New Orleans is very gracious to the people in other parishes and cities who have assisted it in time of need. As a result, Mayor Nagin and the New Orleans Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Asssociation and the Greater New Orleans Hotel and Lodging Association are reaching out to those who might need shelter.
Obviously, it would be a win-win-win for New Orleans, for Mayor Nagin but also for many who have special needs due to Ike.
Here is Mayor Nagin's Statement
In the face of Hurricane Ike, New Orleans hotels have agreed to provide their best available rates upon request to those evacuating from Texas. This was announced during a press conference with the leadership of the New Orleans Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Association and the Greater New Orleans Hotel and Lodging Association.
During the press conference, I jokingly suggested that hotel seekers request the Nagin Special. As Steve Perry from the CVB has noted, this was my attempt to lighten the mood. Local hotels remain ready to provide excellent late summer deals to these guests.
The leadership and residents in the Houston area have been very supportive of New Orleans and our citizens, and I believe it is appropriate that we respond in kind. I reached out to the Mayor of Houston last week and we are prepared to send staff from the EMS and other first responders to Texas if needed. I also am monitoring the situation to determine if there are other ways that we can assist.
