Landrieu's (Sister-In-Law) Economic Development Advisor Choice Raises Questions
by Stephen Sabludowsky (excerpt)

BAYOU BUZZ

“A great promise not yet fulfilled to have a government in which those holding positions of power and influence are committed to serving the people; not themselves. And, which reestablishes the sacred covenant between citizens and public servants that embodies the principle of an honest day's work in exchange for an honest day's pay.” These were the lofty words which Mitch Landrieu spoke as he addressed the inauguration crowd early on Monday.

Today, Landrieu is faced with another set words so early in his administration which raises questions. Words such as he has picked good team with good experience, diversity, talent and potential. His main choice Andy Kopplin served two Louisiana Governors and has always been considered by many people who have worked with him—he is very capable, politically savvy and diligent.

However, words such as these from the Times Picayune--“Among the 30 department directors and advisers announced late Tuesday by Mayor Mitch Landrieu's administration is Aimee Quirk, who will serve as the mayor's adviser for economic development. Aimee Quirk …. A Landrieu spokesman confirmed that Quirk, a lawyer who focuses on commercial litigation, is the sister of Landrieu's wife, Cheryl.”

After reading these words from the TP, I muttered to myself--OK? Well, she has been a commercial litigation attorney for the Jones Walker law firm. That means she certainly is intelligent. Ok. Then, I have been around the economic development circles for quite a long time and quite frankly I have never seen her or met her. I did a Google search and found she is a member of the Federal Bar but other than that, I did not find too much else. Perhaps that is a good thing—no obvious skeletons. On the other hand, I don't see a an obvious trail of economic development honors such as certification by the industry. So, if she is an attorney with a prestigious law firm, not widely mentioned on Google, not within the circle of economic development people that I have met—where’s the beef?

Well, she’s the mayor’s sister-in-law