New Orleans voters make Inspector General permanent
From Sunshine Review
7 October 2008 On October 4, the future of the office of Inspector General was put in the hands of voters, who overwhelmingly voted to make it permanent. The approved proposition essentially adds the watchdog to the city charter, while also dedicating funding to the office. The office, which has had funding issues since its creation, will now receive 3/4ths of 1% of the city's operating budget. Currently that comes out to $3.4 million a year.[1]
[edit] Cerasoli
Before the vote, current Inspector General Robert Cerasoli was unsure of his fate. Fully aware of the impact of the vote, he stated, "If the appointed and elected officials see the public is not supportive of this office, it's only a matter of time before the office starts to lose its effectiveness.” He went on to say, “This is essential. If they don't vote for this now, it will be the beginning of the end of the office of inspector general.”[2] It is now clear the voters stand behind the office.
[edit] Office Origins
The office of Inspector General was originally created to help build confidence among the public in the city's ability to responsibly spend federal aid after Hurricane Katrina. While the office has been rife with issues of funding, (they still do not have computers and must use personal laptops), many hope this will give them the tools to do the job.
New Orleans Council member Shelley Midura saw the vote as support for reform, calling it "one for the history books." She went on to say "These are crucial years as this office gets up and running, and we're there to make sure it succeeds."[3]
