NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – The Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans has secured $86 million in federal funding to locate and replace lead pipes across the city. But New Orleans City Councilmember Oliver Thomas says he is concerned the money could be at risk before the agency can use it.
Thomas issued an open letter Monday to newly appointed SWBNO Executive Director Randy Hayman, requesting “an immediate and detailed update” on the agency’s Lead Service Line Replacement program.
The bidding process for the program began in November 2024 but has been delayed due to an unresolved protest of the agency’s procurement process and selection. Thomas said he worries the Trump administration could attempt to claw back the funding because of the delay…