Public Meetings - New Orleans, Louisiana

January 27, 2026, 8:30 AM The New Orleans Revenue Estimating Conference (REC) convened on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 8:30 AM. Members present included Mayor Helena Moreno, Council Member Lesli Harris (District B), Council Member Jean-Paul Morrell (At-Large, non-voting), Chief Administrative Officer Joseph I. Giarrusso III, Director of Finance Alyssa W. Rambeau, and Mara Baumgarten Force (Tulane University). The conference adopted the minutes from the December 1, 2025 meeting (4 yeas, 0 nays, 1 absent) and then discussed and adopted an amended official 2026 General Fund revenue forecast of $799,750,000. Discussion Items - Revenue Forecast Overview: CAO Giarrusso presented the revised forecast, noting that the September REC had adopted $725,566,564, and the City Council ultimately adopted $799,750,000 in December. The presentation covered four key revenue components: - Sewerage & Water Board (SWB) Collections: The city claims an $80 million receivable from SWB. SWB agreed to tender $24.3 million in FEMA reimbursements and $5.2 million from MaxPay bond projects in 2026. The $24.3 million is operating cash, not traditional revenue, but the legislative auditor approved recognizing it for forecast purposes. Council Member Harris asked about the timeline; CAO Giarrusso responded that $16.9–$18 million of the FEMA funds have been received, the $5.2 million should be offset this quarter or next, and further meetings with SWB will address the remaining receivable. - Wisner Funds: As of December 1, $7.6 million was in hand (later updated to $10.3 million). This is a one-time recognition. The forecast also includes an estimated $4.8 million share of annual Wisner distributions and a $4 million federal tax return. A Wisner group meeting was scheduled that day to discuss these items. - American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds: $14.75 million in cash is on hand for redistribution. Compliance with federal requirements was confirmed by Chris Johnson of Jones Walker. The CAO noted that his office recommended minor program tweaks but the total amount remains unchanged. - Parking Enforcement and Collections: Two components: (1) $6.5 million from increased collection efforts on outstanding tickets (out of $100 million total outstanding; $11.75 million collected over three years). (2) $7 million from hiring 50 new parking enforcement officers, phased in over six months. Council Member Harris asked if a new collection agency would be used; the CAO said collections would be done internally and targeted based on council member input. Council Member Harris expressed support for parking enforcement moving under NOPD. Key Outcomes - Adoption of Minutes: Motion by Mayor Moreno, seconded by CAO Giarrusso. Passed 4-0 (Rambeau absent). - Adoption of Amended Official 2026 Revenue Forecast: Motion by CAO Giarrusso, seconded by Mayor Moreno. The conference adopted the General Fund revenue forecast of $799,750,000 as set forth in the council ordinances and budget book. Passed 5-0. - Adjournment: Motion by Council Member Harris, seconded by Ms. Baumgarten Force. Passed 5-0.

The New Orleans City Council Budget/Audit/Board of Review Committee met on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. to receive a fiscal overview from the new Chief Administrative Officer Joseph I. Giarrusso III and Finance Director Alyssa W. Rambeau, and to consider a series of Civil Service Pay Plan and Rule Amendments approved by the Civil Service Commission. The committee approved several motions related to Sewerage and Water Board and Municipal Yacht Harbor positions, which do not use general fund money, and deferred all general fund items due to the administration's hiring freeze. Councilmembers Lesli Harris (Chair), Matthew Willard, Aimee McCarron, and Freddie King were present; Councilmember Jean-Paul 'JP' Morrell was absent. Councilmember Eugene Green (non-committee member) also attended. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (October 22, 2025): Moved by Chair Lesli Harris, seconded by Freddie King. Approved 4–0 (Morrell absent). Discussion Items - Personnel Introductions & Fiscal Overview: CAO Giarrusso introduced his team and described the city's budget as "chaotic and complex." He reported that retention bonuses originally funded with $11 million in ARPA money now have only about $3.6 million in ARPA funds remaining; the administration is scrambling to cover the remaining $7.4 million from general funds. He stated that Finance and the Louisiana Legislative Auditor have been verifying information for nearly 800 first responders potentially eligible for the bonuses, aiming for a January 30 deadline. Giarrusso outlined austerity measures: an extended spending freeze, an extended hiring freeze (with exceptions for public safety, revenue, and the law department), fleet reduction, bringing services in-house (e.g., hiring electricians to fix street lights), and a new policy requiring CAO and law department approval for change orders over $60,000. On the revenue side, he noted efforts to enforce parking tickets (nearly $100 million in unpaid tickets and hiring 50 new parking enforcement officers), to collect $80 million owed by the Sewerage and Water Board (with $29.5 million expected in 2026), to sell surplus city property, and to renegotiate leases. Finance Director Rambeau reported that as of January 21, the city had mailed approximately 164,561 property tax bills totaling roughly $180.7 million; about $12.9 million had been received. The previous economic forecast projected about $180.7 million from property taxes. - Councilmember Matthew Willard asked about outstanding federal reimbursements. Frida Richardson, Deputy Director of Finance, confirmed $16.9 million received from S&WB and another $2.1 million just received, reducing the $83 million receivable. Willard questioned the spending freeze's scope; Giarrusso said it applies citywide with exceptions for public safety and critical needs (e.g., power restoration at ORS). Willard also inquired about savings from bringing work in-house; Giarrusso cited losing several hundred thousand dollars annually for not having AutoCAD software ($10,000 subscription) and noted that using capital funds for bonding projects may be possible. Bond Counsel Jason Acres confirmed a procedure is being developed to use bond proceeds for in-house work. - Councilmember Aimee McCarron asked about the November 30, 2025 revenue report showing 92% of budget. Frida Richardson said December numbers would be available next week. McCarron raised a $73 million personnel deficit projection per the 11/30 report; Richardson said a cleanup ordinance would not be needed because expenses exceed revenues, and the general fund reserve will cover the deficit—preliminary fund balance numbers will be emailed. McCarron also requested cash flow statements and more readable reports. Giarrusso proposed quarterly reporting under charter requirements and agreed to streamline reports. Richardson noted the LLA recommended a combined format. McCarron asked about Promise Pay collections ($8 million estimated by previous CAO); Giarrusso said his team would find out. - Councilmember Eugene Green (non-committee) clarified that the city collects about $34 million in sanitation fees but spends about $66 million annually, creating a $30 million deficit. He urged public awareness and exploration of federal/state assistance. - Councilmember Freddie King raised quality-of-life issues: illegal parking on neutral grounds and bike lanes on St. Claude Avenue and St. Bernard Avenue, and illegal vending. Giarrusso agreed to coordinate parking enforcement with Deputy CAO Steve Nelson and to provide notice to residents. King also asked about blighted city-owned properties and defunct LLCs not paying taxes. Giarrusso said the Central Adjudicatory Bureau is key for blight enforcement and exempted CAB employees from furloughs. King requested help with worst-offender properties. - Councilmember Lesli Harris seconded King's concerns about parking enforcement during Mardi Gras and at high-traffic areas, and asked about NOPD overtime. Giarrusso said a controller for NOPD is being hired to monitor overtime; the overtime budget (approximately $23.5 million) now resides in the CAO's office; and a detailed CAO policy on overtime will be released next week. Harris also requested simpler, more frequent financial reports, ideally monthly or weekly, in a profit/loss and balance sheet format. - Budget Report (November 30, 2025): Brandy DeLarge, Budget Director, reviewed revenue: property tax at 101% of budget, other taxes (including sales tax) at 80%, license/permits 100%, intergovernmental 144%, service charges 85%, overall 92%. The sales tax shortfall was attributed to state legislative changes reducing local retention. DeLarge noted 330 vacancies citywide (including 48 in NOPD) and discussed efforts to close out purchase orders sooner—targeting September 1 following audit completion. She also highlighted the unaudited fund balance as of November 30, 2025, compared to the audited figure for FY2024. Civil Service Pay Plan and Rule Amendments - M-26-42 (S&WB – Utility Inventory Control Technician Series): New series for tagging/recording inventory; salary $38,000–$51,000. Moved by Harris, seconded by McCarron. Approved 3–0 (Morrell absent, King absent). - M-26-43 (S&WB – Safety Administrators): Grade/hiring rate adjustment, title change to Utility Safety Administrator; salary from $74,000 to $98,000. Moved by Harris, seconded by McCarron. Approved 3–0 (Morrell, King absent). - M-26-45 (Municipal Yacht Harbor – Yacht Harbor Fiscal Manager): New classification (business manager) at $70,000. Moved by Harris, seconded by Willard. Approved 3–0 (Morrell, King absent). - M-26-46 (Amendments to Civil Service Rules): Treating employee commissioner work as work time. Moved by Harris, seconded by Willard. Approved 3–0 (Morrell, King absent). - M-26-47 (S&WB – New Power Control Room Operator Series): Salary $44,000–$81,999. Moved by Harris, seconded by McCarron. Approved 3–0 (Morrell, King absent). - M-26-48 (S&WB – New Power Systems Field Operator Series): Similar to M-26-47; salary $44,000–$81,000. Moved by Harris, seconded by McCarron. Approved 3–0 (Morrell, King absent). - M-26-49 (S&WB – Water Purification Manager): Pay grade adjustment for two positions (east/west bank). Moved by Harris, seconded by Willard. Approved 3–0 (Morrell, King absent). - All remaining Civil Service items were deferred because they involve general fund positions subject to the hiring freeze. Key Outcomes - Approved budgets and pay plans for seven S&WB and Yacht Harbor positions (non-general fund), all passing 3–0 (with Councilmembers Morrell and King absent). - Deferred all general fund Civil Service motions due to the hiring freeze. - Extended the citywide spending and hiring freezes, with exceptions for public safety, revenue, and other critical needs. - Announced a new policy requiring CAO and law department approval for change orders over $60,000. - Administration committed to providing monthly/quarterly financial reports in a streamlined, readable format. - Council directed administration to pursue parking enforcement on St. Claude, St. Bernard, the French Quarter, and Canal Place; and to address blighted properties and defunct LLCs. - Motion to adjourn moved by Harris, seconded by McCarron; approved 3–0 (Morrell, King absent).

The committee met on January 21, 2026, at 3:30 PM UTC. All five council members were present (Morel, McCarron, Harris, Green, Hughes, and Willard). The meeting included approval of minutes, appointments to the NOR board and commission, a motion setting parade routes for the 2026 Carnival season, a cooperative endeavor agreement with the Sheriff's Office for Mardi Gras supplemental police coverage, and presentations from Deputy Mayors Renee Lapperoli and Kevin Ferguson. Discussions focused on board and commission transparency, neighborhood engagement, and representation for District E. Consent Calendar - Approval of January 15, 2026 minutes: Moved by Councilmember Morel, seconded by Harris. Approved unanimously (5-0). - Appointment of Kevin Kimborough to the NOR board: Kimborough expressed desire to serve at-risk youth. Moved favorably by Morel, seconded by Harris. Forwarded to full council (5-0). - Appointment of Mike Barley to the NOR commission: Barley cited business and civic experience. Moved by Harris, seconded by McCarron. Forwarded to full council (5-0). Discussion Items - Parade Routes for 2026 Carnival Season (Item 5): Councilmember Morel presented routine changes: Oshun start time moved to 5 PM (from 5:30 PM), Cleopatra to 6 PM (from 6:30 PM). Thursday, February 12, 2026, lineup: Chaos at 4:30 PM, Babylon at 5:30 PM, Muses at 6 PM. Pygmalion will follow the Orpheus/Bacchus route (Magazine–Napoleon to 400 block of Choppatoolis). Motion approved unanimously (5-0). - Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with Sheriff's Office (Item 6): The agreement provides supplemental officer coverage during Mardi Gras (February 1 – March 31, 2026) for a maximum of $3,704,167. Buddy from the administration explained that the extra officers help secure parade routes, with about 175 officers per day for the first weekend and higher numbers for the second weekend. Approved unanimously (5-0). - Deputy Mayor Presentations: Renee Lapperoli (Deputy Mayor of External Affairs) and Kevin Ferguson (Chief of Staff) presented their roles. Ferguson oversees intergovernmental relations, communications, and boards/commissions, aiming to improve transparency. Councilmembers raised concerns about board/commission attendance reporting (required by ordinance but often lacking) and the need for neighborhood engagement liaisons. Councilmember Green requested an org chart and contact information; Councilmember McCarron asked about neighborhood engagement after the elimination of district-specific engagement representatives. Lapperoli said a plan would be distributed next week. Councilmember Harris emphasized the importance of District E representation on boards and commissions. Key Outcomes - Minutes of January 15, 2026 adopted (5-0). - Kevin Kimborough and Mike Barley confirmed by the committee and forwarded to the full city council. - Parade route changes approved for the 2026 Carnival season. - Cooperative endeavor agreement with the Sheriff's Office approved for up to $3,704,167. - Motion to enter executive session passed (5-0). The committee then returned from executive session and adjourned.

A special meeting of the New Orleans City Council was held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 9:05 AM in City Hall Council Chamber, convened by Council President JP Morrell. The meeting focused on the city's financial condition, including review of a payroll drawdown from a revenue anticipation note (RAN), approval of a substitute resolution releasing funds from the Employee Emergency Payroll Fund, and reappointment to the Revenue Estimating Conference. The meeting adjourned at 9:19 AM. Public Comments & Testimony - Daniela Feliciano (address: 400 Burgundy Street, New Orleans) spoke briefly, offering a blessing to the council and stating she was not paid to be present. Discussion Items - Legislative Auditor's Report: Michael J. "Mike" Waguespack, Louisiana Legislative Auditor, presented a preliminary review of the city's requested drawdown of $6,152,826.70 from the $125 million revenue anticipation note (RAN) to fund employee compensation and related taxes for the pay period ending January 17, 2026. Overtime pay was approximately $220,000, about $90,000 under estimate. Year-to-date gross earnings were roughly $22 million, with gross overtime $2.3 million (about 10% of gross earnings). After this drawdown, approximately $18.4 million remained available for future transfers. The fringe benefits would be paid from general fund cash flow to extend the life of the RAN. - Police Retention Payments: Councilmember Harris inquired about retention payments for police. Waguespack explained the process for reviewing approximately 800 individuals across several criteria, with an estimated total of $9.5 million—the largest such payment the city has ever made. Deputy Director of Finance Frita Richardson Taylor clarified that the payment would come from the general fund but specifically from $16.6 million in escrow from Sewerage and Water Board receivables, plus $3.6 million in remaining ARPA funds, thus not affecting current general fund cash. - RAN Repayment Timeline: Council Vice President Willard asked about repayment. The administration stated the first payment of $15 million is due by the end of February 2026, followed by $55 million by the end of March, with full repayment of the $125 million expected in May 2026. Excess working capital over $25 million will be transferred to a set-aside account every two weeks starting in March. - Substitute Resolution R-26-30: Originally Resolution R-26-30 was withdrawn; a substitute was introduced by Councilmember Harris (by request) to approve and ratify the release of $6,152,826 from the Employee Emergency Payroll Fund for payroll expenses (excluding police/fire) for the pay period January 4–17, 2026, subject to concurrence by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor per City Code §70-415.347(d). - Reappointment to Revenue Estimating Conference: Motion M-26-32, by Councilmember Morrell (by request), to ratify Mayor's reappointment of Mara Baumgarten Force as the faculty member expert in revenue forecasting to the Revenue Estimating Conference. Force testified about her role providing independent sanity checks on the city economist's forecasts and willingness to be a dynamic resource. She answered a question from Councilmember Willard about the process. Key Outcomes - Vote to receive Legislative Auditor's Report: Motion by Harris, second by King. Passed 7-0 (Green, Harris, Hughes, King, McCarron, Morrell, Willard). - Vote to add item to agenda: Motion by Harris, second by McCarron. Passed 7-0. - Vote to receive substitute Resolution R-26-30: Motion by Harris, second by Hughes. Passed 7-0. - Vote to add substitute Resolution to agenda: Motion by Harris, second by Green. Passed 7-0. - Adoption of substitute Resolution R-26-30: Motion by Harris, second by Morrell. Passed 7-0. - Withdrawal of original Resolution R-26-31: Withdrawn by request (Councilmember Harris). Ordered. - Adoption of Motion M-26-32 (reappointment of Mara Baumgarten Force): Motion by Morrell, second by McCarron. Passed 7-0. - Meeting adjourned at 9:19 AM: Motion by Green, second by Hughes. Passed 7-0. - Future meetings anticipated: January 28, February 4, February 11 (or shortly after), and possibly February 18, 2026, to continue monitoring the city's financial condition.

The Governmental Affairs Committee of the New Orleans City Council met on January 15, 2026, at 4:00 PM. The committee considered appointments to the New Orleans Recreation Department (NORD) Commission, deferred a revenue estimating conference presentation, and approved minutes from previous meetings. All actions were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of Amendments: Councilmember Cairn moved to approve the amendments; seconded by Councilmember McCarron. The motion passed with 3 ayes and no nays. Appointments to the NORD Commission - Mr. Jamar McNeely: Expressed desire to serve the community and students by ensuring NORD offers great facilities and programming. The committee voted unanimously (3 ayes, no nays) to report favorably to the full council. - Mr. Kevin Kimbrough: Item C was deferred to the next meeting on January 21, 2026. - Mr. Kyle Walker: Expressed commitment to helping NORD consistently deliver quality programming in every facility. The committee voted unanimously (4 ayes, no nays, with Councilman Hughes returning) to report favorably to the full council. Revenue Estimating Conference - Ms. Mara: Not present; a waiver was submitted. The item was deferred to the January 21, 2026 meeting. Adjournment - Councilmember Harris moved to adjourn, seconded by Councilmember Hughes. The motion passed unanimously (4 ayes, no nays).

The New Orleans Civil Service Commission met on January 14, 2026, to address a disciplinary appeal, a proposed transfer of parking, towing, and ground transportation units from the Department of Public Works (DPW) to the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), and several routine business items. The meeting included public testimony from affected employees and a representative of the firefighters, followed by a vote on the transfer. Public Comments & Testimony - Aaron Mischler (representing the firefighters) spoke in support of the transfer, stating that the current chain of command creates delays that hinder emergency response, such as blocked fire hydrants and fire stations. He urged approval for public safety efficiency. - Brian Joseph (tow truck driver) expressed concern that background checks for the transfer would disqualify many employees with criminal records, noting that "the majority of us" have records. He also requested that existing employees be allowed to work more hours and be given police radios for direct communication. - Tamika Davis (DPW employee) stated that the units are not just sitting at the pound but actively serving the public, and that the real issue is a communication barrier, not a need for a merger. She felt the process has been a "control issue" and that employees were not consulted. - Leander Kraft (towing supervisor, 17 years) feared losing his job due to background checks and argued that the units already have a good relationship with NOPD. He requested more time to study the plan, warning that good employees will be lost. - Takisha Feast (section supervisor, 28 years) noted that communication with NOPD Captain Buddy Mishou has improved recently, making the current arrangement work. She said staffing is the real need, not a transfer. - Valerie Petty (parking administrator) stated that 93% of the parking division are single mothers working eight-hour shifts, and they fear being forced into 12-hour shifts under NOPD. She also reported that the unit's budget had already been transferred to NOPD before the vote, causing payroll issues. - Delicia Creighton (Ground Transportation Bureau administrator) echoed staffing concerns, noting that the bureau has only four office staff to handle nearly 1,800 school buses and other permits. She said the issue is staffing, not efficiency or enforcement. Discussion Items - Continuance Denial for Mr. Griffin: The commission considered a request for a continuance from Mr. Griffin, who was absent and cited lack of legal representation. The appointing authority confirmed no attorney had been confirmed. Commissioner Korn moved to deny the continuance and grant summary disposition, noting Mr. Griffin was a probationary employee with limited appeal rights. The motion passed unanimously. - Transfer of Units from DPW to NOPD (Item 5): Chief Ann Kirkpatrick presented the request, stating that the transfer would improve efficiency for special events (over 100 per year) by eliminating the need to coordinate through another department. The transfer would affect 74 parking and towing employees and 18 ground transportation employees. They would be placed under the NOPD Traffic Division, overseen by Captain Buddy Mishou. Chief Kirkpatrick acknowledged past opposition but said the city council and mayor directed the move. Key concerns raised included background checks (felony disqualification), job security, and potential loss of experienced staff. The commission heard that employees unable to transfer due to background issues would remain in DPW in a small unit until attrition, preserving their jobs. The commission also discussed the need for a formal plan, better communication with leaders, and a pay study for hard-to-fill positions. The motion to approve the transfer was made and seconded. One commissioner abstained, and the motion carried. - Business Agenda Items: The commission approved the following unanimously: - Minutes from December 12, 2025. - Ratification of Public Integrity Bureau extension requests. - Rule amendment (Item 3A) to Rule 2, Sections 4.9, 4.11, 5, and 11.1 regarding alternative dispute resolution, with a slight amendment to allow enforcement motions to be brought before the commission. - Rule amendment (Item 3B) to Rule 2, Section 8.1 extending the subpoena request deadline from 15 to 10 days before a hearing. - Approval of examination announcements (11459–11463), noting that most positions are at the airport due to the city-wide hiring freeze. - Approval of provisional appointments in accordance with Rule 6, Section 5.3A, allowing extensions beyond one year. Key Outcomes - Mr. Griffin's Appeal: Continuance denied; summary disposition granted (unanimous). - Transfer of Units: Approved (vote: 2 in favor, 0 against, 1 abstention). The NOPD is expected to develop an operational plan, include leaders in planning, and ensure job security for employees unable to transfer. - Routine Business: All items approved unanimously. - Next Steps: The commission directed the NOPD to create a written plan, engage with affected employees, and consider a compensation study for hard-to-fill classifications. The meeting adjourned after the business agenda.

The New Orleans City Council convened on January 14, 2026, at 4:00 PM UTC to conduct confirmation hearings for two mayoral appointees, receive presentations from the Chief Administrative Officer and Deputy Mayor of Public Safety, and discuss a range of city governance issues including budget transparency, homelessness, violence prevention, and state relations. The meeting lasted approximately three hours and included unanimous votes to recommend confirmation of Dr. Jennifer Avegno as Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services and Charlene Gibson as City Attorney. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The council unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting (4 yes, 0 no). Discussion Items Mayor's Introduction of Leadership Team Mayor Moreno presented her leadership team, emphasizing that the confirmation process ensures transparency and allows the council and public to evaluate appointees. She introduced: - Dr. Jennifer Avegno, nominated as Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services, who previously led the Health Department and will now oversee an expanded portfolio including homelessness and youth/family services. - Charlene Gibson, nominated as City Attorney, a former litigator with experience in private practice and a focus on ethical governance. - Joe Jeruso, Chief Administrative Officer (not subject to confirmation), former council member, and Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Michael Harrison (not subject to confirmation). The mayor stated that other deputy mayors would appear at future agenda dates for public transparency. Confirmation Hearing: Dr. Jennifer Avegno Dr. Avegno outlined her vision for the restructured Health and Human Services department, highlighting first-100-day priorities: - Launching a new community health assessment cycle with added focus on youth and families. - Expanding SNAP and Medicaid enrollment sites and WIC services to the West Bank. - Tackling homelessness through expanded outreach, improved 311 communication, and enhanced state partnerships. - Establishing a coordinated victim services unit to support survivors of violence. Councilmembers praised her work during COVID and the reduction in overdose deaths (from 525 in 2022 to approximately 230 in 2025) and violence reduction. Specific commitments: - Councilmember Hughes requested a visit to the Lower Ninth Ward within 90 days to expand healthcare access and food security; Dr. Avegno agreed. - Councilmember Harris asked about state partnership on homelessness and continuation of violence interrupter programs. Dr. Avegno confirmed Ubuntu Village remains active and that street outreach and hospital-based interventions continue. - Councilmember Green discussed food deserts and potential mobile grocery services; Dr. Avegno said an ordinance to improve grocery donation may come soon. - Councilmember McCarran inquired about Thrive Kids, the school-based health program. Dr. Avegno reported thousands of children enrolled and hopes to expand via federal funding. Council President Morell disclosed a pending settlement with the school board to secure ongoing funding. - Councilmember Woolett raised concerns about federal funding cuts, particularly for maternal child health and HIV programs. Dr. Avegno noted 80-85% grant funding and proactive lobbying efforts. - Council President Morell emphasized the need to use charter-sanctioned departments (like Human Services) rather than temporary executive orders, and asked about violence prevention data integration. Dr. Avegno discussed using NOPD data and place-based strategies with the new public safety team. Confirmation Hearing: Charlene Gibson Ms. Gibson presented her background as a litigator and law firm founder, outlining her vision for the law department: - A “cultural reset” with high ethical standards, comprehensive audit of processes and personnel, and faster contract review times. - Emphasis on collaboration, accountability, and transparency, including regular executive sessions with the council. - Addressing understaffing and salary inequities to attract and retain talent, reducing reliance on outside counsel. Councilmembers questioned her on: - Councilmember Harris – Rebuilding the law department as a premier workplace; Ms. Gibson acknowledged low morale and committed to market-rate compensation and better resource advocacy. - Councilmember McCarran – Contracting for public works, use of technology (e.g., DocuSign not fully implemented), and streamlining the Brass approval system. Ms. Gibson promised proactive engagement with departments and the council, and exploration of case management software. - Councilmember Hughes – Balancing role between mayor and council; Ms. Gibson cited professional conduct rules and pledged accessibility. - Councilmember Green – Blight and succession issues in his district; Ms. Gibson identified understaffing in housing/code enforcement and committed to creative solutions beyond adjudication. - Councilmember Willard – Culture reset and accountability; Ms. Gibson described using the book “Impact Players” to foster a high-performance culture. She also agreed to review all outside counsel contracts for waste and conflicts. - Council President Morell raised concerns about conflicts of interest with outside counsel, last-minute settlements, and the need to review recent settlements made without council knowledge. Ms. Gibson pledged to investigate and to attend executive sessions. The council unanimously (4-0) voted to recommend Ms. Gibson’s confirmation. Presentation: Chief Administrative Officer Joe Jeruso Mr. Jeruso described his first days, emphasizing collaboration with Mayor Moreno and the council. He highlighted: - Financial discipline, including renegotiating the health care contract (untouched in 10 years) and the parking contract expiring in May. - Improved budget reporting: weekly council meetings, real-time access to financial systems, and making department-level budget details available earlier. - Capital budget planning: working with district council members on priorities and reallocating bond proceeds. - Reforming the contract routing process and prioritizing public safety payments. Councilmembers asked about state revenue sharing. Council President Morell noted that the city provides services on state-owned properties and requested more direct assistance. Special Counsel Andrew Tizzolo announced plans for a collaborative legislative agenda, holding pre-session meetings with all council members and adopting a binder-based system similar to Jefferson Parish’s. Council President Morell praised the approach and recalled past effective intergovernmental relations under Mark Morrell. Presentation: Deputy Mayor of Public Safety Michael Harrison Chief Harrison discussed his role overseeing police, fire, EMS, homeland security, juvenile justice, and coordination with violence prevention programs. He outlined first-100-day priorities: - Full operational readiness for Mardi Gras through multi-agency exercises. - Repairing street lights, eliminating blight, and clearing hazards with the infrastructure team. - Continuing synchronized crime-fighting with federal, state, and local partners, as demonstrated by a meeting yesterday with the U.S. Attorney, state police, and district attorney. Councilmembers asked about the Office of Nighttime Economy (not under his purview) and accountability for institutional knowledge. Council President Morell stressed the need to retain lessons from past training (e.g., after the 2018 Bourbon Street attack) and avoid knowledge loss. Chief Harrison committed to after-action reviews and embedding policies through verifiable training. Key Outcomes - Unanimous confirmation recommendation (4-0) for Dr. Jennifer Avegno as Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services. - Unanimous confirmation recommendation (4-0) for Charlene Gibson as City Attorney. - Council accepted presentations from CAO Joe Jeruso and Deputy Mayor Michael Harrison; no votes were taken on their roles. - Commitments made: Dr. Avegno will visit the Lower Ninth Ward within 90 days; Ms. Gibson will review outside counsel contracts and attend executive sessions; the administration will hold joint legislative planning sessions with the council. - Ongoing issues: The Thrive Kids settlement with the school board remains pending; a court conference is set for January 20. The council will pursue greater state revenue sharing and capital budget collaboration.

The New Orleans City Council held a special meeting on January 14, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in City Hall Council Chamber to address the city's financial condition, including the status of the general fund and revenue expectations. The primary actions were the approval of two substitute resolutions authorizing a combined $10,973,761.85 drawdown from the Employee Emergency Payroll Fund to cover police, fire, and weekly payroll expenses and fringe benefits for late December 2025 and early January 2026. The meeting also featured a presentation from Louisiana Legislative Auditor Michael J. "Mike" Waguespack on the city's compliance with bond conditions. Report from Louisiana Legislative Auditor - Michael J. "Mike" Waguespack, CPA, Louisiana Legislative Auditor, presented preliminary review findings regarding the city's request to draw $10,973,761.85 from the $125 million revenue anticipation note (RAN) approved by the State Bond Commission. - The requested amount comprises: - $6,678,207.14 to be deposited into the Chase payroll card account for employee compensation and payroll taxes for the pay period ending January 10, 2026. - $4,295,553.71 to reimburse the city's general fund for fringe benefit payments (health insurance, pension contributions, garnishments) for the pay period ending January 3, 2026. - Waguespack highlighted that overtime costs for the period were approximately $1.53 million, a savings of $2.1 million compared to the estimated $3.7 million, attributing this to supplemental National Guard and NOPD presence during events like the Sugar Bowl and New Year's Eve. - The balance remaining in the RAN fund after the approved drawdown is $24,636,946. - Waguespack noted that the city must maintain $25 million in working capital and build up a $55 million reserve by March 2, 2026, for loan repayment. The full $125 million RAN is due by May 1, 2026. Consent Calendar - Ordinance Cal. No. 35,305 (introduced 11/13/25) to appropriate reserve funds for NOPD personnel expenses was withdrawn. - Ordinance Cal. No. 35,306 (introduced 11/13/25) to appropriate reserve funds for NOPD personnel expenses was withdrawn. - Resolution R-26-28 (original) to release $XXXXXXX from the Employee Emergency Payroll Fund was withdrawn. - Resolution R-26-29 (original) to release $XXXXXXX from the Employee Emergency Payroll Fund was withdrawn. Discussion Items - Councilmember Harris asked whether the city would be able to meet payroll obligations from its own revenue once the RAN is depleted. Waguespack responded affirmatively, but noted a management process is needed, including maintaining working capital and transferring excess to reserves. - Councilmember Harris inquired how many more such meetings would be necessary. Waguespack responded through February 4, 2026, indicating approximately three more meetings. - Council President Morrell requested an offline discussion about strategy for spending general fund money versus RAN funds. Key Outcomes - Substitute Resolution R-26-28 (by Councilmember Harris by request): Approved and ratified the release of $6,678,207.14 from the Employee Emergency Payroll Fund to cover payroll-related expenses for police and fire departments and certain weekly-paid employees for the pay period December 28, 2025 – January 10, 2026, subject to concurrence by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor. - Motion to suspend rules to receive: moved by McCarron, seconded by Hughes, passed 7-0. - Motion to suspend rules to add: moved by Harris, seconded by McCarron, passed 7-0. - Motion to adopt: moved by Harris, seconded by Morrell, passed 7-0. - Substitute Resolution R-26-29 (by Councilmember Harris by request): Approved and ratified the release of $4,295,553.71 from the Employee Emergency Payroll Fund to cover fringe benefits and other payroll-related expenses for the pay period December 21, 2025 – January 3, 2026, subject to concurrence by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor. - Motion to suspend rules to receive: moved by Hughes, seconded by McCarron, passed 7-0. - Motion to suspend rules to add: moved by Harris, seconded by King, passed 7-0. - Motion to adopt: moved by Harris, seconded by Morrell, passed 7-0. - All votes were unanimous with all seven councilmembers present (Green arrived later) voting in favor. - The meeting adjourned on a motion by Councilmember Green, seconded by Hughes, passed 7-0.

The City Planning Commission held its first meeting of the year on January 13, 2026, at 1:45 PM in City Hall Chambers. Commissioners present: Poche, Flick, Jordan, Stee, Stewart, Whitry (quorum). The meeting included a deferral of the Transient Lodging Study to a special meeting on January 27, 2026, at 1340 Poydras Street, 21st floor. Multiple zoning and subdivision dockets were heard and voted on. Consent Calendar - Adoption of meeting minutes from December 9, 2025 (approved unanimously). - Approval of subdivision ratifications (administratively eligible subdivisions) (approved unanimously). Public Comments & Testimony - Eleanor Graham (Neighbors First for Bywater, Saxony Condominium) spoke on the Transient Lodging Study, arguing that commercial short-term rental permits are licenses with no vested property rights, so grandfathered rights do not apply. She urged removal of the commercial STR category, opposed the three-tier system, and advocated for simpler regulation including limiting bed-and-breakfasts to five rooms and treating hostels like hotels. - Frank Southwall (Jane Place Neighborhood Association) expressed concerns about the study’s potential impact, noting continued STR proliferation and rising homelessness in Mid-City. - Earl Myers and Deedris Coleman spoke in support of zoning docket 001-26 (reception facility at 28300 Phillips Street) (no opposition). - Sandy Williams initially opposed zoning docket 002-26 (single-family residence at 3350 Oliver Street) believing it involved his property; after clarification that the project was on adjacent lots owned by the applicants, he withdrew opposition. - Todd Elliott, Philip Stelley, and Ord Craddock (residents near the Blue Crawfish hotel) opposed zoning docket 005-26, citing noise from outdoor events, parking issues, and disruption. Stelley noted that noise from I-10 already exceeds 80 decibels, making any additional noise harder to bear. Craddock stated that sound amplifies under the I-10 overpass. - Rebecca Geiger spoke on zoning docket 010-26 (motor vehicle dealership at Canal Place) describing it as a small gallery with online transactions, not a traditional dealership. - Ron Lazel supported zoning dockets 011-26 (text amendment for MMU storage uses) and 012-26 (conditional use for storage yard) and commended the commission’s handling of procedural questions. - Elise Norn supported the storage yard project and subdivision docket 12625, emphasizing security needs for a 10-ft fence. - Richard Cortises supported zoning docket 067-25 (school zoning change) and subdivision docket 001-26 (Lindy Boggs resubdivision), noting that the resubdivision facilitates a public water retention project. - Mary McGibula (Mid-City Neighborhood Organization) raised concerns about lack of notification for the Lindy Boggs resubdivision, asking about bond funds for a water retention project and future development plans. Discussion Items - Transient Lodging Study (Zoning Docket 19): Deferred to January 27, 2026, after public comment. The commission voted to suspend rules and move the item to the top of the agenda; no presentation was given. A special meeting was scheduled for the study at 1340 Poydras St, 21st floor. - Property Acquisition 003-25 & Disposition 001-25: A property swap between the City and NORD to create a park at Almira & Homer Street in Algiers. Both items were past the 45-day decision deadline; the commission suspended the rules and approved each with provisos (acquisition: two provisos; disposition: one proviso). - Zoning Docket 067-25: Request to change zoning from OSN to HURD2 for the former Harriet Tubman Elementary School site. Staff recommended modified approval to HURD1 (least intensive). The applicant agreed. Approved as modified. - Zoning Docket 001-26: Conditional use for a reception facility with outdoor live entertainment at 28300 Phillips Street. Staff recommended approval with four provisos. No opposition; approved. - Zoning Docket 002-26: Conditional use for a single-family residence on five consolidated lots at 3350 Oliver Street. Staff recommended approval with three provisos. After clarifying the lot boundaries, no opposition; approved. - Zoning Docket 003-26: Waiver to expand a neighborhood commercial establishment (bakery) beyond the 3,000 sq ft limit. Staff recommended denial; the item was deferred to February 10, 2026. - Zoning Docket 004-26: Plan development to convert the former Mermaid Brewery into an indoor/outdoor amusement facility (batting cages, VR, bar) on Broad Street. Staff recommended approval with two exceptions and two provisos. Approved. - Zoning Docket 005-26: Blue Crawfish hotel request for a zoning change (HMR1 to HMC2), conditional use for outdoor live entertainment, and a waiver of operating hours. Staff recommended: deny zoning change, deny waiver, approve conditional use excluding lot 11. Commissioner Stee moved to deny all (including the conditional use). The vote was 4-2 in favor of that motion, but the chair declared it did not achieve a legal majority (effective denial). A subsequent motion to defer for 30 days for applicant-neighbor discussions also failed (4-2 against). The application will be transmitted to the City Council as an effective denial. - Zoning Docket 006-26: Text amendment to create an interim zoning district (IZD) requiring conditional use approval for all transient lodging citywide for one year. Staff recommended modified approval (removing some evaluation criteria). Approved. - Zoning Docket 007-26: Text amendment to regulate shipping container dwellings in the SRS district. Staff recommended denial on the basis that the zoning ordinance should not distinguish by material and that such regulation would stifle creativity and undermine a recent land-use barrier study. Approved (denial). - Zoning Docket 008-26: Conditional use for a reception facility in the HB1 district. Staff recommended approval with three provisos. No opposition; approved. - Zoning Docket 009-26: Conditional use for a standard restaurant (second location of Lily’s) at Magazine & Louisiana. Staff recommended approval with three provisos. Approved. - Zoning Docket 010-26: Conditional use for a motor vehicle dealership small (online sales) at Canal Place (333 Canal St). Staff recommended approval with two provisos. Approved. - Zoning Docket 011-26: Text amendment to classify contractor storage yard, outdoor storage yard, and warehouse as conditional uses in the MMU district. Staff recommended approval. Approved. - Zoning Docket 012-26: Conditional use for a contractor storage yard and a variance for a 10-ft fence (max 7 ft) at 1901 Chef Menteur Highway. Staff recommended approval of the conditional use but denial of the variance. The commission voted to approve both, overriding staff on the variance. Approved. - Subdivision Docket 126-25: Resubdivision of four irregular lots (trapezoids and triangle) into more rectangular shapes on Chef Menteur Highway. Staff recommended tentative approval with one proviso. Approved. - Subdivision Docket 001-26: Resubdivision of the former Lindy Boggs complex into three lots to facilitate redevelopment and a water retention project. Staff recommended tentative approval with one proviso. After discussion about notification and bond funds, the chair clarified that future development proposals will require an NPP. Approved. Key Outcomes - Transient Lodging Study deferred to January 27, 2026, special meeting at 1340 Poydras St, 21st floor, 1:30 PM. - Property swap for Algiers park approved (acquisition and disposition) with provisos, after suspension of 45-day rule. - Zoning docket 005-26 (Blue Crawfish) effectively denied (transmitted to council as denial) due to failure to obtain a legal majority on any motion. - Zoning docket 012-26 approved with the 10-ft fence variance, overruling staff recommendation. - All other zoning and subdivision dockets approved as per staff recommendations or modified as noted. - Next regular CPC meeting scheduled for January 27, 2026 (special meeting location).