News Summary

District E City Councilmember Oliver Thomas has officially announced his candidacy for mayor in New Orleans, promising significant changes to the city’s leadership. With concerns over governance under the Cantrell Administration, Thomas advocates for budget reforms and improved city services, aiming to address community needs and safety. This election presents an opportunity for residents to rethink leadership as Thomas prepares to compete against notable candidates in the upcoming race.

Oliver Thomas Kicks Off Mayoral Campaign in New Orleans, Promises Change!

New Orleans is buzzing with excitement as District E City Councilmember Oliver Thomas has officially announced his candidacy for the mayor’s office. This isn’t just another election—it’s a chance for residents to rethink their city leadership as we gear up for the crucial 2025 mayoral race.

Residents of New Orleans have been watching with concern as the city has navigated the past seven years under the Cantrell Administration. With rising issues in governance and effectiveness, many locals feel it’s high time for a change. Thomas has made it his mission to draw attention to what he describes as an alarming state of affairs, particularly with the city’s finances. Under the Cantrell Administration, government waste seems to be at an all-time high, prompting Thomas to propose the idea of “right-sizing” the city’s budget.

A Staggering Budget Disconnect

Did you know that before Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans had a population of 503,000 with a budget of about half a billion dollars? Fast forward to today, the city’s population has dwindled to about 360,000, yet the budget has skyrocketed to an astounding $1.7 billion. This puzzling situation has raised many eyebrows, making Thomas’s mission to reorganize the budget even more important.

Interestingly, Thomas has taken the time to gather feedback from city employees through independent surveys. It turns out that many believe the government could function much better with improved organization and efficiency. Thomas’s focus on accountability comes from the belief that the Cantrell administration mishandled city funds, leading to a lack of necessary reform.

Addressing the Challenges

The city government hasn’t been without its challenges. Thomas points to issues like a serious lack of institutional knowledge and collaboration when it comes to handling city affairs. From sluggish permit processes to slow roadwork repairs, he’s calling for significant reforms. His goal? A maximum timeline of just 90 days for fixing streets after any digging takes place. Sounds reasonable, right?

But that’s not all! When it comes to sanitation services, Thomas has a straightforward plan: resolve trash complaints within 48 hours. Imagine how much cleaner and more pleasant our neighborhoods could look with a commitment to such speedy service! He’s also thinking bigger when it comes to public safety, advocating for a change in how the police chief is appointed. Instead of just a mayoral appointment, Thomas wants citizens to be involved in the selection. This way, the community has a voice in choosing a leader for public safety.

Building a Better Infrastructure

When it comes to the beating heart of New Orleans—its infrastructure—Thomas isn’t holding back. He believes that basic services like emergency response should be reliable, and every citizen in the city deserves to feel safe and secure. He wants to focus not just on structural change but also on addressing the economic hardships many residents face, including issues related to gentrification and the rising cost of living.

It’s important to note that Thomas isn’t a newcomer to the political arena. He served on the city council from 1994 to 2007, and while his past includes a resignation due to federal bribery charges, he has acknowledged his mistakes and is eager to show how he has grown from them to earn the trust of the community.

A Crowded Race Ahead

As Thomas prepares for the upcoming election, he will be competing against other notable candidates, including Councilmember Helena Moreno and former Criminal Court Judge Arthur Hunter. His campaign is about giving a voice to those who feel disenfranchised, focusing on making sure every resident knows their needs matter.

Thomas is determined to create sustainable momentum for improved city services and to foster an environment where community safety is a top priority. With a vision for a brighter, more organized New Orleans, Thomas is ready to shake things up as he steps into this pivotal race!