Safety and Permits

Ever since the day of the Hard Rock collapse, we've been wondering what, if anything the federal investigations into corruption at the city's office of Safety and Permits might have to do with it. It's been a little bit baffling to me that, despite the frequent questions from the public, there's been very little said about such a link either in the media or from any of the principals involved.

Interesting that only now, as City Council prepares to hold public hearings on the incident, does anyone feel obligated to speak up.

.@NOLAOIG warns City Council that its planned investigation of #hardrockcollapse "will interfere" with its ongoing criminal investigation of New Orleans permitting office. The IG's work already led to one federal indictment and multiple firings. https://t.co/Yej6WfdbLd

— David Hammer (@davidhammerWWL) January 28, 2020

Update: Speaking of those City Council hearings, the mayor says here she is still very much against that. She tells Channel 6 (incorrectly) that council has "no authority" to even hold a hearing. Also notice...

“The New Orleans City Council is not accountable and have no authority as it relates to investigating Hard Rock,” Cantrell said. “So, I would say, ‘If you can’t help, don’t hurt. Don’t hurt the investigations that are ongoing right now.’”

Sounds like she's been talking with the IG.