Belle Maison Apartment representatives Rhett Holmes and Bryan Bates addressed the Ville Platte City Council Tuesday, with plans to develop a 9-million-dollar apartment complex that would provide affordable housing to working class citizens.

   According to Holmes, the complex, which will be located at Tate Cove Road and East Lincoln Road, will require residents to have a job and pay rent. 56 apartments will be built, with rent ranging from $300 per month for a one bedroom, to $650-700 per month for a 3-bedroom apartment. Holmes stated that resident amenities will include: a playground, walking trail, garden, covered parking (90 spaces), but will not have a pool. Holmes stated that security is a top priority for Belle Maison Apartments, and plans to use adequate lighting, and quality security cameras (1 for every 3-4 apartments) to ensure resident safety. Before starting, Holmes stated that the Mayor would need to sign a letter, confirming that utilities are available and residents can live there.

   Mayor Vidrine, opposing the idea, stated that she would rather focus on developing single family homes (rent to purchase) over adding apartment complexes to the city. Council member Mike Perron, who’s district would be receiving the apartment complex, stated that his constituents have expressed concern over potential trespassers on their properties. Council member Bryant Riggs disagreed, stating that the apartment complex is a step in the right direction, and that there is a need for these apartments.

   Mayor Vidrine also announced that early December 2018, Domino’s Pizza will be opening a new location at the corner of LaSalle St. and Tate Cove Rd.

Other Business:

- Charles Guillory announced his candidacy to the Council for the October 2019 Sheriff election.

- During her monthly report, Mayor Vidrine announced that the city spent $183,472.29 for the month of June. Vidrine states that the city now will be saving more money, due to Acadiana Ambulances revised rates for inmate transportation to hospital.

- Police Department announced the hiring of Cedric Jackson, Daylon Maricle, and George Goldman as full-time patrol officers, and one part-time 911 dispatcher, Crystal Vidrine.

- Council approved the appointment of Danyon Charles as Gas Supervisor for the gas department for the city.

- Council approved the closing of Trojan Lane, August 18th, for “Sacred Heart Day”.