HAMMOND, LA – Louisiana’s 1st Choice Auto Auction, in Hammond, is fully operational in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the ensuing situation in the Gulf Coast. The auction is located 45 minutes from New Orleans, and was on the Western edge of the storm. Damage to the facility was minimal and not of a nature to disrupt operations, cause damage to vehicles, or impede access to the lot.

“We were extremely fortunate to be located just outside the main thrust of the storm. The facility itself and access from the surrounding areas is not disrupted,” said John Poteet, the auction’s managing partner.

“Unfortunately, a number of our staff sustained serious damage to their homes and the auction has found temporary accommodations for all employees and their families that have been displaced. This will be a long process and we feel it is important to make replacement vehicles available to area dealers immediately,” he added.

Louisiana’s 1st Choice Auto Auction services the entire Gulf Coast region from Alabama to Texas along with its sister facility – Houston’s First Choice Auto Auction. Both are members of the National Auto Auction Association (NAAA).