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Committee advances bill clarifying Convention Center authority and tax status; 99-year leases included
Summary
HB 298, affecting the Ernest N. Morrell New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority, was reported favorably after sponsors said the bill reaffirms the authority’s property as public, extends leasing authority to 99 years, removes an expiration date, and aligns reporting deadlines to the city audit schedule.
The Senate Committee on Local Municipal reported HB 298 favorably after sponsors said the bill clarifies the authority’s property status, leasing powers and reporting deadlines.
Representative Knox presented the bill on behalf of the convention center. She said the legislation does not add pilot authority (that language was removed in earlier House amendments), reaffirms that property acquired by the authority is public property and exempt from ad valorem taxes, and aligns the authority’s ability to lease property for up to 99 years (up from 60) to match the authority powers in Orleans and Jefferson parishes.
The bill also removes an expiration date of July 1, 2029, allowing the authority to continue to levy and collect the hotel occupancy tax for bond indebtedness, and it clarifies completed expansion projects that remain listed in statute. Sponsors said the bill moves the reporting deadline to the city council to the second fiscal quarter to coincide with the completed audit.
Foley & Judell attorney Meredith Hathorn and Exhibition Hall Authority interim CEO Lead Caprato (identified in committee) were at the table to answer questions. Senator Miller moved to report HB 298 favorable; the chair reported the bill as favorably reported with no recorded objections.
