I’m sure you’ve all heard something about the Bureau of Governmental Research Research (BGR) Report regarding the evaluation concerning the spending of funds meant for economic development between 1998 and 2002. If nothing else, it puts the dilema of investing money in the Saints into context.

The conclusion? “…expenditures tend to be considered on an ad hoc basis, without evaluation of their relative value or the “opportunity cost” of a particular investment. As a result, public investment, particularly in private ventures, runs the risk of being based on political, rather than economic, considerations.” (See Bayoubuzz.com)

I think we’ve all wondered how economic decisions are made in New Orleans and we’ve all joked about how there’s no solid reasoning behind it. Now we have proof. Sad, sad proof.

Now the issue is: who is going to be accountable?

While there are changes in the Department of Economic Development, they’re certainly not for the better. The head of the entertainment division and the IT division are stepping down. Both department heads are moving towards private sector opportunities.

After all this, are we still arguing over giving money to the Saints?
Speaking of the mistake of making economic decisions based off of politics… Let’s use the opportunity to reprioritize.

A means to economic development based off of sound economic reasoning is not a lot to ask for.

Related posts:

1. WHO DAT SAY DEY GONNA BEAT DEM SAINTS?
2. Saints + Second Harvest food drive
3. Christmas magic fails Saints’ fan
4. Our Priorities Are Backwards
5. Saints Roundup