Smaller residential lots in St. Charles Parish could soon become a reality. But the parish council Monday night decided to hold off on creating the new zoning that would allow them until further study is made.

This is probably the right course of action, considering there is some concern that it could bring congested areas that would encourage criminal activity and the spread of household fires. If not done right, it could be a detriment to St. Charles.

The new zoning for so-called “patio” homesites would allow residential lots 30 or 40 feet wide and up to 12 lots per acre. At present, only 7 lots can be permitted in an acre. But there are arguments in favor of allowing the increased density.

St. Charles Parish is 80 percent wetlands and we will have a lot of green space regardless of how many residences are allowed in the rest of it. Also, many people, singles and retirees especially, don’t want a lot of property to care for. They would rather play checkers or watch TV than cut grass in their spare time.

And, let’s face it, people in South Louisiana got used to dense living after Katrina with many put into into FEMA trailers and other peoples’ homes.

With “patio” homesites available, people will still have the option to live on spacious grounds in other areas. It would give them a rightful choice.

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