The discussion follows a newly filed lawsuit that challenges whether St. George was ever legally incorporated. Mayor Yates pushed back strongly on that claim, stating that the city is fully operational and recognized at all levels of government. “We do, in fact, exist,” Yates said, noting that St. George continues to issue permits, enforce codes, and provide services to residents without interruption.
Yates pointed to the Louisiana Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of incorporation as a key legal foundation, explaining that voters originally approved the measure on October 12, 2019, with certification finalized roughly 30 days later. According to Yates, the city’s established incorporation date is November 11, 2019.
The lawsuit also stems from a zoning dispute involving a single property owner. Yates explained that the city recently simplified zoning classifications, reducing complexity inherited from East Baton Rouge Parish. Out of roughly 40,000 properties, only 13 owners initially raised concerns, with nearly all resolved through collaboration. “We worked through about 98% of those issues,” Yates said, emphasizing that only one disputed property remains.
Despite criticism, St. George continues to see strong development activity. Yates highlighted record-setting permit numbers, with approximately 830 permits processed in a recent month—the highest in the city’s history. He also addressed concerns about denied projects, noting that only one development has been rejected due to significant infrastructure and flood risk concerns.
Looking ahead, Yates said the city remains focused on improving efficiency and transparency, including ongoing discussions with contractors and developers to refine the permitting process.
As legal proceedings move forward, St. George’s leadership maintains that the city is stable, growing, and committed to serving its residents and business community.
Listen to “It looks like the City of St. George Does Exist” on Spreaker.