Funding

New Orleans city leaders are upset over a state-ordered cleanup of homeless encampments under the Pontchartrain Expressway ahead of Taylor Swift’s concerts this weekend. Gov. Jeff Landry authorized Troop NOLA to remove tents and tarps, displacing about 75 people living under the bridge on Calliope Street. City officials said the cleanup disrupts their planned timeline and could push the homeless population into neighboring communities, exacerbating the issue. Despite requests from city leaders to delay the cleanup, the governor’s office proceeded, clearing the site on Wednesday. The cleanup was originally scheduled for Thursday. WDSU reached out to Landry’s office on Tuesday for a response to the Office of Homeless Services and Strategy plea.Kate Kelly of Landry’s office responded, stating, “Governor Landry understands the number one issue facing the city of New Orleans right now is the homelessness crisis, and he is working with LSP and local officials to fix this problem. As we prepare for the city to host Taylor Swift and Super Bowl LIX, we are committed to ensuring New Orleans puts its best foot forward when on the world stage.”WDSU also reached out to Troop NOLA, and they responded as well, stating, “Louisiana State Police understands the adversity faced by the unhoused community in New Orleans. As part of the Troop NOLA initiative, Troopers are working to speak with the unhoused community, learn about their deficits, and work to acquire attainable resources to help them overcome these challenges. Additionally, it is important to note that residing on state property is illegal. Troopers are addressing safety concerns to ensure both the well-being of the unhoused community and the integrity of public infrastructure.”New Orleans Council President Helena Moreno has asked Gov. Landry for more state funding to help the city with its rehoming efforts. She issued the following statement regarding the request, suggesting two recommendations to achieve the request: 1. Establishment of a Coordinated Working Group: I recommend the formation of a collaborative working group involving both state and city agencies to enhance our approach to managing homeless encampments in New Orleans. Recent actions by State Police and other agencies to relocate encampments have disrupted the efforts of Homeless Director Nate Fields to transition individuals into permanent housing. This working group should include representatives from City agencies, the State Police, the Department of Transportation and Development, the Governors Office, a City Council member, Travelers Aid, and Unity of Greater New Orleans. Together, we can address partnerships in services and funding, ensuring a unified response to this pressing issue.2. Creation of a Cabinet Position Focused on Homelessness: As previously stated in my letter to your New Orleans Transition Council in November of 2023, I urge the establishment of a dedicated cabinet position within the Governors Office tasked specifically with combating homelessness. This role would focus on enhancing rapid rehousing initiatives and providing wrap-around services to support stabilization. The position would work closely with legislators, the Housing Corporation, and parish leaders to develop effective and sustainable strategies.Council President Moreno also recognizes the relentless efforts by Homeless Services Director Nathaniel Fields and Councilmember Lesli Harris to find permanent housing for people living in encampments.Councilmember Harris and Director Fields have been at the forefront of this issue, said Council President Moreno. “With State coordination and true collaboration to end homelessness, everyone could be on the same page and achieve the same goal of providing improved quality of life, permanent housing, and wrap-around services. I hope that the Governor gives strong consideration to my recommendations and we can work to move forward together.Read her full letter to Governor Landry here.