It has now been determined that Mayor LaToya Cantrell has been utilizing, at no cost, an apartment at the historic Pontalba on Jackson Square. She apparently will contend that there's no law against it and that prior mayors have enjoyed this perk.
Perhaps she should consider that in 1993, the then-mayor of New Orleans, Sidney J. Barthelemy, caused a public outcry by awarding his son a four-year tuition waiver to attend Tulane University. He too argued that it was not illegal and was customary among Louisiana politicians.
The citizens, however, recognized how contemptible and despicable the practice was. Surely, today's citizenry will also believe such behavior indicative of the actions of an opportunistic plunderer.
What a pity that the mayor cannot survive on her six-figure salary.
R.M. ELFER
retired, insurance
New Orleans