And despite the fiasco, top brass ordered itself big raises.
Posted inGovernment & Politics
Cantrell ousts top officials at Sewerage and Water Board
All three ousted deputy directors recently received large pay raises. Meanwhile, the utility, citing a financial crisis, has been shutting off water service to delinquent customers.
Posted inGovernment & Politics
Customers on S&WB disconnection list complain of ongoing billing problems
The Lens obtained the names of the first 44 customers who faced disconnection from the Sewerage and Water Board. Some complained of unfair treatment, mysterious bills and longstanding disputes with the utility.
Posted inGovernment & Politics, Opinion
Should we condemn Trump’s assault on the media — or learn to ignore his blathering?
Trump’s lies are a calculated distraction from what he’s actually doing.
Posted inSchools
Children return to schools without promised water filters to screen lead
After school officials announced they would test school water for lead in 2016, they decided to install filters instead. But the school district has yet to sign a contract with a filter company.
Posted inSchools
Lafayette Academy students at little risk of asbestos-related health problems, doctor tells parents
Asbestos removal work happened when kids were in school. But a Children’s Hospital lung doctor says their exposure was “negligible.”
Posted inOpinion, Schools
How about creating schools with more purpose than test scores and letter grades?
Students benefit, but so do their communities.
Posted inInside the News Room
The Lens’ Week in Review: At mayor’s urging, 911 board abruptly fires director
The governing board of the Orleans Parish Communication District, which runs the city’s 911 service, fired longtime Executive Director Stephen Gordon in a meeting that, to put it mildly, was unusual. The move came at the strong recommendation of Mayor LaToya Cantrell, who doesn’t directly run the 911 board but has considerable sway over it. […]
Posted inCharter Schools, Schools
Orleans school district cites Harney charter school for possible violations of federal law
The school has racked up nine district warnings this year.
Posted inGovernment & Politics
In apparently illegal meeting, 911 board fires director
Mayor urged board to fire and replace 911 call center director. Her spokesman offered only vague explanations.