New Orleans Canceling 2023 Mardi Gras?

New Orleans Mayor, LaToya "the Destroya" Cantrell, addressed her District A Budget Town Hall meeting about various topics and questions from homeowners. But one of the biggest concerns were questions about city staffing issues.  New Orleans EMS Director Dr. Meg Marino said the city is currently operating at 60% capacity.  She pointed out the safety and health of the city is being compromised. One of the major concerns of citizens and business leaders is the shortage of New Orleans Police Officers. Crime continues to rise in the city.  From a recent WGNO report:

“The New Orleans Police Department continues to fight a good fight day in and day out but there has to be some level of accountability,” NOPD Superintendent Shaun Ferguson said. “The fact that our criminals do not believe there are consequences to their actions makes them more bold and brazen.”

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But the real surpise of the evening, (but really, should it be?) was when Cantrell stated that New Orleans might have to cancel Mardi Gras for 2023.  Cantrell said without enough officers working Mardi Gras, neither the officers, or citizens would be safe. Cantrell did emphasize that the city is focusing on recruitment & retention of current officers, encouraging New Orleans citizens who are interested in serving the city to apply to join the force.

But the good news, Shreveport-Bossier Mardi Gras for 2023 is on schedule for a full, fun-filled season complete with all the bals, parties, and parades. 2023 schedule hasn't yet been released, but as soon as everything is announced, KEEL News will keep you updated on the latest Shreveport-Bossier Mardi Gras news.