Sometimes, the internet gives you surprises. A Facebook exchange that starts as political commentary can evolve into something more meaningful, a genuine conversation about the state of the city we all call home.
Recently, I found myself in one of those moments. After I posted my thoughts on New Orleans politics questioning slogans, empty fear campaigns, and the notion that a single party or candidate can magically fix decades of problems. To my surprise,It really was Frank Janusa himself who responded. And he did so with respect, depth, and a willingness to engage.
He touched on several key points that deserve reflection.
1. Voter Engagement
Janusa reminded me that, four years ago, less than 29% of registered voters participated in the mayoral election. That statistic is staggering, but sadly not surprising. Real change requires more than candidates showing up; it requires a community that actively participates in shaping its own destiny. And he’s right. civic engagement is foundational. It is the difference between watching from the sidelines and actually influencing outcomes.
2. Hands-On Solutions
He shared a personal anecdote about fixing potholes on his street in West Lakeview every summer for over 15 years until the street was finally replaced. That speaks volumes. It’s one thing to talk about infrastructure; it’s another to pick up the shovel, measure the asphalt, and invest sweat equity into tangible solutions. That kind of accountability and visible action is rare in politics, and it should be recognized.
3. Government as Moral Compass
Janusa made a point about running city government like a business, but with a crucial difference. While businesses operate on profit motives, city government operates on prioritizing residents’ needs. Budgeting, forecasting, key performance indicators, and measurable accountability are tools, not goals in themselves. I appreciate this nuance: efficiency in governance does not mean sacrificing equity or quality of service. It’s about aligning resources with the moral imperative of improving the lives of everyone in the city.
4. Experience Matters
Janusa highlighted his decades-long experience as a CPA, handling tax matters, financial planning, budgets, and even oil and gas property administration. That depth of practical, hands-on experience can be a real asset in tackling citywide financial challenges — including complex issues like the Wisner Trust. Expertise doesn’t guarantee wisdom, but it does give a foundation for thoughtful, informed leadership.
My Response To Janusa
I acknowledge and respect these points. Truly, I do. But the work does not rest on one person alone. WE as a community must step up. Voter engagement, accountability, and visible participation are what will make any leadership effective. Our focus cannot remain on party lines or slogans; it must be on the collective good of the city.
I watched one of your videos on New Orleans’ financial challenges. I see the preparation and the willingness to engage with the city’s complex realities. You are ready to take on the responsibility. Now, the question is whether the community will rally, participate, and hold leadership accountable.. because New Orleans deserves nothing less than the full effort of everyone who calls it home.
Good luck, sir. But let this be a reminder to all of us: the city’s future is ours collectively to shape, not just a candidate’s to fix.
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