It has come to my attention that theapartment complex formerly known as privJaguar Plaza at the gate of Southern University have recently transferred ownership- with the intention of converting the units into low income housing.

I am adamantly opposed to another low income housing development occurring in the Scotlandville area- especially one of this size: 90+ units and their inhabitants concentrated in such a small area. A development of this magnitude will be harmful to the home values in the immediate vicinities of historic Southern Heights and Clarksdale subdivisions. The additional persons would have an adverse impact on public and private infrastructures, first responder times, economic growth and educational facilities within the area- especially the elementary and secondary schools, including Ryan Elementary School, a U. S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon School.

Furthermore, a second low income development within the immediate access of the Southern University campus (the first is located near the Swan Street side immediately across from the F.G. Clark Activity Center) projects a poor image of the university, its current students, alumni and political base; a second development would also impede recruitment of new students. Parents evaluating the campus and its environment would likely see development as a deterrent. The new development would also be in the immediate vicinity of the Clark Activity Center AND A.W. Mumford stadium- sites of sports, entertainment and cultural events- including mass tailgating during football season.

The proposed development would deter further economic development in the area. Visitors to Louisiana Small Business Development Center would be greeted by an environment which is the direct antithesis of what its designed to promote.

There are many more concerns involved with this proposed project, including the civil rights aspects of disparate impact and treatment of the citizens in the area: Scotlandville does not need, and is no longer willing to tolerate, landlords and developers coming into the area who do not live in the community nor have interest in properly maintaining their acquisitions. There are too many negatives associated with the proposal without any positives- including detracting from the tax base without contributing to it. The current civic environment in Baton Rouge does not need further deterioration.

I, the Southern University campus, Southern University Alumni Federation and others are willing to work with the investor in developing a mutually beneficial relationship. We would love to see a graduate student housing development or other projects similar to those at LSU near Southern. We humbly ask your support.