Jefferson Parish School Board sues insurer for more than $484K

GRETNA – An insurance company is being sued by a local school board involving a contractor who defaulted on a construction project.

Jefferson Parish School Board filed suit against Westchester Surplus Lines Insurance Company in the 24th Judicial District Court on Nov. 18.

The Jefferson Parish School Board asserts it contracted with CATCO to provide services on the new arts center at Grace King High School but that CATCO did not complete its work. The plaintiff alleges it was listed on the insurance CATCO was carrying and that after CATCO defaulted coverage should have been extended to it. The Jefferson Parish School Board claims that Westchester Surplus Lines Insurance Company should have covered any losses during the policy period that would also cover weather damage and mold growth that occurred between when CATCO gave up the project and when the completing contractor could take over.

The defendant is accused of breach of contract.

Damages in the amount of $484,201.27 are sought by the plaintiffs.

The Jefferson Parish School Board is represented by Olden C. Toups of Gretna-based Grant & Barrow APLC.

The case has been assigned to Division E Judge John J. Molaision Jr.

Case no. 733-023.