Recently, there has been a buzz among political insiders about my role as a freshman representative filing a placeholder bill aimed at providing one year of oversight for the Sewerage & Water Board to address longstanding issues within the agency. I understand the concerns surrounding this proposal.
While I collaborated with many in the delegation for feedback prior to filing, I also welcome amendments from other representatives and senators to refine and enhance our solutions. Some may find it surprising that I reached across the aisle to collaborate with a Republican chairing the Appropriations Committee to draft legislation aimed at averting a complete takeover or privatization of the S&WB.
My legislation proposes only a year of oversight to conduct audits and offer recommendations. I embrace the discussions surrounding my actions, as they seem to have sparked a newfound sense of urgency and action among Democrats.
My hope is that we can move beyond debates about who saw the bill or potential funding withholdings, and instead focus on crafting solutions that benefit the citizens of New Orleans. It's imperative that we reach a consensus on how to transform elements of this placeholder bill into actionable legislation that can garner support in a super-majority controlled Republican House and Senate. We must resist the allure of soap opera politics and performative gestures, and instead prioritize collaboration to improve the lives of our citizens.
Currently, there are three additional S&WB bills offered by state Sen. Jimmy Harris and state Reps. Stephanie Hilferty and Matthew Willard, all of whom are from the New Orleans delegation. I believe that by incorporating elements from each bill, we can promote real change and implement feasible solutions to restore confidence.
I welcome input from all parties to address challenges that have persisted for far too long. Let's work together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our constituents.
ALONZO KNOX
state representative, District 93