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New Orleans (WVUE) — New Orleans makes a lot of money at night. In fact, according to the city, more than one-fifth of economic activity occurs after the typical workday is over.
That’s why the Night Economic Office was set up.
“Culture is the economy of the city of New Orleans, but more importantly the state of Louisiana,” Mayor LaToya Cantrell said at a news conference Monday.
Cantrell has named Howie Kaplan as the new city office director. Kaplan is the longtime owner of The Howlin’ Wolf Concert Hall, manages the Rebirth Brass Band, and has been a vocal advocate for musicians and venues, especially during the pandemic.
“It’s, ‘How do we become the world-class city as we know it?'” Kaplan said. “This is how we invest in the future, in the entire cultural economy and in our cultural bearers.”
Kaplan’s background makes some optimistic, who might otherwise be skeptical about the involvement of new city agencies in the nightlife issue.
“Knowing that Howie was the one gave me a lot of relief and hope,” said Taylor Daly, owner of the Royal French Hotel. “As far as the nighttime economy is concerned, it’s good to have some clarifying power.”
Daly’s venue has been facing issues with live music licensing after it became the subject of noise complaints from neighbors. He hopes the new office can help.
He also hopes to offer some help to the city’s street performers in the event of disputes with venues.
“New Orleans is a really community-driven city, and maybe we’ve lost a little bit over the years,” Daly said. “That’s where you see these exaggerated divisions, whether it’s street musicians, venues, artists or residents.”
The mayor’s office said the new department’s role is not law enforcement.
“We’re looking for new ways to solve this problem,” Kaplan said. “I think it’s about mediation. It’s about getting things resolved before 3am.”
It’s an advocacy role that provides a direct way to understand and communicate the needs of businesses and performers to cities to influence law enforcement, Kaplan said.
“I don’t think there will be an overarching theme,” Kaplan said. “I think it’s more about the quality of life and what we can do to improve it.”
Other major cities across the country have taken a similar stance. Philadelphia and Atlanta announced their plans this year. In New Orleans, the office has been in the works for years. The mayor and city council approved a $500,000 budget last year.
Since Kaplan owns the venue, the state ethics board is reviewing his appointment. Kaplan said he would recuse himself when necessary.
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