"And if citizens of New Orleans who are really contemplating coming back heard that we're really intent upon making the place secure again - regardless of whether the levees held or not - then I think a rebuilding process would really take shape"

Billy Tauzin is suggesting that if people of New Orleans hear that the city is taking actions to make it secure, then they will be more likely to return and the restoring procedure will begin. He is stressing that the security of the city is more vital than the levees holding, as it will provide citizens the confidence to return and begin reconstructing. He is suggesting that the city should focus on making it safe, despite the levees, as this will be the secret to reconstructing the city. This is an important message, as it shows that the city is taking steps to guarantee the security of its citizens which it is devoted to restoring the city.