Advocates packed council chambers at New Orleans City Hall Thursday as budget hearings continued to address proposed cuts to housing and homeless services.
The Office of Economic Development presented its plans while almost every row in the chambers was filled, with advocates upset about reductions to community development programs.
According to the proposed budget, cuts to the general fund would end the Right to Counsel program, which was established in 2021.
The program ensures tenants in New Orleans have access to legal counsel in eviction cases and other housing-related disputes, such as dealing with negligent landlords.
The mayor’s administration has stated that overall cuts are necessary to address a multimillion-dollar deficit. Advocates argue that without the program, residents in New Orleans would be vulnerable to illegal evictions.
Council President JP Morrell stated during the hearing that he is committed to finding room in the budget to continue funding the program.
Another major issue being discussed is the potential closure of the city’s low-barrier shelter.
The shelter, located at the former VA hospital, does not require sobriety tests, IDs, or payment.
During the hearing, Dr. Jennifer Avegno with the Office of Health and Human Services said with the proposed cuts, 300 people would be displaced.
She also said they would be forced to cut personnel, leading to reduced field responses to homeless complaints and connecting people with resources.
Councilmembers have expressed concerns over the proposed budget cuts that would impact the shelter.
Morrell said it is “absolutely essential” to find a path forward for the shelter.
Mayor Helena Moreno’s administration is weighing a plan to relocate the shelter to a facility on Perdido Street that is currently being used as a jail.
During public comment, advocates and community members expressed support for the shelter.
Ed Carlson, who runs the shelter, spoke about the success they’ve seen with people who have stayed there.
He said they have connected people with addiction treatment services, placed them in permanent housing, and helped them get jobs.
City council will have to adopt a budget proposal by the first week of December.
READ MORE:Advocates gather at New Orleans City Hall to protest housing and homeless services cuts
