Big Easy May Face Showdown Over Internet

"And Now They Want to Take Free Internet Away from the Battered Poor of New Orleans..."--Buzzflash

By ALAN SAYRE, AP Business Writer Mon Apr 3, 5:20 PM ET

NEW ORLEANS - A showdown may be looming over a free wireless Internet network that New Orleans set up to boost recovery after Hurricane Katrina pummeled the city.

Calling the network vital to the city's economic comeback, New Orleans technology chief Greg Meffert is vowing to keep the system running as is, even if it means breaking a state law that permits its full operation only during emergencies.

He says he's ready to go to court, if necessary.