Take Back Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans
Take Back SWBNO Packet Download for your Church, Organization or Small Business
Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans continues to abuse average New Orleanians with high rates and an inequitable rate structure that places undue hardship on the poor and elderly, inadequate infrastructure repairs and maintenance, increased flooding risk, lead in our drinking water and an appeal process that is impossible to navigate.
Unfortunately, the structure of the SWBNO was set up by the state legislature. It is impossible to make changes while it is under the legislature.
With SWBNO run like any other city department, we the people would have a chance to have a more accountable and transparent SWB that would work for the people instead of against them.
Some of the changes the Take Back SWBNO is advocating for are as follows:
- A fair rate structure with reduced rates for elderly, disabled and others who meet the poverty guidelines.
- A fair billing dispute system with a separate 3rd party arbitrator
- A calendarized plan to remove all lead lines, including SOLID lead whip lines to homes.
- A program for residents to have certified filters that remove lead and other harmful matter for kitchen faucets, at no charge to the elderly, disabled or poor people.
- An employment program – END all privatized work and directly hire residents of New Orleans.
- Place SWB under Citizen Control, under the city council, as a more accountable governance body. Establish a community participation program to develop transparency, accountability, community benefits, healthy water and infrastructure that serves the community.
Please join with the Take Back SWBNO Coalition by filling out the enclosed registration form and returning it to us as soon as possible. We are looking forward to working with you and your members for a positive change in our community.
On behalf of low/moderate income people,
Debra Campbell
Rev. Richard Bell
Jo Jackson
A Community Voice