NEW ORLEANS — The final report from Governor Jeff Landry's task force, which has been investigating the operations of the New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board, was released on Monday.
The task force essentially calls for a state takeover of the board.
Among its priority recommendations, SWBNO must assume the Department of Public Works drainage duties.
The task force also recommends appointing an independent arbitration panel to hear billing disputes and reform civil service requirements for the sewerage and water board.
The SWBNO issued a statement on Gov. Landry's task force:
"SWBNO's leadership team and Board of Directors are actively reviewing the recommendations put forth by the Governor’s Task Force.
"Our utility has made significant strides in recent years on critical projects outlined in our Strategic Plan. We continue to improve our infrastructure and resilience through capital projects such as the Power Complex and Smart Metering Program.
"We also acknowledge our challenges – many of which stem from decades of deferment due to a lack of funding and resources. We must continue to confront these issues head-on with a commitment to transparency, accountability, and meaningful change.
"SWBNO remains dedicated to customer service, workforce development, and organizational improvements to become the model utility New Orleans deserves. We are committed to working closely with all stakeholders, including elected officials, community leaders, and our valued employees and customers, to achieve this shared vision."
Gov. Landry's task force held three public meetings in March.
Click here to view the full report.
► Get breaking news from your neighborhood delivered directly to you by downloading the new FREE WWL-TV News app now in the IOS App Store or Google Play.