Tax Hikes, Furloughs Haunt New Orleans During Mardi Gras Season
The end of pandemic aid and overspending leave New Orleans with furloughs, proposed new taxes, and downgrades — and pressure for lasting fiscal reform
The Krewe of Zulu parade rolls down St. Charles Avenue during Mardi Gras day in New Orleans on March 4, 2025.
Photographer: Sandy Huffaker/AFP/Getty ImagesIn the runup to its big Mardi Gras celebration on Fat Tuesday, New Orleans is preparing for parades and crowds — and painful budget cuts.
Behind the brass bands and bead throws, the city is confronting one of the worst financial crises in its modern history after years of spending propped up by temporary federal pandemic aid. With revenue lagging and costs locked in, officials say the resulting budget hole will take years to close.