SUMMARY: A five-alarm fire at the Gentilly Ridge Apartment Complex in New Orleans displaced over 100 residents, including families and formerly homeless tenants. The fire took nearly three hours to control, causing significant damage to one of the three buildings. The American Red Cross, led by regional CEO Kenneth St. Charles, quickly responded by providing temporary shelter, financial assistance, and coordinating with city officials for housing solutions. Residents were transported to Joe Brown Park, where they received meals from Second Harvest Food Bank. Authorities urge the public to donate financially via the Red Cross, as direct supply donations are not accepted at the scene or shelter.

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SUMMARY: A recent poll of 520 likely New Orleans voters reveals 66% believe the city is headed in the wrong direction, with only 22% feeling positive. Conducted by Silas Lee & Associates, the survey highlights residents’ concerns about frequent power outages, flooding, potholes, and neglected infrastructure since Hurricane Katrina. Over 80% want elected officials to prioritize infrastructure improvements, including drainage, electricity, sanitation, and street conditions. Additionally, 92% have experienced power outages, with 38% facing many. Voters are closely watching mayoral candidates’ plans ahead of the October election, anticipating a runoff due to strong competition and widespread demand for change.

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SUMMARY: In June, the Lafayette City Council approved $6.5 million in bonds for LFT Fiber to purchase the former Lemoine building at 214 Jefferson Street, currently its rented headquarters. LUS allocated $3.5 million from reserves for sewer and power line repairs due to stormwater infiltration causing losses and limiting new housing connections. The Council plans to rezone over 30 properties between Mudd Avenue and E. Simcoe Street for mixed commercial and residential use to promote development, despite challenges from a new short-term rental ban. Additionally, the 400 Block of Renaud Drive will shift from industrial to mixed-use zoning. ADA upgrades at Rosa Parks Center are delayed, doubling the timeline from three to six years.

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