One New Orleans Levee Board?

An article on the 2theadvocate.com website today spoke about the possibility of creating the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority to oversee the eight local levee districts. Governor Blanco came out in support of the idea, and said that she would like the plan to take effect on Sept. 1. The Authority would consist of an 11-member panel selected by Governor Blanco and confirmed by the state Senate. The nominees would come from a committee representing engineers and other experts. The Authority would have the power to contract on behalf of the local levee districts, as well as the ability to force them to construct and maintain flood drainage projects.

All I can say is that it is about time! The creation of one powerful board should not even be a matter of politics; it is common sense. The disjointed system of levee maintenance that existed before Katrina were rife with patronage and inefficiencies. It is high time that a board with the power to enact real change and staffed by credible experts takes charge. The Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority must become a reality. Help that body complete its mission! Help Rebuild New Orleans and Sign the New Orleans Levees Petition.