Kenner council debates future of Esplanade Mall amid ownership and tax issues

In a pivotal meeting on March 28, 2025, the Kenner City Council gathered to address pressing concerns surrounding the future of the Esplanade Mall property, a site that has long been a source of frustration for local officials and residents alike. The atmosphere was charged as council members voiced their apprehensions about a proposed resubdivision of the mall, which many believe could complicate efforts to revitalize the area.

Councilman George Brannigan, representing the district where the mall is located, opened the discussion by highlighting the ongoing issues with the property, which has been problematic for over two decades. He emphasized that allowing the current owner to resubdivide the land could lead to further complications, potentially fragmenting the site and hindering future development opportunities. "We need to maximize it for the future of the city of Kenner," Brannigan stated, urging his colleagues to reconsider the resubdivision proposal.

Councilwoman Bridal Bohannon echoed these sentiments, revealing the complexities of the mall's ownership, which involves multiple stakeholders and unresolved tax liens. She suggested that the government might need to step in and purchase the property to streamline its redevelopment. Bohannon also mentioned ongoing efforts to secure funding from FEMA to address flooding issues in the surrounding area, which have plagued local homes for years.

The council's concerns were further amplified by Jerry Bologna, president of the Jefferson Economic Development Corporation (JEDCO), who noted that potential developers are deterred by the fragmented ownership and existing liens. "Developers don't want to put their money at risk when it could take years just to get to the starting line," Bologna explained, stressing the need for government control to clear these obstacles.

As the discussion unfolded, council members expressed a unified front against the resubdivision, citing the potential loss of sales tax revenue and the negative impact on the community. Councilman Brannigan pointed out that the mall's redevelopment is crucial for the city's financial health, as approximately 70% of Kenner's general fund relies on sales tax.

Public comments echoed the council's apprehensions, with residents voicing their frustrations over the mall's current state and the lack of maintenance by its owners. Many urged the council to prioritize a comprehensive redevelopment plan rather than allowing piecemeal changes that could further complicate the situation.

As the meeting concluded, it became clear that the council is committed to finding a solution that not only addresses the immediate concerns of the mall but also secures a prosperous future for Kenner. The decision on the resubdivision remains pending, but the council's resolve to protect the community's interests is evident, setting the stage for a potential turning point in the long-standing saga of the Esplanade Mall.