
Inspector General seizes computer from city employee involved in ‘smart cities’ controversy
An attorney for the employee said he believed electronics were also seized from other employees as well, but couldn’t confirm.
Recent Posts

Bill to create parole panel for people in prison on split-jury convictions on hold
Amendments sought by criminal justice reform groups meet resistance over fears of opposition from powerful prosecutors’ organization.

School Board hears more on enrollment decline
The analysis will help inform the district’s “right-sizing” plan which could include school closures as enrollment declines in the city.

Council says city will likely forfeit millions in post-Katrina roadwork funds without FEMA extension
The council passed a non-binding resolution urging the Cantrell administration to improve the program and secure a FEMA extension.

In apparent first, district moves to withhold charter school’s state funding over facility conditions
King Charter School leases a district-owned building.

City has yet to determine use for nearly $1 million of conflicted court money
In 2020, the City Council told the court to return the money to defendants. State law says it must be used in “defraying the expenses of the criminal justice system.”

School Board committee advances more lenient charter renewal proposal
The new policies would help address years when pandemic shutdowns canceled state standardized testing.
PODCAST

Behind The Lens episode 167: ‘Two jurors did not believe the State met its burden of proof’
Government watchdog agencies looking into city roadwork program. COVID is up in local schools. And the state Supreme Court hears a case that could affect hundreds of people imprisoned on split-jury convictions.
opinion

In the best interest of our children
HB 272 is a first step in creating much-needed oversight and implementing more effective strategies to reduce the impact of high-conflict divorce on families.

The first lie wins
As I spend Mother’s Day without my children, I am sending out a single positive message to parents in similar situations: I see you.

Let’s listen to New Orleans youth
Supporting our city’s youth should start with listening to their perspectives, and the New Orleans Citywide Youth Survey gives us that opportunity.

Carnival and politics in 2022
The Carnival landscape of today is arguably more divided than ever before.
About the Lens
The Lens aims to engage and empower the residents of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast. We provide the information and analysis necessary to advocate for more accountable and just governance.