The City of New Orleans announced on June 1 that the Moreno Administration achieved several legislative victories within less than 140 days, focusing on public safety, quality of life, and fiscal stability. Mayor Helena Moreno said, “We work with urgency to solve longstanding problems, which is why we made the historic move to begin taking local control of the Sewerage and Water Board. This legislation along with the other bills in the city’s package focused on city services, fiscal matters, quality of life and increased economic opportunities. The success is the result of a team effort with the City Council, my staff and department heads who were constantly present during the session advocating for these bills. I want to thank the New Orleans delegation for their diligent work and commitment to help improve our city and state.”
The administration reported savings of $30 million in spending as well as new revenue for city coffers. Economic development gains were highlighted for both the Historic District Landmarks Commission and redevelopment efforts in The West End.
Legislative highlights included authorizing comprehensive local control over the Sewerage & Water Board (SWBNO). District 94 Representative Stephanie Hilferty said, “Authorizing the New Orleans City Council to have comprehensive local control over SWBNO will not only enable better outcomes for residents across the city, but also provides for accountability and transparency. For far too long, the structure of SWBNO has not served the city of New Orleans or its residents. Now we can deal with problems and solve them.” Senate District 4 State Senator Jimmy Harris added that coordination among various leaders resulted in tangible benefits: “Bringing home tangible results for New Orleanians from economic development to infrastructure and public services was a collaborative effort… I am pleased that our coordination garnered benefits for the city…”
District 98 Representative Aimee Adatto Freeman reflected on challenges faced during this session: “Our Orleans delegation stood together and fought against bills reducing representation in our city… We worked diligently to support Mayor Moreno’s vision…” Other representatives pointed out setbacks such as changes related to voting rights protections but emphasized progress made regarding budget reforms and improved governance at SWBNO.
City Council members also commented on specific legislative achievements including HB 1243 giving greater authority over water systems; HB 368 increasing penalties against illegal demolitions; HB 892 advancing redevelopment efforts; reforms saving taxpayers millions through changes in retirement systems; strengthening funding streams; enhancing public safety protections; promoting procurement innovation; as well as increasing transparency.
District D City Councilmember Eugene Green concluded, “As a result of setting a realistic, service-oriented agenda… successes [were secured] in a number of areas including Sewerage & Water Board reform… enhancing long-term stability… strengthening public safety protections… promoting innovation… increasing transparency.”