Saint Bernard Parish opposes New Orleans port expansion and seeks revenue sharing

In a heated discussion at the Louisiana Legislature's Transportation meeting, concerns over local economic impacts and jurisdictional disputes took center stage. The atmosphere was charged as representatives voiced their frustrations regarding a proposed facility that could significantly affect the community.

One speaker passionately articulated the sentiment of many residents, emphasizing the lack of benefits for their parish. "If this was happening in your parish where they're gonna build a facility of this size and of this impact, and they tell your parish you get $0, you get nothing," he declared, highlighting the frustration over lost property taxes and the absence of financial returns from the project. The speaker's rhetorical question—who would want such a facility in their community—echoed the sentiments of those present, who felt sidelined in the decision-making process.

The discussion also touched on the ongoing tensions with the Port of New Orleans. The speaker pointed out that Plaquemines Parish, which operates its own port, has requested a 50% revenue share from the Port of New Orleans. "Let them share the money," he said, expressing a desire to distance his community from the port's operations, which he argued would yield no local benefits.

Adding to the complexity, the speaker revealed that they had to take legal action against their own port authority. This was due to a controversial deal that allegedly transferred land to the Port of New Orleans at a significant discount, raising questions about jurisdiction and local governance. "Who has the jurisdiction to run a terminal in Saint Bernard?" he asked, underscoring the ongoing legal battles that have left residents feeling powerless.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the community's voice is crucial in shaping the future of transportation and economic development in the region. The discussions highlighted a broader struggle for local control and equitable benefits from major infrastructure projects, leaving attendees pondering the implications for their parish and the path forward.