Behind The Lens episode 148: ‘Best future use’
The city continues to seek contractors for a plan to turn the Municipal Auditorium into City Hall. Phase III timeline puts FEMA funding at risk. And a look at the upcoming election.
Two years after Hard Rock collapse, City Council passes ‘responsible’ contractor requirements
The new law creates new disclosure requirements for contractors and new responsibilities for the city, including keeping a list of "non-responsible" contractors.
Two Lusher renaming suggestions still include ‘Lusher,’ frustrating some
The school’s namesake was a Confederate official and segregationist and the Orleans Parish School Board has already renamed its building.
City comes out against Amendment 1, but some OPSB members express support
Supporters argue the change could bring in more funds, while opponents worry the city would lose control over collections.
Jail construction timeline could endanger FEMA funding
FEMA’s deadline for substantial completion of the Phase III jail building is August 2023. The city, which is working on the building reluctantly, says it won’t be finished until January 2024.
Despite ongoing opposition and proposed zoning changes, city still looking for contractors to redesign Municipal Auditorium as new City Hall
Over the summer, Mayor Cantrell met with a group opposed to the plan, telling them to come up with their own ideas for how to use the building. The group has been working on it but has not heard from city officials since July.
District plans for student vaccinations; school cases remain low
NOLA Public Schools will host a virtual town hall for parents with vaccine questions on Wednesday evening.
NOLA Public Schools centralized admissions process — formerly called OneApp — launches Nov. 1, with a new name and new selective admission schools
Three selective elementary schools will still have additional requirements after students apply through the centralized portal.
Orleans DA says he welcomes court-appointed monitor, a rarity in prosecutors’ offices
Civil rights attorney Katie Schwartzmann will serve as monitor for the Orleans Parish DA’s Office, the result of a settlement in a civil rights suit over the use of fake subpoenas.
Orleans DA launches investigation into allegations of misappropriated funds by charter school operator
Dryades runs Singleton Charter School, which is in the final year of its operating contract and could close next summer.
