NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Budget hearings continued on Wednesday amid a financial crisis for the city of New Orleans.

According to Louisiana Legislative Auditor Michael Waguespack's report, the projected deficit for the New Orleans budget is $160 million.

"$47 million on a close to $1 billion of general fund budget is really running tight. In a hurricane-prone area, you probably need to have a little more because, you know, with the restructuring and FEMA and who knows what'll happen with federal resources," said Waguespeck.

However, $37 million is restricted and cannot be appropriated, as the other $8 million is to cover expenses.

Waguespeck says the spending deficit began to increase in 2023.

According to the New Orleans finance department, the council was made aware ahead of time that a

See Full Page