Omni Convention Center hotel

Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation CEO urged approval, saying newer hotels are needed to compete for Super Bowls and Final Fours.

Convention Center president said the overlay is a land-use question and the hotel is essential hospitality infrastructure.

Omni's real estate executive described redesigns that moved the hotel off the park and added 325 parking spaces.

Omni's land-use attorney asked for approval of the staff report with the sole change to a floor area ratio of 12.

Veteran developer urged approval, framing the project as a bold investment at a crossroads for the city.

The project architect said the podium-tower design reflects the Warehouse District and that lowering the height would make the building more massive.

New Orleans & Company sales executive said a 1,000-room headquarters hotel is essential to keep convention business.

Architect cited $213 million economic impact, 1,400 permanent jobs, and $15.2 million in annual net city revenue.

Engineering firm CEO said the project offers rare opportunity for small and disadvantaged businesses in a slow market.

Warehouse District association representative raised traffic lane counts, water pressure, and subsidy concerns.

Preservation Resource Center asked for a two-tier setback requirement for the tower and a deferral.

United Here Local 23 member and homeowner opposed the zoning change, citing rising living costs and lack of transparency on the project's price tag.

Unite Here Local 23 organizing director called the zoning change another subsidy and cited the city's budget deficit and credit downgrade.

Union warehouse worker urged a pause, citing poverty, senior hunger, and lost tax revenue from developer incentives.

Nearby resident questioned the net parking gain, requested an independent traffic study, and asked for denial or deferral.