Public Meetings - New Orleans, Louisiana

The City Planning Commission met on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, to consider several zoning and subdivision items. The meeting included public hearings on waiver requests, conditional uses, and deferrals. Key decisions included approval of a zoning waiver against staff recommendation, approval of a conditional use, deferral of a live performance venue request, and extensions for a subdivision. Consent Calendar - Adoption of Minutes: The Commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes from January 13 and January 27, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Zoning Docket 003-26: Jared Zeller (applicant, 3205 Orleans Avenue) spoke in support of the waiver, stating that all immediate neighbors support the project. He noted the conditional use approach is more restrictive than a zoning change and asked for a compromise. Roger Bailey (415 Allen Two Saint Boulevard) also expressed support, noting the proposal meets the spirit of the law except for the 3,000 square foot limit, and that the height and bulk do not impact neighbors. - No other public comments were made. Discussion Items - Zoning Docket 003-26 (Waiver for Neighborhood Commercial Expansion): The request sought a waiver to permit expansion of an existing neighborhood commercial establishment (bakery/office) in an HURD2 district beyond the 3,000 square foot limit and to allow a second floor. Staff recommended denial, citing failure to meet variance standards. At a February 2 meeting, staff had offered alternatives: a zoning change (which they would support) or proceeding with the current waiver. The applicant argued the waiver is more restrictive and preferable. The Commission voted to grant the waiver, overruling staff recommendation, citing existing provisos and the preference over rezoning. The waiver removes the 3,000 square foot limit and the first-floor-only restriction, while retaining existing conditional use provisions. - Zoning Docket 013-26 (Conditional Use for Neighborhood Commercial): A conditional use to allow a neighborhood commercial establishment in an existing mixed-use structure at the corner of Aerato and South Gaioso Streets, previously a candy store closed after a fire. Staff recommended approval with three provisos. No opposition was noted. The Commission approved the conditional use with the three provisos. - Zoning Docket 014-26 (Modification for Live Performance Venue): The applicant requested a deferral to February 24, 2026, to ensure proper public signage. Staff concurred. The Commission voted to defer. - Subdivision Docket 114 (Extension): An extension of one year was requested to complete paperwork for a church site expansion, originally approved in January 2025. The applicant had gone through design review and a waiver process, causing the deadline to slip. Staff supported the extension. The Commission approved. - Subdivision Ratifications: Staff deemed several subdivisions eligible for administrative approval. The Commission ratified that determination. Key Outcomes - Zoning Docket 003-26: Motion to grant the waiver (against staff recommendation) passed. The waiver allows the existing two-story, 3,670 square foot structure to continue commercial use, subject to existing conditional use provisos. - Zoning Docket 013-26: Motion to approve conditional use with three provisos passed (no vote tally recorded, presumed unanimous). - Zoning Docket 014-26: Motion to defer to February 24, 2026, passed. - Subdivision Docket 114: Motion to extend deadline by one year passed. - Subdivision Ratifications: Motion to approve administrative eligibility passed. - Meeting adjourned with a motion.

The City Council Utility Committee met at 4:15 PM on February 10, 2026, to receive updates from Delta Utilities, Entergy New Orleans, and the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO). The meeting focused on winter gas bill spikes, reliability of electric service during Winter Storm Fern, and ongoing sewer discharge issues in the Dwyer Canal. Council members expressed strong concerns about customer confusion, lack of proactive communication, delayed responses, and the need for greater urgency, transparency, and accountability from all three entities. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the Joint Utility Committee meetings of September 16, 2024 and July 11, 2024 were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Jesse George (Alliance for Affordable Energy): Noted that rising gas prices also affect Entergy electric customers because Entergy generates nearly three-quarters of its electricity from natural gas. Urged the council to help residents reduce reliance on fossil fuels through programs like distributed energy resources and battery storage. - Ladwina Hurst (senior citizen on fixed income): Stated her gas bill tripled over the past few months. She had levelized billing with Entergy but said Delta representatives did not proactively inform her about enrolling in levelized billing when she first called. - Larry Morgan: Expressed anger over high gas bills, stating residents are suffering and that the council must hold utilities accountable. He warned that he would oppose the re‑election of any council member who does not address the issue. - Galitha (resident): Described her gas bill increasing from $30 to $192 and said Delta representatives gave inconsistent explanations. She also noted that her paperless bill did not show a breakdown of charges and called for clearer explanations. - Robin Miller: Reported that after her mother passed away, Entergy did not properly handle billing and that she received bills for periods when she was out of town and not using gas. She also raised concerns about water quality affecting her skin. - Reverend William Calhoun Jr.: Questioned the structure of the gas bill, specifically the difference between the fixed gas services charge and the variable purchase gas adjustment. He asked what profit margin the equity company makes. - Elizabeth Soychak: Urged the council to support solar and wind energy as alternatives to gas, noting that rising gas prices were predictable and that heat pumps in Maine have reduced dependence on gas. - Belda Batiste: Called Delta Utilities “crooks and frauds” and urged the council to create a committee to oversee the utility. She demanded that the council fix the problem for seniors and disabled residents. - Jesse Perkins (former SWBNO employee of 35 years): Praised SWBNO field workers for their skill in repairing the major water main break on Panola Street. However, he criticized smart meters for falsely indicating leaks, causing residents to spend money on unnecessary plumbing repairs. - Edward Parker: Reported that SWBNO cut off water without notifying residents, and that a fire hydrant at Wales and Lamb Road has been leaking repeatedly. - Christopher Merritt: Asked for transparency regarding the Dwyer Canal testing results and timeline, and requested a public outline of site managers and points of contact for the work. - Rhonda Oliver (former SWBNO employee): Alleged that supervisors enable a culture of incompetence and that leadership ignores operational failures. She described a case where an 82-year-old woman was forced to pay the water bill for both sides of a double, despite only leasing one unit. Discussion Items - Delta Utilities – Winter Gas Bills: CEO Tim Pochet explained that winter gas usage per customer averages 60 CCF/month compared to 27 CCF on an annual basis. He noted that 90% of January’s gas volume was hedged or fixed before the month, but the remaining 12% subject to daily volatility saw significant cost increases. Sarah Podius stated that the gas rate structure has not changed since Entergy ownership. Council members criticized Delta for not automatically enrolling customers who had levelized billing with Entergy; Councilmember Green said the company should have let customers opt out rather than requiring them to opt in. Councilmembers also pressed for clearer explanations of the bill components (customer charge, gas services, purchase gas adjustment, formula rate plan rider) and urged proactive communication about levelized billing and assistance programs such as DU CARES (up to $250 per 12-month period). Councilmember McCarran requested a permanent physical presence in New Orleans East and the Lower Ninth Ward. - Entergy New Orleans – Winter Storm Fern Performance: Dan Calamari reported that during the storm, outages were limited and restoration times were under 90 minutes. On January 31, high winds caused two events affecting the Lakefront and Gentilly areas; a third event on February 1 involved an O-ring failure in a breaker installed in January 2025. Councilmember Harris questioned the failure of a one-year-old O-ring and demanded inspections of 14 similar breakers. Councilmember McCarran challenged the reported restoration time of “within an hour,” saying power was out for four to six hours in some cases. Councilmember Willard asked for year-over-year citywide outage data. Council President Morel stressed the need for a complete inventory of end-of-life equipment to prevent preventable outages. - Sewerage and Water Board – January 31 Water Main Break: Caitlin Timmerick reported that a 48-inch cast iron water main from 1908 broke on Panola Street, requiring a precautionary boil water advisory that lasted until Monday afternoon. Crews isolated the break by 6 PM on the day of the break. A hydrant will be installed before permanent paving, which is expected by February 27. Councilmember McCarran praised the quick response and communication. - Lead Service Line Replacement Program: Executive Director Randy Heyman stated that the RFP for program management was posted on February 4, with bids due March 5 and selection anticipated by May 2026. He acknowledged that four of seven steps to close on a $66 million loan are complete. Councilmembers expressed concern that the rebid process could delay work and risk losing federal funds. Council President Morel criticized the RFP for not considering companies’ past performance on lead line replacement, warning that awarding contracts based on price alone could lead to cost overruns and delays. - Smart Meter Leaks: SWBNO reported that about 3% of smart meter installations have resulted in leak reports, with 40% of those being actual leaks. Inlet leaks (before the meter) do not affect billing; outlet leaks (after the meter) are eligible for automatic bill adjustments. Councilmember King noted that small issues like incomplete sidewalk repairs and unrepaired service cuts erode public trust. - Dwyer Canal Sewer Discharge: Residents and Councilmember King reported weeks of visible sewage discharge and foul odors from the Dwyer Canal. SWBNO acknowledged being alerted in December but did not begin water quality testing until February 8. Councilmember King and others expressed frustration that the response took two months. SWBNO said crews were on site on the day of the meeting clearing blockages. Councilmember Hughes demanded a greater sense of urgency and a clear timeline for resolution. Key Outcomes - Delta Utilities: The council directed Delta to more aggressively enroll customers who had levelized billing with Entergy into levelized billing with Delta, and to provide clear, itemized bills for paperless customers. Councilmembers also requested regular updates on outreach to customers in arrears. - Entergy New Orleans: The council asked Entergy to provide a year-over-year comparison of citywide outages and to complete inspections of all 14 similar breakers following the O-ring failure. Council President Morel reiterated the long-standing request for a complete inventory of end-of-life equipment. - Sewerage and Water Board: Councilmember Hughes committed to placing fire hydrant repairs on next month’s agenda and urged SWBNO to prioritize the Dwyer Canal testing and cleanup. The council expects monthly progress reports on the lead service line program and a comprehensive plan for hydrant repairs by district. SWBNO agreed to share testing results and a timeline for the Dwyer Canal work.

The Board of Zoning Adjustments held a special meeting on February 9, 2026, to consider multiple variance requests and appeals. The meeting included roll call, adoption of January minutes, and deliberation on 14 docket items. Key actions included approvals, denials, and deferrals. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the January meeting unanimously (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - BZA 079-25 (restaurant variance): Applicant Angela Dix requested approval for side and rear yard setbacks and bicycle parking. Board asked clarifying questions about bicycle parking options and ADA ramp placement. - BZA 101-25 (canopy variance): Applicant requested a 30-day deferral to work with an architect; no other public comment. - BZA 105-25 (sign variance): Applicant argued the sign is a replica of a historic sign. Opposition was led by Aaron Holmes (VCPora), who stated the sign is not historically designated and would undermine sign standards. The applicant rebutted that the sign would restore Bourbon Street character. - BZA 001-26, 002-26, 003-26 (fence height variances): Applicant Ron Lazel presented evidence of neighbor support and referenced a similar approved variance at Royal Street. He requested an increase from 9 feet to 10 feet. Commissioners raised concerns about proper notice for the amended request. - BZA 005-26 (front-yard setback variance): Applicant’s representative explained the need for a front porch and noted that over 75% of neighboring properties have front-yard encroachments. Staff clarified that only properties developed under current CZO were analyzed. - BZA 007-26 (fence height after-the-fact): Applicant stated the fence was installed for security cameras; staff found 7 of 10 comparable fences were non-compliant. - BZA 008-26 (accessory structure variances): Applicant argued the structure has a long history on the property and agreed to fire-rate walls and remove windows. Commissioners questioned whether the second story was originally built. - BZA 013-26 (billboard appeal): Extensive public opposition from District E council member, homeowners, and neighborhood groups (ENoNAC, Lake Barrington HOA). Opponents cited negative impacts on property values, light pollution, safety, and procedural defects in notice. The applicant claimed the billboard meets all zoning requirements and was mischaracterized by staff. Over 20 residents spoke in opposition. Discussion Items - BZA 079-25 (937 Esplanade area – restaurant variances): Applicant reduced side-yard setback on one side to 5 feet and requested a 2-foot waver on the other side, rear-yard setback, and bicycle parking waiver (later withdrawn for off-site provision). Staff recommended approval for lot area, permeable open space, and one side-yard, but denial for bicycle parking. Board approved the four items with two provisos and denied bicycle parking (5-0). - BZA 101-25 (3205 Charter Street – canopy): After-the-fact request for an 11-foot excessive canopy encroachment. Applicant asked for a 30-day deferral to March 16; granted (5-0). - BZA 105-25 (235-241 Burban Street – sign): Requested variances for sign projection, area, and floor location. Staff recommended denial; board deferred to March 16 for applicant to provide dimensions of comparable signs (5-0). - BZA 001-26, 002-26, 003-26 (3513, 3517, 3521 Charter Street – fence height): Applicant sought 9-foot fences (later requested 10 feet) for short-term rental properties. Board deferred to late February agenda to allow resubmission with correct height (5-0 each). - BZA 004-26 (6020 St. Charles Avenue – parking pad): Applicant did not appear; board deferred to late February (5-0). - BZA 005-26 (8 Maryland Drive – front porch setback): Applicant requested 18’3” setback vs. required 20’. Board deferred to March agenda for better documentation of adjacent properties (5-0). - BZA 006-26 (235-237 Charter Street – mechanical equipment): Approved unanimously (5-0) with two provisos, finding all nine criteria met. - BZA 007-26 (Audubon – fence height): Approved (5-0) with one proviso, acknowledging marginal height difference (7’3” vs. 7’) and difficulty measuring grade. - BZA 008-26 (5015 South Saratoga – accessory structure): Board deferred to March 16 to allow applicant to submit historical evidence of original structure and address roof overhang issues (5-0). - BZA 009-26 (1229 Cadis/4534 Perrier – pool location): Approved (5-0) with two provisos, finding all nine criteria met. - BZA 010-26 (600 New Orleans Hammond Hwy – accessory use for worship): Approved (5-0) with one proviso, finding all nine criteria met. - BZA 011-26 (3627 Alfred Street – parking): Approved (5-0) with one proviso, finding all nine criteria met. - BZA 108-25 (homestead exemption appeal): Board upheld the Director of Safety and Permits’ decision, denying the appeal (5-0). - BZA 012-26 (1901-1941 Canal Street): Deferred to late February at applicant’s request (5-0). - BZA 013-26 (10563 N. I-10 Service Road – billboard appeal): After debate, board deferred to March agenda for staff to clarify the zoning verification status and ensure complete record (5-0). - BZA 014-26 (3929 Canal Street): Deferred to late February at staff’s request (5-0). Key Outcomes - Approved variances: BZA 079-25 (partial), 006-26, 007-26, 009-26, 010-26, 011-26 – all with provisos. - Denied variances: BZA 079-25 (bicycle parking portion), BZA 108-25 (appeal denied). - Deferred items: BZA 101-25 (to March 16), 105-25 (to March 16), 001-26/002-26/003-26 (to late February), 004-26 (to late February), 005-26 (to March), 008-26 (to March 16), 012-26 (to late February), 013-26 (to March), 014-26 (to late February). - Item deemed moot: BZA 015-26 (937 Esplanade). - Meeting adjourned: Approximately 5-0 vote after completing all items.

The Civil Service Commission held its regular business meeting on February 6, 2026, with all commissioners present. The central agenda item was a request from Mayor Moreno under Rule 12, Section 9.1B to allow city employees to exceed 12 furlough days in a consecutive 12-month period, set at up to 22 furlough days, due to the city's severe financial crisis. The commission also addressed routine consent items, including ratification of public integrity bureau extension requests, creation of new job classifications, and approval of examination announcements. Consent Calendar - Minutes for January 14, 2026 – Deferred to the next meeting. - Ratification of Public Integrity Bureau Extension Requests – Approved unanimously without discussion. - New Classification: Golf Course Superintendent (Parks and Parkways) – Created a new classification at a special rate of $75,000/year for the Joseph M. Bostow MU golf course (formerly Pontchartrain Park). The position was previously unclassified and is now brought into the classified series. Approved unanimously. - New Cybersecurity Job Series (Sewerage and Water Board) – Established a new series to monitor networks and investigate security breaches, with pay paralleling the existing IT series. Approved unanimously. - New Operational Technology Systems Job Series (Sewerage and Water Board) – Created to manage industrial control systems for water purification, power control, and environmental monitoring, moving contracted support in-house. Approved unanimously. - Examination Announcements (11-464 to 11-465) – Approved as part of recruitment and selection, reflecting the ongoing hiring freeze with only two new postings. Public Comments & Testimony - Destiny Price (classified employee and New Orleans native) – Spoke against the furloughs, citing a lack of transparency regarding unclassified employee salaries. She noted that the new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) receives $325,000, a $100,000 increase from the previous CAO's $225,000, while classified employees face a 10% pay cut (up to $4,000 pre-tax for those earning $44,000). She argued that the furloughs disproportionately harm lower-paid workers and questioned the city's financial priorities. She also expressed appreciation for the administration's efforts to avoid state oversight. Discussion Items - Request to Exceed 12 Furlough Days (Item 5) – First Deputy Mayor and CAO Joseph I. Giarrusso (referred to as Mr. Jerusalem in transcript) presented the request, detailing the city's cash management crisis. Key points: - Projected January 2026 revenue was $113 million; actual collections were $65 million, with property tax collections at $26 million against a $69 million forecast. - The city secured a $125 million Revenue Anticipatory Note (RAN) from the State Bond Commission, with a $65 million repayment due in March 2026. - Unfunded NOPD retention bonuses ($9.5 million) and a federal wrongful incarceration judgment added to the fiscal strain. - The city's bond rating was downgraded by two levels. - Mayor Moreno's executive order HM2602 established a budget stabilization and efficiency program with reporting deadlines. - Layoffs of 35 unclassified employees occurred; a hiring and spending freeze is in effect. - Furlough exemptions: Employees earning $39,733 or less are fully exempt; those earning between $39,734 and $44,435 face a graduated number of furlough days. Public safety and revenue-generating departments are generally exempt. - The administration has granted multiple rounds of additional exemptions and is seeking to avoid further layoffs by finding $2 million in operational savings. - Legislative Auditor’s Comments – The legislative auditor (Mr. Waggasback) confirmed the severity of the crisis, calling March–May 2026 critical months for cash flow management. He warned that failure to implement cost-saving measures could lead to discussions of a fiscal administrator from the state. - Commissioner Reactions – Commissioner Monteverdi (employee commissioner) expressed support, noting the administration's transparency and collaboration with employee representatives. He requested a verbal commitment to provide a progress report at the 12-week mark, which the CAO agreed to. Commissioner Supernaught and Chair Richardson voiced strong support, emphasizing the need for unified action. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve Furlough Request – The commission voted unanimously (all ayes) to approve Mayor Moreno's request to allow up to 22 furlough days in a 12-month period, as presented by the CAO. No abstentions or objections were recorded. - Commitment to Report – The CAO committed to return to the commission at the 12-week mark or anytime upon request to provide an update on the city's financial status and potential early termination of furloughs. - Item 6 (Fire Union Request) – Noted as a request to address the commission regarding abuse of Rule 9 disciplinary actions, but the commissioner recused themselves and no further action was taken.

On February 5, 2026, the City Council Public Works Committee heard a presentation from Steve Nelson, Mayor Moreno's nominee for Director of Public Works. Nelson outlined three key initiatives: the Lights On initiative, street maintenance improvements, and the creation of an Infrastructure Coordination Council. After public testimony and council discussion, the committee voted unanimously (3-0) to forward Nelson's confirmation to the full council. Public Comments & Testimony - Don Abair (resident, 6846 Lake Willow Drive) expressed strong support for Steve Nelson, citing his responsiveness at the Sewerage and Water Board. He welcomed the Lights On initiative, noting that many areas have been dark for too long due to copper theft, and praised the shift to aluminum wiring and solar lights. He also raised questions about the status of blue lights and the allocation of $5 million in settlement funds ($2.2 million previously used for billing assistance). - Charles Marsala (former councilman and engineer) complimented the presentation and thanked DPW for quick roadside assistance after his car broke down. He raised two specific issues: (1) the lack of signs for Tivoli Circle (named in 1810) and requested assistance in getting signs installed, and (2) gates blocking public access to Breakwater Drive at West End, questioning the legality of the Municipal Yacht Harbor's action. Discussion Items - Lights On Initiative: Nelson reported 51,000 street lights maintained by DPW, with 3,300 open work orders and an average repair response time of 400 days (goal: 30 days, 1-2% outage rate). The city has zero in-house electricians; a $2.5 million contract with All-Star Electric has completed 600 repairs in three weeks. Interviews for new electrician hires begin next week. Nelson noted the transition from copper to aluminum wiring to deter theft. A heat map of prioritized repairs (using crime data from Daniel Shanks) was referenced but not displayed. - Street Maintenance: DPW has a backlog of 2,000 potholes and 1,100 concrete repairs. In-house crews (currently 2-4 per day) are diverted to Mardi Gras barricade setup. First in-house concrete repairs since Hurricane Katrina were completed two weeks ago. Nelson outlined a goal to achieve 30-day response times for paving repairs, with a long-term plan to perform mill-and-overlay projects internally. The city will sell $260 million in voter-authorized bonds for infrastructure projects. - Infrastructure Coordination Council: Nelson described a multi-agency effort to map all capital projects ($2.5 billion across 150 line items) onto a single GIS platform to prevent repeated street cuts. A public-facing dashboard and quarterly mayor's reports are planned. Working groups will address common marking and tracking of utility cuts. - Council Questions: Council President asked about asset management systems (Nelson confirmed use of OpenGov with Cartograph). Councilmember Green raised concerns about DPW yard culture and union relations; Nelson committed to weekly yard visits and improving morale. Councilmember Harris requested integration of the Office of Resilience and Sustainability (ORS) across departments and clarity on FEMA extension for the JIRR program (sunset 2028, extension to July 2026). Councilmember Hughes emphasized the need for a “pizza tracker” system for residents to track roadwork and mandated implementation of the Schoenberger ordinance (signage with project start/end dates, contact info). Councilmember McCarron praised past collaboration and urged use of 311 system. Key Outcomes - The committee voted 3-0 (Morel, McCarron, Harris) to favorably forward Steve Nelson's nomination to the full council for confirmation. - Councilmembers issued several directives: - Implement the Schoenberger ordinance for project signage. - Develop a public-facing roadwork tracking system ("pizza tracker"). - Ensure the JIRR program extension request is submitted on time. - Include council staff in Infrastructure Coordination Council meetings. - Engage IBEW for apprenticeship programs for electricians. - Report quarterly on lighting and paving response times. - Nelson agreed to all directives, provided his cell phone number, and committed to monthly face-to-face communications with council staff.

The New Orleans Historic District Landmarks Commission (HDLC) met on February 4, 2026, with seven members present, constituting a quorum. Commissioners considered a certified local government review of a National Register nomination, a consent agenda, several applications for certificates of appropriateness, and multiple demolition requests. The meeting included public testimony, staff recommendations, and commission votes. Consent Calendar - Consent agenda items (439 Elmira Avenue, 1800 Prytania Street, 715 Louisiana Avenue, 526 Marigny Street, 3636 St. Charles Avenue, 7624 St. Charles Avenue, and 721–723 Louisiana Avenue) were approved unanimously with no public comment. Public Comments & Testimony - 1208 Second Street demolition: Applicant Peter Wilson (owner) stated he and his family purchased the property and sought demolition to create a garden space, not for redevelopment. He noted his background in historic preservation and emphasized neighborhood and Garden District Association support. Preservationist Gabrielle Baggs (address: 201 Coolidge Street) testified that the building no longer contributes to the historic district due to major façade modifications (circa 2000) and a large rear addition (2017), loss of historic fabric, and interior alterations (2018). She argued the property no longer resembles a historic raised bungalow. Discussion Items - CLG Review of 3949 Euphrosine Street (Wembley Industries Plant): Staff found the building did not meet significance criteria under Criterion A; a commissioner motioned to recommend against the National Register nomination. The motion carried unanimously. No public comment. - 4426 North Rampart Street – Solar Panels: Applicant Christopher Wright proposed street-facing panels (Option A) for better performance (10,524 kWh/year vs. 9,806 kWh/year for Option B). Staff recommended denial of Option A due to visibility. A motion to deny Option A and allow Option B (non-street-facing) passed unanimously. - 1416-18 Dauphine Street – Porch Gates: Applicant Kurt Kappel requested gates at the top of porch stairs to deter sleeping and loitering. Staff recommended denial, citing guidelines preserving historic openness of porches. A motion to deny the gates passed unanimously; staff offered alternatives (chain barriers, lighting, cameras). - 1534 St. Louis Street – Demolition: Staff recommended a 30-day deferral. A motion to defer carried unanimously. Public comment noted. - 929 North Dorgenois Street – Demolition: Applicant Kevin Washington sought demolition to build affordable housing, citing high rehabilitation costs and a demolition‑by‑neglect citation. Staff recommended denial, noting the building remained salvageable. A motion to deny passed unanimously (one commissioner opposed? The transcript says "Are you opposed?" then "in favor" – appears unanimous). - 165 Broadway Street – Partial Roof Demolition: Applicant Alec Adamick requested 54.9% roof removal for a camelback addition. Staff had no objection. A motion to approve carried unanimously. - 1208 Second Street – Demolition: Staff recommended denial, citing the building’s contributing status, intact street rhythm, and good condition. The applicant and a preservationist testified in favor of demolition, arguing the building no longer contributes. The transcript ends before any commission vote or motion; no decision is recorded. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approvals: Consent agenda, deferral for 1534 St. Louis Street, approval of partial roof demolition at 165 Broadway Street, and approval of Option B (non‑street‑facing) solar panels at 4426 North Rampart Street. - Unanimous denials: National Register recommendation for 3949 Euphrosine Street, street‑facing solar panels (Option A) at 4426 North Rampart Street, porch gates at 1416-18 Dauphine Street, and demolition at 929 North Dorgenois Street. - No decision: The discussion on demolition at 1208 Second Street was ongoing at the point the transcript ends; no vote is recorded.

The New Orleans City Council held a special meeting on February 4, 2026, at 9:00 AM in City Hall Council Chamber, adjourning at 9:13 AM. The meeting focused on approving a $6,845,155.97 transfer from the Employee Emergency Payroll Fund to cover payroll expenses (excluding police and fire) for the pay period ending January 31, 2026, and adopting an ordinance to reallocate $2.8 million from the City Council to the Department of Public Works for streetlight replacement and maintenance along major corridors. Councilmembers Green and King arrived after roll call but participated in later votes. Consent Calendar - The council received three reports from Abby Vienne, Director of Governmental Affairs, without objection: - 90-day departmental overtime spending projections for multiple city departments. - February 2026 monthly budget report for the Budget, Audit, and Board of Review Committee. - Bi-weekly expenditure reduction report, as required by Ordinance No. 30,522 M.C.S. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Legislative Auditor’s Report (Item 7): Chris Province of the Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s office, joined by Judy Detwiller, presented a preliminary review of the city’s request to transfer $6,845,155.97 from the 2025 revenue note for payroll. Province noted that the overtime for the pay period (exhibit B) was $326,751, slightly under budget. Year-to-date gross payroll through January 31, 2026, totaled $46,125,518 with just over $3 million in overtime. After the transfer, the projected balance of the revenue note would be just over $6 million. Councilmember Harris questioned the $1.3 million increase above the usual $5.5 million, and Province explained it was due to terminal leave payouts for employees laid off in early January. Councilmember Hughes asked how long the general fund could sustain payroll after the note is exhausted; Province replied that property tax revenues are expected to begin flowing and that monitoring continues. Councilmember Willard asked about the frequency of future meetings; Province responded that weekly meetings may not continue but would depend on the state bond commission’s terms for any future revenue note. Council President Morrell noted that the strict monitoring was an extenuating condition due to the transition between administrations and expressed hope that future notes would not require weekly oversight. - Resolution R-26-67 (Substitute) – Payroll Fund Transfer (Item 5/5a): Councilmember Harris introduced a substitute resolution to approve and ratify the release of $6,845,155.97 from the City of New Orleans Employee Emergency Payroll Fund for payroll expenses (excluding police and fire) for the pay period January 18–31, 2026, subject to concurrence by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor. After suspending the rules to receive and add the item, the council voted 6-0 (King absent) to adopt the substitute resolution. - Ordinance Cal. No. 35,331 – Streetlight Funding (Item 4): Councilmember Hughes introduced an ordinance to amend the 2026 operating budget by transferring funds from the City Council to the Department of Public Works for streetlight replacement and maintenance. Hughes explained that this codifies a previous announcement by the mayor and council to use $2.8 million from Entergy settlement funds to light I-10 corridors and major evacuation routes. Council President Morrell praised the bipartisan effort as using existing resources without raising taxes. Councilmember Green highlighted the importance for his district, which includes the high rise and the I-610/I-10 interchange, areas long plagued by outages. The ordinance passed unanimously, 7-0. Key Outcomes - Adopted Substitute Resolution R-26-67 (6-0): Approved the release of $6,845,155.97 from the Employee Emergency Payroll Fund for payroll expenses (excluding police and fire) for the pay period ending January 31, 2026, subject to legislative auditor concurrence. - Adopted Ordinance Cal. No. 35,331 (7-0): Transferred $2.8 million from City Council funds to the Department of Public Works for streetlight replacement and maintenance along major routes and evacuation corridors. - Received Reports (unanimous): Accepted the legislative auditor’s report and three reports from the Chief Administrative Office on overtime projections, budget status, and expenditure reductions. - Adjourned at 9:13 AM on a motion by Council President Morrell.

The New Orleans City Planning Commission (CPC) held a public hearing on February 2, 2026, to consider the Transient Lodging Study prepared by Desire Line and CPC staff. The study proposes new regulations for hotels, commercial short-term rentals (CSTRs), and other transient lodging uses. After staff presentations, extensive public testimony from over 20 speakers, and commission deliberation, the CPC voted 7-0 to transmit the study to the City Council with several amendments and recommendations. Public Comments & Testimony - Jennifer Wickham (architect, Workshop W40): Opposed splitting hotels into categories, arguing hotels have higher safety standards than STRs. Asked to retain current hotel zoning and rename "neighborhood hotel" to "small hotel." Noted hotels constitute only 7.9% of transient lodging uses. - Nicole Weber (Greater New Orleans Hotel Lodging Association): Supported a single hotel category, warning that a "neighborhood hotel" category conflicts with Louisiana Supreme Court jurisprudence on ancillary uses (bars, restaurants). - Gregory Lett (property owner, 226 Decatur Street): Supported allowing STRs in VCE1 to offset rising costs (insurance up 100%, property taxes up 33%) and cited 11 buildings with vacant upper floors on Decatur Street. - Suzette Taladano (representing 215/225 Decatur LLC): Supported STRs in VCE1, detailing that of 42 VCE1 properties, only 24 contain residential units, and estimated only about one-third of units could qualify as STRs. - Christian Casey (220 Decatur): Supported STRs, presented 38 signatures from business owners in support. - Ron Langslow (1000 South Normus C. Francis): Supported current hotel and B&B regulations, opposed complex categories, supported two-year renewal cycles for CSTRs, and supported VCE1 STRs. - Alan Johnson (1418 Charters): Opposed hostels in the historic core, warning that loopholes allow hotels to bypass STR restrictions. Pointed out that in Marigny, hotels under 10,000 sq ft are by right. - Patrick Quinn (131 Decatur, hotel/STR operator): Supported moving CSTRs toward hotel regulations, asked to remove occupancy caps per room for CSTRs. - Nathan Chapman (Vieux Carré Property Owners, Residents & Associates): Opposed STR expansion in the French Quarter, criticized staff for not raising the French Quarter to the highest impact level, warned against creating exceptions. - Aaron Holmes (VCPORA): Opposed any new transient lodging in the French Quarter, citing over-concentration and fire hazards. Noted that in the study's public comments, only 2 supported STRs in VCE1 versus 26 opposed. - Dr. Melanie Mitchell Muller (resident, 232 Decatur Street): Opposed STRs in VCE1, described negative impacts on quality of life, noted her building has 20 units and no vacancies since 2023. - Eleanor Graham (900 Bartholomew Street, Neighbors First for Bywater): Opposed neighborhood hotel category and CSTRs entirely, urged simplification, opposed grandfathering. - Jacob Wardner (Garden District Association): Opposed lifting the ban on STRs in the Garden District, citing its National Historic Landmark status and 5 million annual visitors. - Susan Johnson (2822 Page Street): Opposed hotel development near university campuses, noted lack of data supporting staff recommendation and example of a failed 57,000 sq ft proposal at 1772 St. Charles Avenue. - Kim Keene (1201 Canal Street): Opposed STRs in mixed-ownership condo buildings, asked for a ban on bad actors. - Shelley Landry (Garden District Association): Opposed lifting the ban on STRs. - Lyle Montgomery (625 South Rochelle): Opposed CSTR overdevelopment, asked to eliminate grandfathering, noted one block in his neighborhood has 20 CSTRs. - Andrea St. Paul Bland (Garden District Association): Opposed STRs, noted 5 million annual visitors. - Justin Frank Stoffall (Jane Place): Opposed expansion of transient lodging in CBD districts, supported on-site operators and no grandfathering. - John Rayershad (1430 Aladama Street): Opposed removing the STR ban in the Garden District. - Sandra Stokes (Louisiana Landmark Society): Opposed expansion in historic districts, asked for on-site management, opposed grandfathering, supported simplifying categories. - Julia Jones (827 Louisa Street, Neighbors First for Bywater): Opposed CSTRs, said they damage neighborhoods. - Jim Goodwin (537 Red Street, Algiers Point Association): Supported eliminating all STR categories and high-level regulation for simplicity. Discussion Items Staff presentation (by CPC staff) covered: - Removal of recommendation for neighborhood hotels in VCE1 due to conflict with 1969 French Quarter Hotel Moratorium. - Retention of recommendation to permit small CSTRs (one unit per lot, one per block) in both VCE and VCE1, but removal of medium CSTRs from these districts. - Lowering neighborhood hotel threshold from 20 keys to 16 keys. - Recommendation to place CSTR regulations in Article 21 as temporary uses (no grandfathering for future licenses). - For CBD5: recommendation to allow small and medium CSTRs with block limitations (more restrictive than current by-right status). - Discussion of combining non-commercial and commercial STRs into one typology if operator presence is required – staff called it a policy decision for Council. - Enforcement is outside study scope but noted that simpler regulations aid enforcement. Commissioners deliberated amendments: - Commissioner Flick: Add recommendation for coordination between state fire marshal and safety/permits on building code compliance. - Commissioner Whittree: Remove hostels as permitted use in HMC2 district and request Council review hostel permissions. - Discussion on grandfathering: Ms. Graham (former deputy city attorney) argued CSTRs are only permits, not land use entitlements, and can be eliminated without grandfathering. CPC staff maintained that existing CSTRs have non-conforming use rights under state law. - Concerns about CBD5 and Garden District. Key Outcomes The commission passed a motion (7-0) to transmit the study with the following amendments and recommendations to the City Council: 1. Rename "neighborhood hotel" to "small hotel." 2. Recommend Council coordinate with the state fire marshal and Department of Safety and Permits on life safety code compliance for CSTRs. 3. Remove hostels as a permitted use in the HMC2 district and recommend Council review hostel land-use permissions. 4. Retain the existing prohibition on short-term rentals and bed-and-breakfasts in the Garden District (do not lift the ban). 5. Prohibit small and large hotels in CBD5 by right; keep hotels as conditional use only. 6. Recommend Council consider consolidating commercial and non-commercial STRs into a single typology to simplify enforcement. 7. Recommend Council consult with the Law Department on the issue of grandfathering existing CSTRs. 8. No change to current regulations for the French Quarter (study recommendation to allow small CSTRs in VCE1 stands); commission emphasized enforcement and opposed a new lottery system. The study now moves to the City Council for public hearing and potential codification via a text amendment.

The New Orleans City Council held a special meeting on January 28, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:38 a.m. to receive reports from the Louisiana Legislative Auditor on payroll and retention payments, adopt a substitute resolution releasing emergency payroll funds, and take initial steps to regulate data centers through comprehensive zoning amendments and an immediate citywide moratorium. Councilmembers present were Green, Harris, Hughes, King, and Willard (Vice President); Councilmembers McCarron and Morrell were absent at the start. Morrell later arrived for the vote on Motion M-26-62. Reports from the Louisiana Legislative Auditor - Item 1: The Legislative Auditor, Michael Waguespack, presented a report on the city’s $125 million Revenue Notes (RAN) in accordance with State Bond Commission terms. As of January 28, a preliminary review indicated that the city’s request of $5,546,487.10 for the payroll period ending January 24, 2026, was in order. The amount covers employee compensation and related taxes for police, fire, and certain weekly-paid employees. The auditor noted that overtime pay in this period was $375,000 less than projected, and that after this processing the RAN balance would be roughly $13 million, sufficient to cover payroll through February 18, 2026. The council voted unanimously (5–0) to suspend the rules to receive the report and add it to the agenda. - Item 2: A second report reviewed proposed retention payments totaling $9,516,213.56 for police and some EMS personnel under previous motions (23-305, 23-42, 22-326). The auditor identified six individuals who did not qualify, reducing the total by $57,318.30, resulting in a gross payroll of $9,458,895.26. The council also voted unanimously (5–0) to suspend the rules to receive and add this report. Resolution for Emergency Payroll Fund (Substitute R-26-64) - The original resolution (R-26-64) was withdrawn, and a substitute was introduced by Councilmember Harris. It approved and ratified the release of $5,546,487.10 from the City of New Orleans Employee Emergency Payroll Fund for the pay period January 11–24, 2026, covering police, fire, and certain weekly-paid employees, subject to concurrence by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor. The council voted unanimously (5–0) to suspend the rules, add, and adopt the substitute resolution. Discussion on Data Centers – Motions M-26-62 and M-26-63 - Councilmember Hughes and Council President Morrell introduced two related motions to address the absence of a definition for “data center” in the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance (CZO) and to prevent a proposed data center in New Orleans East. City Planning Commission Director Bob Rivers testified that currently data centers are not defined and therefore not permitted anywhere in the city, but ambiguity exists. Chief Zoning Official Dan McNamara described a case where a developer applied for an “office space with computers,” which raised concerns about loopholes. - Motion M-26-62: Directs the City Planning Commission to hold a public hearing to define data centers and related uses, consider where they should be permitted or conditional, and develop use and design standards (including density, soundproofing, and safety). The motion passed 6–0 (with Morrell present). - Motion M-26-63: Establishes an Interim Zoning District (IZD) called the Data Center Interim Zoning District, effective immediately for one year, prohibiting the issuance of occupational licenses or permits for data centers citywide. The council can extend the IZD for up to two additional six-month periods. The motion passed 5–0 (Morrell absent). Public Comments on Data Centers - Multiple residents of New Orleans East spoke in opposition to data centers, citing concerns about energy and water consumption, infrastructure strain, noise, and environmental impacts. Speakers including Xavier Wilson, Olsa Adun, Dawn Abear, and others urged the council to block data centers outright. Frank Scarlock and John Brown called for more information and careful consideration, with Scarlock suggesting that technology investment could benefit the city. Representatives from the Sierra Club expressed concern that the IZD’s appeals process could create a “backdoor” for data centers, a claim vigorously rebutted by Council President Morrell, who explained that the appeals process is required by charter and would involve public hearings. The council acknowledged the public’s input and committed to further community engagement. Ordinances on First Reading - Calendar Number 35,331 (by Councilmember McCarron by request) was introduced and laid over as required by law. It would amend the 2026 operating budget to move funds from the City Council to the Department of Public Works for street light replacement and maintenance. Key Outcomes - Payroll Reports: Received and accepted unanimously (5–0). - Substitute Resolution R-26-64: Adopted unanimously (5–0) to release $5,546,487.10 from the Emergency Payroll Fund. - Motion M-26-62: Adopted (6–0) to direct the City Planning Commission to hold a public hearing on defining and regulating data centers. - Motion M-26-63: Adopted (5–0) to establish a one-year Interim Zoning District (IZD) prohibiting data center operations citywide, with potential extensions. - Ordinance on First Reading: Introduced and laid over for future consideration. - The meeting adjourned at 10:38 a.m. after a brief procedural motion to reconsider the adjournment vote to allow the introduction of the ordinance.