Joyce Linde

Former Candidate for City Council District 4

Obviously, this will take time to study and understand the transition that took place with deconsolidation and to keep in mind that the City and Parish have to co-exist peacefully.

It is important to create a business friendly environment that is welcoming to private investors. The Opportunity Zone created by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act provides investor access to capital gains tax incentives both immediately and long term. This will encourage private investors to go into undeveloped or low-income areas.

There will always be hot–button issues. It is important to honor the traditional values of the citizens within District 4 and vote accordingly. Taxpayers should not be called upon to fund events or programs that are not within the priorities of government responsibilities, which are 1) improving drainage and flooding 2) improving roads and infrastructure 3) providing police and fire protection.

Roads and Infrastructure are one of the top 3 priorities. Pinhook Road is congested and in terrible condition, which is exacerbated by the massive Campion Student Housing. The Planning and Zoning Boards denied Campion a permit, but the LCG Council provided an exemption. I would not have voted for this exemption. It is important to provide funding and better planning to relieve traffic congestion and safer, smoother roads.

Investment in drainage needs to be a top priority. A regional plan needs to be developed and accelerated. The plan needs to insure that while alleviating flooding in one area, it does no harm to another. In November 2017, the LCG Council paired drainage and CREATE on the Ballot — forcing citizens to vote for both or none. In April 2019, LCG Council voted to take $10M away from drainage for libraries and recreation. I will put drainage and flooding as top priority in funding and planning.