Katrina Coverage

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Gov. Kathleen Blanco charged her Louisiana Recovery Authority on Wednesday with what she termed "an awesome responsibility," namely "make real my vision of rebuilding a very strong and wonderful Louisiana."

Members of the authority gathered to be briefed on post-hurricane conditions and to tour the southeastern and southwestern sections of the state that hurricanes Katrina and Rita hit within a month's time. While there, they met with residents, business leaders and local officials.

"Recovery will be driven by local needs," she said, encouraging the authority to develop plans that include loans, grants and tax incentives for businesses to return to or relocate in storm-ravaged areas.

Blanco also said the state needs "sound jobs and quality homes" before evacuees can return in large numbers to the stricken areas.

"Imagine a better Louisiana," she said. "Help me to create it."

…Commissioner of Administration Jerry LeBlanc and Legislative Fiscal Officer Steve Theriot briefed the panel on the financial situation the state is facing, including the probability of at least a $1.5 billion hole in this year's budget…

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