SWBNO finances, water breaks (library closure), sanitation audit ($24M deficit), recycling woes, DJ fraud, catch basins stalled, potholes
Key Questions
Why was the New Orleans Main Library closed?
The library closed for 3-4 weeks due to low water pressure from a South Carrollton water main break. It reopened in April after collaboration on prevention measures. A new hire is addressing library infrastructure repairs.
What is the status of sanitation services in New Orleans?
New trash and recycling data has deepened a $24M sanitation deficit probe, with 164k trash payers and 130k recycling opt-ins at 42%. Fee hikes are paused pending a Legislative Auditor review after rejecting a $5.4M grant.
How many catch basins have been cleared in New Orleans?
Only 379 out of 9,000 catch basins have been cleared, contributing to ponding risks amid weather alerts. This stall is part of broader infrastructure challenges.
What is Mayor Moreno doing about potholes?
Mayor Helena Moreno's administration is addressing 1,500 potholes per week. She signed an executive order to streamline hiring for street repairs.
What is the OPSB responding to regarding finances?
The Orleans Parish School Board (OPSB) is defending its financial practices against state criticism over a $13M tax issue.
Who is the contractor charged with faking inspections?
NOPD charged a contractor exposed by WWL for fabricating inspection records; police are searching for suspect Jon Anderson in a related forgery case.
When is DJ Hardhead's trial?
DJ Hardhead's trial is scheduled for April 6 amid ongoing fraud investigations.
What traffic improvements is Mayor Moreno teasing?
Mayor Moreno is teasing a major New Orleans traffic light plan to address over 450 malfunctioning signals and delays.
South Carrollton break closes library 3-4 wks, reopened Apr amid collaboration on prevention; new trash/recycling data questions deepen $24M sanitation deficit probe (164k/130k payers, 42% opt-in, rejected $5.4M grant) as fee hikes paused, Leg Auditor review; OPSB defends vs state $13M tax critic; contractor faking inspections NOPD charges; Jon Anderson manhunt. DJ Hardhead trial Apr 6; catch basins 379/9k; Moreno 1500 potholes/wk; ponding risks; traffic light plan tease.