New Orleans Plans Tour Supporting Tax Exemption Amendment

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell plans a statewide tour to support a Louisiana constitutional amendment aimed at helping the city address a shortage of affordable housing.

The amendment on the Oct.12 ballot would allow the city to exempt properties with up to 15 residential units from property taxes. The idea is to provide incentives for the creation of affordable housing units.

Cantrell's tour is set for Wednesday through Friday. A Tuesday news release says Cantrell will meet with faith-based leaders, affordable housing advocates, editorial boards and the mayors of Baton Rouge, Bossier City, Shreveport, Alexandria, and Lake Charles.

Also, Cantrell and Gov. John Bel Edwards are to address the Natchitoches Parish Voters League Thursday.

The amendment would affect only New Orleans, but needs approval from voters statewide.