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Category
Government & Politics

New Orleans may have improperly diverted millions in property taxes to pension funds

Those taxes can be used only for what voters approved.
by Charles Maldonado May 8, 2018 Updated November 7, 2019

Actors were paid to support Entergy’s power plant at New Orleans City Council meetings

Dozens of people in orange shirts showed up at meetings to support Entergy's new power plant. But for many of them, it was just an acting gig. They were paid to show up and speak on the company's behalf. The Lens interviewed a few of them and reviewed messages outlining the astroturfing effort.
by Michael Isaac Stein May 4, 2018 Updated September 5, 2022

Blighted Make It Right home to be demolished after standing vacant, half-repaired for two years

The property was the subject of a code-enforcement hearing Tuesday.
by Karen Gadbois April 17, 2018 Updated November 7, 2019

Why it took more than a decade to finally demolish derelict Claiborne Avenue apartment building

With friends in high places, the Rev. Charles Southall evaded seizure and auction of the property, which he claimed he would rehabilitate through tax breaks and government grants for affordable housing.
by Karen Gadbois April 13, 2018 Updated November 7, 2019

Opponents of new power plant in New Orleans file suit, ask city council to reconsider its decision

The city’s utility consultants essentially acted as judge and jury, they say.
by Michael Isaac Stein April 10, 2018 Updated November 7, 2019

In memory of Ron Ridenhour: Finding the courage to tell terrible truths

The need is only more urgent in a season of political lies.
by Randy Fertel April 10, 2018 Updated November 7, 2019

Affordable housing group says fears about Airbnb’s effect on New Orleans housing have come true

Many Airbnb listings are controlled by relatively few people, and most listings are for whole homes, according to a report from a group that wants to limit short-term rentals.
by Charles Maldonado March 28, 2018 Updated November 7, 2019

As the New Orleans City Council calls for a study of short-term rentals, here’s what we know so far

The city council has called for a study on the effects of the short-term rental law, which has been in effect for a year. The Lens has mapped each license application and talked to residents in affected areas.
by Charles Maldonado March 23, 2018 Updated November 7, 2019

Enough! A generation failed by adults is taking to the streets this Saturday

Students march Saturday for gun control
by Louise Olivier March 21, 2018 Updated November 7, 2019

City council to drop controversial proposal for surveillance cameras at businesses that sell booze

Opponents said the cameras would’ve infringed on people’s privacy.
by Charles Maldonado March 20, 2018 Updated November 7, 2019

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The Lens fights to reveal and report on issues that impact the community and the region. Staunchly defending the public's right to know and deeply committed to sharing our knowledge with the community at large. We center human impact in all our work.
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Our reporting has more urgency than ever.


For more than a decade, we have reported on issues as well as public policy meant to address the needs of residents. The Lens seeks to focus on the inherent inequality that has created a multi-tiered system. We, at The Lens seek to uncover, illuminate, inform and take part in a forward-looking community. Join us.

 
 

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