More Bonehead Moves In City Of Kenner

The last week was not a good one if you reside in the City of Kenner.

Between the Kenner City Council and Mayor Zahn, Kenner made and discussed several more bonehead moves, none of which will help Kenner prosper.


Bonehead Move #1 - Approving a Church at The Esplanade

In a move that I have been critical of since it was proposed, the Council approved a plan by Christ The King Church to purchase the old Hollywood Theatre property at the Esplanade Mall and convert it to a church.

When I first criticized the plan, I was told that "You're against churches" and "You hate religion".

Neither of those is true but it shows the lengths that some politicians will go to to deflect from the real issues: the conversion of taxable property to non-taxable and the continued perception that retail is dying in Kenner.

Consider this: the Esplanade Mall is under new ownership (again). How can it market itself to prospective retail customers when a chunk of prime commercial property adjoining the mall isn't commercial anymore?

Christ The King is a growing, vibrant church. But, it's viability in Kenner is unknown. They aren't expanding within Kenner - they are expanding to Kenner.

Will they have 100 members of the Kenner congregation? 500? 50? We don't know and, regardless of how many members they have, their economic impact will be negligible. Yes, they may contribute to some nearby restaurants but, unlike retail which draws people daily or housing units where residents reside and commute to and from daily, the church members will impact little else in Kenner.

In addition, by letting the property go to a non-profit, the City of Kenner will receive ZERO in property tax revenue. Now, admittedly, the decrepit theatre was only generating a few thousand dollars for the City but, if the property remained commercial or was turned into an apartment or condo complex, the resulting property tax revenue would be huge. 

Also, if the property were turned into housing, whether owned or rented, the residents would presumably utilize Target for groceries and the resulting population influx and boost in grocery sales may have spurred another grocery store to seriously consider locating in the wasteland that is the Pavillion and that would have led to even more sales tax and property tax revenue for the City.

Yes, the property owner had financial issues but, the City of Kenner could have, and should have, sought another developer instead of abdicating to a church and taking this parcel out of commerce.

When Kenner District 4 Councilman George Branigan campaigned his platform was that he was the man who could help redevelop the Esplanade and the nearly vacant Pavilion Shopping Center, both of which are in his district.

Thus far, neither has happened and, sorry, but putting another church in a prime commercial spot doesn't qualify as redevelopment.

Yes, the Hollywood Cinema had fallen into disrepair. Yes, it was/is an eyesore. Yes, the residents of Cannes Brulees bristled at the idea of an apartment complex on that site.

But now, instead of following through on his Esplanade and Pavillion campaign pledges, Branigan is now the champion of Cannes Brulees.

On his Facebook page, Branigan said, "Promises Made, Promises Kept! During my campaign, I told the residents of Cannes Brûlées that I would protect their neighborhood. As of today, they no longer have to worry about apartments looking down into their yards and invading their privacy."

So, a handful of residents who combined don't pay 1/50th or probably even 1/100th of the sales and property taxes that an apartment or condo complex would contribute to city coffers now dictate the City of Kenner's Economic Development?

And, what about your "Promises" to other District 4 and City of Kenner residents to redevelop The Esplanade and Pavillion? How does this help fulfill either of those?

Since you, the faithful ClickJefferson reader, are reading this I will assume that you have at least 1/2 a brain and already know the answer to those questions.

Perhaps one day soon, Councilman Branigan will update us on the progress of his letter writing campaign to lure new businesses to Kenner or what he has actually done to reinvigorate The Esplanade and The Pavillion.

I will keep monitoring his Facebook page for those updates and keep you posted.



Bonehead Move #2 - Speed Cameras

Up for First Reading at the last council meeting, was an ordinance by District 2 Councilman Mike Sigur, at the suggestion of Kenner Police Chief Mike Glaser, for the introduction of Traffic Cameras to Kenner.

Several years back, the people of Kenner spoke out loudly AGAINST Traffic and Red Light Cameras in Kenner.

As with the Hollywood Cinemas/Church issue, this is another poor, ill conceived solution to an issue.

Is speeding an issue in SOME neighborhoods? Yes. Are Traffic Cameras the answer? Absolutely not. 

First of all, this ordinance is poorly written and vague. It doesn't specify the maximum amount of Traffic Cameras allowed in Kenner (2? 10? 50? More?), it feeds into the perception of many that Kenner Police are "ticket-happy" and that KPD writes tickets simply to generate more revenue for the KPD, and the fines for the tickets will exclusively go to the KPD which is already well-funded compared with similar police departments in the region.

So, what are some possible solutions?

How about portable speed bumps that could be moved from neighborhood to neighborhood periodically? Either the City or even a Civic Association could purchase these. There's even a web site (I know - the Internet is wonderful) that sells portable speed bumps. Go to www.speedbumpsandhumps.com and check it out yourself. Wouldn't you REALLY rather have speed bumps, especially portable ones that could be moved after an area has been controlled, than traffic cameras?

What about "Speed  Signs" that warn you to slow down and flash your speed? These are also temporary and act as deterrents.

Or why not use Reserve Officers to patrol certain neighborhoods where speeding may be an issue? I'm not sure about Kenner but I do know that in many municipalities it is a requirement for Reserve Officers that seek detail work to volunteer for a set amount of hours per time period. Some Police Departments require 10 hours a week; others, 10 hours a month. Is this the policy in Kenner and, if not, why not? Having a police car with an Officer (no one needs to know it's a Reserve Officer) is much more of a deterrent and could help other crime issues like "Porch Pirates" as well.

If the KPD's Traffic Division is so understaffed at 8 officers, and the KPD personnel total overall has stayed relatively stagnant since Katrina, why not invest in more street-level officers and use Reserve Officers until the KPD can beef up staffing? And, please don't insult our intelligence by claiming that the KPD doesn't have the funding. Each time, for as long as I can remember, that the Police Chief, regardless of who it was, has appeared before the Council seeking additional funding, the Council has obliged. The KPD is plenty well-funded, thank you very much. 

Again, why isn't the City of Kenner exploring and utilizing these options rather than Speed Cameras that the vast majority of Kenner residents don't want?

The City Council will take up Sigur's proposed ordinance at the next council meeting, Thursday, December 6th. The public will have an opportunity to comment on the Speed Camera proposal at that meeting.

In the interim, you can call or email the council, Chief Glaser and Mayor Zahn and let them know exactly how you feel about the cameras.

Here are their numbers and email addresses:

Mayor Zahn - 468-7206 - mayor@kenner.la.us
Chief Glaser - 712-2200 - 

Kristi K. McKinney, Councilwoman-at-Large, Division ATelephone: (504) 468-7247E-mail: divisiona@kenner.la.us

Thomas "Tom" Willmott, Councilman-at-Large, Division BTelephone: (504) 468-7252E-mail: divisionb@kenner.la.us 
Gregory W. Carroll, Councilman, District 1Telephone (504) 468-7253E-mail: district1@kenner.la.us

Michael G. Sigur, Councilman, District 2Telephone: (504) 468-7248E-mail: district2@kenner.la.us

Glenn W. Hayes Sr., Councilman, District 3Telephone: (504) 468-7249E-mail: district3@kenner.la.us

George L. Branigan, Councilman, District 4Telephone: (504) 468-7251E-mail: district4@kenner.la.us

Brian Brennan, Councilman, District 5Telephone: (504) 468-7250E-mail: district5@kenner.la.us

Bonehead Move #3 - The Possible Move Of Kenner City Hall to The Esplanade

I wrote about this a few months back and told you why i thought this was a terrible idea for Kenner but, since Mayor Zahn highlighted the possible move at "The State of the City Address" last week, it seems like now is a great time to revisit the issue.

On the face of it, consolidating Kenner City Hall seems like a good idea. Kenner offices, while primarily centralized in the 3-building City Hall complex on Williams, are spread out across the city from Rivertown to central Kenner. Having all city offices in one location would be more convenient and, potentially, result in less property insurance payments for the city.

But, there are far more reasons why Kenner should NOT move City Hall to The Esplanade that outweigh the convenience and possible insurance savings. 

1). As with the Hollywood Cinema/Church issue, if City of Kenner offices were moved to the old Macy building at The Esplanade, it would take out another large commercial space from commerce in Kenner. No sales or property tax revenue would be generated.

2). In addition to losing sales and property tax revenue, the City of Kenner would turn from an owner of property to a renter. Adding a long-term lease and the associated buildout costs for converting the retail store to offices are expenses that the City may not be able to afford. The Mayor has not discussed any of the proposed costs with the people of Kenner nor has he explained how the City will pay for massive cost of building out a new site, whether it's the old Macy's building or a different site, and why the he wants to indebt city residents even more while we are still paying off (and receiving minimal benefits) from Mike Yenni's disastrous, poorly conceived (do you see the pattern here?) 2030 Plan.

I was encouraged at a recent City Council meeting when Mayor Zahn publicly bemoaned the fact that Yenni had maxed out Kenner's credit cards and "saddled Kenner residents for a generation" with Yenni's 2030 Plan.

That being the case, again I ask, why take on even more debt, sell city assets (the current City Hall complex; possibly Veterans Park and other Kenner buildings) and become a renter? If the City of Kenner were downsizing and saving money by eliminating city departments and personnel (which is what it SHOULD be doing), maybe I might be able to understand this. Short of that happening, I have to question WHY? and WHO IS MAKING OUT IN THIS DEAL (because you know someone is and it's NOT the people of Kenner).

As I said, lower insurance costs and convenience DO NOT OUTWEIGH the significant cost of moving, the costs of a long-term lease (and another recurring expense that Kenner doesn't need), AND the loss of sales and property tax revenue that taking another prime piece of Kenner commercial property out of commerce will cost. 

No city, let alone a city has financially hamstrung as Kenner can afford to reduce potential revenue AND incur more costs.

Add that to the fact that having city employees at The Esplanade, while a possible boon for restaurants in that area, does nothing to fix The Esplanade, Kenner's poor business reputation or make other businesses feel comfortable with Kenner's business and retail climate.

And that leads to reason #3.

3). Kenner's already poor perception in the retail and business communities.

After Mike Yenni blurted out on television that "Kenner is a dying city", Kenner has been unable to put forward the building blocks for a revival.

Yenni was detached after he was re-elected and focused on campaigning for his next job and chasing high school boys. His ascension to Jefferson Parish President, coupled with the aforementioned 2030 Plan, set Kenner back for decades.

Spending a year with an un-elected interim Mayor also set Kenner back as did Mayor Zahn's first year which was the final year of Yenni's aborted 2nd term. Zahn didn't want to make waves or push the envelope and provide the leadership that Kenner desperately craved after Muniz, Yenni, and Sigur.

Now that Mayor Zahn was elected to a full-term, he needs to make bold moves to prove to National Retailers like Kohl's, Belk and others that Kenner is open for business. 

Hiring a part-time Economic Development Coordinator with ZERO experience in recruiting national business and in job creation/retention; letting prime commercial space be turned into a church; allowing the Pavillion to continue to decay along with The Esplanade; potentially losing more prime commercial space by moving City Hall to the mall; allowing a first-year District Councilman to send out hundreds of letters to corporate real estate departments that will simply toss the letters in the garbage after laughing at them (and Kenner) and NOT being proactive as a Mayor and hitting the road himself to market Kenner does nothing to turnaround the poor perception of Kenner.

Letting prime real estate be sold to a church is a huge blow on it's own. Throwing up your hands and essentially throwing in the towel on The Esplanade by moving City Hall there will doom the mall and any flickering hopes of it's revival.

On my radio program Monday (November 19th), Mayor Zahn said that upkeep of the City Hall Complex was a factor in possible relocation and a major reason why turning the City from a property owner to a property lessor made economic sense.

While the City hasn't worked out all the numbers yet regarding relocation and buildout costs and savings, along with how the City will pay for the move, Mayor Zahn promised to get all the facts and figures and present them to Kenner residents BEFORE any move or any lease is signed.

I don't know if that means that the public will have input into whether or not the City moves City Hall or if it will simply be a series of meetings like Yenni's 2030 Plan where it was a done deal and Kenner residents got sold a bunch of lies and half-baked ideas along with some very nice and very deceptive renderings of how the City of Kenner would look.

So, until we get all the facts and figures from Mayor Zahn, to be fair, we will delay "Full-Bonehead Status" on this project - for now. 

But, the Mayor already knows that he needs to do a major selling job to convince Kenner residents, at least THIS Kenner resident, that this move would be in the best interests and best financial interests of ALL Kenner residents and not just one or two select Kenner residents (follow the money and see who is trying to buy the incredibly valuable land on Williams Blvd. that currently houses the City Hall Complex - I've already made a "short-list" and sealed it in an envelope that will be opened at a public event tentatively scheduled for The New Event Center at The Pavillion Shopping Center). 

Time will tell how much input citizens will have and how transparent the proposed move is. In the meantime, you can listen to the interview with Mayor Zahn here: https://youtu.be/9oczZ4umspM


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As a Kenner resident for almost 19 years, whenever there has been a major issue (Yenni's plan to double property taxes, Yenni's 2030 Plan, changes to the City Charter, Zahn's now rescinded Nike ban and the new recreation fees, etc) I've always tried to step back and ask myself, "How does this help or better the people of Kenner?"

Whether you agree or disagree with me on issues, that's always been my compass - "How does this help or better the people of Kenner?".

I don't see how the people of Kenner are better off with:

1). Adding another church instead of more housing or retail options and taking prime commercial space out of commerce and gaining ZERO Sales or Property Tax revenue.

2). Speed Cameras that 90+% of the residents are adamantly opposed to. Speed Cameras as just another money grab, regardless of the political talking heads claiming they are about "public safety". If "public safety" were truly the issue, the City would investigate portable speed bumps, utilizing reserve officers to assist until the KPD can beef up it's Traffic Division, or similar ideas BEFORE resorting to Speed Cameras. 

3). Relocating City Hall and taking yet another prime commercial space out of commerce and gaining ZERO Sales or Property Tax revenue AND giving up on any hopes of the reinvigorating The Esplanade Mall. Yeah I know - retail is dying - and The Esplanade may never regain it's lost luster. But, with another new owner, the City (and Mayor Zahn) should be working overtime to give The Esplanade one last shot. Instead, by even proposing to move City Hall to the old Macy's, Mayor Zahn is effectively parroting Yenni's "Kenner is a dying city" comment. 

Kenner had 9 years of failed Mayors with no vision and another year of an interim Mayor that couldn't get out of his own way, let alone Mike Yenni's child-predator shadow. Kenner needs a Mayor with vision and leadership from him, the Council and the Police Chief.

Sadly, these boneheaded moves and others prove that Kenner City Government at all levels STILL lacks a cohesive, informed vision for Kenner's residents.

This Spring, Mayor Zahn told me to give him time and by December I would be pleasantly surprised at the direction he was taking Kenner.

Since then, while I have seen some very positive steps by Mayor Zahn (replacing the inept Fire Chief and Recreation Director; a huge improvement in the talent at Freedom Fest; the open communication and dialogue with Mayor Zahn that I, and others, have, etc., given the Mayor's own comment, I had hoped for more.

Well, in less than 2 weeks it will be December. Mayor Zahn still has time to prove me wrong and give us all hope.

Until the calendar turns, there's still time and, for me anyway, there's still hope.

But, the clock is ticking...

Supporting JP's Sexual Predator-In-Chief

Many people are appalled and outraged at the Sexual Abuse scandal being played out currently in the media.

Unfortunately, some have conveniently forgotten that if Jefferson Parish's Sexual Predator-In-Chief Mike Yenni was a teacher, or a priest, or a businessman, or anything except a politically-connected Parish President with folks in high places still owing allegiance (and favors) to his uncle and grandfather, Yenni would have been fired, jailed, or, at least, ostracized.

So, as rumors continue to swirl that Yenni will be seeking re-election next year, is holding fundraisers and working behind the scenes to support candidates like Jefferson Parish School Board candidate Colleen Winkler (who will then owe him and overturn the "Yenni Ban" and allow him to attend public school functions), I thought it would be interested to post the names of individuals and businesses that are supporting Mike Yenni financially and have contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to Mike Yenni AFTER Yenni's sexting scandal with a teenage, high school boy was publicized.

To briefly recap, in October 2016, it was disclosed that Mike Yenni sent several sexually graphic text messages to a 17-year-old high school student. Yes, I know the "Age of Consent" in Louisiana is 17 but, just because that fact may not make it illegal according to our state, that doesn't make it right. I'm also relatively certain that, before he began sexting and calling the teenage boy, Mike Yenni didn't ask him for ID to verify his age.

In addition to frequent sexts and explicit calls, Yenni stalked the teenage boy at his job, bought him gifts, asked the boy to model underwear for him, followed the boy into a public restroom and fondled and kissed him, suggested that he and the teenage boy engage in a homosexual threesome with another teenage boy, suggested that he and the teenage boy drive to Mississippi and engage in homosexual relations, and, as Mayor of Kenner, suggested that the teenage boy take a job in the Yenni Administration so the two could be close without drawing suspicion.

And, while this teenage boy showed character by coming forward, unfortunately he did not want his life put into further turmoil and didn't want to put his college career on hold to appear at a trial.

Basic Psychology also tells us that, this clearly wasn't an isolated incident.

Yenni's own past reveals a history of sexually explicit texts and emails to several homosexual partners and at least one woman. These emails and sexts were sent on city-owned equipment while Yenni was Kenner's Deputy CAO under Mayor Ed Muniz.. The FBI investigated these emails and texts after Yenni claimed that he was being blackmailed by a political opponent. No charges were ever filed and, while the FBI claimed they would publicly release their investigation and the evidence (the emails and texts). 8 years later, they still have not - although many people in Kenner (myself included) have seen the evidence.

The rumors surrounding Yenni were so prevalent that Yenni's future father-in-law requested Yenni take a polygraph test before marrying his daughter. Yenni somehow managed to rig the test and the test administrator who conveniently was given a job later in Kenner's Code Enforcement Department, despite being 70+ years old and having no experience in Code or the trades that Code inspects.

So, after all this and the continued embarrassment that Yenni has reaped on Jefferson Parish, who could possibly support him and contribute financially to his possible re-election campaign? You may be surprised to read that your friends, neighbors, business associates, and companies you or your company may be doing business with are all lining up to give Mike Yenni money.

Here's the list of Yenni contributors over $500  since the sexting scandal was announced:

$5,000
JoAnn Fournier
Greg Cantrell, Inc
Sarah Bergeron Junius
River Birch, Inc
Southwestern Packing & Seals

$3,500
Judy Alack Lala
LeBlanc Fanaci Villio LLC (1 $2,500 and 2 $500 contributions)
New Era Information Technologies LLC (1 $2,500 and 2 $500 contributions)

Digital Engineering & Imaging Inc (1 $2,500 and 2 $500 contributions)

$3,000
Louie J. Roussel III
Pivotal Engineering LLC (1 $2,500 and 1 $500 contribution)
Mosquito Control Services, LLC (1 $2,500 and 1 $500 contribution)
It's Regional LLC (1 $2,500 and 1 $500 contribution)

$2,500
Renton Properties, LLC
Pipe Works Plumbing & Demolition
NBN Services LLC
Michael F. Nicoladis
Michael Knox
Leader Construction Inc
Exalt Real Estate Group, LLC
Construction Optimization Engineers, Inc

$2,000
CRC Logistic Services Inc
Nationwide Laundry Services Inc
Richard E Arnoult
Donald G. Lambert Contractors

$1,500
Clarion/Quality Inn Suites of Gretna'
Shread-Kuyrkendall & Associates, Inc
Donald Lambert (Owner of Donald G. Lambert Contractor listed above - 1 $1,000 and 1 $500 contribution)
Fleming Construction Co LLC (1 $1,000 and 1 $500 contribution)
Hartman Engineering Inc (1 $1,000 and 1 $500 contribution)
Boland Marine & Industrial LLC (1 $1,000 and 1 $500 contribution)

$1,000
Industrial Fabrics, Inc
Michael C. Hollis
Kenner Storage Management LLC
Ralph Junius, Jr.
Pet Care Center Inc
Vehicle Parts & Equipment Co Inc
Watkins Foot Center Inc
Leon T. Watkins (Owner of Watkins Foot Center)
Susan Ann Swanner
Elos Environmental LLC
Industrial Fabrics Inc
Aecom PAC
BLD Services LLC
C. "Bud" Taulli Construction Inc

Causeway Partners LLC
D & D Creations Inc
Fluid Process & Pumps LLC
Gaffney & Gaffney, A Law Corporation
I. William Sizeler (2 $500 contributions)
Select Properties LTD (2 $500 contributions)
Perrin & Carter Inc (2 $500 contributions)
Maselli Properties (2 $500 contributions)
H. Davis Cole & Associates (2 $500 contributions)
Mike Jacobs (2 $500 contributions)
Johnson, Yacoubian & Paysse (2 $500 contributions)
Nathan Junius (2 $500 contributions)
Design Engineering & Imaging (2 $500 contributions)
Jeffrey Bonura (2 $500 contributions)
Burk-Kleinpeter (2 $500 contributions)
Bryant Hammett & Associates (2 $500 contributions)
B & A Insurance Agency (2 $500 contributions)

Cannon Cochran Management Services Inc (2 $500 contributions)

$750
The Kamp

$500
Tomba Communications & Electronics Inc
John Van Vrancken (Father of JP Councilwoman Jennifer Van Vrancken)
Solutient
Robert J. Caluda APLC
RAMJ Construction LLC
Richard Lambert
Lassen family LP
Laurel Outdoor LLC
Michael S Leach
Messina's Catering
Metro Credit Services Inc
Meyer Engineers LTD
Constantine F. Nicoladis
Frank Nicoladis
Dr. Abdul H. Khan
MSMM Engineering, LLC
Hadesty & Hanover LLC
Gaudry, Ranson, Higgins & Gremillion LLC
Go Graphics LLC
Steven T. Graves
ECM Consultants Inc
Ed White & Associates
CBBI Environmental & Infrasctructure Inc
Clancy Developments
Diane B. Brown
Harry L Cahill
Cycle Construction Co LLC
Cypress Ventures
BCG Engineering & Consulting
BFM Corporations
Al Copeland Investments Inc


Do you see any familiar names? If so, ask these folks why they and their businesses are contributing to an admitted Sexual Predator.

JP Political Operative Working On Campaigns While Collecting A State Paycheck

If you're an average person, you've probably never heard of "The Hatch Act".

"The Hatch Act" is a Federal law that prevents Federal employees from working on political campaigns. After all, government workers should work for you, the people that pay their salaries, right?

While The Hatch Act was enacted in 1939, it has been amended several times most recently in 2012 by then-President Barack Obama and certain aspects of it now extend to state and municipal employees who work in programs whose funding is provided for in whole or in part by the Federal Government as well.

The Hatch Act has been challenged several times including appeals up the U.S. Supreme Court, which has deemed it constitutional several times and also declined to hear other challenges.

In Kenner, voters approved a Charter Change that provided that Political Appointees of the Mayor could not engage in political activities. Unfortunately, several malcontents in current-Mayor Ben Zahn's Administration (including several still employed by the City of Kenner) filed a lawsuit and a judge determined that the Charter Change was too broad and struck it down.

In Louisiana, in addition to the Federal Hatch Act, we have our own "Little Hatch Act" which states:

"No employee in the classified service shall participate or engage in political activity; be a candidate for nomination or election to public office except to seek election as the classified state employee serving on the State Civil Service Commission; or be a member of any national, state, or local committee of a political party or faction; make or solicit contributions for any political party, faction, or candidate; or take active part in the management of the affairs of a political party, faction, candidate, or any political campaign, except to exercise his right as a citizen to express his opinion privately, to serve as a commissioner or official watcher at the polls, and to cast his vote as he desires. No person shall solicit contributions for political purposes from any classified employee or official or use or attempt to use his position in the state or city service to punish or coerce the political action of a classified employee." La. Const. Ann. art. X, § 9.

While no law can restrict a municipal, state or Federal employee from exercising their right of Free Speech or restrict them from voting, The Hatch Act and Louisiana's "Little Hatch Act" are designed to prevent state and local employees from actively working on campaigns during normal business hours, among other restrictions.

Just as you may not have heard of The Hatch Act, you've probably never heard of John Tobler either.

Yes, if you've read this blog before, you know that I've written about Tobler before.

In a nutshell, Tobler is a political operative who has a long relationship with Jefferson Parish's Minister of Propaganda Greg Buisson. Buisson is the Campaign Manager/Political Consultant to many politicians in Metro New Orleans including criminals like former JP Parish President Aaron Broussard and former St. Tammany Coroner Peter Galvan, among others. Buisson is also the current Campaign Manager/Political Consultant for Jefferson Parish's Sexual Predator-In-Chief Mike Yenni, several JP Councilmembers including District 4 Councilman Dominick Impastato; Kenner Mayor Ben Zahn and several members of the Kenner City Council including District 2 Councilman Mike Sigur, District 5 Councilman Brian Brennan and Councilwoman-At-Large Kristi Katsanis McKinney; and former State Rep. and current New Orleans Councilwoman-At-Large Helena Morena (who gave Buisson's son a full scholarship to Tulane, despite the fact that Buisson didn't live in her district). .

To read more about Buisson, use the Top Left "Search" Box or click here.

But, let's get back to Tobler.

Tobler is the founder, member or past member of several political endorsement groups including the Greater New Orleans Republicans, among others. Of course, Tobler never informed any group or candidate seeking an endorsement from one of the groups he fronted about Tobler's long association with Buisson. 

I actually sat in an endorsement meeting where Tobler was present. I made my opening statement and then said that I would answer questions from anyone on the committee, except Tobler. Afterward, the committee chairman told me that I was "childish and condescending". I replied that, according to the State Ethics Board, Tobler was on the payroll of my opponent. The chairman was surprised. Then he apologized.

In fact, after "working" for several years for Public Service Commissioner Eric Skrmetta (a Buisson client), Tobler almost wrangled a job with the City of Kenner through Ben Zahn. Thankfully, that job didn't come to fruition, although Tobler did work for the City of Kenner for 2 days before resigning abruptly earlier this year to join the State Department of Insurance (LDI).

While Tobler has been a state employee for several months as the LDI's Deputy Commissioner of Public Affairs, he has continued to work on political campaigns in violation of State and Federal law.

I have received several email Press Releases from candidates listing Tobler as the "Media Contact".

If Tobler were working on political campaigns during his off hours, while still technically unethical and possibly violating Louisiana's "Little Hatch Act", it would not be illegal. But, that isn't the case.

I had several people call Tobler at the telephone number listed on the Press Releases during what should be normal working hours for LDI employees.

Tobler answered and spoke about the campaigns during these calls.

Ten days ago, I left a message for Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon regarding Tobler's political activity during working hours. Donelon has yet to return my call.

After I left a message for Donelon, also ten days ago, I called the LDI's Division of Public Affairs (which, ironically, Tobler is the head of), which is listed as the Media Contact for the Department. I asked the person who answered the phone:

Q: "Is John Tobler a current employee of the LDI?"

A: "Yes".

Q: "Did John Tobler take a leave of absence or is he currently on vacation?"

A: "No".

Q: "Is John Tobler in the office today?"

A: "Yes. What is this about?"

To which I explained that I believed that I had information proving that Tobler was in violation of The Hatch Act for working on political campaigns while a state employee. 

A: "What's your name and number and I will get back to you today regarding this issue". 

Of course, I'm still waiting. 

As I mentioned, Tobler worked for the City of Kenner for 2 days in the Clerk of Court's Office (another job that he isn't qualified for).

When I contacted Kenner Mayor Ben Zahn regarding Tobler's employment, the Mayor verified that Tobler worked for 2 days before resigning to join the LDI.

When I asked Mayor Zahn if Tobler's abrupt job change had anything to do with his outside campaign activities, Zahn said that he wasn't aware of Tobler's activities while a COK employee and that if Zahn had known, "He would have been terminated immediately. I do not tolerate breaking the Hatch Act". 

So, if Tobler's activities would have violated The Hatch Act in Kenner, how can Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon not take action against Tobler for violating state rules? 

Look, I believe that Federal, State, and Municipal employees should be apolitical. I fought hard for the Charter Change that was approved by 80% of Kenner voters that a group of 12 malcontent City of Kenner employees got struck down.

Employees should work for the public - not for a political candidate even if that political candidate is the person that gave them their jobs.

And, while I also believe that everyone has the right to vote for and support whomever they want, while they are accepting a taxpayer paycheck, they should not be engaged in political activity. Period.

But, that's just me.

Clearly though, Federal, State and Municipal employees ARE precluded from performing political activities WHILE allegedly working.

John Tobler can form as many fake endorsement groups as he wants. He can hang out with Greg Buisson and Jefferson Parish's Sexual Predator-In-Chief Mike Yenni, and anyone that he wants - as long as it's not on the taxpayer's dime.

Now, you know what Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon has known for almost two weeks. The question remains: why hasn't Commissioner Donelon taken action against Tobler or picked up the phone to tell me why it's ok for Tobler to politic on your time?

Is Commissioner Donelon just trying to sweep this under the rug or wait until the November 6th election is past?

Perhaps, if you ask, he may answer you. For some reason, he's ducking me. 

Here's Jim Donelon's office number: 225-342-5423 and his email is commissioner@ldi.la.gov

If you get an answer, please let me know. 

So, The New Kenner Rec "Participation Fee" Is Really About Police Details - Who Knew?

At a very long Kenner City Council meeting last night, Mayor Ben Zahn corrected a misperception of mine (and many) in Kenner - the new Recreation "Participation Fee" for Youth Sports isn't about Recreation or "Participation" or improving Kenner Recreation or maintenance of fields or paying currently volunteer coaches.

In fact, the new Kenner Recreation "Participation Fee" isn't about Recreation at all - it's about police details.

Yes, police details.

After Mayor Zahn unilaterally added a $10 "Participation Fee" for residents, with the approval of Kenner's City Attorney who decided that a "Participation Fee" isn't really a "Fee" because a "Fee" would be required to be approved by the Kenner City Council (and include public comment), two Kenner City Councilmembers, District 1 Councilman Gregory Carroll and Councilman-At-Large Tom Willmott (both former volunteer coaches), decided that maybe the Council (and the public) should talk about this new "Fee".

After the two Councilmen spoke and several members of the public (myself included) spoke out against this new "Fee", and NOT ONE member of the public or the council spoke in favor of this new "Fee", Mayor Zahn finally, let the cat out of the bag, but not before explaining why the Council hadn't heard of this new "Fee" before it was imposed.

Allegedly, Mayor Zahn is a very, very, very busy guy. He was going to send the Council info(after he had already imposed the "Fee") but he didn't have time,

Look, I don't doubt that. I have far more text conversations with Mayor Zahn than I do actual conversations. I understand he has a lot on his plate.

But, the Mayor has frequent conversations with Councilmembers, although, since the majority of this Council is beholden to Mayor Zahn and most wouldn't think of publicly questioning his actions (either due to their own ignorance of the Charter - which they swore an oath to uphold or fear of the Mayor lashing out as he did at Councilman Carroll), the Council rarely questions the actions of the Mayor.

Sadly, this lack of true, independent representation on the Council dates back to former Mayor Mike Yenni's "Consensus Team".

The fact is, if Councilmen Carroll and Willmott hadn't requested the time to discuss this, and give the public an opportunity to comment, we still wouldn't have answers to the many questions that are still dangling after an hour and a half of sometimes tense discussion.

In any event, after Mayor Zahn disclosed the need for Police Details at Youth Recreation games, Recreation Director Chad Pitfield read two profanity-laced emails that he received that discussed potential violence and threats at Kenner Rec games.

Two emails.

Look, some parents (and youth players) may get a little excited. Tempers flare when there's a perceived bad call or penalty. Referees who don't deserve it, get heckled and even cursed. Things happen. Stupid things are said. It happens.

When I played Little League baseball, I had a temper. I said many things to Umpires that crossed the line and I got tossed out of my share of baseball and basketball games.

And yes, I've gone to Youth games and heard parents and relatives yell at Referees, other parents, and even other people's children.

That will never stop. Our society in general has gotten less civil.

I often hear people cursing at other people in Wal-Mart. In fact, I may have cursed out loud a few times myself at Wal-Mart.

But, does that mean that Wal-Mart needs a paid Police Detail for potential shopper altercations?

No, Wal-Mart has paid Police Details to deter shoplifting,

Do we need paid Kenner Police Details at all Kenner Recreation games?  No.

KPD Chief Glaser disclosed that there were 55 "Calls for Service" at Kenner Recreation events. "Calls for Service" include every incidence of someone calling 911, whether it was for a minor traffic accident in a parking lot, an injury or any reason including an altercation (which the Chief mentioned was a very small number of the 55).

Since the Chief was prepared with the 55 "Calls for Service" figure, tells me that he was prepared by someone in the Zahn Administration to be ready for that question. Chief Glaser is good but, he's not THAT good.

Kenner's CAO Deborah Foshee was also prepared to cite participation numbers and projections of what the new "Fee" would bring in to the city and what the Police Details would cost.

The fact is, this new "Participation Fee" will generate less than 1/2 of the cost of Police Details which are projected to cost $16,000 annually.

The question is: if KPD are truly required to attend Kenner Rec events to deter "violence", shouldn't the Mayor and Chief work out a plan and budget to include a "Regular" Police presence at Kenner Rec events instead of a Police Detail, which often is just an excuse for a retired KPD Officer to earn a little extra cash?

I mean, if I'm attending a game and a violent incident occurs between two "gangs" of rival playground parents, I would feel much safer with a "Real" KPD Officer on scene instead of a Retired Rent-A-Cop who doubles as a Wal-Mart greeter.

No disrespect intended for former officers but, a Retired Officer is not in a position to defuse a potentially violent incident.

If violence and threats of violence are such an issue in Kenner at Recreation events, why haven't the Mayor and Chief ALREADY taken steps to include a KPD presence at events?

And, since even if they use Paid Details instead of Regularly Scheduled Officers, the cost is only $16,000. The City of Kenner's annual budget is $66.5 MILLION. Surely, Mayor Zahn could find $16,000 in the City Budget or Chief Glaser could find it in KPD's $20 MILLION annual budget, right?

Since this new "Participation Fee" only covers less than 1/2 of the projected cost of Police Details, and since Rec Director Pitfield made the point that the $10 Resident Fee is less than other entities, why not charge more? Look, make no mistake, I'm against this "Fee" for Residents in any amount but, if the Mayor can't find $16,000 in a $66.5 MILLION budget, how can he find 1/2 that amount?

Could the Mayor find $8,000 and Chief Glaser find the other $8,000 somewhere, anywhere, without nickle and diming Kenner residents?

It's about "Public Safety" and "The Safety of Our Children", right?

If you're an elected official, you FIND the money for "Public Safety" right?

Of course, when Mayor Zahn made the Kenner Fire Chief appear before the City Council to essentially "BEG" for $8,000 for new bunker gear (which has already proven to save Kenner Firefighter's lives), I don't think I could say that "Public Safety" is a real priority in Kenner.

But, I'm sure the Mayor would disagree.

Yes, I know that Mayor Zahn has taken steps to improve KFD with new equipment, additional manpower and morale.

But, I was embarrassed that the Kenner Fire Chief was required to go in front of the Council at all for $8,000.

The bottom line is - this "Participation Fee" is not needed and the idea of "Required Police Details" to stop violent incidents at Kenner fields and gyms is a smokescreen. Two emails and less than a handful of incidents involving a couple of knucklehead parents is not a reason for a Mayor to unilaterally impose a "Fee" without Council approval or public comment.

And, yes, the reality is, since the bulk of the Kenner City Council besides Councilmen Carroll and Willmott, along with questions from Councilwoman Kristi McKinney, sat on their tongues and were afraid to speak out against this potential Charter violation (probably because they haven't even read the Charter they've sworn to uphold), infers that they approve of the Mayor's actions and the "Fee".

The Council's lack of participation and outrage at this "Fee" was also disappointing.

As I mentioned, if Paid Police Details are truly warranted at Kenner Recreation events, the prudent thing would have been for the Mayor and KPD Chief to sit down, put their heads together and work out a plan, then go to the City Council and say, "This is the problem. Here's the solution. I need your help."

That didn't happen.

Since this new "Fee" only covers 1/2 the cost of the proposed Paid Details anyway, at some point, the Mayor is going to need to come before the Council anyway and ask them to approve a change in the budget to allocate the difference anyway, so why not do that in advance?

And, since we are discussing costs and "Fees", why are Kenner Recreation workers paid time and a half to attend Kenner Recreation events? Shouldn't that be their job? The City shouldn't be paying Recreation workers to drive around or babysit empty gyms while kids are in school anyway. Change the hours and schedule to reflect when Kenner Recreation Department workers (and the Director) SHOULD be working - don't pay them time and a half to do what should be their jobs.

No, there is nothing that anyone can say to make me believe that this "Participation Fee" is in anyway about Paid Details and deterring violence at Kenner Recreation events. It just doesn't add up.

So, what is this "Participation Fee" really about?

Is it to punish Kenner's minority and low-income community?

Is it political retribution by the Mayor against the push back he received over the now rescinded Nike ban?

Is the Mayor just pushing to see how far he can go and how far the Council will let him go?

Since any fee could be an obstacle for Kenner's low income families, is the Mayor trying to continue to dismantle Kenner Recreation and drive down participation further?

Since this fee doesn't HELP Kenner residents, and that should be the goal of anything that the Mayor of Kenner does, why do this at all?

The City of Kenner receives sales tax revenue, property tax revenue, occupational license fees, permit fees, funds from the Treasure Chest, and on and on. Those existing taxes and fees should pay for a robust Kenner Recreation Department - not just the bloated salaries of Mayor Zahn's political appointees.

Does Kenner really need an Assistant to the Mayor in charge of Party Planning or does it need more and better recreational opportunities for our residents? What would bring Kenner more new residents - a political appointee or a quality, no cost Youth Sports program?

The fact that we are even asking this questions tells you that this situation was handled poorly by Mayor Zahn, regardless of his intentions.

No Mayor should be allowed to impose a new "Fee", whether it is voluntary or mandatory, without Council approval - regardless of the interpretation of the Charter by the City Attorney (who is a political appointee of the Mayor and NOT the Council) - the INTENT of the Charter, and I believe (as do many others) that the Charter is clear about this point, is that the Council is the Governing Authority for Kenner and, as such, should have the final approval on fiscal matters.

The Mayor is the Mayor - not the King.

At least that's not according to  my copy of the City Charter.

Kenner To Begin Charging Residents A "Participation Fee" For Youth Sports

Youth Basketball registration begins in Kenner today (Thursday, 11/1) but, this year will be different than other years.

For the first time ever, Kenner families will be charged a $10 "Participation Fee" for the privilege of having their child play Kenner Recreation Basketball.

Mayor Zahn and some members of the City Council point to a 2015 Ordinance titled "Kenner's Recreation Master Plan" authored by then-Kenner City Councilman Dominick Impastato as the rationale for the "Participation Fee".

While primarily dealing with the creation of "Sports Academies" The Ordinance includes a provision to charge non-residents a "Participation Fee":

"The Parks and Recreation Department will assess a participation fee for non-city residents."

The Ordinance DOES NOT provide for a "Participation Fee" for City Residents.

In fact, the Ordinance states: 

"That the City of Kenner will continue to maintain and promote the Playgrounds and the sports and programs at those Playgrounds. That will include, but not be limited to, tackle and touch football, volleyball, basketball, track and field, soccer, baseball, softball and cheerleading. The funds for these progams will come from money budgeted to the Parks and Recreation account. Every effort will be made to keep all programs low-cost."


The Ordinance passed 6-1 with only Kenner District 1 Councilman Gregory Carroll opposing it. 

Yes, other municipalities and parishes charge various fees for Recreation Department participation, and Kenner has charged fees for several Recreation programs that primarily involved a compensated teacher and/or materials for things like Painting or Ceramics.

But, since coaches at Kenner's playgrounds are uncompensated volunteers and Kenner owns the playgrounds, gyms and ball fields that are home to organized sports in Kenner (and paid for with our tax dollars already), charging a "Participation Fee" for organized sports makes zero sense. 

Assuming Kenner fields 4 teams of 10 players per gym, that amounts to about 360 Kenner youths playing basketball. At $10 per player, that equals a whopping $3,600 in revenue that the City will generate from the "Participation Fee" for youth basketball.

$3,600 is even less than the $4,000 annually the City gives each playground booster club and when judged against a $66 Million annual City budget isn't even a rounding error.

Since the amount of revenue generated is so tiny, why charge the fee at all?

Certainly, the City of Kenner doesn't need $3,600 to help pay the gym light bills. 

And, this fee will be per child per sport - not per family. So, if a family with 4 children participates in 3 organized sports (baseball, basketball, football), it will cost that family $120 per year just in "Participation Fees".

$120 may not seem like a lot of money to you, but it means a lot to many in Kenner. 

Per the 2010 Census, the per capita income for the City of Kenner is $19,615 or about $6,000 less per capita than Jefferson Parish. That $19,615 figure is pre-tax total income. Yes, there are some pockets of wealth in Kenner but, on average, Kenner is a low income community. Any additional taxes and fees assessed to citizens will adversely impact the finances of a majority of Kenner residents.

Besides, Mayor Zahn doesn't need a vote of the people to approve a new fee and he is well aware that a new property tax, even for Recreation, would fail miserably.

But, why was this "Participation Fee" dropped in the laps of Kenner residents without any notice and without the approval of the Kenner City Council?

According to the Kenner City Charter, "Imposing any license, requiring any permit, establishing any charge for services rendered, or increasing the rate of any license, permit or service charge" must go before the Kenner City Council in the form of an ordinance and "shall not be adopted until at least 28 days after being introduced, nor until the proposed ordinance shall have been published by caption in the Official Journal".

Neither of these things happened.

When asked if this "Participation Fee" didn't equate to a "charge", Kenner Mayor Ben Zahn simply replied, "No."

Well, if it looks like a Duck, and it walks like a Duck, and it Quacks like a Duck, I guess in Kenner it's really a Turkey.

Many in Kenner are already questioning if this is a punitive move by the Mayor to push back at critics in the Kenner Black Community who pushed back over Zahn's aborted Nike ban.

Whether that is the case or not, like the Nike ban, the optics of this don't look good for Kenner and monetarily, this "Participation Fee" for city revenue is meaningless.

So, the question remains - if this fee won't do anything materially positive for the City of Kenenr or Kenner Recreation and will only take money from people who predominantly don't have excess cash to begin with and create more negative optics and bad feelings in Kenner - why even impose this fee?

Ponder that question while you plan your Holiday menus.

And remember, Turkeys are bigger than Ducks.

Kenner Councilman Proposes New Law Because Homeless People "Stink"

The City of Kenner, fresh off negative National and International publicity after Mayor Ben Zahn first banned Nike purchases by booster clubs and then rescinded the ban, is headed for another black eye after a Kenner City Councilman proposed an anti-loitering ordinance targeting homeless people because they "stink".

Loitering laws across the country have been ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court for being "overly vague" and for not providing "clear, distinct guidelines for acceptable conduct."

This ordinance, proposed by Kenner District 4 Councilman George Branigan, is also vague and repulsive

The proposed ordinance says:

"(T)here is a public safety concern regarding individuals remaining in essentially
one (1) location for no obvious reason, to linger, to stay, to saunter, to dawdle, to stand around, or to delay an activity with aimless stops and pauses or to otherwise spend time idly or to be dilatory".
 
So, do I need an "obvious reason" to sit in my backyard and watch the sunset or is that "dawdling"?

I know, that's a poor analogy.

The ordinance does however seek to stop anyone from "dawdling" in public places including restaurants (hurry up and chug that wine or you could be cited for "dawdling"); stores (I'm going to start citing folks who "dawdle" at Wal-Mart and visit with folks instead of getting their groceries and heading straight to the checkout); and public places like parks (no more hanging out at City Park reading a book and watching the ducks for you, young man).

Branigan's ordinance says that people can't "dawdle" on public sidewalks. So the next time that you and your neighbor want to have a chat on a sidewalk, make sure one of your kids is on the corner acting as a lookout for KPD. You never know...

In addition, several residents complained about the ordinance, which was up for First Reading at the last council meeting, because it was posted on the Council Agenda by caption only - meaning the ordinance hadn't even been written before the Council Agenda's deadline.

While the City Attorney's office said it was permissible and not illegal to put forth an ordinance by caption only, as we've shown several times including with former Kenner Mayor Mike Yenni's sexting with a high school boy, just because it may not be technically illegal that certainly doesn't make it right.

By Charter, ordinances are introduced at First Reading giving citizens time before the First Reading and again before the Second Reading, to know what laws the Council is trying to implement. At the Second Reading, there is an opportunity for public comment before the Council votes on any proposed laws. 

But, even more troubling than the possibility of an unconstitutional, questionably introduced law (that ironically, says law enforcement can cite you if you disobey their command to move on - but doesn't cite the punishment - a fine? Jail?) was Councilman Branigan's bizarre rationale for even introducing the law.

Evidently, Councilman Branigan, whose District includes the North Kenner Public Library, is concerned about the safety of residents since there happen to be some homeless people temporarily staying outside the library and they occasionally use the library's restrooms.

"There are homeless people living outside the library, which is a dangerous situation. During the day, they were going into the library and the poor people hadn't had baths or showers, and they stunk, obviously."

Obviously.

I could be wrong but last time I looked, there wasn't a smell test for entry to the library - or the Kenner City Council Chambers. 

Not content to stop there, Councilman Branigan continued:

"And when they went into the library they were using the bathroom in the library to wash their clothes and clean themselves off."

The shock and horror! Homeless people actually trying to wash themselves.

I'm sure that the Kenner Police Department has far more important things to do than break down public restroom doors, frisk and handcuff homeless people using a public restroom sink to wash their face and brush their teeth, and haul them off to jail or fining them.

And, how exactly does Councilman Branigan think that a homeless person is going to pay a fine?

A defiant Councilman Branigan then went into a rambling speech about how the library is next to a school and a walking track at a playground and the homeless people using the library restrooms were a "safety" concern.

"My concern was for the children at that school and for the people on the track. If I would have waited two weeks (to properly introduce the ordinance) and some child got abducted or some person got attacked, I would have been really aggravated with myself for not taking a stand."

Please, stop the drama. The Academy Awards aren't for months.

Has there been a child abducted in Kenner by a homeless person recently? A person attacked by a homeless person? Have there even been any attempts or threats made against children or adults from homeless people using the public restroom at the library?

If there is a real safety issue with homeless people at the library, shouldn't the library or the School Board hire a security guard or off-duty KPD officer? The fact that the library and the School Board havn't done this should tell Councilman Branigan that "safety" isn't the real issue here.

I know, there's always a first time but there's been several recent reports of children abducted and attempted abductions from stores like Dollar Tree, Family Dollar and others. Thankfully, none have occurred in Kenner. Will Councilman Branigan propose an ordinance to ban those stores next?

It's for the safety of the children, right?

As a human being (and, yes, I checked before I wrote that), I am repulsed by Councilman Branigan's comments. 

 
As a citizen of Kenner, I am outraged, not just by his lack of sensitivity and compassion, but also the fact that this law doesn't fix the problem, and, as an elected official, shouldn't he try to fix the real problem, or, at least, identify it?

If the real problem is homeless people, what does this ordinance do to fix THAT problem? Does Kenner have a homeless shelter where people can go? Does the City have programs to help the homeless gain employment, transition to permanent housing, and move back into society?

What is sad is, there have been homeless people in Kenner for years, whether they are Veterans who have had difficulty transitioning back to society, the mentally ill, or folks who have not fared well with the new economy.

There was a mentally ill woman that hung out by the old Rite Aid at 33rd and Williams for some time. I gave her food from the Taco Bell there several times. She never tried to abduct me (although she did complain once about my choice of tacos).  

While homelessness is an emergency, it's not an emergency because a child "may be abducted" or because some homeless folks use a public restroom to wash themselves off. I've seen people wash themselves off in public restrooms in businesses and highway rest areas for decades. That isn't a crime. 

No, this is only an "emergency" because a Councilman was told about the issue. There are no Kenner Police incident reports regarding homeless people at the library. Safety and possible abductions or crimes is a false narrative.

Homelessness, though, is a problem.

Here's an idea: instead of demonizing the homeless for using a public restroom, why doesn't the City of Kenner show compassion and actually try to help these folks live a decent life. I'm relatively certain that they don't wake up everyday and enjoy the fact that they need to go into a public restroom just to wash their face or clean their clothes. 

I know there are homeless people who are beyond help and can't transition back to society. But, shouldn't we at least try?

Introducing a vague, possibly unconstitutional ordinance and possibly fining or incarcerating folks because they are homeless, shouldn't be the kind of message any city, let alone a City like Kenner which is already reeling from negative publicity, wants to send.

What's next? Driving homeless people to the Kenner City Limits and dropping them off to get them out of Kenner?

Don't laugh.

At least one Kenner City Councilman wants to make it illegal for homeless people to wash their faces in a public restroom.

Hopefully, the other 6 Council members and Mayor Zahn have more compassion, human decency and common sense than Councilman Branigan. 

 

Whether New Orleans or Kenner, Moving CIty Hall Doesn't Make Sound Fiscal Sense

Ironically, both the City of New Orleans and the City Of Kenner are each contemplating moving their City Halls. In both cases, they are bad ideas.

On my radio program Monday on WGSO 990 AM, Kenner Mayor Ben Zahn discussed at least three possibilities for moving Kenner City Hall from it's Central Kenner location on Williams Blvd. to the West Esplanade-Chateau corridor: the Esplanade Mall, the nearly-vacant Pavilion Shopping Center, and the land directly across Chateau Blvd. from the Pavilion that formerly housed the OMV and retail businesses and restaurants pre-Katrina.

Currently, the bulk of Kenner business is at the three building City Hall Complex but the City of Kenner does house employees at about 10 other locations across Kenner.

On the face of it, consolidating City offices appears to be a good idea. Having one location to conduct ALL city business is convenient. Paying lower insurance premiums would also be a plus as would the economic impact of several hundred city employees on the restaurants near the proposed West Esplanade sites.

But, when you dig deeper, the financial ramifications of a move far outweigh the "convenience" of a consolidated Kenner City Government.

If you put City Hall at the Esplanade or Pavilion, admittedly some businesses will benefit. But, taking a huge section of retail space out of commerce and turning it into non-sales tax generating space, won't help Kenner's declining retail base.

As the Mayor often mentions, more folks are spending their money online, whether it's due to convenience or lower prices. But, online shopping, while growing at a huge rate, represents less than 10% of total sales.

Are malls in decline? Of course. But good property owners have been successful in re-purposing even old, tired malls like the Esplanade. 

Perhaps the Mayor is correct and the Esplanade is beyond repair. I don't buy that and one only needs to look at Elmwood, Lakeside Shopping Center or any of the multiple shopping centers that are booming in Baton Rouge and other areas to see that the entire world isn't shopping online.

Nor is the bulk of Kenner.

In addition to taking a huge amount of retail out of commerce, the City would also turn from an "owner" into a "renter". The huge cost of paying rent at either the Esplanade or the Pavilion would completely offset any insurance savings due to consolidation. And, what would happen to the current buildings that houses Kenner operations? Do we really need even more commercial blight?

No, the answer to turning around Kenner's retail base, improving our sales tax and property tax bases isn't moving City Hall to what should be retail or mixed use space.

The answer to fixing the Esplanade, the Pavilion and Kenner, is complicated though and politicians like simple fixes.

At this time, with Kenner Mayor Zahn firmly in place for the next four years, he should be bold and double-down on economic development. Just as the Esplanade is on it's 3rd owner in two years, the Pavilion needs new ownership and the land across from the Pavilion on Chateau needs to be developed - NOW.

The City of Kenner has 4 primary economic development growth areas and each has its own set of challenges: Laketown, Rivertown, the West Esplanade Corridor (The Esplanade, The Pavilion and Chateau) and Williams Blvd.

Each needs help in order to reach their potential but, ALL can grow and prosper independently.

Laketown and Rivertown should be Entertainment/Retail hubs. Both can be home to specialty retail and focus on different audiences. Laketown, with the Treasure Chest Casino and the Pontchartrain Center along with a potential partnership with Atlantis Gaming (or another investor), can be geared towards tourists and draw folks from Metairie, St. Charles and St. John the Baptist Parishes while Rivertown can be marketed to Harahan/River Ridge residents and St. Charles (Hahnville, Destrehan, Luling, St. Rose, Norco).

Laketown is on its way and well past the pie-in-the-sky, or rather, Ferris Wheel-in-the-Sky, that former Kenner Mayor Mike Yenni had drawn up years ago. I always questioned the inclusion of a Ferris Wheel at Laketown. Now, we know why Yenni wanted one.

Rivertown too is improving but, as Kenner District 1 Councilman Gregory Carroll said, "It's taking baby steps." New restaurants and retail are opening in Rivertown but the area needs much more and a much larger commitment from Mayor Zahn and Kenner officials to jumpstart it's progress.

Rivertown can't afford more years of "baby steps" after a decade of dismantling and neglect by Yenni and his predecessor Ed Muniz.

The Esplanade, with it's new owner, should be re-positioned as Retail/Residential, with the addition of apartments and/or condos, even offices, and a reduction (but not elimination) of retail space. The Esplanade could be the "family-friendly" shopping/entertainment venue that Kenner (and all of East Jefferson) craves. Adding 200-400 upscale residential units, and the 800-1000+ residents, would far outweigh the potential economic impact of 400 City of Kenner employees. Adding more "family-friendly" activities and a safer shopping environment would pull Kenner, Metairie and other residents away from Lakeside, Elmwood and other areas and give them a reason to spend their money in Kenner.

There is no other property like the Esplanade in Kenner and no available land to build a retail or mixed use property at the scale that could be done at the Esplanade. But, it would take a major investment and major effort from City Government and taxpayers to get there. 

The Pavilion could be a mecca for upscale retailers, whether it's antique shops or specialty retailers, or a "Town Center" development. It could also be a mixed-use property with apartments and/or condos, offices, even Senior living. Imagine Seniors living in a truly self-contained area with a grocery, drug store, retail, a health clinic or urgent care, restaurants, a hair and nail salon, and more. What affluent senior wouldn't want to live on the upper floors of that retail/service environment and overlook Chateau Country Club or even Lake Pontchartrain from their balconies?

This type of "Town Center" approach would also benefit residents in Chateau, Cannes Brulee and other adjacent subdivisions.

Yes, I realize that the Esplanade and Pavilion are both owned by private companies and the City can only exert so much influence on them. But, if Mayor Zahn were aggressive and laid out a plan where the City would help the property owners succeed, it could be a massive win for all involved.

But, it would take a truly aggressive Mayor with vision looking beyond the next election cycle and the next budget.

Kenner and Mayor Zahn need to take the lead, not be led around by out-of-state investors. If the Esplanade, the Pavilion, Laketown, Rivertown and other areas are competing with each other for the same businesses and opportunities, Kenner will continue to stagnate. 

Williams Blvd. also needs attention from Kenner Government. There are too many dilapidated shopping centers with outdated signs and questionable businesses. Too much of Kenner prime commercial space on Williams is allowed by current zoning laws to be occupied by non-retail businesses like Banks and Offices. The City needs to re-purpose Williams Blvd. as exclusively Retail.

A TIF for Williams Blvd. could be used to provide low or no-interest financing to businesses and property owners to replace the hodge-podge of signs, facades, and landscaping on Williams and dramatically improve the aesthetics of the only road that runs from Rivertown to Laketown all without a tax increase or incurring new government debt. Kenner has enough debt already due to the misguided ideas of former Mayor Mike Yenni. 

Instead of adding public art and bike paths, Yenni's failed 2030 Plan should have been to focus on what should be Kenner's strengths. But, there's no campaign contributions or contracts involved in getting businesses to phase out their tired signs and invest in their property. 

Sadly, Yenni frittered away Millions on projects with ZERO economic development value to the City. Yenni's 2030 Plan created NO new jobs, NO new businesses, NO influx of families (young or otherwise) and hamstrung Kenner's finances for Mayors, and generations, to come.

All four areas (Laketown, Rivertown, the West Esplanade/Chateau corridor, Williams Blvd.) should each have their own TIFs and financial incentives to encourage economic development, re-purposing, updated signage, marketing and more.

Sure, having TIFs and diverting some sales tax revenue from City coffers would hurt the City budget in the short term, but, in the long term it would be a massive boom to the City in terms of new businesses, jobs, property values, as well as increased property and sales tax revenue.

Admittedly, TIFs aren't a panacea and there has been widespread abuse of TIFs. But, by adopting best practices and governance, TIFs can and do provide significant benefits to a city. 

If the City added a small sales tax to apartment rentals, even if it were only for the short-term, the City could generate more than enough revenue to offset any loss of sales tax revenue from the TIFs.

Along with the TIFs and financial incentives, the City and the Mayor need to get aggressive in recruiting national, regional and local businesses to Kenner. Having a part-time Economic Development Director isn't enough. The Mayor himself needs to spend much more time beating the bushes and recruiting business to Kenner. Kenner's other elected officials, including State Legislators and our JP District and At-Large Council members also need to get more heavily invested time wise in helping improve Kenner's economy. Clearly, what the Esplanade and the Pavilion are doing as far as marketing their properties and Kenner isn't working. The Mayor. and others, need to jump in with both feet.


Putting a church on prime commercial property next to the Esplanade and considering moving City Hall to the Esplanade or Pavilion, send the wrong message to potential businesses and won't help Kenner thrive, grow or even compete in the future.

If the City added 400-500 new housing units (either apartments or condos) at the Esplanade site, another 300 affluent Senior living housing units at the Pavilion and high-end condos at Laketown, that could add 2,000-3,000+ new Kenner residents. If you coupled that with offices at any or all of these locations, what kind of economic development and increased taxes would that be for the City of Kenner? 


Now, is the time for Mayor Zahn to think long-term about Kenner and Kenner's future and his decisions shouldn't be based upon "convenience".

New Orleans would also make a huge financial mistake if it were to move their City Hall.

Unlike Kenner however, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell is considering moving City Hall to the old Municipal Auditorium, a vacant building owned by the city, or the closed Charity Hospital.

In New Orleans though, the costs of moving city hall are far greater than moving Kenner's.

At a time when New Orleans budget is already strained and the Mayor is warning of more budget surprises on top of the current $39 Million shortfall, New Orleans simply can't afford to move.

Yes, it would be great to redevelop Charity Hospital and rebuild the Municipal Auditorium, and perhaps one day the city can, but that time isn't now.

The City of New Orleans has far too many infrastructure needs to incur the additional costs of not only renovating either the Municipal Auditorium or the old Charity Hospital AND the costs of moving offices, furniture and equipment to either location at this time.

Now is the time for both New Orleans Mayor Cantrell and Kenner Mayor Zahn to be bold and aggressive, especially when it comes to attracting new businesses to both cities. Moving City Hall, is not a bold move for either.

For different financial reasons, now is not the time for either the City of Kenner or the City of New Orleans to consider moving their City Halls. 

Protests Grow Louder In Kenner Nike Ban

A crowd estimated between 100-200 attended a "peaceful protest" of Kenner Mayor Ben Zahn's ban on Nike products at Kenner Booster Clubs.

Monday afternoon, Mayor Zahn issued a statement in an attempt to "clarify" the Nike controversy. Instead, the Mayor just made the waters even murkier.

"Private, for-profit companies have every right to advertise how they wish, even if it means using advertising to promote corporate political beliefs. Individuals also have every right to support or oppose any company or brand for any reason. Those freedoms should never be lost. 

I applaud Nike's message of inclusion and encouragement for everyone to be their best and dream big. But I also recognize that Nike, in its zeal to sell shoes, chose to promote and sell a political message. 

In Kenner, like every city, our citizens and our taxpayers cover a wide spectrum of political philosophies and agendas. We must respect all of those agendas and philosophies. So, when a company uses its advertising as its own political megaphone, government should be fair to all of its people and not allow taxpayer dollars to be used to help that company push its own political agenda.

My decision is only to protect taxpayer dollars from being used in a political campaign. Some have asked if people will be allowed to wear Nike apparel on city playgrounds. The answer to that is...of course. 

My internal memo draws the line on letting companies profit from taxpayers by espousing political beliefs. My decision disallowing Nike from profiting from our taxpayers while they are using their powerful voice as a political tool is my message. This government will not let taxpayer dollars be used to promote a company's or individual's political position, platform or principle. That's my position as a matter of fairness to all."

Reaction to Zahn's statements have been swift and largely negative.

New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, who has been friendly towards Zahn, issued a statement:

"As I have emphasized repeatedly since taking office, I believe in the values the people of New Orleans stand for - being inclusive, being accepting and supportive of all our people, committing to social justice, and being intentional about how we make decisions. 

The mandate handed down by Kenner's Mayor is out of step with those values, and not reflective of the way our city does business. 

Although the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is located in Kenner, it is owned and governed by the City of New Orleans. Let me assure you that our airport will continue to uphold our city's values."
as long 

Nothing like rubbing salt in the wound by bringing up the fact that Armstrong Airport has long used, and abused, the City of Kenner and the people of Kenner.

And, how many murders has New Orleans had this year?

Jefferson Parish Councilman Mark Spears, who while residing on the West Bank, represents a portion of Kenner and has long been an ally of Zahn and was a sponsor of Kennner's recent Freedom Fest, attended the protest.

"It's a shame that we're here for this," Spears said. "These policies are illegal."

No City of Kenner elected officials attended the protest but several New Orleans Saints players did.

Kenner District 1 Councilman Gregory Carroll, who ran against Zahn for Mayor during the last election cycle, has been the only vocal critic on the Kenner City Council of Zahn's Nike ban.

Mayor Zahn, like everyone, is entitled to their own personal feelings regarding Nike and their glorification of Colin Kaepernick, a man that truly is not worth glorifying in my opinion. But, he is the Mayor and shouldn't allow his personal opinions to get in the way of governing.

As the Mayor himself pointed out, the City of Kenner is diverse and, on a polarizing, racially-charged issue like Nike and Kaepernick, opinions are diverse as well.

And volatile.

Kenner faces many problems including Mayor Cantrell's Airport and the decline of Kenner Recreation, both of which Mayor Zahn inherited.

But, if the Mayor would have said, "My personal feeling is that Nike should be banned from Kenner Recreation and Booster Clubs. Unfortunately, I let my personal feelings about Nike and Colin Kaepernick interfere with governing the City of Kenner. That won't happen again," this issue would have been over.

Unfortunately, Mayor Zahn's new statement just made things worse - for him and Kenner.

While the Mayor makes a point regarding funding Nike's political motives, because he represents the Government and not a Private Business, his message is invalid.

Politics is ruled by companies using political campaign contributions to exact, or extort, tax payer dollars.

As a Jefferson Parish Councilman, Mayor Zahn gave out Millions in No-Bid Contracts to companies that contributed hundreds of thousands to his campaigns. Yes, engineering contracts are allowed to be "No-Bid", but they shouldn't be. All contracts from certified bidders, should be bid.

So, while the Mayor bemoans Nike using it's money to further it's political message, doesn't the same hold true for campaign contributors? They use their money to further their political influence.

When it was announced that Mayor Zahn would be issuing a second statement regarding the Nike-Kaepernick controversy, many expected a Mea Culpa so that Kenner could heal and move forward.

Sadly, we didn't get that and Kenner is even more polarized than yesterday. 

Who knows what tomorrow will bring for Kenner.

Now, about Armstrong International Airport...