The Business Council of New Orleans and the River Region has led an impressive series of initiatives aimed at creating an enhanced quality of life and a healthy and highly competitive business environment.  Among the most notable achievements are:

Levee Board Reorganization:  The Business Council played a key role in the reorganization of South Louisiana levee board governance, culminating in the creation of the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority.

New Orleans Assessor Reform:  The Business Council worked with a broad coalition which led a successful effort to pass a constitutional amendment which will, in the next municipal election, reduce the number of assessors in Orleans Parish from seven to one.

Charter Change for Inspector General:  The citizens of New Orleans responded to the Business Council and the coalition’s leadership to change the City Charter to protect the permanence and autonomy of the Inspector General.  Subsequently, a Police Independent Monitor office was established within the Inspector General’s office.

Master Plan:  In a recent election, the Business Council played a significant role in passing legislation to give the City of New Orleans’s Master Plan the force of law.  Along with pending implementation of the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, this legislation will provide for uniform, fair and predictable development of neighborhoods, business corridors and green spaces.  The Business Council is currently working to emphasize blight eradication, economic development, wealth creation and flood safety as key elements within the Master Plan.

NOLA Public School Millage Renewal:  Members of the Business Council joined a broad, diverse coalition of civic groups to execute a successful campaign to renew the millage for maintenance and operations of Orleans Parish Public Schools.

Public Safety:  As the lead partner in the New Orleans Crime Coalition, the Business Council continues to work tirelessly for improvements in coordination and effectiveness within the criminal justice system to contend with violent crime.  The Business Council provides substantial ongoing support to Courtwatch NOLA, a program in which volunteers observe and report on the efficiency and effectiveness of criminal court operations.