| By DREW BROACH | Deputy metro editor |
GRIM TREND: Two months remain in 2022, and the number of murders in New Orleans has already surpassed last year's total — a figure that itself marked a 17-year high. New Orleans is averaging 23 murders per month this year, and the president of the Police Association of New Orleans predicts the trend will continue. FUHGEDDABOUDIT: Less than 48 hours after news broke that the beleaguered New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board might seek a rate increase for customers, the City Council on Friday issued a rare joint statement from all seven members, each outright opposing or strongly discouraging the idea. PAYBACK: After months of controversy over the costs of her overseas travel, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell has reimbursed City Hall $28,856.99 for upgrading her airline seats to first and business class, her chief administrative officer said Friday. Welcome to the weekend. Catch the latest news all day on NOLA.com. D.B. | 