***NO DONATIONS, EVEN WHEN THIS WEBSITE ASKS. IF YOU STOP RECEIVING THESE MESSAGES, MAKE SURE TO CHECK YOUR SPAM FOLDER & CONTINUE TO SHARE THEM WITH EVERYONE YOU KNOW.***

Judge Abels noted the INTENSE public interest in this case, showing that each & every one of YOU that made calls/emails had an impact! Even though legal arguments were made, there will still be another hearing, likely the week of Sept. 18, 2023. We had ~20-25 people show up to the courthouse, which was good, but we need MORE at this next court date as our attorney said our presence is making a difference. We need to continue to be UNITED & NOT allow ANOTHER Dollar General store to be constructed in our area. Our concerns are legitimate, and we have every RIGHT to have a say in commercial developments around our homes & community. I will continue to post updates as needed.

So, what can YOU do NOW? Our attorney has advised us to continue contacting the judge, even if you have sent previous message(s). These messages should NOT be limited to just you. Encourage your friends, neighbors, AND relatives to contact the judge, even if they do not live near this location. The reason is because DG does NOT plan to STOP building stores throughout Tangipahoa Parish and the next DG may be in YOUR neighborhood or that of your family. THANK YOU to everyone for helping; your efforts are greatly appreciated & we ARE making a difference!!! DON’T GIVE UP!! When contacting Judge Abels, feel free to use the bolded script below or voice concerns in your own words (contact info listed below):

Subject: Dollar General proposed store Hwy 22/Dutch Lane

Thank you for recognizing the important issue of the proposed Dollar General (DG) in our community. We ask that you consider our response to this proposed store location by upholding the decision made by our parish leaders. Their decision was based on the feedback given to them by us, the public. We are specifically concerned about our safety, crime, traffic, economy, drainage, & aesthetics. We strongly OPPOSE another DG store along our beautiful Hwy 22 as there are more than SIX currently within a 4-mile radius. This location would create dangerous traffic congestion, thus posing a threat to public safety.  

We implore you to uphold the parish decision to DENY this project based on the legal premise of HARM TO PUBLIC WELFARE. Furthermore, upholding the current Tangipahoa Comprehensive Parish Plan, specifically Chapter 7 (pg 259), Goal 1.7.3 & Recommendation 1.7.2.1 which emphasize the importance of enhancing LOCAL businesses in our parish and requiring impact studies so that our parish maintains rural/small-town quality of life by closely scrutinizing major new commercial development. 

The Parish Council has a duty to protect constituents of this parish and we, as residents, have every right to have a say in commercial developments around our homes & community.

Judge Brian K. Abels

DIVISION “D” TANGIPAHOA PARISH

Office: (985) 748-9445; Fax: (985) 748-6637

SECRETARY
Ashley Cain, email : acain@21stjdc.org

TANGIPAHOA LAW CLERK
Lindon Magee, email: lmagee@21stjdc.org

To access Judge Abels website: 21st Judicial Court