records filed with the commercial division of the Department of State.

(6)  Not less than thirty days before the quiet title and foreclosure hearing under Paragraph (11) of this Subsection, the authority shall send notice by certified mail, return receipt requested, of the hearing to the persons identified under Paragraph (5) of this Subsection with a property interest in property subject to expedited foreclosure.  The authority shall also send a notice via regular mail addressed to the "Occupant" for each property subject to expedited foreclosure if an address for the property is ascertainable.

(7)  Not less than thirty days before the quiet title and foreclosure hearing under Paragraph (11) of this Subsection, the authority or its authorized representative or authorized agent shall visit each parcel of property subject to expedited foreclosure and post conspicuously on the property notice of the hearing.  In addition to the requirements of Paragraph (8) of this Subsection, the notice shall also include the following statement: "This Property has been transferred to the North Lafayette Redevelopment Authority and is subject to an expedited quiet title and foreclosure action.  Persons with information regarding the prior owner of the property are requested to contact the North Lafayette Redevelopment Authority."

(8)  The notice required under Paragraphs (6) and (7) of this Subsection shall include:

(a)  The date on which the authority recorded under Paragraph (4) of this Subsection, notice of the pending expedited quiet title and foreclosure action.

(b)  A statement that a person with a property interest in the property may lose his or her interest, if any, as a result of the quiet title and foreclosure hearing under Paragraph (11) of this Subsection.

(c)  A legal description, parcel number of the property, and the street address of the property, if available.

(d)  The person to whom the notice is addressed.

(e)  The date and time of the hearing on the petition for foreclosure under Paragraph (1) of this Subsection, and a statement that the judgment of the court may result in title to the property vesting in the authority.

(f)  An explanation of any rights of redemption and notice that the judgment of the court may extinguish any ownership interest in or right to redeem the property.

(g)  The name, address, and telephone number of the authority.

(h)  A statement that persons with information regarding the owner or prior owner of any of the properties are requested to contact the authority.

(9)  If the authority is unable to ascertain the address reasonably calculated to inform the owners of a property interest entitled to notice under this Section, or is unable to provide notice under Paragraphs (6) and (7) of this Subsection, the authority shall provide notice by publication.  Prior to the hearing, a notice shall be published for three successive weeks, once each week, in the official newspaper published and circulated in the parish.  The published notice shall include all of the following:

(a)  A legal description, parcel number of the property, and the street address of the property, if available.

(b)  The name of any person not notified under Paragraphs (6) and (7) of this Subsection, that the authority reasonably believes may be entitled to notice under this Section of the quiet title and foreclosure hearing under Paragraph (11) of this Subsection.

(c)  A statement that a person with a property interest in the property may lose his or her interest, if any, as a result of the foreclosure proceeding under Paragraph (11) of this Subsection.

(d)  The date and time of the hearing on the petition for foreclosure under Paragraph (4) of this Subsection.

(e)  A statement that the judgment of the court may result in title to the property vesting in the authority.

(f)  An explanation of any rights of redemption and notice that judgment of the court may extinguish any ownership interest in or right to redeem the property.

(g)  The name, address, and telephone number of the authority.

(h)  A statement that persons with information regarding the owner or prior owner of any of the properties are requested to contact the authority.

(10)  If prior to the quiet title and foreclosure hearing under Paragraph (11) of this Subsection, the authority discovers any deficiency in the provision of notice under this Section, the authority shall take reasonable steps in good faith to correct the deficiency before the hearing.  The provisions of this Subsection relating to notice of the quiet title and foreclosure hearing are exclusive and exhaustive.  Other requirements relating to notice and proof of service under other law, rule, or other legal requirement are not applicable to notice or proof of service under this Subsection.

(11)  If a petition for expedited quiet title and foreclosure is filed under Paragraph (3) of this Subsection, before the hearing, the authority shall file with the clerk of the district court proof of notice by certified mail under Paragraph (5) of this Subsection, proof of notice by posting on the property under Paragraph (6) of this Subsection, and proof of notice by publication, if applicable.  A person claiming an interest in a parcel of property set forth in the petition for foreclosure who desires to contest that petition shall file written objections with the clerk of the district court and serve those objections on the authority before the date of the hearing.  The district court may appoint and utilize as the court considers necessary a curator for assistance with the resolution of any objections to the foreclosure or questions regarding the title to property subject to foreclosure.  If the court withholds property from foreclosure, the authority's ability to include the property in a subsequent petition for expedited quiet title and foreclosure is not prejudiced.  No injunction shall issue to stay an expedited quiet title and foreclosure action under this Subsection.  The district court shall enter judgment on a petition to quiet title and foreclosure filed under Paragraph (3) of this Subsection, not more than ten days after the conclusion of the hearing or contested case, and the judgment shall be effective ten days after the conclusion of the hearing or contested case. The district court's judgment shall specify all of the following:

(a)  The legal description and, if known, the street address of the property foreclosed.

(b)  That title to property foreclosed by the judgment is vested absolutely in the authority, except as otherwise provided in Paragraphs (3) and (5) of this Subsection, without any further rights of redemption.

(c)  That all liens against the property, including any lien for unpaid taxes or special assessments are extinguished.

(d)  That, except as otherwise provided in Subparagraph (e) of this Paragraph, the authority has good and marketable title to the property.

(e)  That all existing recorded and unrecorded interests in that property are extinguished, except a visible or recorded easement or right-of-way or private deed restrictions.

(f)  A finding that all persons entitled to notice and an opportunity to be heard have been provided that notice and opportunity.  A person shall be deemed to have been provided notice and an opportunity to be heard if the authority followed the procedures for provision of notice by mail, for visits to property subject to expedited quiet title and foreclosure, and for publication under this Section, or if one or more of the following apply:

(i)  The person had constructive notice of the hearing by acquiring an interest in the property after the date of the recording under Paragraph (1) of this Subsection, of the notice of pending expedited quiet title and foreclosure action.

(ii)  The person appeared at the hearing under this Paragraph or submitted written objections to the district court under this Paragraph prior to the hearing.

(iii)  Prior to the hearing under this Paragraph, the person had actual notice of the hearing.

(12)  Except as otherwise provided in Subparagraph (11)(e) of this Subsection, title to property set forth in a petition for foreclosure filed under Paragraph (3) of this Subsection shall vest absolutely in the authority upon the effective date of the judgment by the district court and the authority shall have absolute title to the property.  The authority's title is not subject to any recorded or unrecorded lien, except as provided in Paragraph(11) of this Subsection and shall not be stayed or held invalid except as provided in Paragraph (13) of this Subsection.  A judgment entered under this Subsection is a final order with respect to the property affected by the judgment and shall not be modified, stayed, or held invalid after the effective date of the judgment, except as provided in Paragraph (13) of this Subsection.

(13)  The authority or a person claiming to have a property interest under Paragraph (2) of this Subsection, in property foreclosed under this Subsection may, within twenty-one days of the effective date of the judgment under Paragraph (12) of this Subsection, appeal the district court's order or the district court's judgment foreclosing property to the court of appeals.  An appeal under this Paragraph is limited to the record of the proceedings in the district court under this Subsection.  The district court's judgment foreclosing property shall be stayed until the court of appeals has reversed, modified, or affirmed that judgment.  If an appeal under this Paragraph stays the district court's judgment foreclosing property, the district court's judgment is stayed only as to the property that is the subject of that appeal and the district court's judgment foreclosing other property that is not the subject of that appeal is not stayed.  To appeal the district court's judgment foreclosing property, a person appealing the judgment shall pay to the authority any taxes, interest, penalties, and fees due on the property and provide notice of the appeal to the authority within twenty-one days after the district court's judgment is effective.  If the district court's judgment foreclosing the property is affirmed on appeal, the amount determined to be due shall be refunded to the person who appealed the judgment.  If the district court's judgment foreclosing the property is reversed or modified on appeal, the authority shall refund the amount determined to be due to the person who appealed the judgment, if any, and forward the balance to the appropriate taxing jurisdictions in accordance with the order of the court of appeals.

(14)  The authority shall record a notice of judgment for each parcel of foreclosed property in the office of the register of conveyances.  If the authority records a notice of judgment in error, the authority may subsequently record a certificate of correction.  A notice or certificate under this Subsection need not be notarized and may be authenticated by a digital signature or other electronic means.  After the entry of a judgment foreclosing the property under this Subsection, if the property has not been transferred by the authority, the authority may cancel the foreclosure by recording with the register of conveyances a certificate of error, if the authority discovers any of the following:

(a)  The description of the property used in the expedited quiet title and foreclosure proceeding was so indefinite or erroneous that the foreclosure of the property was void.

(b)  An owner of an interest in the property entitled to notice of the expedited quiet title and proceedings against the property under this Subsection was not provided notice sufficient to satisfy the minimum due process requirements of the Constitution of Louisiana and the Constitution of the United States.

(c)  A judgment of foreclosure was entered under this Subsection in violation of an order issued by a United States bankruptcy court.

(15)  If a judgment of foreclosure is entered under Paragraph (11) of this Subsection, and all existing recorded and unrecorded interests in a parcel of property are extinguished as provided in Paragraph (11) of this Subsection, the owner of any extinguished recorded or unrecorded interest in that property who claims that he or she did not receive notice of the expedited quiet title and foreclosure action shall not bring an action for possession of the property against any subsequent owner, but may only bring an action to recover monetary damages from the authority as provided in this Subsection.  The district court has original and exclusive jurisdiction in any action to recover monetary damages under this Paragraph. An action to recover monetary damages under this Subsection shall not be brought more than two years after a judgment for foreclosure is entered under Paragraph (12) of this Subsection. Any monetary damages recoverable under this Subsection shall be determined as of the date a judgment for foreclosure is entered under Paragraph (12) of this Subsection and shall not exceed the fair market value of the interest in the property held by the person bringing the action under this Subsection on that date, less any taxes, interest, penalties, and fees owed on the property as of that date.  The right to sue for monetary damages under this Subsection shall not be transferable except by testate or intestate succession.

(16)  The owner of a property interest with notice of the quiet title and foreclosure hearing under Paragraph (11) of this Subsection, may not assert any of the following:

(a)  That notice to the owner was insufficient or inadequate in any way because some other owner of a property interest in the property was not notified.

(b)  That any right to redeem tax reverted property was extended in any way because some other person was not notified.

(17)  A person holding or formerly holding an interest in tax reverted property subject to expedited foreclosure under this Subsection is barred from questioning the validity of the expedited foreclosure under this Subsection.

(18)  The failure of the authority to comply with any provision of this Subsection shall not invalidate any proceeding under this Subsection if a person with a property interest in property subject to foreclosure was accorded the minimum due process required under the Constitution of Louisiana and the Constitution of the United States.

(19)  It is the intent of the legislature that the provisions of this Section relating to the expedited quiet title and foreclosure of property by the authority satisfy the minimum requirements of due process required under the Constitution of Louisiana and the Constitution of the United States but that the provisions do not create new rights beyond those required under the Constitution of Louisiana or the Constitution of the United States. The failure of the authority to follow a requirement of this Section relating to the expedited quiet title and foreclosure of property held by the authority shall not be construed to create a claim or cause of action against the authority unless the minimum requirements of due process accorded under the Constitution of Louisiana or the Constitution of the United States are violated.

(20)  As used in this Subsection, "authorized representative" includes one or more of the following:

(a)  A title insurance company or agent licensed to conduct business in this state.

(b)  An attorney licensed to practice law in this state.

(c)  A person accredited in land title search procedures by a nationally recognized organization in the field of land title searching.

(d)  A person with demonstrated experience in the field of searching land title records, as determined by the authority.

(21)  As used in this Subsection, "district court" shall mean the Fifteenth Judicial District Court.

Acts 2008, No. 912, §1, eff. July 14, 2008; Acts 2013, No. 220, §12, eff. June 11, 2013; Acts 2014, No. 818, §1.

NOTE:  See Acts 2014, No. 818, §2, relative to terms of members.