Requests the legislative auditor to conduct an audit of the contracts of the New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)
The adoption of HR92 is expected to enhance government accountability in managing public funds associated with the New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board. By conducting a thorough audit, the legislative auditor will assess the economy, efficiency, and effectiveness of the board's contract management practices. This resolution serves as a proactive measure to ensure transparency in the public sector, particularly in how taxpayer resources are utilized for critical infrastructure improvements in New Orleans.
House Resolution 92 (HR92) urges the legislative auditor to conduct an audit of the contracts entered into by the New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board since January 2013. The resolution reflects concerns regarding the board’s financial management and its efficiency in fulfilling its mandate to provide water and sewerage services in New Orleans. Given the significant federal funds and local property taxes allocated to the board, questions have arisen about their expenditures and operational effectiveness, particularly in light of the challenges faced post-Hurricane Katrina.
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HR92 appears to be supportive of increased scrutiny and accountability for public entities. Legislators backing the resolution likely view it as an essential step to ensure responsible governance, particularly given the substantial amount of funding the board has received. Such supporters assert that a detailed audit can help identify areas needing improvement and bolster public trust in the board's operations.
While HR92 seems to have strong backing, potential points of contention could arise concerning the implications of the audit findings. Depending on the results, they could lead to increased pressure on board officials or even calls for restructuring how the board operates. Moreover, concerns about potential pushback from the board's management regarding the audit process may also surface, as audits can reveal inefficiencies or financial mismanagement.