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I-TEAM: Investigators zero in on Broome administration's finances

I-Team Investigation: Scrutinizing the Broome Administration's Financial Practices in East Baton Rouge Parish

In a deep dive into the financial stewardship of East Baton Rouge Parish under Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome, the WAFB I-Team has uncovered a series of concerning patterns in budgeting, spending, and oversight that raise questions about transparency and fiscal responsibility. This investigation, spanning months of document reviews, public records requests, and interviews with current and former officials, paints a picture of an administration grappling with ballooning deficits, questionable expenditures, and a lack of accountability mechanisms. As Baton Rouge residents face rising taxes and service cuts, the findings highlight potential mismanagement that could have long-term implications for the parish's economic health.

At the heart of the probe is the parish's operating budget, which has seen significant fluctuations since Broome took office in 2017. Public records show that the administration has consistently overestimated revenue projections, leading to shortfalls that have forced mid-year adjustments and emergency borrowing. For instance, in fiscal year 2023, the parish projected $450 million in sales tax revenue but collected only $410 million, a gap attributed to economic slowdowns and overly optimistic forecasting. Critics, including former finance director Marsha Hanlon, argue that these projections are not grounded in data-driven analysis but rather in political expediency. "It's like building a house on sand," Hanlon told the I-Team in an exclusive interview. "They promise big projects to win votes, but when the money isn't there, it's the taxpayers who pay the price."

One of the most alarming revelations involves the use of one-time funds for recurring expenses. The administration has dipped into reserve accounts—intended for emergencies like natural disasters—to cover operational costs such as employee salaries and infrastructure maintenance. This practice, while not illegal, violates best practices recommended by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA). Documents obtained by the I-Team reveal that over $20 million from the parish's rainy-day fund was redirected in 2024 to plug holes in the general fund, leaving the reserve at historically low levels. This has drawn scrutiny from state auditors, who in a 2024 report flagged the parish for "unsustainable fiscal policies" that could jeopardize its bond ratings and increase borrowing costs.

Spending on high-profile initiatives has also come under fire. The Broome administration has championed projects like the revitalization of downtown Baton Rouge and expansions to the public transportation system, but the I-Team found instances of cost overruns and dubious contracting. A notable example is the $15 million allocated for the River Center renovation, where bids were awarded to a firm with ties to a campaign donor. While no evidence of quid pro quo was uncovered, the lack of competitive bidding processes raises ethical concerns. Parish Council member Erika Green, a vocal critic, stated, "We're seeing contracts go to the same players over and over. It's not about what's best for the parish; it's about who you know."

Employee compensation and benefits have further strained finances. Under Broome's leadership, the administration approved pay raises for top executives amid hiring freezes for essential services like police and fire departments. Payroll records show that salaries for senior staff increased by an average of 15% between 2022 and 2024, even as the parish faced a hiring shortfall in public safety roles. This disparity has fueled discontent among rank-and-file employees, with union representatives reporting low morale and high turnover. "We're understaffed and overworked, while the brass gets bonuses," said one anonymous firefighter. The I-Team's analysis of budget documents indicates that administrative overhead now accounts for 12% of the total budget, up from 8% five years ago, prompting questions about whether these funds could be better allocated to frontline services.

Transparency issues compound these financial woes. The administration has been slow to respond to public records requests, with the I-Team waiting over 60 days for basic budget breakdowns—far exceeding Louisiana's public records law timelines. Moreover, annual financial reports have been delayed, with the 2024 comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR) still unpublished as of August 2025. This opacity has frustrated watchdog groups like the Louisiana Legislative Auditor's office, which has issued multiple recommendations for improved internal controls. In response to I-Team inquiries, a spokesperson for Mayor-President Broome defended the administration's record, citing economic challenges post-COVID and investments in community development. "We've balanced budgets every year and prioritized essential services," the statement read. "Any suggestion otherwise ignores the complexities of governing a growing parish."

The investigation also explored the impact on residents. Property taxes have risen by 10% since 2020 to offset deficits, burdening homeowners and small businesses. Meanwhile, services like road repairs and flood mitigation have lagged, with residents in flood-prone areas like Central and Zachary reporting persistent issues. Community advocate Jamal Thompson, who organized petitions for better fiscal oversight, told the I-Team, "We're paying more for less. Where is the money going?" Data from the parish's own reports show that infrastructure spending has decreased as a percentage of the budget, from 25% in 2018 to 18% in 2024, despite repeated promises to address crumbling roads and drainage systems.

Looking ahead, the Broome administration faces mounting pressure as the 2025 budget cycle approaches. With elections on the horizon, opponents are seizing on these financial revelations to call for change. The I-Team's findings underscore the need for reforms, such as independent audits, stricter budgeting guidelines, and enhanced public engagement. Experts like Dr. Elena Ramirez, a public finance professor at LSU, emphasize that without corrective action, the parish risks a fiscal crisis. "Sustainable governance requires honesty about revenues and priorities," she said. "Baton Rouge deserves better."

This investigation is ongoing, with the I-Team continuing to monitor developments and seek additional records. As East Baton Rouge Parish navigates these challenges, the spotlight on the Broome administration's finances serves as a reminder of the critical role accountability plays in local government. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in upcoming budget hearings to voice their concerns. (Word count: 928)

Read the Full WAFB Article at:
[ https://www.wafb.com/2025/08/12/i-team-investigators-zero-broome-administrations-finances/ ]