The high crime rates in New Orleans, as per the council documents, is a multi-faceted issue stemming from historical oppression and systemic racism, lack of affordable housing, economic insecurity, and educational disparities. A significant portion of the city's black community lives at or below the poverty level, and there is a correlation between poverty and crime. The prevalence of short-term rentals, leading to fewer permanent residents and a lack of community cohesion, has also been linked to increased crime rates. The city council has been criticized for its reliance on surveillance technology as a crime prevention measure, which many residents believe to be reactive, costly, and ineffective. Residents have expressed concerns about the misuse of this technology, noting that it has led to the misidentification and wrongful arrest of Black individuals in other cities. Moreover, it is argued that the millions of dollars spent on surveillance could have been better utilized to address the root causes of crime, such as providing affordable housing, improving education, and alleviating poverty. The city's approach to crime prevention is viewed by some as being reactionary, focusing on the symptoms rather than the causes. There is a call for a more proactive, holistic approach that addresses the underlying issues, including education, economic opportunities, and community development. The high crime rates have broader societal implications, contributing to a sense of insecurity and negatively affecting the quality of life for New Orleans residents. There appears to be an underlying bias in the city council's approach to crime prevention, with an emphasis on surveillance and punitive measures rather than addressing socio-economic disparities. This bias is reflected in the council's decision to invest heavily in surveillance technology, despite widespread public opposition and evidence suggesting that it does not effectively deter crime. Definitions: Surveillance: The monitoring of behavior, activities, or information for the purpose of influencing, managing or directing. Short-term rentals: A property that is rented out for a short period, typically on platforms like Airbnb. It is often used for vacation rentals. Holistic approach: A form of healing that considers the whole person -- body, mind, spirit, and emotions -- in the quest for optimal health and wellness. Reactive: Responding to a situation rather than preventing or preparing for it. Typically seen as a negative approach as it only deals with problems after they have occurred. Punitive measures: Actions intended to punish an individual or group for wrongdoing.