The latest biennial New Orleans Quality of Life Survey by LSU New Orleans shows that people in the city feel much safer than before. LSU New Orleans political science professor Ed Chervenak, who conducted the survey, says the biggest concern among people in Orleans Parish is streets and infrastructure, which is a significant departure from recent surveys.
“Every time we were asked about what the biggest problem was in Orleans, it’s always been crime; and so it’s nice to say that crime is not the top problem facing the parish anymore,” Chervenak said.
Crime, however, is the biggest concern among those living in neighboring Jefferson Parish, although Chervenak says the percentage of those feeling that way is down. Chervenak says most people in New Orleans feel that bright days are ahead.
“They feel relatively optimistic about the future, although they are not necessarily bullish about jobs and employment opportunities coming into the city,” Chervenak noted.
As for Mayor Helena Moreno’s job performance, Chervenak says his survey found that two-thirds approve of it, while only 14% disapprove.
“She’s accumulated some political capital; and she’s going to need it, because she’s got some tough decisions to make as a result of the budget deficit that the city’s facing next year,” Chervenak explained.
For comparison, Moreno’s predecessor, LaToya Cantrell, had a 57% approval rating and a 30% disapproval rating at this juncture of her first term in office. Amid scandals, however, Cantrell’s approval rating cratered to below 20% by the time she left office and Moreno succeeded her.