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Councilmember Thomas consistently champions economic revitalization in his district, particularly in the Lower 9th Ward and New Orleans East. This includes:
Redevelopment of Key Sites: He actively pursues the redevelopment of significant locations like the former Six Flags site and Lincoln Beach. He secured full funding for Lincoln Beach redevelopment after 7 years of conversations, authored ordinances for the Six Flags site and started demolition after 20 years of neglect, and even successfully pushed for the renaming of Hayne Blvd to Lincoln Beach Blvd, stating its importance for "the continued redevelopment of Lincoln beach." Additionally, he started New Orleans’ first new industrial project in 20 years at Propel Park, a $100M investment next to NASA in Michoud, attracted a $10 million dollar development at the corner of Crowder and Chef Menteur, secured $1M in funding for regional business park repairs & improvements
Support for Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs: He advocates for policies that support local businesses, like expanding access to pedicab permits for DBEs, authored ordinance to amend the City Code to increase the total number of pedicab CPNCs issued in order to provide for DBE inclusion." He also worked to revitalize the St. Claude Commercial Corridor, started a retail market study for attracting more commerce to New Orleans East, and assisted with publicity for our restaurants including The Verdict, Thai Nola, Orleans Brothers, and EEDO’s.
Attracting Investment and Jobs: His focus on infrastructure improvements, zoning changes to stimulate residential development, and support for the Regional Business Park all aim to attract investment and create jobs in District E. Councilman Thomas also landed featured activities in New Orleans East for the first time in Super Bowl history.
Under his leadership, crime in New Orleans East hit a 10 year low. Councilmember Thomas prioritizes improving safety and quality of life for his constituents, addressing issues like:
Illegal Dumping and Littering: He spearheaded efforts to strengthen penalties for these offenses and establish a reward system for reporting offenders, aiming to "reduce dumping fees, reduce electronic waste in landfills."
Gun Safety: He pushed for legislation allowing custodial arrest for adults whose negligent firearm storage leads to harm by minors and initiated a study on zoning restrictions for firearm sales near schools.
Traffic Safety: He addressed traffic concerns with motions on issues like floodwater protection for drivers and the need for traffic signal repairs. He also established a maritime speed limit in Chef Menteur Pass.
Neighborhood Revitalization: His support for the expansion of programs like Mow to Own & Lot Next Door help residents acquire blighted properties, fostering neighborhood improvement. He also secured funding for neighborhood signs and pushed for the inclusion of the Lower 9th Ward in the Residential Diversity Overlay District, and opened the JenCare Senior Medical Facility on Chef Menteur
Councilmember Thomas emphasizes government accountability and responsiveness to community needs.
Oversight of City Agencies: He authored motions requiring reports from agencies like the Sewerage and Water Board and pushed for more transparency in NFIP pricing.
Council Oversight of Criminal Justice System: He co-authored an ordinance mandating regular appearances by key criminal justice officials before the council "to provide updates on ongoing public safety initiatives."
His work includes allocating grants to District E organizations, partnering with groups like InspireNOLA, and collaborating with entities like Goodwill Industries on re-entry programs.
Recognizing the importance of supporting young people, Councilmember Thomas prioritizes initiatives such as:
Youth Mentoring and Outreach: He secured funding for youth programs and partnered with organizations like the National Parent Leadership Institute, opened the United Way Prosperity Center,
Expanding Childcare Access: He consistently authored motions granting conditional use permits for childcare centers in his district.
Homework Assistance: He advocated for and secured funding for a Homework Assistance Program Stipend, sponsored the Delores Aaron After School Program
Councilmember Thomas frequently works with other councilmembers and city agencies to advance his legislative agenda.
His initiatives often address specific concerns raised by residents, showcasing a commitment to representing his district's interests.
He demonstrates concern for responsible spending, advocating for targeted use of ARPA funds and opposing what he considered unnecessary expenditures.
