SUMMARY: Magnolia Water, a for-profit utility in Lafayette Parish, already charges the highest sewer rate in Louisiana at \$69 monthly for 83% of its customers and now seeks to raise it to \$76. The company has regularly increased rates since acquiring local systems in 2019, using a formula rate plan to meet profit goals. Facing growing backlash, including formal protests in Slidell, the Louisiana Public Service Commission delayed a vote until fall. If no settlement is reached by September 1, a status conference may be held. Magnolia also seeks to extend its rate plan through 2028 despite similar opposition in other states.

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The post Magnolia customers fight rate increases – The Current appeared first on thecurrentla.com

SUMMARY: Lafayette’s 2025-2026 budget process begins with Mayor-President Monique Boulet setting her priorities after focusing her first year on stabilizing finances. Federal ARPA and CARES Act funds are ending, reducing funds for projects like road widening, parks, and transit subsidies. To address transit challenges, $300,000 is proposed for a micro-transit pilot program. Major infrastructure spending focuses on road improvements, flood risk management, and drainage programs. The budget includes investments in economic development, community planning, City Hall renovations, and arts modernization. Boulet proposes shifting more consolidated government costs to the parish due to its population growth, which may spark allocation debates.

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The post Boulet’s budget prioritizes transportation, city/parish cost sharing appeared first on thecurrentla.com

SUMMARY: Several free back-to-school supply events are scheduled across Greater New Orleans to ease the cost and stress of school shopping. Highlights include the Children’s Museum Back-To-School Bash on July 26 in Mandeville, Victory Church’s giveaway on August 2 in Metairie, and the STEM Library Lab’s teacher event on July 24 in Metairie. Other events include the Vicious Ryders MC giveaway in Hahnville, Youth Empowerment Project and Ochsner Children’s Hospital’s fest in New Orleans East, and multiple giveaways on July 26 at locations like Xavier University and Joe W. Brown Park. Activities often feature free food, haircuts, and live entertainment.

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The post Where to find free backpacks, school supplies in Greater New Orleans appeared first on wgno.com