The New Orleans Adopt-A-Catch Basin Program and Citizen Involvement

Abstract

The New Orleans Adopt-A-Catch Basin Program is the city’s first experiment that puts democratic concepts into practice concerning water management. The program as codified in city ordinance Section 66–287 requires adoptive citizens to be responsible for maintaining the catch basin and the area extending 18 inches off the curb line. This paper examines the adoption of co-production of services between the city and its citizens and analyzes how efficient the program has been in solving the city’s perennial challenges of street flooding. The researchers collated data through surveys issued to stakeholders. Data obtained was analyzed using specific themes to create narratives that answer the questions of the study. The study identified that the primary issues affecting the New Orleans Adopt-A-Catch Basin Program includes ineffective communication, recruitment, risks, liability, and distrust of government. A well-planned program would create better synergy between government and the people, while achieving the program’s objectives.