The idea of converting Neville High School into a charter school has resurfaced, bringing with it a mix of hope, skepticism, and historical baggage. Neville alumni and supporters are reportedly preparing to submit a charter application by the looming August…
Category: Roosevelt Wright
When 12,000 voters are listed as inactive, it shouldn’t be hidden
The recent publication of more than 12,000 inactive Ouachita Parish voters by the Secretary of State’s office has brought to light a concerning lack of transparency in Louisiana’s voter registration process. While the practice of maintaining accurate voter rolls is…
Ellis’ resistance to the “Southside Dream” may bomb future plans
One month into the new council term Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis is still resisting efforts to work with his new Southside majority and what was once simple is now a challenge that will make governing extremely difficult. A case in…
Ordinance to reward city hall fat cats should be repealed
In May, the Monroe City Council passed Ordinance #12,219, which allows the city to use profits from video bingo fees to create a fund for supplementing the salaries of certain unnamed city employees. We think the ordinance should be repealed.…
As city praises AT&T deal, it should “Remember Centurylink”
The city now has a deal that promises internet access to the entire city. It’s putting up $2 million to make it happen. However, we should remember that this promise has been made before so we should “Remember CenturyLink.” Tuesday…
Sweeping changes needed to save failing Monroe City Schools
The recent reports from the state board of education paint a grim picture of the Monroe City School system’s failure to adequately educate minority students. With the majority of minority students performing below basic expectations in math, science, English, and…
No more rubber stamps, “A new way and a new day” for city council
Tuesday night, the Monroe City Council took significant and positive action to take control of the council’s agenda and force the mayor to include minority concerns in his plans for the future. By asserting their authority to shape the city’s…