Public Meetings - New Orleans, Louisiana

The New Orleans City Council held Day 2 of its 2027 proposed budget hearings on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. The agenda listed a 9:15 a.m. start, while the minutes recorded a 9:00 a.m. start. The hearing covered the Orleans Parish Coroner and the public safety portfolio: NOPD, NOFD, the Firefighter Pension Fund, NOCEM, JJIC, and OPCD. Council members pressed for detailed actuals, service impact analyses, and transparency; no formal votes were taken. Public Comments & Testimony - During the Coroner portion, Larry Morgan tried to raise complaints about police and the district attorney but was ruled out of order because the comments were not relevant to the Coroner's budget; he was advised to wait for the NOPD presentation. - Larry Morgan later spoke during the NOPD portion, saying the Black community believes a large percentage of services are not delivered to it, criticizing police accountability and the district attorney's tenure. - Edith Romero, self-identified as representing IN Surveillance, thanked councilmembers for budget questions and said the NOPD budget was not transparent and appeared to rise by at least $3 million despite a mayoral claim of a decrease. She cited an OIG report on overtime and asked for transparency on overtime, surveillance cameras, and police drones, advocating that funds be redirected to community safety resources. - Sarah Whittington of the ACLU of Louisiana called the budget a moral document. She said it appeared to include potentially up to $5 million more for NOPD while $5 million was cut from low-barrier shelters, and argued this would push unhoused people into the criminal legal system instead of breaking cycles. - Catherine Stoma, RN Clinical Manager for Manning Family Children's at the JJIC medical clinic, described 24/7 nursing, pediatric, psychiatric, and social work services for youth at JJIC, and asked the council to continue supporting that care. Orleans Parish Coroner - The Coroner's office requested at least a flat 2027 operating budget of approximately $4.249 million, with an increase to $4.556 million if possible to reduce overtime costs; it has 26.44 FTEs. - The office projected $31,000 in self-generated revenue; the mayor's proposed budget reportedly showed $23,000. The Coroner deferred the difference to the administration. - Coroner testimony noted year-to-date overtime of about $300,000 versus about $800,000 the prior year, and a $1.3 million professional services contract for forensic psychiatrists and coroner emergency certificates. He said he provides expert testimony, mainly in murder trials. - In response to Councilmember Willard, the Coroner said overdose deaths fell from over 500 in 2022 to 184 to date in 2026, but remain at an unacceptable level; he warned about fentanyl and designer drugs and urged wider Narcan distribution. New Orleans Police Department - Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick presented crime-reduction data: murders down 65% since 2022; fatal shootings down 67%; non-fatal shootings down 62%; armed robberies down 56%; carjackings down 66%. She said New Orleans and Washington, D.C. were cited at the UN for major crime drops. - Comptroller Charlene Rollins presented a proposed 2027 general fund budget of about $167 million ($150 million personnel, $16.2 million other operating), compared with a projected $170 million 2026 year-end spend. - The proposal includes $10 million in reductions from NOPD's 2027 request: $2 million from overtime, $4.3 million from civilian staffing, equal to 62 FTEs (68 actual positions because part-time positions are combined into FTEs). NOPD would budget 975 commissioned officers and 293 civilians. - Other operating reductions include cutting the Axon contract from $5.5 million to $3 million (affecting body-worn cameras, TASER, and in-car cameras), eliminating a $1.3 million outsourced traffic-crash investigation contract, and $452,000 in telephone savings. - Kirkpatrick said overtime was managed below a mid-year cut to $15 million after a 2024 spike tied to the Bourbon Street attack, the Super Bowl, and a snowstorm. - Recruitment improved: applications up 65% and test-takers up 28%; a class of 20 graduates Friday would bring sworn staffing to about 926, against a goal of 1,200. - On parking and towing, 71 positions transferred to NOPD, but at least 15 could not be onboarded because of background and NCIC access requirements; current staffing was given as 59, and NOPD hired four tow-truck drivers. - Councilmembers expressed strong concern about eliminating the traffic investigation contract, warning of long waits and pulling patrol officers from 911 calls. Kirkpatrick said an in-house police support technician model would take about three months and roughly $650,000 to stand up; Councilmember Morrell suggested competitively rebidding the contract and bringing secondary employment in-house to generate revenue. - The crime lab retrofit was estimated at about $9 million and is not in the proposed budget; DNA backlog is currently minimal, but the State Police lab move and exhaustion of DNA funds could create a new backlog. - Councilmember Green defended NOPD funding as a moral choice focused on victims, noted recruitment gains, and projected the lowest murder rate in 57 years. New Orleans Fire Department - Superintendent Roman Nelson proposed a 2027 budget with $125.9 million in personnel and $1.17 million in other operating, a $5.47 million reduction from 2026, achieved mainly through attrition and pension adjustments while preserving PIAL Class 1 fire protection. - The department reported completion of the FAA airport rescue and firefighting inspection, the move to the new headquarters at 401 City Park Avenue, and continued mobile data terminal and K9 critical-incident stress work. - Councilmember Morrell questioned the attrition reduction of 29 firefighter FTEs. Nelson said about 90 applicants cleared the hiring process but are on hold due to the hiring freeze; apparatus may run with three instead of four firefighters but service should be maintained. - Fire officials noted 58 members on DROP and over 25 who completed DROP but continue working, complicating terminal-leave projections; terminal leave was budgeted. - Councilmember Willard confirmed 35 positions were moved to the general fund after a SAFA grant ended; the fire department has 644 proposed FTEs and about eight vacancies. Firefighter Pension Fund - Chief Innovation Officer Jonathan Wisby said the city faced a roughly $100 million 2027 budget shortfall and proposed an $8.5 million reduction in the city's fire pension contribution after discussions with pension board and union representatives. - The city's 2027 requested pension contribution was $56.7 million for the old and new funds. Adding fire pension obligation bonds and a $5 million longevity settlement, the city's fixed fire-pension costs were about $76 million, approximately 10% of the general fund. - The city's proposal would make lower payments in the near term and higher payments later, still reaching full funding by 2040. Wisby acknowledged the pension board has not accepted the proposal; it has only been discussed with representatives. - Councilmembers Morrell and Willard said if the pension proposal is not settled, the council should probably budget for the worst-case scenario rather than assume acceptance. Wisby said the 2027 allocation would keep payments going until about October, providing time to negotiate. Office of Coordination & Emergency Management (NOCEM) - Director Derek Hesson proposed a 2027 general fund budget of $2.74 million, down 17% from the $3.32 million 2026 adopted budget, a cut of about $574,000. - NOCEM eliminated a hazard mitigation program manager (moved to the grant office), a hazard mitigation coordinator, and a principal emergency management coordinator. Other reductions include the RAVE alert contract, RAVE panic button, vehicle fleet replacement, EOC technology upgrades, and parade trackers. - NOCEM's budgeted general fund staffing falls from 14 positions in 2024 to 9 in 2027, a 45% reduction; the non-general fund increases from $73.9 million to $80.2 million, but is mostly grant-funded pass-through, not staffing capacity. - Hesson advocated for funding an Access and Functional Needs Disaster Accessibility Coordinator and a Mass Care Coordinator from the Environmental Improvement Fund, saying they are critical for shelters and inclusive disaster response. - Council members asked about planned EOC technology upgrades and a 2027 city-assisted evacuation exercise to be run through the Smoothie King Center, federally reimbursable. Juvenile Justice Intervention Center (JJIC) - Director Shelle Williams said the 2027 budget reduces overtime and operating costs but includes no planned staff reductions or reductions in the standard of care for youth. - JJIC projects a 22% reduction in overtime; renegotiated janitorial and medical contracts; deactivated 12 of 31 cell phones; and realized $13,000 in annual savings. The medical services contract with Children's Hospital is $1.4 million, about a third of the budget. - A jail management software subscription (Tyler Tech e-supervision) costs $181,000 per year and was previously paid with ARPA funds; JJIC needs a funding source or risks losing access to its youth tracking system. - With an Umbutu Village programming partnership, JJIC reported zero critical incidents since the start of 2026, four minor incidents, and zero staff or youth injuries. Staff-to-youth ratio is 1:8, and the daily population is in the 40s compared with 76 or more previously. - Goals include the school lunch reimbursement program, grants for juvenile justice reform, expanding the intensive in-home supervision program with a 70-75% success rate, college pathways with Southern University at New Orleans, and transitioning from 12-hour to 8-hour shifts. Orleans Parish Communications District (OPCD) - Executive Director Carl Fassel said 911 answer times are in the 70-80% range for the 90% in-15-seconds standard because 10 call-taker positions are frozen; full staffing in the 2027 request is expected to restore compliance. - OPCD's total proposed 2027 budget is $26 million, up from $24 million in 2026, but its request from the city is down 2%, or 7% including the prior year's extra $1 million overtime allocation. - The state legislature increased the cellular 911 fee from $1.25 to $2 per line per month, generating roughly $2 million; $1 million offsets the city request and the rest funds deferred needs. - Completed work includes the NOFD fire alerting system, APCO-accredited training, three CPE graduates in senior leadership, and a recruit class of 14 starting October 13. - OPCD noted the NICE records system remains broken, causing about three-week delays in public records responses; the Cisco non-emergency telephony system is beyond end of life; insurance costs are elevated after a prior carrier declined renewal. - Council members asked for a line-item breakdown of subscriptions and the $512,000 repairs and maintenance line; OPCD agreed to provide it. Key Outcomes - No formal council votes were taken during the hearing. - The council requested follow-up data from NOPD, including actual expenditures for 2024-2026, an itemized civilian FTE reduction analysis, the cost of a police support technician program, and parking and towing staffing details. - Several councilmembers signaled that preserving an alternative to sworn-officer traffic crash response and funding the crime lab and DNA capacity are priorities. - On the fire pension, the council asked the administration to continue negotiations and indicated it may budget conservatively if no agreement is reached. - Funding for JJIC's $181,000 jail management software remains unresolved; council and staff will need to identify a sustainable funding source. - The Chair announced the council will reconvene Monday at 9:30 a.m. for the next budget hearing.

The New Orleans City Council convened Day 1 of its 2027 Proposed Budget Hearings on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, beginning at 9:30 a.m. The administration presented the proposed 2027 millage rates and budgets for the Department of Finance, the Chief Administrative Office (Budget, IT, Innovation/Performance, HR, and Sustainability), an update on the Early Childhood Education millage (Year 4), and the Civil Service Department. The session opened with a detailed discussion of a potential millage roll-forward — the first since 2015 — as a partial offset to a projected $77 million general fund gap. No ordinances were voted on; the session was informational and the first of a multi-day hearing schedule. Public Comments & Testimony - Larry J. Morgan (8312 Orianda Street) opposed any further tax increases, stating that residents' salaries cannot accommodate higher taxes while city services decline. He directly criticized CAO Joe, saying "Joe, you're a joke," and alleged the council gave itself a raise after campaigning on lowering costs. - A speaker from Apple Street (Mr. Adun) warned that regressive impacts extend beyond taxes to fines, parking tickets, and code enforcement, which disproportionately hit poor communities, particularly Black communities in New Orleans East. He cited Superintendent Ann Kirkpatrick's earlier statement against penalizing citizens with civil penalties during the austerity crisis. Discussion Items Tax Levy Ordinance – Proposed Millage Rates (Ords 35582 & 35583) - CAO Joe presented the proposed millage roll-forward scenarios: general alimony/unrestricted general fund (1.82 mills, up to $10 million in additional revenue); city-dedicated uses including police, fire, parks and parkways, and NOR recreation (1.911 mills, $11.388 million); a police platoon millage ($4.3 million); and library, early childhood education, Audubon, and City Park millages (2.93 mills combined, $16.35 million) — a grand total of about $42 million. - For a homestead-exempt home, a full roll-forward would cost: $103.94 annually ($8.66/month) for a $200,000 home; $141.13 annually ($11.76/month) for a $250,000 home; $178.33 annually ($14.86/month) for a $300,000 home; and $513 annually for a $750,000 home. - Millages not being rolled forward include the Board of Liquidation (14.5 mills), the Sewerage & Water Board drainage millages, the school board (which rolled forward years ago), the Orleans law enforcement district (sheriff), and various district/levy boards. The last full roll-forward of city-benefiting millages was 2015. - Councilmember Willard cautioned against framing increases in monthly terms because taxes are due annually and unpaid balances accrue interest penalties. He also noted that homeowners with special assessment freezes will still pay more when the millage rate rises. - Councilmember King urged better public education, citing widespread misinformation and his own barbershop conversations where residents did not know the actual numbers. He asked the administration for an explicit position on the roll-forward; CAO Joe described the budget as a "menu of options" rather than taking a yes/no position and said an interactive web page with a millage calculator would be posted this week. - Councilmember Green listed cost drivers since 2015: $30 million in increased health care costs, $18 million in previously unbudgeted debt service, $5 million in retention and terminal leave pay, $26 million in across-the-board pay increases, $98 million for outside agencies (about $75 million of it for Orleans Justice Center operations and jail health care), the loss of ARPA funds, and a $138 million surplus (18.1–18.4% of the general fund, above the GFOA 16% benchmark). - Councilmember Morrell described a proposed arrangement in which Audubon would take over maintenance of Crescent Park in exchange for its millage roll-forward, and argued that property taxes are less regressive than sales taxes because they rise with property value. - The administration confirmed that even a full $42 million roll-forward would not close the gap: the starting deficit is $99 million, roughly $21.5 million in one-time savings reduces it to about $77 million in cuts, and CAO-estimated proposed cuts of $16 million would reduce — but not eliminate — the remaining gap. Councilmember Morrell said the council, not the administration, would ultimately decide which cuts are restored if millages are rolled forward. Department of Finance - Finance leadership presented a proposed 2027 budget of $38.7 million versus $19.3 million adopted in 2026. The increase is driven mainly by $18.2 million in principal and $2.3 million in interest — debt service moved into the general fund. Excluding debt service, operations are about $1 million below 2026. - Accounting: FTEs reduced from 22 to 20 (a 9% reduction); ADP payroll software funded at $3 million (including a $250,000 reduction and $50,000 in new investments). The FY2025 audit was completed on time, and the LLA approved it in one business day — a first. - Purchasing: 6.5 FTEs (down from 9.5); hosted the annual procurement fair at one-third of its allowed budget. A $10,000 hearing-officer line for responsible-contracting determinations was removed, with the department flagging it as a priority to restore. - Revenue: 46 employees; the sales-tax audit team was doubled; on pace for 200 audits and $3.3 million in sales-tax collections as of August 2026; audit return on investment is 4.6:1. A tax amnesty runs October 1–December 31, 2026, waiving 100% of penalties and 50% of interest. Only 2–5% of registered businesses are audited annually; penalties are 5% per month (capped at 25%) plus uncapped 1.25% interest. - Treasury: 20 FTEs (down 3); zero non-general fund budget proposed; tax sales for adjudicated properties are paused pending a new vendor expected within six months. Councilmember Harris pushed for a faster timeline, noting unrecognized revenue. - Retirement: 7.5 FTEs; $621 million investment portfolio; $4.3 million paid monthly to retirees; about 70% of the office is eligible to retire in January. A one-time COLA continues in February, but a permanent 1% COLA (costing north of $20 million) is not in the 2027 budget and will be studied for 2028. - Councilmember Morrell praised moving debt service into the general fund as the honest approach and encouraged all departments to budget for terminal leave. Councilmember McCarron requested org charts for every department and noted that FTE reductions are vacant positions; she also asked the city to maximize use of the short-term rental funding stream. - Councilmember Harris noted discrepancies between presentation slides and the budget book (e.g., Finance director's office listed as 5 FTEs in the presentation but 6 in the budget book; the accurate number is 6) and said such variances should be watched throughout the hearings. Chief Administrative Office - Office of Budget and Management (Assistant CAO Brandy DeLarge): Proposed general fund budget of $2.8 million, up $1.25 million, primarily to establish the new Contracts Management Office (about 10 staff); citywide postage moved into the general fund. Non-general fund drops from $350,000 to $121,000. - Office of Information and Technology (Chief Innovation Officer Jonathan Wisby): The 2027 budget is $3 million above the 2026 adopted level but still $1 million below 2025. Four contract staff convert to full-time (personnel from 40 to 42 FTEs, with two budgeted positions actually lost); department furloughs are eliminated. Efficiencies include ending a cyber-command lease, licensing audits, and removing low-use public Wi-Fi (Duncan Plaza; Lafayette Square 1,000 users/month). Cybersecurity risk score dropped 85% following a CISA review. A new 311 module launches around Q2 2027 ($500–600K capital implementation; $100K annual maintenance; past-ticket data import poses challenges). The Lama permitting-system replacement RFP is targeted for November, and a website accessibility deadline is April 2027. - Councilmember Morrell pressed for consolidating or eliminating OPSE through centralized police detail scheduling and a quartermaster model, arguing it would cut duplication and generate department revenue without tax increases. Councilmember Green questioned the city's investment in OPCD, which he noted is a state agency. - Office of Service and Innovation / Performance and Accountability (Chief Performance Officer Abby V): Budget rises from $563,000 to $1.2 million, mostly correcting 2026 under-budgeting of existing FTEs (7 general fund + 3 grant-funded); other operating funding is eliminated. The office led 2025 spending controls, quarterly spending reviews, and supports the new contracts office and jail health care contract. - Office of Employee & Labor Relations / HR (Assistant CAO Christina Hamilton): Proposed general fund budget of $3.9 million (+$159,000); personnel up $364,000 (budgeting for actuals and no furloughs); other operating down 37.2%. Health plan costs rose sharply (2025 gross medical claims $53.5M vs $44M in 2024; pharmacy $26.3M vs $16.8M; net employer cost $62.3M). The city is adopting $11.95 million in savings ($3.9M plan design, $2.7M pharmacy, $3.08M eligibility/coordination, $1.64M site of care, $647K employee contributions). A Select Ochsner narrow network was not implemented. New for 2027: a $1,000-deductible PPO and a $3,000-deductible HSA-compatible HDHP; family out-of-pocket max drops from $13,500 to $12,000; employee+spouse and employee+family dental premiums rise $20/month. Pre-65 retirees move to a separate self-funded plan with the deductible rising from $750 to $1,250; retiree per-member cost rose 33% ($1,620 to $2,154). Open enrollment runs October 1–31, 2026. Councilmember Willard asked whether employees are paying more for less; HR responded "Absolutely not" and noted the city still bears most of the cost. - Office of Sustainability (Chief Sustainability Officer Meagan Williams): Proposed budget is $177,000, mostly operating; two staff would be split-funded ($22,000 personnel). The office eliminated funding for Recycled At and Christmas tree recycling ($20,000), though the CAO hopes to restore it with other funds. Grant-funded work continues: Gordon Plaza solar farm RFQ imminent; Recovery One consent-decree maintenance; Gentilly Resilience District ($141M HUD; Willie Hall site has 5 million gallons of underground stormwater storage); 41-building energy assessments and 14-building solar PV under the CPRG grant; Lincoln Beach phase one; and a Climate Action Plan update (C40 requirement). Green-infrastructure maintenance uses the 5135 fund ($300,000); an adopt-a-stormwater-lot program is planned. Councilmember Green asked about private-sector help for bioswale maintenance and highlighted the new Tremé green infrastructure project; Councilmember Harris asked for a cost-benefit analysis of Recycled At versus landfill hauling and flagged community concerns about AL Davis Park's grass, which is being replaced with sod. Early Childhood Education Millage Presentation (Year 4) - The 2022 early childhood millage is in its fourth full year. It funds about 1,000 infant/toddler seats, matched 1:1 by the state ($21.5 million) for another 800 children, for 1,800 total served across 40 centers — over 60% of publicly funded seats in the network. - New Orleans serves 31% of low-income infants/toddlers versus a 12% statewide average. Kindergarten-readiness scores exceed the statewide average in every demographic group. 94% of families said the program improved their ability to work or attend school; 89% would recommend their site; 77% of children return year to year; 97% of directors rated the program positively. - Wraparound services include vision, developmental, and hearing screenings, with over a quarter of screened children enrolled in care coordination, and about 1,000 two-generation mental health consultation visits. - NORA has received $4.6 million since 2022 for child care facilities; 2,000 hours of technical assistance went to 130 centers; three centers have opened (Firehouse and Wilcox Academy in District B; Shiloh Gardens in District E). - The current millage is 4.39 mills ($21.5 million/year). Rolling forward to 5 mills would add $3.4 million and roughly 100–200 more seats, but demand is far larger: more than 5,000 eligible children and 50+ centers cannot be served due to funding limits. Average teacher wage is $11/hour; retention bonuses have helped — 90% of surveyed teachers said the supports reduced stress, and 83% said they would stay in the field. Seventeen communities across the state now compete for the state match. Civil Service - Director Amy Trapnier presented a standstill 2027 budget: personnel $2.4 million (+$26,000, due to fringe costs) and other operating fixed at $509,364. Two vacant positions are eliminated, one replaced by a new learning management system. About 92% of other operating funds cover software (63%) and the disciplinary appeals process (29%, mostly hearing examiners and court reporters). - Public safety promotional testing remains unfunded for 2027; the commission has extended existing eligible lists into 2027. - Goals include rule modernization, per-vacancy job postings, weekly recertification of eligible lists, electronic onboarding, addressing critical vacancies via hiring-rate and classification changes, and a train-the-trainer session for the employee growth and development program in early 2027. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the session was Day 1 of the 2027 budget hearings. Day 2 (public safety) was scheduled for the following day, with Councilmember Morrell signaling he will ask NOPD to identify offsetting cuts for any requested increases. - The administration committed to posting an interactive millage-impact web page/calculator this week, allowing residents to toggle scenarios by home value and roll-forward option. - Councilmembers directed departments to provide org charts (filled/vacant) as part of budget materials. - The administration was asked to produce a revised cut list if partial or full millage roll-forwards are adopted; CAO Joe said the cut list would be a "continued dialogue" with the council. - Finance will continue discussions on accelerating the new tax-sale vendor timeline; the revenue amnesty program begins October 1, 2026; HR open enrollment begins October 1, 2026. - Councilmember Harris requested a Recycled At cost-benefit analysis (versus landfill hauling) before the end of budget season; Councilmember Morrell flagged potential near-term work on OPSE consolidation and centralized police detail management.

The Criminal Justice Committee met on September 28, 2026, to hear directly from youth incarcerated at the Juvenile Justice Intervention Center (JJIC) about their lived experiences, and to vote on a contract amendment for Ubuntu Village NOLA. The meeting featured powerful testimony from five young people, discussion of systemic failures, and a committee vote to forward a contract extension to the full council. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the August 27, 2026 meeting: Motion by Councilmember Harris, seconded, and unanimously approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Larry Morgan urged support for the youth, stating they are “our future” and that he has sought help beyond city borders. - Belden Batiste praised JJIC Executive Director Dichelle Williams, highlighted the work of community partners (e.g., Kevin Kimbrough, New Orleans Youth Coalition), and called for addressing root causes of crime such as poverty, education, and housing. He also announced a new group, “Know Who Whom Bow,” in memory of Jerome Smith. Discussion Items Juvenile Justice Intervention Center (JJIC) Presentations - Executive Director Dichelle Williams introduced the session, emphasizing that the purpose was to hear the children’s stories, not to discuss charges. She shared two anecdotes of youth in crisis (a teenage mother with a newborn and a homeless teen) to illustrate the unresolved trauma and lack of resources that precede incarceration. - Five youth (Voices 1–5) spoke about their lives, including: poverty, single mothers, domestic violence, absent fathers, homelessness, hunger, grief from losing siblings to violence, and lack of mental health support. They expressed accountability for their actions but also explained how systemic and family failures contributed to their circumstances. Many noted that JJIC provides stability (meals, education, safety) that they lacked outside. - Voice Number 2 added later that his mother chose an abusive partner over her children, and he has no home to return to upon release. - Voice Number 1 disclosed that her mother is missing (kidnapped) and that she struggles with thoughts of self-harm, but is determined to improve. - Statistics shared: Current JJIC population is 51 youth (down from a capacity of 76); 3 are girls, all are African American; only 3 active fathers are involved in the youth’s lives (visits, calls, etc.). - Councilmember Eugene Green thanked the youth for their courage and noted that the system fails both victims and offenders. He mentioned resources such as social workers at NOPD districts and youth & family planning at City Hall. - Councilmember Morel praised the youth’s accountability and emphasized that adults and elected officials bear responsibility for creating opportunities post-incarceration. - Councilmember King expressed disappointment at the low public and media attendance. He thanked Ms. Williams for turning around JJIC and noted common themes of absent fathers and domestic violence. He questioned Voice Number 4 about being blocked from employment because his mother would lose subsidy income—the youth confirmed this. - Councilmember King also asked the youth why JJIC is predominantly African American; they responded that other races have better resources and stable households, while black youth are often misled and lack guidance. Discussion and Vote on Contract Amendment for Ubuntu Village NOLA - Dr. Vegno (Health Department) presented Amendment No. 2 to the Professional Services Agreement with Ubuntu Village NOLA. The amendment extends the term to December 2027 and increases compensation by $1.2 million (no additional funds in FY2026; the increase accounts for future years and allows billing under current budget). Ubuntu provides violence prevention: street outreach, conflict mediation, hospital response, family bereavement support, and the “four by six” block-by-block environmental crime remediation. - Councilmember Green praised Ubuntu’s role in reducing violence, noting New Orleans is on track for its lowest violent crime rate since 1957. - Councilmember King moved to accept the contract; seconded by Councilmember Harris; all in favor. The item will go before the full council at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved unanimously. - JJIC presentation concluded with acknowledgment of the youth’s stories; no formal vote taken. - Ubuntu Village NOLA contract amendment (Amendment No. 2) was approved by the committee (motion by King, second by Harris) for full council consideration. The amendment extends the term to December 2027 and increases compensation by $1.2 million. - Adjourned at approximately [time not specified] after motions by Councilmember Morel and second.

The Climate Change and Sustainability Committee of the New Orleans City Council met on September 23, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. (agenda time) to consider a resolution for a battery storage pilot program, a motion for a drainage project, and to receive a presentation on Lafitte Greenway improvements. The meeting featured extensive public testimony and unanimous support for the agenda items. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were listed. Public Comments & Testimony - Zach Franklin (Great Alternatives) expressed strong support for the resolution and committed to working with local partners on deployment and job creation, emphasizing consumer protections. - Sister Alicia Costa (Sisters of the Holy Family) spoke in favor of the resolution, highlighting the needs of elderly residents and frequent power outages in New Orleans East. - Deborah Salvador (Together New Orleans) thanked the committee and stated the neighborhood power plan will improve quality of life and address blackouts. - Michelle Firestone (Community Church Unitarian Universalist, Jefferson Parish resident) expressed support, noting regional dependence on New Orleans' success. - Kathy Larimer (Together New Orleans) supported the resolution, citing benefits for citizens and carbon neutrality. - Jesse George (Alliance for Affordable Energy) expressed support, noting that the program is a culmination of a decade of advocacy and that low-income households will have zero upfront cost. - Monika Gerhardt (Gulf States Renewable Energy Industries Association) thanked the council and staff for their leadership. - Sean Moses (no organization stated) spoke in support, calling it a beautiful day in the neighborhood. - Reverend Jeff Connor (retired United Methodist) expressed pride and gratitude, stating the plan is being watched nationally and internationally. - Calvin Lawrence (IBEW Local 130, Together New Orleans) praised the council for fighting for the little man and for bravery in doing something different. - Gareth Johnson (Together New Orleans) shared a personal story about community solar forums and emphasized the program's importance for New Orleans East. - Mary Ellen Burns (First Unitarian Universalist Church, Together New Orleans) called the plan a win for collaboration and hope. - Wendy Beck (Deep South Center for Environmental Justice) supported the program, noting the importance of structuring incentives so low-income households can participate and stressing that transmission investment remains essential. - Annie Clark (Finance New Orleans) offered assistance with implementation, including bridging battery incentives and supporting wraparound resilience like fortified roofs. - Broderick Baggart (Together New Orleans) suggested several amendments for the full council: ensuring existing pilot batteries are eligible for ongoing incentives, allowing three-phase commercial systems to participate, allowing batteries outside the pilot to enroll (without upfront incentives), and renaming the program the "Neighborhood Power Plan." - Jolie Vunk (Mid City resident) supported both the battery program and the Greenway, noting improved safety at crosswalks on Carrolton. - Six online comments were read into the record, all in support of the battery program, with emphasis on full funding for upfront incentives and low-income access. Discussion Items - Resolution UD-24-02 (Distributed Energy Resource Program – Phase 3 Battery Storage): The committee discussed the Neighborhood Power Plan, a $29 million program ($23 million in upfront incentives) to deploy nearly 2,000 batteries across the grid. Councilmember McCarron (Chair) detailed the incentives: $850/kWh for low-income residential, $550/kWh for non-LMI residential and commercial, with 40% of residential incentives earmarked for LMI customers. The program also includes $3 million for administrative costs and requires customer protections. Councilmember Willard emphasized that the program is the largest per capita investment in distributed battery storage in the nation, using $28 million from Entergy penalties. Councilmember Green praised the focus on LMI citizens and shared a personal story about post-Hurricane Ida deaths at a senior facility. The resolution was passed to the full Council without opposition. - Motion – West End Drainage Project: The committee considered a motion to enter a Professional Services Agreement for design, engineering, and construction management of a modular tank system in West End. Councilmember Green asked for benefits to the public; a staff member explained the detention system will reduce street flooding during heavy rain events and that a new basketball court will be built. One public comment was received supporting the project. The motion passed unanimously. - Presentation – Lafitte Greenway Improvements: Jason Neville, Executive Director of the Lafitte Greenway Partnership, presented updates. Key points: the Greenway is 10 years old and has seen over 3 million users; completion of the final half-mile to the Canal Boulevard transit center is stalled due to a Norfolk Southern rail line and paused design funding; the partnership received a $280,000 grant for a five-block expansion along Galvez to the bio district; over 982 trees have been planted (1,000th next month) and three rain gardens installed; a grant-funded wetland park with a waterfall is planned; an economic development district was established and will hold its first board meeting soon. Councilmembers expressed support and agreed to work on Norfolk Southern negotiations. No formal vote was taken. Key Outcomes - Resolution UD-24-02 was approved by the committee for consideration by the full City Council. The resolution directs Entergy New Orleans to submit a modified implementation plan by October 31, 2026, with a program launch no later than the first quarter of 2027. - Motion for West End Drainage Modular Tank System was passed unanimously, authorizing the Professional Services Agreement. - The Lafitte Greenway Presentation was received; councilmembers committed to assisting with the rail line issue and supporting the Greenway's continued development. - The committee adjourned after a group photo.

The City Planning Commission met on September 22, 2026, at 1:30 P.M. in Council Chambers. The meeting covered zoning text amendments, a street name change, a transfer of development rights study, subdivision requests, and ratification of administrative subdivisions. Commissioners voted on all agenda items. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes of the August 25 and September 8, 2026 meetings were approved by a unanimous voice vote (Commissioner Jackson, Poche, Abear, Flick, Whitry, Jordan, Steeg all voting yes). - Subdivision Ratifications: Five subdivisions meeting criteria for administrative approval were ratified unanimously (Commissioners Poche, Abear, Flick, Whitry, Jordan, Steeg voting yes; Jackson absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Zoning Docket 098/26 (Cannabis, Tobacco, Nicotine Text Amendment): - Daisy Ellis (representing NOHHS, Health and Human Services) expressed strong support for the zoning changes, particularly buffers near child-friendly locations to reduce youth initiation. - Susan Johnson (Town of Carrollton Watch) spoke in opposition, arguing that distance requirements and hours of operation were insufficiently strict, and that marijuana retailers should not be a permitted use in mixed-use zoning. She also criticized the influence of the medical cannabis lobby. - Ryan Baim (neighbor of a dispensary on Carrollton) opposed the amendment due to ongoing nuisances from the existing dispensary (traffic, noise, trash, public cannabis consumption), and urged the Commission to address enforcement and hours limitations. - Street Name Change 002/26: No public testimony in opposition was provided. Councilman Green and Iam Tucker (daughter of Robert H. Tucker) spoke in favor, highlighting Tucker's civil rights and economic equity contributions. - Transfer of Development Rights Study: No public testimony. - Subdivision Dockets 098/26 and 099/26: No public testimony. Discussion Items - Zoning Docket 098/26 – Text Amendment to Implement Cannabis, Tobacco, and Nicotine Study: Staff presented three new land use categories (marijuana retailer, smoke shop, retail sale of tobacco/nicotine/hemp as ancillary use) and distance requirements: 500 feet from residential zones and child-friendly uses, and 1,000 feet between smoke shops. Hours of operation proposed: 7 AM–10 PM weekdays, 8 AM–10 PM weekends for marijuana retailers and smoke shops. Staff recommended modified approval. Commissioners discussed enforcement issues, the impact on existing dispensaries (which would become legal non-conforming), and future state regulatory changes. A motion to approve with staff recommendations carried 7-0. - Street Name Change 002/26 – Rename Piety Street to Robert H. Tucker Street: The proposal would rename a 3,686-foot segment of Piety Street (affecting 117 lots and 149 addresses) to Robert H. Tucker Street. Staff recommended approval with a waiver of the five-year posthumous requirement, noting Tucker's significant impact as a civil rights leader. Councilman Green and the Tucker family spoke in favor. The Commission unanimously approved with one waiver. - Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) Study: Staff presented a study (initiated by Council Motion M-19-195 in 2019) recommending a two-phase TDR program for the CBD to preserve historic structures. Sending sites: all significant/contributing historic structures in local historic districts and landmarks. Receiving sites: all non-historic areas in the CBD. Key recommendations include a 20% maximum increase in height/FAR for receiving sites, deed restrictions for sending sites, and a requirement for historic structure assessments and preservation plans. The market analysis indicated a weak development market in the CBD. The study was adopted unanimously for transmittal to the City Council. - Subdivision Docket 098/26 – Mount Tabor Baptist Church Re-subdivision: Resubdivision of Lot 5-A into two lots to separate a church and a two-family dwelling. Staff recommended tentative approval with one proviso. Approved unanimously. - Subdivision Docket 099/26 – Magnolia Market Place II, LLC Re-subdivision: Resubdivision of Lot M into two lots at 2900 South Claiborne Avenue to separate a main commercial building and a fast-food building. Staff recommended approval with one proviso. Approved unanimously (Commissioner Jackson absent). Key Outcomes - Zoning Docket 098/26: Approved with modified staff recommendations (7-0). The text amendment will create new land use categories and impose distance requirements for cannabis, tobacco, and nicotine retailers. - Street Name Change 002/26: Approved with a waiver of the five-year posthumous rule (7-0). Piety Street (from Carver Rams Way to Florida Avenue) will be renamed Robert H. Tucker Street. - Transfer of Development Rights Study: Adopted (7-0). The study will be transmitted to the City Council for potential text amendment action. - Subdivision Docket 098/26: Tentative approval with one proviso (7-0). - Subdivision Docket 099/26: Approval with one proviso (6-0, Commissioner Jackson absent). - Subdivision Ratifications: Ratified (7-0). - Meeting Adjourned: Motion to adjourn carried.

This meeting of the Joint Utility, Cable, Telecommunications and Technology, Governmental Affairs and Budget Committee took place on September 22, 2026. The committee considered board appointments, a budget presentation, and three utility-related resolutions. Board and Commission Appointments - The committee approved Jacques Detiege to the Civil Service Commission (7-0). The agenda also listed Nick L. Harris for the same commission, but his appearance and vote were not recorded in the transcript. - The committee approved Travis Phipps to the New Orleans Redevelopment Authority (NORA) with 7 votes in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - Jesse George, on behalf of the Alliance for Affordable Energy, commented on the resolution to extend the Formula Rate Plan (FRP). He expressed support for an extension but urged cutting it from four years to two, arguing that a four-year extension would mean over a decade without a full rate case examination and would defer regulatory decisions to the next council. He also called for conditions requiring Entergy to report on disconnections and arrearages. He criticized the resolution for lacking such conditions, stating it showed a lack of concern for constituents struggling with energy bills. - A resident, Ms. Pellerin (819 Orleans Avenue), commented on the FERC opinion resolution. She questioned why ratepayers should bear the cost of Entergy's obligations to sister companies, and asked whether the city is fighting the FERC decision. Council members explained that they are bound by FERC rulings and have legal representation at FERC but lost the case. Discussion Items - CAO/Finance Budget Presentation: The city's financial position through July 31, 2026 (60% of fiscal year) was presented. Revenues: $513 million collected, $44 million above year-to-date forecast. Expenditures: $424 million (53% of budget). General fund surplus of $89.5 million year-to-date. Property taxes slightly down, sales tax slightly down, service charges down, licenses and permits up. Overtime spending monitored. Vacancies increased 5% from prior month. Total unrestricted fund balance $262.6 million. Councilmembers questioned about amnesty program (starting October 1) and progress on auctioning adjudicated properties. The director reported a contractor selected for auctions but no firm timeline; Councilmember Hughes urged attention to elderly residents needing assistance with online bidding. - Resolution – Formula Rate Plan Extension (Item 4): Resolution to extend the electric formula rate plan rider for four additional years. After public comment, the committee passed the resolution with 5 yes votes (no nays). - Resolution – FERC Order Regulatory Liability (Item 5): Resolution to establish a regulatory account of $10 million in response to FERC Opinion No. 595, which indicated Entergy New Orleans owes about $18 million to other entities. The account mitigates bill impact from a negative final decision. Staff explained the council is bound by FERC and has legal representation. The resolution passed 6-0. - Resolution – Hurricane Francine Storm Cost Certification (Item 6): Resolution certifying that Entergy New Orleans' costs in response to Hurricane Francine were proper, concluding docket UD-25-02. Passed 5-0. Key Outcomes - Appointments: Jacques Detiege to Civil Service Commission (approved 7-0). Travis Phipps to NORA (approved 7-0). - Resolution extending the electric formula rate plan rider for four years passed (5-0). - Resolution establishing a regulatory liability account for FERC Opinion No. 595 passed (6-0). - Resolution certifying Hurricane Francine costs passed (5-0).

The New Orleans City Council held a special meeting on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 10:00 AM to receive the Honorable Helena Moreno's 2027 Executive Budget Address as required by the Home Rule Charter. Mayor Moreno presented a $748 million recurring revenue base facing a roughly $100 million gap, proposing $77.7 million in direct reductions, $21.5 million in one-time offsets, and options for new recurring revenue including a millage roll forward. Council members questioned the CAO about specific cuts, reserves, personnel reductions, and service impacts. Public comment addressed contract transparency, affordable housing, pension obligations, and adjudicated properties. The meeting adjourned at 12:21 PM. Budget Address Overview - Mayor Helena Moreno emphasized balancing improved city services with residents' ability to pay, noting the city is in a stronger financial position than one year ago due to earlier austerity measures (e.g., 50% overtime reduction, 90% travel cuts, consolidation of offices). She highlighted that the 2027 budget includes no furloughs, no cuts to NORD or the Council on Aging, and protects frontline public safety, sanitation, streets, and streetlights. She presented the budget as the beginning of a collaborative process with the council and public. - CAO Joe DeRusso detailed the budget: recurring revenue of $748 million vs. 2026 expenditures and 2027 requests leaves a $100 million gap. Proposed reductions total $77.7 million, with $21.5 million in one-time funds (grant reimbursements, CDBG repurposing, neighborhood housing fund). Reserves were rebuilt to $138 million (18% of general fund). Personnel reductions include 152 FTEs, but no furloughs for city employees, and the mayor and CAO will continue a 10% pay cut. The budget structurally balances but relies on potential millage roll forward and other revenue measures. Council Discussion & Questions - Council President JP Morrell noted government grew by over 400 positions from 2016 to 2024 without corresponding service improvements, and criticized past failure to budget for known obligations like retention pay and terminal leave. He stressed that even with proposed new revenues, significant cuts (over $50 million) remain unavoidable. - Councilmember Jason Hughes raised concerns about poor performance of Parks and Parkways (grass cutting, tree maintenance), questioning how the city can ask residents to pay more when current services are inadequate. He requested a list of proposed FTE eliminations and pledged to fight cuts to Fort Pike. He emphasized the median income in New Orleans ($56,631) and asked for clear math on millage impact on a $100,000 home (east bank: $29.55 annually). - Councilmember Lesli Harris queried about pending furloughs, hiring freeze exceptions, health department cuts (especially the low barrier shelter for unhoused people, which could leave 200 people on the streets), and the $7.3 million health department reduction. She also questioned the Mardi Gras cleanup cut and asked for simplified millage impact calculations. - Councilmember Aimee McCarron requested a breakdown of DPW's operating and bond-funded personnel to understand a large cut, and announced two town halls in District A. - Council Vice President Matthew Willard expressed least support for the millage roll forward, asking about a parcel fee as alternative (no preliminary numbers yet). He noted a roll forward would increase taxes even for those with homestead freeze. He also asked about CAO and code enforcement budgets, and confirmed that interest from Caesars and rainy day funds remains in those accounts. - Councilmember Eugene Green asked why the millage was not rolled forward in 2024 (council heard concerns about COVID economic stress and had flush ARPA cash; also learned later that promised fund balances were illusory). He pressed on the clerk of criminal district court funding (state mandates eliminated city obligation) and the $58 million sheriff's budget (largely due to consent decree and state prisoners; he urged working with the state to reduce obligations). He clarified that the CAO was not advocating widespread release of inmates. - Councilmember Freddie King III (arrived later) noted that cuts to the public defender's office could increase jail population and costs. He asked about a total $1.78 million in reductions to youth and juvenile programs, and stressed that the council must consider millage roll forward to avoid severe cuts to basic services. Public Comments & Testimony - Russell Kelly (Open Window New Orleans) questioned the status of a $21.5 million CIVIX contract (claimed it was not in litigation despite CAO statement) and why a CAO chief management officer position was posted despite a hiring freeze. - Nellie Katzen (Committee for a Better New Orleans) praised transparency but expressed concern that cuts disproportionately affect affordable housing, youth services, and mental health—priorities voiced by the public. She noted that crime reduction has come from root-cause investments, which this budget would undermine. - Morgan Clavinger argued the city has become unaffordable for many, citing massive property tax reassessments in 2019, the COVID recession, and Hurricane Ida. She urged finding other revenue sources (e.g., brake tag office) and keeping residents' struggles front and center. - Bridget Neal highlighted that pension obligations (firefighters' lifetime salaries, unchecked overtime and retention bonuses inflating pension bases) consume a large share of the budget before other services are funded. She warned that a dollar reserve crisis could make these mandatory obligations unsustainable. - Ariana Newman (1735 NOLA) recommended using Section 150-77 of municipal code to sell adjudicated properties to Hurricane Katrina victims, potentially generating revenue and returning blighted property to tax rolls. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken on the budget itself. The meeting was solely to receive the budget address and begin the deliberative process. - Motions M-26-406 through M-26-413 (recommending capital projects, approving operating budgets for the Aviation Board, Delgado-Albania Plantation Commission, French Market Corporation, Municipal Yacht Harbor, Orleans Parish Communication District, New Orleans Building Corporation, and authorizing technical adjustments to the 2027 budget) were all introduced and continued to the November 19, 2026 meeting. - Ordinances on first reading (Calendar Nos. 35,579 through 35,588) were introduced and laid over as required by law, including matters related to the 2027 millage levy, grant scoring, and conditional use permits. A motion to suspend rules to introduce these passed 6-0 (with one absent). - The meeting adjourned at 12:21 PM by motion of President Morrell, seconded by Councilmember Harris, carried 5-0-2 (Willard and McCarron absent).

The Board of Zoning Adjustments (BZA) met on Monday, September 21, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order with a roll call: Commissioners Candace Force, Jose Alvarez, Alfonso Gonzalez, and Jason Richards were present; Ramiro Diaz was absent. The board adopted the minutes from the August 17, 2026 meeting by a 4–0 vote. The agenda originally listed this as a City Planning Commission meeting, but the transcript and proceedings identify it as a BZA meeting; this discrepancy is noted. Call to Order and Minutes Approval - Roll call established a quorum (4 of 5 members present). - Minutes of the August 17, 2026 meeting were adopted without objection (4–0). - The board noted that actions taken will be released as disposition notices by October 1, 2026, and that items requiring provisos must show compliance before final approval. Variances – Unfinished Business 1. BZA054-26 – 906 Philip Street (Charles and Sarah Anderson) - Request: Variance for insufficient permeable open space and excessive impervious surface in front yard due to a renovation. - Action: The applicant requested a deferral; the board granted a 30-day deferral (4–0). 2. BZA057-26 – 10 Audubon Boulevard (Rena Jolly Qualified Personal Residence Trust, Sherman Strategies, Becca Gieger) - Request: Variances for interior side yard setback (Article 11.3.a.1) and University Area Design Overlay height (18.32.b.4) to permit an addition to a single-family dwelling. - Staff Recommendation: Denial, finding the request failed several variance standards. - Public Testimony: The applicant (owner Neil Jolly) cited growing family and ailing parents needing care. Proponent Miles Granderson argued the variances were technical due to a resubdivision and that the addition follows existing roof and window lines. Opponent Justin Schmidt (on behalf of the Danzig family, neighbors at 12 Audubon) stated the addition would create a monolithic view. Susan Johnson (Carleton Watch) opposed on grounds of bad precedent and alleged violations at another Jolly property. - Board Discussion: Commissioners questioned the height variance (30‑ft overlay vs. 35‑ft base zone) and confirmed the existing structure’s footprint. - Outcome: Motion to approve both waivers, finding all nine criteria met, subject to one proviso. Vote: 4–0 (Alvarez, Gonzalez, Richards, Forrest) in favor. 3. BZA070-26 – 2502 Jefferson Avenue (Blue Orleans, LLC, Sean Fowler) - Request: Waiver of University Area Off‑Street Parking Overlay District bathroom cap (2.5 bathrooms allowed, 5 proposed). - Staff Recommendation: Denial. - Public Testimony: Applicant’s representative and owner (Michael Collins) stated the residence is for his family (two daughters and his mother) and that the extra bathrooms are needed for bedrooms. They noted the homestead exemption technicality for new construction. - Outcome: Motion to approve the waiver, finding nine criteria met, subject to one proviso. Vote: 4–0. Variances – New Business 4. BZA071-26 – 41 Allard Boulevard (Gregory and Angele Romig) - Request: Variances for front yard carport and parking pad, with irregular L‑shaped through‑lot. Staff recommended approval for parking restrictions and front‑yard parking location, but denial for carport encroachments. - Public Testimony: Applicant Gregory Romig withdrew the carport requests, seeking only parking variances. Neighbor Dela Wright withdrew opposition. - Outcome: Motion to approve parking waivers (Article 11.3.3.a and 22.8.a.1.b.2) subject to one proviso, and acknowledge withdrawal of carport waivers. Vote: 4–0. 5. BZA072-26 – 6040 Winchester Park Drive (Rickey and Ada Craige‑Roberson) - Request: Variance for interior side yard setback (required 9 ft, proposed 5 ft) to build a single‑family home. - Staff Recommendation: Denial, citing failure to meet several standards. - Public Testimony: Applicants (Ada and Rickey Craige‑Roberson) noted they obtained a similar variance in 2014 but the CZO changed, and they have neighbor support. Plans are nearly identical to the previously approved design. - Board Discussion: The original approval expired; staff noted the lot met minimum size. Commissioners discussed hardship due to time elapsed and code changes. - Outcome: Motion to approve, finding nine criteria met, subject to one proviso. Vote: 4–0. 6. BZA073-26 – 1037 Mazant Street (D T Home & Maintenance LLC, Dammond Lockhart) - Request: After‑the‑fact variances for insufficient open space ratio (0.21 required 0.30) and insufficient rear yard setback (12 ft 9 in required 20 ft) due to an addition to a two‑family dwelling. - Staff Recommendation: Denial for both waivers. - Public Testimony: Applicant and representative (Ana Elizabeth Phelps) stated the addition provides a bathroom and laundry; the owner is willing to remove concrete to improve permeable space. Board discussion focused on hardship and convenience criteria. - Board Discussion: Commissioners noted that removing concrete would partially address open space but the rear yard setback waiver remained problematic. The applicant offered to reduce the addition by 5 ft. - Outcome: Motion to defer 30 days to allow applicant to submit revised plans and address outstanding criteria. Vote: 4–0. 7. BZA074-26 – 1803 South Carrollton Avenue (Paul and Brandy Swanson, Emily Edmondson, Noli Design, LLC) - Request: Waiver of University Area Off‑Street Parking Overlay District bathroom limit (3.5 bathrooms proposed, 2.5 allowed) for conversion of a two‑family to a single‑family residence. - Staff Recommendation: Denial. - Public Testimony: Applicant Emily Edmondson argued the conversion reduces occupancy and parking demand, and the property will be a private residence (second home, so no homestead exemption). Staff noted comparable approvals. - Outcome: Motion to approve waiver, finding nine criteria met, subject to one proviso. Vote: 4–0. 8. BZA075-26 – 5010 Freret Street (SIVURI Investments LLC, Zach Smith Consulting & Design, Laura Barth) - Request: Variance for insufficient off‑street parking for a proposed social club (indoor golf) in an HU‑MU district. - Staff Recommendation: Approval, noting that typical commercial uses in the corridor are exempt from parking. - Public Testimony: Laura Barth and Eric Hoffman supported. Opponent Susan Johnson (Historic New Orleans Neighborhoods) argued the use does not meet the social club definition and that a parking waiver would push cars into neighborhoods. Applicant rebutted that the club is organized as a 501(c)(7) nonprofit and provides no food/alcohol. - Outcome: Motion to approve the parking waiver, finding nine criteria met, subject to one proviso. Vote: 4–0. 9. BZA076-26 – 5230 Pitt Street (Kurt and Leah Eischen, Lupin Architecture, Lawrence T. Lupin) - Request: Variances for stair projection (9 ft vs. allowed 6 ft) and stair height (existing 5 ft 10 in non‑conforming) to construct new front steps on a raised‑basement home. - Staff Recommendation: Denial. - Public Testimony: Applicant Lawrence Lupin and owner Kurt Eischen argued safety concerns and that similar raised‑basement homes have projecting stairs. They noted a previous approval at 2335 Jefferson that allowed a 7 ft 9 in projection. - Board Discussion: Commissioners questioned hardship since existing stairs could be repaired. The applicant stated alternatives would require structural changes. The board debated the uniqueness of the lot’s trapezoidal shape. - Outcome: Motion to approve, finding nine criteria met, subject to one proviso. Vote: 3–1 (Force dissented). However, later in the meeting it was noted that four affirmative votes are required; the vote was 3–1, so the action was improperly adopted. The board agreed to contact the applicant and reconsider at the October meeting. 10. BZA077-26 – 6019 Louisville Street (Ryan C. Marcomb, Zach Smith Consulting & Design, Laura Barth) - Request: After‑the‑fact variance for an opaque fence in the front yard (50% transparency required). - Staff Recommendation: Denial. - Public Testimony: Zach Smith and owner Ryan Marcomb explained the fence was originally built with neighbor permission on the neighbor’s side, then destroyed by the neighbor, forcing relocation to the applicant’s side. They argued that the same fence on the neighbor’s corner side yard would be legal, creating a hardship. Opponent letters were read (not present). - Board Discussion: Commissioners debated safety and the distinction between interior lot and corner lot. A compromise was proposed: the fence would be 25% open for the portion extending past the neighbor’s building face (every fourth board removed). The applicant agreed. - Outcome: Motion to approve the variance, subject to the staff’s proviso plus an additional proviso requiring 25% transparency for the projecting portion. Vote: 4–0. 11. BZA078-26 – 709 State Street - Note: Docket was marked as “NOT PROPER” and not heard. 12. BZA079-26 – 1519 Joseph Street (Stephen and Caroline Parrish, Webre Consulting, Nicole Webre) - Request: Variances for rear yard coverage, interior side yard setback, and rear yard setback to rebuild a detached garage on its original footprint after demolition. - Staff Recommendation: Denial based on hardship criterion. - Public Testimony: Nicole Webre explained the garage footprint matches the former structure; a servitude for access exists, and alternative locations are impractical. Opponents Dr. Melanie McGrath and Gordon Nudick (adjacent property owners) argued the servitude is abandoned and that construction began without a permit. Chandler Nudick, an attorney, stated no hardship exists. - Board Discussion: The board clarified it has no jurisdiction over the servitude dispute. Commissioners noted the garage would be built to the same footprint, and that a parking pad (uncovered) would be allowed, but covered parking is a convenience. However, they found that the inability to rebuild the existing structure constituted a hardship. - Outcome: Motion to approve all three waivers, finding nine criteria met, subject to one proviso. Vote: 4–0. Variances – Deferrals 13. BZA029-26 – 1614 Poland Avenue (Poland Ave LLC, Zach Smith Consulting & Design, Fresia Galvez) - Request: After‑the‑fact variances for second principal structure (rear yard setback) and front yard parking pad. Multiple deferrals; applicant requested another 60‑day deferral to allow a related property sale to remove the need for variances. - Outcome: Motion to defer 60 days at applicant’s request. Vote: 4–0. 14. BZA080-26 – 906 Dante Street (Dantes‑Burthe L.C., Colin Rusovich, Made Design, LLC, David Merlin) - Request: Staff requested an automatic 30‑day deferral due to capacity constraints (mandatory furloughs). No applicant or public comments. - Outcome: Motion to defer 30 days at staff’s request. Vote: 4–0. Director of Safety and Permits Decision Appeals – New Business 15. BZA081-26 – 3343 Esplanade Avenue (Team McLoughlin LLC, Zach Smith Consulting & Design, Ron Loesel) - Note: Rendered moot; no action taken. Key Outcomes - Amendments: Several variance requests were approved with provisos, addressing parking, setbacks, height, fencing, and bathroom counts. The board emphasized that all nine variance criteria must be met. - Deferrals: Two items (054‑26, 073‑26, 029‑26, 080‑26) were deferred to allow additional documentation or plan revisions. - Procedural Issue: The vote on BZA076‑26 (3–1) was later flagged as invalid because four affirmative votes are required. The board will revisit this at the October meeting after contacting the applicant. - Public Participation: Members of the public, including neighborhood representatives and adjacent property owners, provided testimony on several dockets. The board noted that comments on the use itself (e.g., social club definition) were beyond the scope of the parking variance. The meeting adjourned at approximately 1:30 p.m. (after the final item).

The New Orleans City Council held a regular meeting on September 17, 2026, beginning at 10:03 AM and adjourning at 1:52 PM. The meeting included a special recognition, adoption of numerous consent items, consideration of multiple zoning dockets and appeals, and approval of various ordinances and resolutions. Councilmembers Hughes and Willard arrived later in the meeting; all seven members were present for final votes. Special Recognition - Councilmembers recognized the fashion program at Edna Karr High School, led by Jamari Jaluke and Jalen Ricard, which teaches sewing and design to students. Students spoke about the program's impact. Consent Calendar - The Council adopted the consent agenda unanimously (7-0), including: - Monthly NOPD staffing data (received). - Multiple HDLC appeals setting hearing dates for October 1, 2026. - Amendments to classified pay plans for Library and Sewerage & Water Board (referred to Budget Committee). - Reports: July 2026 Budget reports, SWB storm reports for August 24, September 4, 5, and 10, 2026 encampment cleanup, OPCD monthly report, FY26 first quarter take-home vehicle report, 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Plan, Orleans Public Defender budget, District Attorney July report, and various other reports (all received). - Ordinance 35,539 (electronic billboard at 100 Poydras St.), Ordinance 35,540 (hotel conditional use at 7979 Earhart Blvd), Ordinance 35,541 (restaurant at 2901 Magazine St.), Ordinance 35,542 (bed and breakfast at 3200 Cadiz St.), Ordinance 35,559 (prohibiting carnival solicitation during parade season), Motion M-26-374 (waiving vehicle purchase requirements for law enforcement), and appointments to various boards (Ethics Review Board, Aviation Board, Audubon Commission, SWB Board, NORA, ABC Board, and confirmation of Austin Wilty as Director of Property Management). Public Comments & Testimony - Consent Agenda: Russell Kelly spoke regarding item 18, questioning a $57,000 vehicle purchase in the CAO's office and alleging unfair treatment. - HDLC Appeal – Judson Scott (1200-1204 Ursulines Ave.): Judson Scott, property owner, requested reversal of HDLC denial, citing financial hardship and safety concerns. No online comments. - HDLC Appeal – Dr. Julie Jones (620-622 Louisa St.): Multiple speakers: Eleanor Graham (Neighbors First for Bywater) opposed the HDLC approval, arguing the design is out of scale and potentially commercial. Albert McComas (adjacent resident) supported the project, noting blight removal. James Eaton (next-door neighbor) supported. Michael Furuda supported. Sherry Fisher May opposed. Brian Luckett opposed, alleging commercial intent. Catherine Harmon (architect) supported. Fallow Dunbar opposed, calling it a "wolf in sheep's clothing." Jennifer Groden opposed, citing distrust. Lucia Dunbar opposed. Sarah Pettit supported. Sarah Nay supported. Approximately 40 neighbors opposed, per speakers. - ZD 64/26 (Child Care Center, 7542 Forest Glen Rd.): Nick Kindle (Agenda for Children) spoke in support on behalf of applicant IKEA Russell. - ZD 67/26 (Car Wash, 4118-4126 S. Carrollton Ave.): Extensive public comment. Opponents: Taylor Billings (MCNO), Michelle Schlafli, Mary Meising Gubala, Fred Finn, Molly Burke, Trent Santanastaso, Mike Murray, Simone Quinn, Lawrence Jones (minister). They cited traffic, noise, flooding, crime concerns, and that 86% of immediate neighbors opposed (per canvassing). Supporters: Bishop Tom Watson, Tim Levy (Mid-City Business Association), Barrett Van Zant (Sweet Things), Ashley Hitchcock, Patrick Bain (Jesuit parent), Danielle Lee (reading statement from neighbors who changed position after modifications), Eric McDonald (developer), Pastor Tyrone Smith (First 72+, citing jobs for formerly incarcerated). - ZD 70/26 & 71/26 (Recording Studio, NiteTrippers): No public comments recorded. - ZD 75/26 (Packaged Alcohol Sales, 3315-3319 N. Galvez St.): Speakers: Eldridge Stephens (applicant) and Renard Williams, Candace Williams (owner of GNC Meat Market), Wardell Carrier, Melvin Williams, Eric Hudson (all in support, citing convenience and community need). Online comment from Marguerite Doyle Johnston opposed. - ZD 76/26 (Hotel, 1722-1732 Pauger St.): Miles Grandison (applicant) spoke in support. - ZD 79/26 (Restaurant, 4001 Magazine St.): Maddie Charleston and Jason (applicant) spoke in support, noting noise abatement plan. - Ordinance 35,552 & 35,553 (Housing Trust Fund): Jordan Rogers (Housing NOLA) supported, urging the council to protect dedicated housing dollars. - Ordinance 35,547 (Claiborne Corridor Grant): Nairi Ramsey (Ujima) spoke in support. Discussion Items - HDLC Appeal – Judson Scott (1200-1204 Ursulines Ave.): Councilmember King moved to reverse HDLC denial, noting the modifications improved the property and addressed safety. The motion passed 7-0. - HDLC Appeal – Dr. Julie Jones (620 Louisa St.): Councilmember King moved to affirm HDLC's conceptual approval, stating concerns about future commercial use are zoning matters, not HDLC. The motion passed 7-0. - ZD 64/26 – Child Care Center (7542 Forest Glen Rd.): Councilmember Hughes moved approval with an added proviso limiting hours to 7:30 AM-5 PM, weekdays. He emphasized this does not set precedent. Passed 7-0. - ZD 67/26 – Car Wash (4118-4126 S. Carrollton Ave.): Councilmember McCarron discussed the balance between development and neighborhood quality, noting modifications: no entrance/exit on Ulloa Street, no amplified music, landscaping, and lighting study. She moved approval of M-26-358 with 8 provisos and 3 waivers. Seconded by Councilmember Green. Passed 7-0 after a motion to add 10 minutes to public comment (approved 7-0). - ZD 70/26 – Text Amendment for Recording Studio Live Entertainment: Councilmember Harris moved approval. Passed 6-0 (Councilmember King absent). - ZD 71/26 – Conditional Use for Recording Studio at 514 Jackson Ave.: Councilmember Harris moved approval with additional provisos from community engagement. Passed 7-0. - ZD 74/26 – Multifamily Expansion (1227-1229 Calhoun St.): Councilmember McCarron moved approval, noting no opposition. Passed 7-0. - ZD 75/26 – Packaged Alcohol Sales (3315-3319 N. Galvez St.): Councilmember Green noted the request was for packaged alcohol (including hard liquor) versus the speakers' focus on beer. He moved to defer to the next meeting. Passed. - ZD 76/26 – Hotel (1722-1732 Pauger St.): Councilmember King moved approval, noting no opposition and compliance with code. Passed 7-0. - ZD 77/26 – Trinity School Nursery Expansion: Councilmember Harris moved approval. Passed 7-0. - ZD 78/26 – Parking Lot (1900 Carondelet St.): Councilmember Harris moved approval. Passed 7-0. - ZD 79/26 – Restaurant (4001 Magazine St.): Councilmember Harris moved approval with noise abatement proviso. Passed 6-0 (Councilmember Willard absent). - ZD 80/26 – Hotel (714-716 Carondelet St.): Councilmember Harris moved approval with modifications excluding short-term rentals. Passed 7-0. - ZD 93/26 – St. Augustine Baseball Facility: Councilmember Green moved approval, noting $6,700 sq ft indoor practice facility, no opposition. Passed 7-0. - Ordinance 35,547 – Claiborne Corridor Grant: Councilmember King explained $500,000 grant for Phase 2 design of Cultural Innovation District. Passed 7-0. - Ordinance 35,551 – NOPD to DPW Fund Transfer: Councilmember Harris moved approval for ground transportation bureau. Passed 7-0. - Ordinance 35,552 & 35,553 – Housing Trust Fund: Councilmember Harris moved approval of $1.5 million increase to meet 2% charter requirement. Passed 7-0 each. - Ordinance 35,554 – Airport Transit Study Grant: Councilmember Green moved approval of $1.15 million federal grant. Passed 7-0. - Ordinance 35,555 – Health Department Benefits Coordinator: Councilmember Harris moved approval, fully funded by LPHI. Passed 7-0. - Ordinance 35,562 – West End Development CEA: Councilmember McCarron moved approval after years of multi-parish collaboration. Passed 7-0. - Ordinance 35,564 – Roadway Lighting Safety Grant: Councilmember Green moved approval of $450,000 grant. Passed 7-0. - Ordinance 35,565 – St. Augustine Alumni Lighting Project: Councilmember Green moved approval; Councilmember Harris recused due to membership in the alumni association. Passed 6-0 with one abstention. - Motion M-26-373 – Meeting Schedule Change: Councilmember Morrell moved to start October 1 meeting earlier for breast cancer awareness. Passed 7-0. - Resolution R-26-375 – Caesars Grant Program: Adopted 7-0. - Resolution R-26-376 – Cox Communications Grant Program: Adopted 7-0. - Motion M-26-385 – Olympic Torch Relay Signatory: Councilmember Morrell moved to add Council President as signatory. Rule 57 suspended (7-0), then motion adopted 7-0. - Motion M-26-386 – YWCA Loan Agreement: Councilmember Willard moved approval of $250,000 forgivable loan. All councilmembers added as authors. Passed 7-0. - Motion M-26-387 – Greater New Orleans Development Foundation Agreement: Councilmember Willard moved approval. Passed 7-0. - Motion M-26-394 – Street Renaming (Northline to Palmetto): Councilmember McCarron moved to initiate CPC hearing. Passed 7-0. - Motion M-26-402 – 2027 Meeting Schedule: Adopted 7-0. - Motion M-26-403 – 2027 Holiday Schedule: Added Katrina Memorial Day. Adopted 7-0. - Resolution R-26-405 – Sankofa Wetland Park Grant Application: Councilmember Hughes moved to suspend rules, receive, and adopt. Passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - HDLC Appeals: Reversed denial for Judson Scott (1200-1204 Ursulines); affirmed HDLC approval for 620 Louisa (7-0). - Zoning Dockets: - ZD 50/26 (Esplanade Ventures, bed & breakfast): Died due to expired deadline. - ZD 59/26 (Commercial STR): Deferred to 10/1/26. - ZD 64/26 (Child care center): Approved with added proviso (7-0). - ZD 67/26 (Car wash): Approved with 8 provisos and 3 waivers (7-0). - ZD 70/26 (Text amendment for live entertainment at recording studios): Approved (6-0). - ZD 71/26 (Recording studio conditional use at 514 Jackson Ave.): Approved (7-0). - ZD 73/26 (Monastery adaptive reuse): Deferred to 10/1/26. - ZD 74/26 (Multifamily expansion): Approved (7-0). - ZD 75/26 (Packaged alcohol sales): Deferred to 10/1/26. - ZD 76/26 (Hotel): Approved (7-0). - ZD 77/26 (Trinity School nursery): Approved (7-0). - ZD 78/26 (Parking lot): Approved (7-0). - ZD 79/26 (Restaurant): Approved (6-0). - ZD 80/26 (Hotel, STR prohibition): Approved (7-0). - ZD 93/26 (St. Augustine baseball facility): Approved (7-0). - Ordinances Adopted: 35,536 (servitude, $210/yr), 35,537 (servitude, $2,298/yr), 35,538 (Yacht Harbor slip lease rates), 35,547 (Claiborne Corridor grant), 35,551 (NOPD-DPW fund transfer), 35,552 (Housing Trust Fund revenue), 35,553 (Housing Trust Fund expenditure), 35,554 (Airport transit study), 35,555 (Health benefits coordinator), 35,562 (West End development), 35,564 (Roadway lighting grant), 35,565 (St. Augustine lighting). - Motions Adopted: M-26-373 (Oct 1 meeting time), M-26-385 (Torch relay signatory), M-26-386 (YWCA loan), M-26-387 (Development Foundation agreement), M-26-394 (street renaming), M-26-402 (2027 meeting schedule), M-26-403 (2027 holiday schedule). Resolutions R-26-375 (Caesars grants), R-26-376 (Cox grants), R-26-405 (Sankofa park grant support) adopted. - Deferrals to October 1, 2026: ZD 59/26, ZD 73/26, ZD 75/26, Ordinance 34,385 (short-term rental regulations), Motions M-23-426 and M-23-427 (STR elimination), Calendars 35,117, 35,530 (fee-in-lieu), 35,548, 35,549, 35,550, 35,556, 35,557. - Ordinances on First Reading: Introduced and laid over (Cal. 35,558, 35,567-35,578). - Withdrawn: Motion M-26-357 (denial of car wash), Ordinance 35,558 (incorrectly filed), Ordinance 35,563 (OPSO executive protection services).