I get your point Danno but I'm willing to try other options despite the political culture. Giving it to the richest person in the state with the promise of marginal gains at best...no thanks. I know we can do better and it's not that hard! It's really not.

One scenario, take the money and work towards making New Orleans one of the safest travel destinations in the country. Bring in the best of the best. I talk to people all the time and it's a major concern. They don't want to come down because of the crime.