"Relentless assault": New Orleans' wins and losses this session
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New Orleans scored several wins in the legislative session that otherwise "felt like a relentless assault" on the city, leaders say.
Why it matters: While New Orleans lost major political battles over redistricting and the court system, lawmakers approved changes that could reshape the city's troubled water utility and steer millions of dollars toward long-delayed projects.
The big picture: Louisiana lawmakers ended a session Monday that featured repeated clashes between Democrats from New Orleans and Republicans from elsewhere in the state.
- "This session felt like a relentless assault on New Orleans, but I am proud of how our delegation rose to meet it with courage and unity," City Council member Lesli Harris said in a statement.
- She pointed to the Republican-led redistricting efforts and the court overhaul, which reduces the number of judges and clerks in New Orleans.
- New Orleans' elected leaders advocated for two majority-Black districts and two separate clerk seats. They lost both fights.
Yes, but: City leaders point to several tangible victories, including legislative reform for the Sewerage and Water Board that gives the City Council local control of the quasi-state agency.
- Mayor Helena Moreno on Tuesday announced a task force to guide the proposed SWBNO reforms and their implementation.
- Orleans Parish legislators also secured millions in capital funds for the Municipal Auditorium ($16M), SWBNO water treatment plants ($14M), Lincoln Beach ($5.5M) and other projects, according to a press release from the city.
What we're watching: Lawmakers approved several measures that could shape the city's future development.
- West End: Lawmakers established a partnership between Orleans and Jefferson parishes with the goal of developing the vacant commercial space along the lake.
- Downtown governance: A study will analyze the jurisdictional authority throughout downtown, the French Quarter and the riverfront with the purpose of recommending consolidation.
- New City Hall: The city was awarded $2 million to plan a new building.
What's next: Gov. Jeff Landry signed the new legislative map into law, but the rest of the bills still need his signature.
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