In the city of Kenner, Louisiana, Mayor Ed Muniz’s administration has a plan to convert the former Barbre Middle School into offices for the Public Works Department. After some initial hesitation by city officials, it appears that this project will be moving forward. The $1.3 million renovation of the former Stephen J. Barbre Middle School into a home for the Public Works Department gained major support last Thursday after all members of the city council toured the proposed site.

At a meeting earlier this month, the council had voted 5-2 to delay about $164,000 in plumbing work and lead and asbestos remediation. At the meeting last Thursday, however, all members were ready to move forward on the project. "After having seen the building, (having) met with the mayor, and knowing that we will stay within the budget, I can no longer justify any delays on this project," said Councilman Ben Zahn.

Last Thursday, the council unanimously approved the plumbing and lead and asbestos remediation, along with a change order that increased the price of some heating and air conditioning contracts by 26 percent, or $33,221. Asbestos removal will be a crucial step in this process. By law, the asbestos must be cleaned up, as asbestos exposure is conclusively linked to the development of mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer. Mesothelioma affects less than 3,000 Americans each year. Sadly, there is no known cure. The disease typically lies dormant for up to fifty years before the first symptoms of the cancer present themselves.

Councilwoman Maria DeFrancesch said she toured the building, and told reporters, ”I think the public will feel much more confident in moving forward."

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