Sheriff Susan Hutson Is Asking For Money She Doesn't Need And Cannot Justify
Vote NO on millage
The BEC is grateful to readers who reached out on the issue of Sheriff Susan Hutson’s request for increased funding…
In a direct style that we appreciate, a contributor has sent us these salient points, which we will present to you as sent to us:
During Susan Hutson's 11+ year stint as Independent Police Monitor for the City of New Orleans, did we see any meaningful decrease in crime? (2010 - 2021 with a six-figure salary).
With a Law Degree from Tulane, and a BA in Economics from University of Pennsylvania, Sheriff Hutson should be uniquely qualified to solve the current fiscal challenges at the Orleans Parish Prison, and the Sheriff's department in general.
The taxpayers and voters in NOLA need to hear priorities, specific projects and timelines before she proceeds. In spite of her campaign promises of transparency, she has not been clear on a strategy. Meanwhile, the people of New Orleans want simply less crime.
New Orleans taxpayers currently pay the highest property taxes in the state. Some in the local media downplay the impact by using a $250,000 home as an example. In this case the additional property tax would be $675 annually. However, the mean value (where 1/2 of homes are of lower value and 1/2 of homes are higher value) in New Orleans is $374,474. That would be an additional $1,011.00 per year! And as can be expected, this tax will be passed on to renters as well. We have had enough of this.
First, a targeted renovation of the existing 1438 bed facility could proceed immediately because there is still money available to do it. There has been mention of a kitchen upgrade and separate areas for those with psychiatric problems, but is any of this confirmed? There is about $36,000,000 left over from FEMA/Katrina monies for this purpose, and his grant will expire in August.
Second, pay for new recruits begins at $15.56/ hour, Why can't current tax dollars address this legitimate issue.
Third, the legacy case management computer system is shared with the court and should be upgraded as new officers are added and trained. When the consent decree goes away, the money saved in salaries from that office should go to a new computer system for case management. Requests for proposals have been posted so these costs will be available soon.
Finally, we must remember the importance of voting. The Jefferson Parish Sheriff managed to pass a similar millage with only 10% of voter turnout. Voters must turn out and voice their disagreement with this unclear request for more of our money.
Vote NO, and we are grateful to our readers and contributors!