Public Meetings - New Orleans, Louisiana

The Governmental Affairs Committee of the New Orleans City Council met on June 11, 2026, at 4:15 PM. Four members were present (Councilmembers Morrell, McCarran, Harris, Green, and Hughes; quorum established). The committee approved minutes from prior meetings, interviewed and forwarded seven board and commission appointees to the full council, advanced an ordinance updating towing and boot fees, and approved two grant agreements. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes of the Joint Meeting of Economic Development and Governmental Affairs on April 29, 2026, and the Governmental Affairs Committee meeting on May 14, 2026, were approved unanimously (4-0). Board and Commission Appointments - Audubon Commission: Laverne Tunes and Alvin L. Barrington were interviewed and forwarded to the full council. Both cited experience in nonprofit management, conservation, and strategic planning. A waiver for Kenneth Barton Ferris was also approved and forwarded. - New Orleans Redevelopment Authority (NORA): Tan Chanel Washington was interviewed and forwarded. She highlighted her 23 years in real estate, homeownership at age 19, and advocacy for housing and community development. Councilmember Green praised her commitment to New Orleans. - Regional Planning Commission: Nissan Patel, a District A constituent, was interviewed and forwarded. He emphasized infrastructure, economic development, and environmental protection. - Ethics Review Board: Bishop Tyrone Jefferson was interviewed and forwarded. He stated his goal to strengthen public trust through transparency and integrity. Councilmember Green thanked him for his community service. - New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORD): Catherine Bodewin, Orleans Parish School Board member, was interviewed and forwarded. She aims to improve coordination between schools and parks. - Deferral: The Board of Zoning Adjustments appointee was deferred. Discussion Items - Ordinance 35447 (Towing and Boot Fees): Introduced by Councilmember Morrell, co-authored by Councilmember Hughes. The ordinance updates boot fees to cover city costs. Currently, the city loses approximately $50 per boot; the flat fee of $121 is below the actual cost of $170.80. The new fee will be 75% of the applicable towing class minimum tow cost for regular-size vehicles, resulting in a boot fee of $172. The ordinance was approved unanimously (4-0) and forwarded to the full council. - Contracts per Rule 57: - Agreement with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for federal funds for lead hazard abatement. Approved (4-0). - Agreement with the Louisiana Department of Health for state funds for HIV-related services. Approved (4-0). Key Outcomes - All seven board and commission appointees were forwarded to the full council for final approval. - Ordinance 35447 (towing and boot fees) was advanced to the full council. - Two grant agreements (lead hazard abatement and HIV services) were approved. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 4:45 PM.

The New Orleans City Council Transportation and Air and Airport Committee met on June 10, 2026, at 4:00 PM UTC to discuss autonomous vehicle regulation, updates from the Regional Transit Authority (RTA), and a temporary gas surcharge for taxicabs. The meeting included presentations, public testimony, and unanimous votes on two items. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the April 2, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Shazad Ahmad (taxi industry representative) spoke in support of the proposed $1 gas surcharge but suggested a mechanism to trigger the surcharge automatically when gasoline prices exceed a certain threshold (e.g., $3 per gallon). Councilmember Green acknowledged the suggestion and invited Mr. Ahmad to submit a written proposal for consideration. Discussion Items - Autonomous Vehicle Regulatory Landscape: Attorney Ashley Becknell, Executive Counsel for the New Orleans City Council, presented an overview of autonomous for-hire vehicles (Waymo, Tesla RoboTaxi, Amazon Zoox). She explained the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) levels of automation, noting that these vehicles operate at Level 4 (geofenced, no driver needed). Federal regulations require companies to certify safety, but state and local laws vary. Louisiana regulates commercial autonomous tractor-trailers but does not preempt city regulation of passenger AVs. New Orleans’ existing laws focus on drivers (e.g., driver permits, photo IDs) and do not contemplate driverless vehicles. Waymo is currently testing approximately 12 vehicles in New Orleans with human drivers, planning to transition to autonomous testing in late Q3 or early Q4 2026. Licensed for-hire autonomous service is not expected before 2027. The city plans to draft an ordinance in Q3 2026 addressing safety, liability, first-responder protocols, fee parity among for-hire vehicles, and infrastructure challenges. Councilmember Harris raised concerns about road closures, construction, and incidents involving pedestrians and animals (e.g., a cat struck in San Francisco). Becknell emphasized that safety is the priority and that the timeline is flexible. - Regional Transit Authority (RTA) Governance and Operations: Chair Ann Deplessis reported on recent governance changes following the resignation of former CEO Lona Edwards (due to a contract issue). Interim CEO Ronald Batiste is ensuring stability. The board has retained KL2 Connects for a national search for a permanent CEO and engaged the Louisiana Legislative Auditor for a forensic review of finances, operations, and internal controls. Attorney Eric Wright, RTA General Counsel, presented the litigation management report for 2025. He noted a shift from a previous strategy of delay to proactive case resolution. Key outcomes: 77 new suits were filed in 2025, and the RTA settled over 77 cases. In one example, a 30-year-old case was resolved for $84,000 (down from a $5 million reserve). Total demands in key cases were over $32 million, but the RTA resolved them for $8.9 million. Two trials resulted in a $158,697 verdict and a $1.4 million settlement on the first day of trial. Wright also addressed a recent fatality involving an RTA bus and a bicyclist, confirming full cooperation with NOPD and an internal investigation. - Temporary $1 Gas Surcharge for Taxicabs (Ordinance 35471): Councilmember Green explained that the ordinance authorizes a temporary $1 surcharge on completed taxicab trips through December 31, 2027, to help offset rising fuel costs. The surcharge is supported by the Department of Public Works and the Ground Transportation Bureau. At expiration, the council will reevaluate conditions. The committee unanimously voted to approve the ordinance and place it on the consent agenda for the full council. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: Unanimous approval of minutes from April 2, 2026. - Gas Surcharge Approved: Unanimous approval of Ordinance 35471 (temporary $1 surcharge on taxicab trips through Dec 31, 2027), to be placed on the consent agenda. - RTA Actions: The board will continue the forensic audit and national CEO search. The committee expressed confidence in interim leadership. - Autonomous Vehicle Policy: The city will draft an ordinance in Q3 2026, with implementation not expected before 2027. Public input and interdepartmental coordination are ongoing.

The City Planning Commission met on June 9, 2026, to consider seven zoning dockets and subdivision ratifications. The meeting included public testimony, staff recommendations, and votes on zoning changes, conditional uses, and short-term rental regulations. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the May 26, 2026 meeting. Discussion Items Zoning Docket 050-26 (1731 S18 Ave) - Request: Zoning change from HURD1 to HURM1 and conditional use for a principal bed and breakfast (to allow 7 guest rooms instead of current 5). Staff recommended denial due to conflict with master plan and spot zoning. Applicant Ron Lanzel argued the property had historically operated as a 7-room B&B. Opponent Wanda Nazarethan (1725 Esplanade, 34-year resident) testified the property never had more than 4-5 rooms and cited noise and overcrowding. Commission voted 9-0 to deny, per motion by Commissioner Steag. Zoning Docket 058-26 (7979 Earhart Blvd & 3127 Short St) - Request: Conditional use to convert an office building into an 8-bedroom hotel in HUMU district. Staff recommended approval with provisos. Applicant Deshaun Davenport and owner Glenn Charles spoke in support, citing job creation and neighborhood beautification. No opposition. Motion to approve passed 9-0. Zoning Docket 059-26 (1622 Toledano St) - Request: Conditional use for a commercial short-term rental (STR) in HUMU district. Staff recommended approval. Applicant Deshaun Davenport stated the owner (Gregory Johnson) would relinquish an existing non-commercial STR license and that the revenue would support his affordable housing portfolio (90% of his properties are affordable housing). Commissioner Pochet opposed approving commercial STRs while regulations are in flux. Initial motion to approve failed (3-6). A later motion to deny by Commissioner Pochet passed 9-0. However, concerns arose about a two-year bar on reapplying under new laws. A motion to reconsider failed (6-3 against), then a motion to defer to the July 14, 2026 meeting passed 6-3 to allow legal clarification. Zoning Docket 060-26 (139 Broadway St) [Note: staff report contained location error] - Request: Conditional use to reclassify a restaurant as a standard restaurant (allowing alcohol sales) in an HUB1 overlay district. Staff recommended approval with three provisos. Applicant Ron Lanzel supported. No opposition. Motion to approve passed 9-0. Zoning Docket 061-26 (139 Broadway St) [Note: This is the same address as 060 but different request? Actually 061 is at 139 Broadway - appears to be separate item] - Request: Conditional use for a neighborhood commercial establishment in HURD2 district. Staff recommended approval. Applicant Joe Morales (owner since 1923 family) testified the property has been commercial for over 100 years and proposed a dog grooming business. Five support cards filed. No opposition. Motion to approve passed 9-0. Zoning Docket 062-26 (2659 Treasury St) - Request: Zoning change from HURS to HURD2 to allow a two-family dwelling on a vacant lot. Staff recommended denial as spot zone. Applicant Beard argued it would provide affordable housing and that other doubles exist nearby. Opponents (Desiree Washington, Priscilla Lopez, Brian Lopez) cited safety, egress issues, and historic single-family character. Motion to approve against staff recommendation by Commissioner Steag failed (2-7), resulting in effective denial. Zoning Docket 063-26 (1428 Coronel Ave) - Request: Conditional use for an accessory bed and breakfast (4 guest rooms) in HUMU district, with one parking waiver. Staff recommended approval. Applicant Deshaun Davenport for owner Wells (who lives on site). No opposition. Motion to approve passed 8-1 (Commissioner Whitry dissenting). Subdivision Ratifications - Four items displayed on screen were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Individual docket testimony detailed above. Additionally, Priscilla Lopez (Angel House Association president) raised concerns about the lengthy NPP notification process and lack of timely notice to residents. Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous): ZD 058-26, ZD 060-26, ZD 061-26, subdivision ratifications. - Approved (8-1): ZD 063-26. - Denied (9-0): ZD 050-26. - Denied (2-7 against motion to approve): ZD 062-26 (effective denial). - Deferred: ZD 059-26 to July 14, 2026, for legal clarification on reapplication rules.

The Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) presented a wide-ranging update on infrastructure projects, hurricane preparedness, drainage system status, and regulatory issues. Council members expressed frustration with delays, lack of clear timelines, and trust deficits, while also acknowledging some progress. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters; the meeting concluded with public comment and adjournment. Public Comments & Testimony - Willie Thompson (resident): Reported ongoing flooding at 1062 Ozintele Road, stating the issue has persisted for years without resolution. Council Chairman Hughes promised follow-up by his constituent services director. - Rick Sinclair (corrosion industry professional, 44 years experience): Alerted SWBNO to potential microbiologically induced corrosion (MIC) in drainage pumps at the London Street station, which he believes is more extensive than previously recognized. He offered to share technical information and urged early mitigation to avoid costly replacements. - Sage Michael (community advocate): Thanked SWBNO for improvements along the Dwyer Canal and noted fewer reports of large odors. She called for better management communication and referenced a new pump subcommittee created by mayoral executive order, asking how it will interact with existing governance. She encouraged public attendance at SWBNO board meetings. Discussion Items - SWBNO Opening Presentation: - Customer portal: Over 100,000 registered accounts (75% of total); auto-pay and paperless sign-up progressing. - Water main repairs: Leaks on South Claiborne & Third Street repaired; repairs ongoing at 4800 Florida Avenue (6-inch water line and sewer line leak); Florida Avenue Bridge remains closed, with a tentative reopening within two weeks. Lake Vista area experiencing repeat water line issues; an 8-inch line replacement is planned. Lower Garden District: a broken 12-inch valve caused an expanded water outage; SWBNO will meet with Councilmember Harris and neighborhood leaders. - French Quarter Transmission Main: Final block (900 Decatur) under 24-hour construction. Overall project on track for September 2026. A sign incorrectly showing September 2027 was noted; Council Vice President Willard requested immediate replacement. Fence removal imminent on 600 block; 1100 block concrete poured; 1000 block expected end of June. Sidewalk restoration to follow. - Lead Service Line Program: Senate Bills 268 and 228 passed; SB 268 requires municipalities to create ordinances for property access. Chairman Hughes flagged that the city of New Orleans does not govern SWBNO, creating coordination challenges. SWBNO aims to replace both public and private sides at no cost to customers, with a large communication campaign later in 2026. - Water Treatment: Corrosion control pilot testing started June 8 in Algiers. State capital outlay application for $50 million over five years: $9.5 million approved for this year, $4.5 million for future years. First three projects: upgrade flow controllers at Clare Barn Filter Gallery, rehabilitate raw water intakes at Oak Street, improve lime storage at central plant. - Hurricane Preparedness: Internal tabletop exercise completed; participated in mayor's departmental meeting and press conference. New power complex with static frequency changers (retired Turbine 4 after 73 years). Pump status: 87 of 93 major drainage pumps available. Outages noted at Stations 6 (bearing work, return July), 13 (Algiers, two pumps out – one emergency use), 14 (New Orleans East, one of four out), 15 (discharge piping replacement), 18 (Village de L’Est, temporary pump installed), and Carrollton underpass (three permanent pumps inoperable, temporary pump installed, contract awarded for permanent repairs). - Drainage Network: Cleaned 6.5 miles of drain lines and 1,506 catch basins; removed 1.4 million pounds of debris per year. Only about 9% of catch basins cleaned annually; goal is 20%. - DPS 7 Discharge Bells: Corrosion documented since 2012; estimated $12–15 million to replace all three bells. Inspection planned this summer (weather permitting). Similar issue at Station 5 (Lower Ninth Ward). No funding identified for repairs. - Industrial Canal: 54-inch sewer force main damaged April 17; no ongoing sewer discharge, recreational advisory lifted. Repair is a multi-month process. SWBNO will aggressively pursue compensation from the responsible party. - Dwyer Canal: Repairs completed on Galahad, Bonita, and Lowerline streets. Dye testing continues on remaining streets; aim to finish six streets by end of June. Warning to avoid contact with canal water remains in effect. New website for updates coming in a few weeks. - Public outreach: Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) and flushable wipes awareness campaigns. Councilmember Hughes suggested working with retailers on labeling. - Councilmember King: Requested SWBNO investigate why a block on Wilkerson Street (no construction) remains closed, causing parking issues for restaurants and residents. - Councilmember McCarron: Pressed SWBNO on the urgency of discharge bell repairs, noting that a failure could have severe consequences. Acknowledged funding constraints but demanded a clear list of top priorities. SWBNO Executive Director committed to providing top 3–5 priorities. - Councilmember Green: Thanked SWBNO for community meetings and work crews. Raised two specific issues: (1) North Derbigny and Louisa Street – rushing water near a playground and new homes, requesting priority inspection; (2) 3600 Desire Parkway – a water main serving a medical facility, gym, and school was shut off due to a meter location issue; water restored but meter identification needed. He asked SWBNO to ensure accurate billing and better locate meters. - Council Vice President Willard: - Decatur project: Urged accelerating the timeline and correcting the sign to show September 2026. - Hurricane readiness: Questioned backup generator rentals (standard practice) and Carrollton underpass pump repairs (contract awarded, work this summer). - Drainage debris: Asked if litter quantity can be quantified. (Not currently.) - Discharge bells: Confirmed Station 5 also corroded; asked what happens if bells fail (pumps lose suction, detectable). No funding for repairs yet. - Industrial canal: Asked about Lake water quality testing (Pontchartrain Conservancy monitors; no issues). - Property damage claims: Acknowledged SWBNO risk department handles claims. - Chairman Hughes: - Senate Bill 268: Noted that municipalities are responsible for notification (certified mail), but New Orleans City does not control SWBNO. Urged immediate intergovernmental coordination to avoid failures. - Specific addresses: 4800 Coronado (nine-month issue, crew seen that morning, demanded report within 24 hours); 1400 Charbonnet (Rising Sun senior living facility – street torn up, raw sewage smell, need immediate answer). - Florida Avenue Bridge: Pushed for a finite deadline. SWBNO General Superintendent set goal of repair completion by end of the week. - Flooding in New Orleans East over the weekend: Chairman expressed terror for hurricane season. SWBNO explained high-intensity rain overwhelmed catch basins; will expand cleaning along Read and Crowder. - Furloughs: Suggested tiered furloughs for employees earning over $100,000. SWBNO Executive Director said nothing is off the table but noted staff vacancies and workload. - Lead service line: Asked why public notification is delayed until end of year; SWBNO said early work with schools is ongoing, community meetings already include information. - Accountability: Promised aggressive litigation if necessary for the industrial canal spill. Key Outcomes - Florida Avenue Bridge: SWBNO committed to completing repair by end of week (June 12–13, 2026), with restoration to follow. - 4800 Coronado: SWBNO to report back to Chairman Hughes within 24 hours. - 1400 Charbonnet (Rising Sun facility): SWBNO to provide a plan and timeline by the end of the meeting day. - Wilkerson Street closure: SWBNO to investigate and email Councilmember King. - North Derbigny and Louisa Street: SWBNO to prioritize inspection of reported rushing water. - 3600 Desire Parkway: SWBNO to locate the water meter and ensure correct billing. - Decatur Street sign: Council Vice President Willard requested immediate replacement of sign showing 2027 with correct 2026 date. - Discharge bells: SWBNO to conduct dewatering inspection this summer and provide top-priority funding needs. - Catch basin cleaning: SWBNO to expand cleaning in New Orleans East following weekend flooding and report on percentage of system cleaned. - Industrial canal spill: SWBNO to pursue compensation and keep council updated on litigation. - Dwyer Canal warning: SWBNO aims to complete street repairs by end of June, then reassess water contact advisory. - Lead service line program: SWBNO to begin larger public awareness campaign by end of 2026, with earlier engagement at community meetings. - Senate Bill 268 coordination: SWBNO to work with city legal departments to clarify notification responsibilities. - Next meeting: July meeting to include SWBNO, public works, and Lincoln Beach agenda items.

The only available source for this meeting is a raw transcription that appears garbled and contains no coherent content. The transcription reads: "Now,. Boris, Anders. Nish, Novis, I said,". No agenda or minutes were provided. Therefore, no substantive discussion items, public comments, or decisions can be reported.

The New Orleans City Council held its regular meeting on Thursday, June 4, 2026, in City Hall Council Chamber. Council President JP Morrell presided. The meeting was called to order at 10:11 AM and adjourned at 12:26 PM. All seven councilmembers were present for the final roll call: McCarron, Harris, King, Green, Hughes, Morrell, and Willard. The minutes from the May 7, May 11 (Special), and May 21, 2026 meetings were approved (5-0-2, with Green and Hughes absent initially). The council held an executive session from 12:08 PM to discuss four pending lawsuits. A total of 19 ordinances on first reading (Calendar Numbers 35,453 through 35,471) were introduced and laid over. Consent Calendar - Utilities Communications: Received reports from Entergy New Orleans (Energy Smart BESS Pilot Phase 3, Environmental Adjustments, Purchased Power Cost Recovery, Fuel Adjustments for June 2026) and Delta New Orleans Gas (Purchased Gas Adjustments). Also received petitions for intervention from Alliance for Affordable Energy and Together New Orleans (UD-26-01). - Classified Pay Plan (Fire): Received and referred to the Budget Committee. - Housing Trust Fund Report: Received the 2025 Annual Report Amendment. - HDLC Withdrawal: Received the withdrawal of the appeal for 3100 Calhoun Street. - Quarterly Reports: Received budget reports from the Orleans Public Defender Office (Jan-April 2026), Ethics Review Board (2025 Annual Report), Municipal and Traffic Court (April 2026), City Planning Commission (transmittal of zoning dockets, hearing date 6/18/26), and District Attorney’s Office (April 2026). - PILOT Application: Received OED recommendation for approval of the River District – Rivana Apartments Development Project (220 affordable/workforce units, 18,000 sq ft commercial space). - Hotel Conditional Use Ordinances: Adopted Cal. No. 35,428 (1039 Constance Street, ZD 27/26), Cal. No. 35,429 (521 Saint Joseph Street, ZD 28/26), and Cal. No. 35,430 (527 St. Joseph Street, ZD 29/26). - Stadium Zoning Change: Adopted Cal. No. 35,431 (4290 Almonaster Avenue/3059 Carver Rams Way, ZD 32/26) to change zoning to OS-R and permit a stadium. - Single-Family Residence Conditional Use: Adopted Cal. No. 35,446 (3803-3909 Van Buren Street, ZD 33/26). - Budget Transfer: Cal. No. 35,441 was removed from the consent agenda for separate discussion and amendment (see Discussion Items). Discussion Items - Budget Transfer (Cal. No. 35,441): Councilmember Harris moved to receive an amendment to correct the funding source. The amendment and the ordinance as amended were adopted (5-0-2, Green and Hughes absent). This transfers funds from the Department of Public Works to the Police Department for Ground Transportation. - HDLC Appeals: - 1413 Columbus Street (Jill Sussman): Appeal of HDLC denial for inappropriate windows. Council granted approval for windows labeled 7 and 8 with full screens (M-26-183 adopted 5-0-2). - 6309-6311 S. Claiborne Avenue (Ron Loesel): Appeal of HDLC deferral. Council granted the applicant’s request (M-26-231 adopted 5-0-2). - 6307-6309 S. Miro Street (Ron Loesel): Same matter. Council granted approval (M-26-230 adopted 5-0-2, with Hughes and Morrell present, Green and Willard absent). - 1537-1539 Euterpe Street (Ron Loesel): Appeal of de facto denial. Council overruled the HDLC decision and granted the request (M-26-233 adopted 6-0-1). - Zoning Dockets: - ZD 21/26 (926 Brooklyn Ave, commercial STR): Past deadline; died. - ZD 22/26 (Boathouse 84, 8112 Breakwater Drive, commercial STR): Approved subject to two CPC provisos (M-26-226 adopted 5-1, Morrell nay). - ZD 23/26 (Boathouse 85, 8114 Breakwater Drive, commercial STR): Approved subject to two CPC provisos (M-26-227 adopted 4-1, Morrell nay; King absent). - ZD 31/26 (424-428 Third Street, commercial STR): CPC recommended denial. Council denied the request (M-26-234 adopted 5-0-2). - ZD 39/26 (636-650 North Broad Street, amusement facility expansion): Approved subject to CPC recommendations with modifications (M-26-232 adopted 6-0-1). - ZD 43/26 (2923 Milan Street, zoning change to C-2): CPC recommended denial. Council denied (M-26-235 adopted 6-0-1). - ZD 44/26 (2819-2821 Jackson Avenue, zoning change to HU-MU): CPC recommended approval. Council approved (M-26-236 adopted 6-0-1). - ZD 45/26 (4235-4237 Touro Street/2110-2116 Mandolin Street, zoning change to OS-N): CPC recommended approval. Council approved (M-26-228 adopted 6-0-1). - Cooperative Endeavor Agreements: - Ubuntu Village NOLA (Cal. No. 35,434): Authorizing Amendment No. 1 to extend the INSTEAD Program for one year. Adopted unanimously (7-0). - UMC Data Sharing (Cal. No. 35,452): Authorizing Amendment No. 1 to extend the agreement for five years. Adopted (5-1, Hughes nay; Harris absent). - Airport Lease Amendment (Cal. No. 35,433): Authorizing amendment with New Orleans Fuel Facilities, LLC. Adopted (6-0-1, Harris absent). - Taxable Limited Tax Bonds (R-26-240): Resolution authorizing issuance and sale, adopted unanimously (7-0). - Community Blood Donation Recognition (R-26-238): Resolution recognizing efforts during the Semiquincentennial, adopted unanimously (7-0). - Granicus Contract Amendment (M-26-237): Adding the Council President as signatory to Amendment No. 4, adopted unanimously (7-0). - Official Journal Selection (M-26-225): Selecting The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate for June 1, 2026 to May 31, 2027, adopted unanimously (7-0). - Fiscal Officer Job Description (M-26-239): Amending to include legal counsel duties for Ashley M. Spears, adopted unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - Approvals: 15+ legislative items adopted, including three hotel conditional uses, a stadium zoning change, two boathouse commercial STRs, a single-family residence conditional use, four HDLC appeals, several zoning changes, a budget transfer, cooperative endeavor agreements, a bond resolution, and operational motions. - Denials: Zoning Docket 31/26 (commercial STR) and ZD 43/26 (zoning change to C-2) were denied per CPC recommendations. ZD 21/26 died past deadline. - Deferrals: Numerous items were continued to future meetings (July 9, June 18, etc.) including: two Restoration Tax Abatement applications (4417 Dryades St, 1401 Delachaise St), Convention Center Hotel Overlay District (ZD 24/26), Data Center Interim Zoning District (ZD 37/26), commercial STR at Chef Menteur Highway (ZD 38/26), Algiers zoning change (ZD 41/26), short-term rental regulation ordinances (Cal. No. 34,385 and related motions), Sanitation fee ordinance (Cal. No. 35,384), NOPD Drone Program (Cal. Nos. 35,450 & 35,451), and numerous Classified Pay Plan amendments (M-25-182 through M-26-198). - Executive Session: Held to discuss four pending litigations: - Bret Bodin et al. v. City of New Orleans (Airbnb-related, EDLA Case 25-cv-00329) - Stanton Square, LLC v. City of New Orleans and Freddie King (EDLA Case 23-5733) - Chelsey Richard Napoleon v. City of New Orleans and JP Morrell (19th JDC Case C-7782244) - John Johnson et al. v. City of New Orleans and Orleans Parish School Board (EDLA Case 2:26-cv-01025) - Ordinances on First Reading: 19 ordinances (Cal. Nos. 35,453-35,471) introduced and laid over as required by law.

The New Orleans City Council held its regular meeting on Thursday, May 21, 2026, beginning at 10:05 AM and adjourning at 12:22 PM in the City Hall Council Chamber. Council President JP Morrell presided. Six members were present (McCarron arrived later); Councilmember King was absent. The meeting addressed a consent agenda, multiple zoning dockets, budget amendments, appointments, and two special presentations. Consent Calendar - Communications and Reports Received: Entergy related filings (post-testimony briefs, MISO integration report, resilience program report), April 2026 encampment cleanup report, EMS classified pay plan amendment (referred to Budget Committee), HDLC appeal for 1537–1539 Euterpe Street (hearing set for June 4, 2026), proposed agreements with Wexford Health Sources (referred to Budget Committee) and Granicus, LLC (referred to Governmental Affairs Committee), Orleans Parish Communication District and Office of Independent Police Monitor reports, HDLC report on Euterpe Street, Sewerage & Water Board legislative storm report for May 8–9, 2026, and City Planning Commission transmittal of zoning dockets (hearing set for June 4, 2026). - Motions Adopted Unanimously (6–0): - M-26-200: Confirming Susannah Kirby as Director of Safety and Permits. - M-26-201: Adding Council President as signatory to Hammerman & Gainer contract amendment. - M-26-202: Adding Council President as signatory to Environmental Systems Research Institute contract amendment. - M-26-204: Appointment of Ayame Dinkler to Industrial Development Board. - M-26-205: Reappointment of Ryan King to Downtown Development District. - M-26-206: Reappointment of Kenneth Rubenstein to Downtown Development District. - M-26-207: Appointment of Michael DiSimone to Downtown Development District. - M-26-208: Reappointment of Margaret Washington to Criminal Justice Council. - M-26-209: Appointment of Pike Howard to Criminal Justice Council. - M-26-210: Appointment of Renard Thomas to Criminal Justice Council. - M-26-211: Appointment of Austin Lavin to New Orleans Public Library. - M-26-212: Appointment of Joseph Wilson to Audubon Commission. - M-26-213: Appointment of Adrian Bruneau to Regional Planning Commission. - M-26-214: Appointment of Dernell Johnson to New Orleans Public Library. - M-26-215: Appointment of Richard Freeman to Audubon Commission. - M-26-216: Appointment of Amanda Berger to Audubon Commission. - M-26-217: Reappointment of Thelma French to Criminal Justice Council. - M-26-223: Appointment of Tracie Haydel Griffin to Audubon Commission. The consent agenda was adopted by a vote of 6–0. Public Comments & Testimony No public comments or testimony were recorded during the meeting. The raw transcript provided no discernible speech. Discussion Items Zoning Docket 14/26 (2400 Napoleon Avenue, LLC) – Live Performance Venue: The applicant requested a planned development to permit a live performance venue at 2400 Napoleon Avenue. The City Planning Commission recommended an effective denial due to lack of legal majority. The Council held a hearing and, by a 6–0 vote, suspended rules to allow 12 additional minutes of public comment. Motion M-26-196 to approve and modify the request was adopted 5–1 (Councilmember Morrell voting nay; King absent). Zoning Docket 26/26 (420 Julia Property Holder, LLC) – Social Club: A conditional use for a social club at 420 Julia Street in the CBD-6 district was approved. The City Planning Commission had recommended approval subject to two provisos. The Council adopted Motion M-26-222 with additional provisos by a vote of 5–0 (Morrell and King absent). Motion M-26-199 – Wexford Health Sources Contract Amendment: Adding the Council President as signatory to Amendment No. 1 of the contract with Wexford Health Sources, Inc. was adopted 6–0 after suspending Rule 57. Motion M-25-239 (Lying Over) – Police Classified Pay Plan: Amendments to the Police Classified Pay Plan, as adopted by the Civil Service Commission on March 14, 2025, were approved 6–0 after suspending rules to receive and add. Zoning Docket 24/26 – Convention Center Hotel Overlay District: A text amendment to create a new overlay district for a hotel near the Convention Center was deferred to the June 4, 2026 meeting. Zoning Docket 31/26 – Commercial Short-Term Rental (424–428 Third Street): Deferred to June 4, 2026. Zoning Docket 38/26 – Commercial Short-Term Rental (25800 Chef Menteur Highway): Referred to June 4, 2026. Zoning Docket 39/26 – Indoor Amusement Facility Expansion (636–650 North Broad Street): Deferred to June 4, 2026. Zoning Docket 40/26 – Commercial Short-Term Rental (2613–2615 Marais Street): Withdrawn at the applicant’s request. Zoning Docket 41/26 – Zoning Change in Algiers: Deferred to June 4, 2026. Short-Term Rental Ordinances (Cal. 34,385, M-23-426, M-23-427): All deferred to June 4, 2026. Budget and Finance Items: - Cal. 35,432 (Caesars Lease Rent Strip Sale Proceeds Fund) adopted 6–0. - Cal. 35,434 (Ubuntu Village NOLA cooperative endeavor agreement) deferred to June 4, 2026. - Cal. 35,435–35,440 (Health Department grant appropriations, including Robert Wood Johnson grant and Office of Violence Prevention funds) all adopted with votes ranging from 5–0 to 6–0. - Cal. 35,441 (Fund transfer from Public Works to Police Department) deferred to June 4, 2026. - Cal. 35,442 (NORDC budget correction) adopted 6–0. - Cal. 35,443–35,444 (French Quarter Economic Development District budget) adopted 6–0. - Cal. 35,445 (Capital Budget amendment) adopted 6–0. Appointments and Resolutions: - M-26-197 (Arthur Morrell to Parking Facilities Corporation) adopted 5–0 (Morrell recused). - M-26-198 (EMS Pay Plan) deferred to June 4, 2026. - M-26-203 (Stephanie Burks to Downtown Development District) adopted 6–0. - R-26-218 (Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire) adopted 6–0. - M-26-219 (Appointing Councilmember King to Criminal Justice Council) adopted 6–0. - R-26-220 (Rulemaking for Integrated Resource Plan on Distributed Energy Resources) adopted 6–0. - R-26-221 (Grant application deadline of July 10, 2026) adopted 6–0. - M-26-224 (Calling election in Touro Bouligny Security District for November 3, 2026) adopted 6–0 after suspending rules to receive and add. Ordinances on First Reading: Calendar Numbers 35,447 through 35,452 were introduced and laid over as required by law. Special Orders National Water Safety Month Presentation: Dr. Jennifer Avegno (Deputy Mayor of Health & Human Services), William Johnson, Taylor Beaudoin, Anthony T. Davis (Code Enforcement), and Larry Barabino (NORDC CEO) presented updates on the Big Easy Swim Easy drowning prevention initiative. They discussed the need for water safety, mid-program outcomes, and recommendations for future efforts. Recognition of Gymnast Dwayne Johnson, Jr.: The Council acknowledged St. Augustine gymnast Dwayne Johnson, Jr., who won three consecutive LHSAA state championship gold medals (2024–2026) and signed a grant-in-aid to compete for the University of Illinois. The presentation was added by suspending rules, approved 5–0. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Adopted unanimously (6–0). - Live Performance Venue (ZD 14/26): Approved with modification (5–1; Morrell nay). - Social Club (ZD 26/26): Approved with additional provisos (5–0). - Wexford Contract Amendment: Adopted (6–0). - Police Pay Plan: Adopted (6–0). - All budget appropriations (Cal. 35,432; 35,435–35,440; 35,442–35,445): Adopted (majority votes). - Appointments and resolutions: All adopted (unanimous or near-unanimous). - Deferrals: Numerous items deferred to June 4, 2026, including the Convention Center Hotel Overlay District, several short-term rental cases, sanitation fee ordinance, and others. - Meeting adjourned at 12:22 PM.

The meeting occurred on May 20, 2026, but no agenda or minutes were available for review. The provided raw transcription is garbled and contains no coherent speech, discussion, or decisions. No substantive proceedings could be extracted. Issues with Record - The meeting transcript is unintelligible, consisting only of repeated nonsensical syllables. No speakers, agenda items, votes, or public comments are identifiable from the available materials. - Due to the lack of a usable record, no further summary of meeting actions or positions can be provided.

On May 20, 2026, the New Orleans Board of Zoning Adjustments (BZA) held a meeting to consider several variance requests, appeals, and deferrals. The board took action on multiple dockets, including approvals, denials, and deferrals, and addressed a significant appeal withdrawal related to a Trader Joe's development. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the April 2026 meeting were adopted by a 6-0 vote. - Items rendered moot: BZA Docket 03126 (7032 Boston Drive), BZA Docket 04526 (730-32 St. Peter's Street). - Item withdrawn: BZA Docket 04226 (14 Thrasher Street). Public Comments & Testimony - BZA Docket 023-26 (7032 Boston Drive): The applicant was absent due to a health condition; no public testimony was heard. The board discussed efforts to assist the applicant with permeable surface compliance. - BZA Docket 029-26 (1614 Poland Avenue): Applicant's representative Zach Smith requested a 120-day deferral, citing delays in acquiring adjacent property. - BZA Docket 032-26 (2022 Phillips Street): Applicant's representative Deshaun Davenport argued that redesign would create other zoning issues. Commissioners expressed that hardship was not demonstrated and that the developer's financial concerns did not meet the nine criteria. - BZA Docket 038-26 (3316 Dauphine Street): Applicant Pedro Molina explained that the mechanical unit was relocated to a service alley after a conflict with a window. Opponents Frederick Helms and Janet Benson cited safety and access concerns, noting only 5 inches of clearance. - BZA Docket 039-26 (1455 North Roman Street): Applicant Ezra Spira-Cohen argued the variance would preserve a 19-year-old lot configuration and noted 37% of properties in an adjacent square had similar deficiencies. - BZA Docket 040-26 (1041 Dumain Street): Applicant Mary Grace Burgess stated the subdivision would align lot lines with existing uses without changing structures or open space. - BZA Docket 041-26 (property at ): Applicant Johnston Burkhard requested approval to create two separate lots for a two-family dwelling. - BZA Docket 044-26 (932 Arabella Street): Applicant Zach Smith argued the project is a single-family home that would be sold with a homestead exemption. Multiple neighbors, including Gary Silbert, Eugenie Lyman, Margaret Silverstein, Robert Woodkowski, and a representative of Dana Atchinson, strongly opposed, citing parking burdens, density, and the developer's track record. - BZA Docket 046-26 (518 Walnut Street): Applicant Kristen Galat and property owner Charlotte Dawson explained they are combining two condos into one single-family home for their family, with no intent to develop. - BZA Docket 062-25 (2501-2537 Two Lane Avenue): Representatives of the neighborhood group withdrew their appeal. They criticized the lack of evidence presented for variances, the building's design, and urged the board to require actual evidence and use its design authority under the CZO. Discussion Items - BZA Docket 023-26 (7032 Boston Drive): The board discussed the applicant's willingness to break up more concrete to increase permeable space. Staff noted no assistance was currently available from Urban Conservancy or Groundwork NOLA. - BZA Docket 044-26 (932 Arabella Street): Commissioners debated the distinction between owner-occupied and developer-sold properties, the intent of the University Area Overlay District, and the potential for plan locking via a proviso. A motion to deny passed 4-2. - BZA Docket 110-25 (1037-39 Broadway Street): The board voted to reconsider on the minutes following a prior tie vote, effectively deferring the item to the next meeting. - BZA Docket 062-25 (Two Lane Avenue): The appeal was withdrawn as moot after the completion of construction and exhaustion of litigation. Key Outcomes - BZA Docket 023-26: Approved (6-0) with provisos, finding all nine criteria met. - BZA Docket 029-26: Deferred 120 days at applicant's request (6-0). - BZA Docket 032-26: Deferred 60 days to allow plan modifications (6-0). - BZA Docket 038-26: Deferred 30 days for staff to obtain clarity from the mechanical division (6-0). - BZA Docket 039-26: Deferred 60 days to resolve encroachment issues (6-0). - BZA Docket 040-26: Approved (6-0) with one proviso, finding all nine criteria met. - BZA Docket 041-26: Approved (6-0) with one proviso, finding all nine criteria met. - BZA Docket 044-26: Denied (4-2) for failure to meet the nine criteria. - BZA Docket 046-26: Approved (6-0) with one proviso, finding all nine criteria met. - BZA Docket 024-26: Deferred 30 days at staff request (6-0). - BZA Docket 043-26: Deferred 30 days at staff request (6-0). - BZA Docket 062-25: Appeal withdrawn as moot. - BZA Docket 110-25: Motion to reconsider on the minutes carried (6-0), deferring the item to the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 2:30 p.m. after a recess from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.