New state utility regulator wants to reduce rates, introduce renewable mandates
Many see Lewis’ victory as a sign of shifting politics around renewable energy in a state where, traditionally, fossil fuels have ruled.
Category
Government & Politics
City hasn’t spent bulk of $388 million in federal COVID relief, BGR report finds
The report found transparency issues with how ARPA spending was reported to the public.
Council to stick with longtime utility consultants despite extensive search for alternatives
The council received no new responses to a recent public bid for new consultants, as well as a different public bid to hire a headhunter to find new consultants.
Council approves 2023 budget with surprise addition of $124M in federal coronavirus relief spending
The council approved roughly $262 million in one-time spending through the budget.
Increased funding and role for independent police monitor on hold after concerns from ethics board
The ethics board argued that the city should first amend the city charter to increase the office's minimum guaranteed funding before granting it new authority and responsibilities.
New Orleans voters will likely decide on two more city charter amendments in 2023
The first amendment would make code enforcement an independent city department and the second is aimed at giving the council more time to scrutinize the annual budget.
City Council significantly expands approval power over city contracts
The new ordinance will require council approval for multiyear contracts and contracts worth more than $1 million.
New Orleans Inspector General plans wide ranging investigations into local government
Investigation targets include the Sewerage and Water Board, short-term rental enforcement and the NOPD.
City gets much needed deadline extension to spend $1.7B in Katrina FEMA funds
The deadline has been moved from 2023 to 2024, but the city will ultimately need further extensions to 2026 to allow for its current spending plans.
Voters give New Orleans City Council power to approve mayoral appointees
The Public Service Commission district 3 race, which covers New Orleans, heads to a run-off election on Dec. 10.
