Public Meetings - New Orleans, Louisiana

The Revenue Estimating Conference met on Thursday, September 10, 2026. The written agenda scheduled the meeting for 9:30 a.m. in Council Chambers, but the raw transcript opens with the presiding official saying the meeting was starting just a little after 10:30 a.m. The conference adopted the amended official 2026 General Fund revenue forecast of $884 million and a preliminary 2027 General Fund revenue forecast of $768,249,094. Roll Call and Minutes - A quorum was established. Present: Mayor Helena Moreno; Council Member District B Lesli Harris; Council Member At-Large (non-voting representative) Jean-Paul “JP” Morrell; Chief Administrative Officer Joseph I. Giarrusso III; Director of Finance Alyssa W. Rambeau; and Mara Baumgarten Force, Director of the Schwartz Family Center for Experiential Business Learning at Tulane University. - The conference adopted the April 22, 2026, REC minutes by a 5-0 vote (motion by Lesli Harris, seconded by Mara Baumgarten Force). Discussion Items: 2026 General Fund Revenue Forecast - CAO Joseph I. Giarrusso III presented the revised 2026 forecast. He reported that the city had repaid the $125 million revenue anticipation note (RAN) while managing close to $975 million in obligations. Grant reimbursements recognized in prior years were not counted again as revenue, but the cash supported the RAN repayment. - Subtractions to the prior $828 million forecast included: removal of $2.9 million in GoMESA revenue recognized in April, because it should be reserved for capital funding; a reduction in parking enforcement revenue after the function moved to NOPD and while a new RFP is prepared; a $1.2 million reduction in state transit appropriation that was intended for RTA; a reduction in bond interest due to the spend-down of bond proceeds; and subtraction of $7.12 million in Caesars lease revenue for the half-year after the renegotiated lease closed in May. - Additions included: $8.6 million in state appropriation for short-term rental fees (double the prior year’s $4.3 million); $16 million interagency transfer from the Assessor’s office, already received; $20 million in Sewerage & Water Board reimbursements (about $10 million received, with another $3.4 million being processed); reclassification of eligible ARPA projects to bonds, freeing roughly $36.5 million; and a conservative $2 million sanitation fee increase, though full October-December collections were estimated at just over $3.3 million. - The net change was +$56.18 million, making the revised 2026 forecast $884 million. The CAO noted the budget began at $725 million and that the city had generated almost $160-170 million in additional dollars through difficult and strategic decisions. Discussion Items: 2027 Preliminary Revenue Forecast - Dr. Tony Weiss, a Tulane economics faculty member speaking as an independent contractor, presented his methodology: historical patterns and seasonality, year-to-date collections, stakeholder discussions, and national economic trends. - He cited the August national unemployment rate at 4.1%, local unemployment slightly above the national average and holding steady, construction sensitive to interest rates, an upcoming CPI release and Federal Open Market Committee meeting, personal consumption expenditures up 3.4%, and declining consumer sentiment since 2024-2025 as context. - He projected property taxes flat assuming no millage change or reassessment; general use sales taxes flat with about plus or minus 1.5% leeway; softening in tourism-related taxes; strong sports wagering revenue; and increases in licenses and permits partly from the Omni project, the two-lane Charity project, and the $8.6 million short-term rental appropriation. Service charges were projected up because of the new sanitation fee and expanded EMS collections; intergovernmental revenue was down almost entirely because of the loss of Harrah’s rent; fines and forfeits continued to decrease because red light and speed camera enforcement revenue is declining; and miscellaneous revenue was down slightly because of reduced bond interest. - He estimated recurring revenues of approximately $756.7 million, a 3% increase over projected 2026 ending revenues. - CAO Giarrusso noted that rating agencies had criticized the 2026 budget for relying nearly 20% on one-time revenue, while the 2027 forecast relies on only 1.5% one-time revenue, a shift toward structural balance. - Potential additional revenues discussed included a millage roll forward (about $10.16 million to direct General Fund revenues, $4.36 million from the police and fire millage, and about $28 million in other revenue, excluding outside agencies); a permit fee increase already introduced but requiring a 21-day lie-over with an estimated $1.8 million to the General Fund; and a short-term nightlife fee still being developed that could add $3-5 million. Key Outcomes - The conference adopted the amended official 2026 General Fund revenue forecast by a 5-0 vote (motion by Helena Moreno, seconded by Alyssa Rambeau). - It voted 5-0 to suspend the rules to add the 2027 Preliminary Revenue Forecast to the agenda (motion by Joseph Giarrusso, seconded by Helena Moreno), then voted 5-0 to add the item to the agenda. - It adopted the preliminary 2027 revenue forecast of $768,249,094 by a 5-0 vote (motion by Helena Moreno, seconded by Lesli Harris). This is roughly $40 million higher than the prior year’s projected revenue. - It adjourned by a 5-0 vote (motion by Joseph Giarrusso, seconded by Lesli Harris). - A next Revenue Estimating Conference meeting was announced for the morning of November 19, 2026, before the council meeting, to add any additional revenue.

Note: The meeting transcript indicates the meeting occurred on September 9, 2026, but the provided date for this summary is September 10, 2026. This summary uses the latter date as instructed. The City Civil Service Commission held a business meeting that included a report from the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) on employee furloughs and the introduction of seven proposed amendments to civil service leave rules. The proposed amendments drew extensive public comment, nearly all in opposition, from employee unions, public safety representatives, and individual civil servants. No final votes were taken on the rule amendments; they remain under consideration for a future meeting. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved for July 21, 2026. July 10, 2026 minutes were deferred due to a commissioner’s absence. - Election of Officers: Commissioner Richardson was re-elected Chair and Commissioner Corn was re-elected Vice Chair, both unanimously. - Public Integrity Bureau Extension Requests: Approved in entirety. - Examination Announcements: Approved for items 11562–11630. Furlough Report (Item 7 – Moved to Beginning) CAO Joe Jeruso reported that approximately 10% of city employees (about 450 of 4,500) are currently on furlough, with most impact on unclassified employees. Year-to-date furlough savings total $2,612,920; projected year-end savings are $3,928,939. The administration does not plan to include furloughs in the 2027 budget. Potential lifting of furloughs before year-end depends on revenue from the new sanitation fee (expected $1.1 million/month), increased permit and short-term rental fees, and a millage roll forward. Commissioners expressed hope for employees to receive relief before the holiday season. Introduction of Proposed Leave Rule Amendments (Item 4A–G) The administration introduced seven amendments to Rule 8 and related definitions: - 4A & 4B: Eliminate bonus annual leave days (12 days at 20 years) and bonus sick leave days (7 days at 20 years) for current employees—the only retroactive change. All other proposals apply only to employees hired after December 31, 2026. - 4C: Reduce annual leave carryforward from 45 to 30 days for new hires. - 4D: Cap sick leave carryforward at 200 days for new hires. - 4E: Limit terminal sick leave payout to 20% of daily rate for new hires. - 4F: Clarify rules for converting leave to retirement credits (no substantive change). - 4G: Remove obsolete COVID-19 emergency leave provisions. Commissioner Monteverdi recused from item 4B due to potential economic interest as a city employee. CAO Jeruso and John Wisby explained the rationale: reducing a $100 million terminal leave liability, aligning New Orleans with comparable Louisiana jurisdictions, and addressing long-term budget pressures. They emphasized openness to further dialogue and that the October vote date is not fixed. Public Comments & Testimony Dozens of speakers and submitted written comments opposed the proposed amendments. Key positions included: - Union representatives (AFSCME, FOP, PANO, Fire Local 632, Black Organization of Police, EMS, Sewerage & Water Board) argued that bonus days are earned longevity benefits, not gifts, and that eliminating or capping them would severely harm recruitment and retention, especially in public safety. - Speakers from public safety agencies highlighted that blackout periods (e.g., Mardi Gras, special events) make it impossible to use leave, leading to accumulation that should not be labeled “hoarding.” Reducing benefits while pay lags behind neighboring jurisdictions and private sector makes public service less attractive. - Several employees noted that the budget crisis was not caused by frontline workers and that administration salaries have increased while employee benefits are being cut. - Many called for more data on projected savings and for a more deliberative process, including dialogue with union representatives. - Written comments echoed these concerns, with many stating that the proposed changes would create a two-tier workforce and damage trust. CAO Jeruso acknowledged concerns, particularly around blackout dates, and committed to continued collaboration. Other Discussion Items - Item 5B (Title Change): Approved to change “police accounting section manager” to “contract section manager” after an employee raised concerns about job security; commission noted it had previously approved the functional unit transfer. - Item 5D (Fire Dual Assignment Pay Threshold): Deferred due to Commissioner Monteverdi’s recusal. - Item 5E (Special Rate of Pay for Acting in Higher Classification): Deferred after discussion; concerns about ongoing litigation and paying less than full rate for the same duties. - Item 13 (Earl Roche – Retroactive Extraordinary Pay): Denied by vote (2-0). Commission upheld the rule that applicants who check “willing to accept at minimum” are ineligible for hiring above minimum, despite appointing authority’s earlier intent. - Item 14 (Sonia Morris – Request for Investigation): Granted based on staff recommendation that at least one claim of retroactive compensation may have merit. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items approved. - Rule amendments (Item 4) introduced but no vote taken; public hearing and decision deferred to a future meeting. - Items 5D, 5E deferred; Items 9–12 (fire union requests) deferred due to recusal. - Item 13 denied; Item 14 granted. - Meeting adjourned.

The New Orleans City Planning Commission met on September 8, 2026, at 1:30 PM in Council Chambers. The commission considered 16 zoning dockets, including zoning changes, conditional uses, and text amendments. Key themes included commercial short-term rentals (STRs) in residential and commercial districts, neighborhood commercial establishments, and a major transient lodging study. The commission deferred two items for further review and approved modified amendments. Votes reflected a cautious approach to STRs in residential areas while supporting certain uses in commercial corridors and in remote locations. Public Comments & Testimony - Zoning Docket 082/26 (Transient Lodging Study): Eleanor Graham (Neighbors First for Bywater) supported deferral. Alan Johnson (1418 Chartres) urged sticking to the earlier study, noting no new facts. Aaron Holmes (VC4) opposed adding commercial STRs to the French Quarter. Nicole Weber (Hotel Lodging Association) supported neighborhood efforts. - Zoning Docket 084/26 (2407 Gravier STR): Lyle Montgomery (neighbor, Lower Mid-City Neighborhood Organization) and Julia Zuckerman (2320 St. Louis) opposed, citing oversaturation and past violations. Frank Southall (Jane Place) opposed due to lost housing. - Zoning Docket 085/26 (901-909 Julia STR): Frank Southall opposed all commercial STRs during the IZD unless in remote areas. - Zoning Docket 087/26 (3157 Tchoupitoulas live performance venue): Wade Halstead (413 Harmony) opposed, citing lack of specifics and noise concerns. Andrew Stevens (applicant) described a stand-up comedy venue with neighbor outreach. - Zoning Docket 088/26 (814 Poland coffee shop): Multiple neighbors (Crawford Malone, Allie Duffy, Stephanie Burnett, Judy Bolton, others) spoke in strong support, citing community benefits and the applicant's track record. David Greger (900 Poland) raised parking and zoning precedence concerns. - Zoning Docket 092/26 (1723 General de Gaulle): Robert Lestric (applicant) described plans to redevelop a blighted property. Kenneth Garrett (Oakdale Neighborhood Association) opposed, fearing return of illegal activity. - Zoning Docket 095/26 (4901 Downman repair shop): Roland Barthay (Pines Village Association) opposed, citing past nuisances and lack of community contribution. Applicant Alla Ahmad stated improvements would be inside. Discussion Items - Zoning Docket 081/26 (5433 Laurel/509-515 Octavia): Staff recommended denial of downzoning the cafe/bookstore property from HU-B1A to HU-RD2, citing precedent and appropriate zoning. The applicant (Council District A land use staffer) explained it was a compromise. The commission voted 9-0 to approve the downzoning, freezing non-conforming uses. - Zoning Docket 082/26 (Transient Lodging Study): Staff recommended deferral to October 27 for further research. The commission unanimously deferred. - Zoning Docket 083/26 (350 John Churchill Chase height limit): Staff recommended approval to cap height at 35 feet for the park. Approved unanimously. - Zoning Docket 084/26 (2407 Gravier STR): Staff recommended denial due to oversaturation and housing impact. Applicant requested deferral but commission heard opposition and voted 9-0 to deny. - Zoning Docket 085/26 (901-909 Julia STR): Staff recommended approval; after debate the commission voted 9-0 to deny, citing need to wait for new STR rules. - Zoning Docket 086/26 (2045 Broadway coffee shop outdoor seating): Staff recommended approval. Approved unanimously. - Zoning Docket 087/26 (3157 Tchoupitoulas live performance venue): Staff recommended approval with provisos. Approved 8-1 (Commissioner Whitry voted no). - Zoning Docket 088/26 (814 Poland neighborhood commercial): Staff recommended denial. Commission voted 8-0 to approve with a proviso limiting hours to 7 AM–4 PM, noting neighborhood support and applicant's record. - Zoning Docket 089/26 (1515 Kerlerec multi-family): Staff recommended approval. Approved unanimously. - Zoning Docket 090/26 (2404 St. Claude STR): Staff recommended approval. Commission voted 9-0 to deny, consistent with other STR denials. - Zoning Docket 091/26 (27501 Chef Menteur lighthouse): Staff recommended deferral to October 13 for revised application. Unanimously deferred. - Zoning Docket 092/26 (1723 General de Gaulle): Staff recommended modified approval to C1 (General Commercial) instead of C3. Applicant accepted; commission voted 9-0 for modified approval. - Zoning Docket 093/26 (St. Augustine baseball facility): Staff recommended approval with 8 provisos. Approved unanimously. - Zoning Docket 094/26 (24855 Chef Menteur STR): Staff recommended approval. Approved unanimously (Commissioner noted appropriateness in remote area). - Zoning Docket 095/26 (4901 Downman repair shop): Staff recommended approval. Commission initially deadlocked 4-4, then voted to defer to October 13 for applicant-neighborhood mediation. - Zoning Docket 096/26 (25894 Chef Menteur STR): Staff recommended approval. Approved unanimously. - Subdivision Ratifications: Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved (9-0): ZD 081/26 (downzoning), ZD 083/26 (park height limit), ZD 086/26 (coffee shop seating), ZD 087/26 (live venue), ZD 088/26 (coffee shop with hours), ZD 089/26 (multi-family), ZD 092/26 (modified to C1), ZD 093/26 (baseball facility), ZD 094/26 (Chef Menteur STR), ZD 096/26 (Chef Menteur STR), subdivision ratifications. - Denied (9-0): ZD 084/26 (Gravier STR), ZD 085/26 (Julia STR), ZD 090/26 (St. Claude STR). - Deferred: ZD 082/26 to October 27 (transient lodging study), ZD 091/26 to October 13 (lighthouse), ZD 095/26 to October 13 (repair shop).

The New Orleans City Council met on September 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM in City Hall Council Chamber, adjourning at 12:00 PM. All seven councilmembers were present for most of the meeting. The council acted on a lengthy agenda including a contentious sanitation fee increase, a responsible contractor ordinance, a Mardi Gras parade fee, several zoning changes, and numerous deferrals and routine matters. Key debates centered on the financial burden to residents and balancing the city budget. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of August 6 and August 20, 2026 (6-0, Morrell absent). - Received communications from Entergy New Orleans and Delta Gas regarding utility adjustments and reports (all received). - Received two HDLC appeal requests (1200 Ursulines Ave and 620-622 Louisa St) with hearings set for September 17, 2026. - Received quarterly reports from New Orleans Aviation Board (financial and musician pay) and Sewerage and Water Board legislative storm report for August 21, 2026 thunderstorm. - Received 2027 Housing Trust Fund Annual Report (referred to Budget Committee). - Received City Planning Commission transmittal for Zoning Dockets 74/26-80/26 (hearing set for September 17, 2026). - Received Municipal and Traffic Court July 2026 report. - Adopted three zoning ordinances: Cal. No. 35,525 (vocational facility at 10555 Lake Forest Blvd), Cal. No. 35,526 (neighborhood commercial at 139 Broadway St), Cal. No. 35,527 (amending definition of “dwelling, small multi-family affordable” to include for-sale affordable housing and community land trusts). - Approved classified pay plan amendments (M-26-40 Health/EMS, M-26-44 Chief Administrative Office, M-26-355 Civil Service Rules merit pay) and resolution R-26-356 supporting a permanent Opportunity Pass for fare-free RTA youth transit. - Adopted resolutions R-26-360 (rulemaking on Integrated Resource Plan for distributed energy resources) and R-26-361 (initiating 2027 Triennial Integrated Resource Plan for Entergy New Orleans). - Consent agenda adopted 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Sanitation Fee Increase (Cal. No. 35,384): Over a dozen speakers opposed the fee increase, arguing service had declined (once-weekly pickup instead of twice), the city had mismanaged contracts, and the burden fell on low-income and fixed-income residents. Speakers cited a legislative auditor finding of overpayment to contractors for non-existent addresses (ghost addresses). Some suggested the council hold district town halls before voting. One speaker (Chris Lang) questioned why contracts could not be renegotiated. Councilmember Morrell responded that the council cannot amend contracts per the charter. Another speaker (Morgan Clevinger) called the vote rushed. Several speakers noted that the $8.50 monthly increase would be added to water bills with potential disconnection for non-payment. Councilmember Morrell noted the fee had not been raised since 2011 but that living wage requirements increased costs. - Responsible Contractor Ordinance (Cal. No. 35,543): Representatives from the Greater New Orleans AFL-CIO, International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT), and Louisiana AFL-CIO spoke in support, arguing it would hold contractors accountable for wage theft, misclassification, and safety violations, and level the playing field for responsible contractors. - Carnival GAP Fee (Cal. No. 35,495): Several speakers opposed or questioned the fee structure. Caroline Bencherry argued the fee was too low and should be tied to waste volume. Charles Brett Davis said the $10,000 per supercrew fee was insufficient and called for a larger, permanent fee. Chris Lang supported a waste-volume-based fee to incentivize less waste. Morgan Clevinger opposed the fee altogether, stating Mardi Gras is created by residents and other revenue sources should be used. - Zoning Item ZD 63/26 (1428 Carondelet B&B): One speaker, Christina Tate, supported the accessory bed-and-breakfast as a responsible addition to the neighborhood. - Zoning Item ZD 68/26 (727 Carondelet hotel): Avery Fourier spoke on behalf of the development team, offering no additional comments. - Zoning Item ZD 69/26 (750 Carondelet indoor amusement): Laura Barth thanked council for support. Discussion Items - Sanitation Fee Increase (Cal. No. 35,384): Councilmember Morrell introduced an amendment to delay the effective date of the new fee structure to January 1, 2028, and in the interim (starting October 1, 2026) implement a fixed fee model. The amendment also adjusted fee calculations to be based on billed service locations rather than locations receiving service, allowed reductions for equitable apportionment, required periodic billing audits, and created definitions for “unit” and “unoccupied property.” The amendment was adopted 6-1 (Hughes opposed). After public comment, Councilmembers Harris, King, and Morrell spoke in favor of the underlying ordinance, citing the risk of service disruption and the need to fund the sanitation program and avoid deeper cuts to the general fund that supports retiree COLAs and health insurance. The ordinance passed 6-1 (Hughes opposed). - Responsible Contractor Ordinance (Cal. No. 35,543): Councilmember Willard presented an amendment (developed with the administration) that expanded the definition of chief procurement officer, allowed executive branch determination for professional services contracts, set timelines for responsibility hearings, allowed investigations without third-party complaints, and required reporting on waivers. The amendment was adopted 6-0 (Morrell absent). The ordinance as amended was adopted 6-0 (Morrell absent). - Carnival GAP Fee (Cal. No. 35,495): Councilmember King introduced an amendment to replace the per-float fee with a tiered fee based on pull units (like existing parade permit tiers) and limit the fee to the 2027-2031 Carnival seasons. The amendment was adopted 7-0. The ordinance as amended was adopted 7-0. Councilmember Green noted the state should share more tourism revenue. - Zoning Docket ZD 50/26 (Esplanade Ventures B&B): Deferred to September 17, 2026. - Zoning Docket ZD 59/26 (1622 Toledano STR): Deferred to September 17, 2026. - Zoning Docket ZD 63/26 (Wells One Investments, accessory B&B at 1428 Carondelet): Councilmember Harris moved to deny, citing concern over reducing housing stock and intensity of transient use. The motion to deny passed 7-0. - Zoning Docket ZD 66/26 (Beau Land Co, STR at 1822 Joseph Guillaume): Councilmember King moved to approve subject to CPC provisos. Passed 6-1 (Morrell opposed). - Zoning Docket ZD 68/26 (BD OZ CBD NOLA, hotel at 727 Carondelet): Councilmember Harris moved to approve and modify (exclude short-term rentals from transient lodging use). Passed 7-0. - Zoning Docket ZD 69/26 (750 Carondelet indoor amusement): Approved 7-0. - Zoning Dockets ZD 67/26, 70/26, 71/26, 73/26 and related motions: Deferred to September 17, 2026. - HDLC Appeal (906 Philip Street): Councilmember Harris moved to affirm the HDLC denial of retention of unpainted porch columns and uplighting. Passed 6-0 (Morrell absent). - Other deferred items: Numerous restoration tax abatements, short-term rental regulation ordinances, sanitation budget ordinance, and classified pay plan motions were deferred to later meetings (October 1 or November 5, 2026). - Cal. No. 35,487 and 35,488 (Rapid Rehousing funding): Withdrawn. - Cal. No. 35,533 (servitude at 1484 Tchoupitoulas St): Approved 7-0. The servitude generates $4,284 annually with 15% increases every five years. - Motion M-26-198 substitute (EMS hiring rates): Approved 7-0, effective September 3, 2026, to allow the city to staff its own EMS and reduce reliance on Acadian Ambulance. - Communication from CAO Giarrusso: Received, appointing Austin P. Wilty as Director of Property Management effective September 11, 2026. Key Outcomes - Sanitation Fee Increase (Cal. No. 35,384 as amended): Adopted 6-1 (Hughes nay). The amendment delays the new fee structure to January 1, 2028, and sets an interim fixed fee model starting October 1, 2026. Key provisions: fee based on billed service locations, billing audits, definitions added. Council President Morrell stated the fee is necessary to close a $13.5 million deficit and preserve services and retiree benefits. - Responsible Contractor Ordinance (Cal. No. 35,543 as amended): Adopted 6-0 (Morrell absent). Strengthens contractor accountability for city contracts, including timelines for hearings and waiver reporting. - Carnival GAP Fee (Cal. No. 35,495 as amended): Adopted 7-0. Creates a tiered fee based on pull units for 2027-2031 Carnival seasons. - Zoning Approvals: ZD 63/26 (B&B at 1428 Carondelet) denied 7-0; ZD 66/26 (STR at 1822 Joseph Guillaume) approved 6-1; ZD 68/26 (hotel at 727 Carondelet) approved 7-0; ZD 69/26 (indoor amusement at 750 Carondelet) approved 7-0. - HDLC Appeal (906 Philip St): HDLC denial affirmed 6-0. - SWBNO Debt Repayment (M-26-368): Adopted 7-0, directing SWBNO to present a plan to repay $12.8 million debt by October 1, 2026. - PILOT for River Garden Apartments II (R-26-362): Adopted 7-0, supporting a PILOT that will facilitate a $10 million renovation adding 29 affordable units (total 153) and other upgrades. - Tax Amnesty Program (R-26-369): Adopted 7-0, urging Finance to create a limited delinquent tax amnesty program. - Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with Orleans Parish School Board (R-26-370): Adopted 7-0. - Hazard Mitigation Plan Update (R-26-371): Adopted 7-0, fulfilling the five-year update requirement for FEMA. - Ordinances on First Reading (Cal. Nos. 35,544-35,565): Introduced and laid over, including a measure to rename the Tremé Recreation Center to Jerome Smith Recreation Community Center (Cal. 35,560) and a carnival ordinance prohibiting solicitation for membership during parade season (Cal. 35,559).

The RDNI Municipal EDD Governing Authority met on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at 9:31 AM in the City Council Chamber to consider a single substantive item: authorizing the release of affordable housing funds for the Rivana Project. The meeting adjourned at 9:36 AM. Discussion Items - Resolution R-2026-01 (Authorizing Affordable Housing Funds for Rivana Project) – Councilmember Lesli D. Harris introduced the resolution, describing it as a required step under the five-party Cooperative Endeavor Agreement governing the River District and its financing, with affordable housing as the primary focus. She expressed her excitement for the Rivana development. The resolution was seconded by Councilmember Freddie King III. Key Outcomes - Resolution R-2026-01 was adopted with 6 yeas (JP Morrell, Matthew Willard, Lesli D. Harris, Freddie King III, Jason Hughes, Eugene J. Green, Jr.), 0 nays, and 1 abstention (Aimee McCarron, who was absent). - The meeting was adjourned by a motion from Councilmember Harris, seconded by Councilmember King, with the same vote tally (6 yeas, 0 nays, 1 abstention). Note: The raw transcript indicates "five members" present for quorum, while the official minutes list six members present (all except Aimee McCarron). This discrepancy may reflect a verbal miscount; the minutes are authoritative.

The New Orleans Historic District Landmarks Commission (HDLC) met on September 2, 2026, at 1:00 PM in the City Council Chamber. Seven commissioners were present, constituting a quorum. The meeting covered a landmark nomination, consent agenda items, an appeal of ARC recommendations, several demolition and retention applications, and a ratification of prior actions. Key decisions included landmark nomination approval, denial of a full demolition at 1830 Fern Street, and retention approvals with conditions. Consent Calendar - 720 Henry Clay Ave: Massing approval for renovation of a landmark monastery and new construction of two flanking buildings (36,723 SF total) for multi-family residential use. Approved. - 1221 Carondelet St: Site renovation and 570 SF rear addition to a landmark single-family residence. Approved. - 1233 Josephine St: New construction of a 3,400 SF one-story nursery on a vacant lot. Approved. - 2127 Prytania St: Design changes for new construction of a 1,876 SF one-story accessory event space. Approved. - 901 Piety St / 3315 Burgundy St: New construction of a 6,600 SF one-story commercial building. Approved. - 5622 Royal St: New construction of a 920 SF one-story and a 2,050 SF two-story residential building. Approved. - 1911 Royal St: Renovation and 635 SF camelback addition to a Contributing-rated residential building. Item G was removed from consent due to Commissioner Carson's recusal; deferred to next meeting. - 530 Powder St: New construction of a covered patio at a Non-Contributing commercial building. Approved. - 2114 Decatur St: Renovation with additions and conversion to mixed use. Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Landmark Nomination of 8133 Spruce Street: Multiple speakers supported the nomination. Peyton Bowman (applicant) affirmed the building's significance. Rochelle Julik (neighbor) supported the nomination, noting it adds protection. Susan Johnson (Carrollton Watch) and Mary Nell Nolan Wheatley (Preservation Resource Center) also expressed support. The school's head and architect argued the landmarking was unnecessary and would delay renovation, but staff clarified HDLC review can run parallel to tax credit processes. - 1830 Fern St Demolition: Four public commenters (Mary Nell Nolan Wheatley, Deborah Howell, Leslie Raymond, Susan Johnson) opposed full demolition, citing the building's good condition, potential for historic tax credits, and the owner's recent purchase. Eighteen written comments in opposition were noted. - 714 S Carrollton Ave Retention: Susan Johnson opposed retention of electrical raceways, arguing it sets a bad precedent for guideline compliance. - Other applications: No further public comments were recorded for other consent or discussion items. Discussion Items Landmark Nomination of 8133 Spruce Street - Staff recommended nomination under criteria 4 (representative of an architect whose ability has been recognized). The building (1911, designed by H. Jordan McKenzie) is largely intact. The applicant/owner (Stewart Hall) expressed concern about additional review layers but stated plans to use historic tax credits. The commission voted unanimously to nominate the building for study as a landmark. New Business Work Applications - 3636 St Charles Ave (Appeal of ARC Recommendations): Applicant requested approval of Option 3 design (stronger corner separation) and balcony depth of 4 ft 7 in. Staff recommended upholding ARC approval of Option 4 and limiting balcony depth to 4 ft. The commission voted unanimously to support the staff recommendation. Demolition Applications - 1830 Fern St (Contributing, Carrollton partial): Staff recommended denial due to good overall condition and ability to rehabilitate. Owner argued extensive termite/water damage made renovation infeasible. Motion to deny passed unanimously (7-0). - 734 Austerlitz St (Contributing, Uptown partial): Staff recommended approval for partial roof demolition (62% total, but 45% of primary roof) to accommodate a camelback addition. Approved unanimously. - 5615-5617 Perrier St (Non-Contributing, Uptown partial): Staff recommended approval. The building (c. 1975-85) is non-contributing and termite-damaged. Approved unanimously. - 802 Third St / 2613 Annunciation St (Non-Contributing, Irish Channel full control): Staff recommended approval with proviso that demolition permits not issued until new construction permits are approved. Applicant agreed. Approved unanimously. Retention Applications - 203 Walnut St (Contributing, Uptown partial): Retention of full demolition of exterior wall framing due to severe termite damage and partial collapse. Owner salvaged and plans to reuse materials. Staff recommended approval with a tier one fine. Commissioner Hackenberg moved to allow retention with no fine; passed unanimously (7-0). - 714 S Carrollton Ave (Non-Contributing, Carrollton full control): Retention of two electrical raceways installed in deviation of C of A. Staff recommended approval because the strip mall is non-historic and raceways are not visible from street. Motion to allow retention initially failed 1-6 (Commissioner Harden opposed), but after reconsideration, Commissioner Harden changed vote, resulting in unanimous approval (7-0). - 1505-1507 Esplanade Ave (Non-Contributing, Treme full control): Retention of inappropriate windows and hardy trim. Staff recommended: for windows 1-7 and 11-18, recess and add full screens; windows 8-10 approved as installed; deny retention of hardy trim. Motion to support staff recommendations passed unanimously. - 1705-1707 Pauger St: Application withdrawn. - 338-340 Elmira Ave (Contributing, Algiers): Applicant not present; deferred to next meeting. - 1426-1428 Dauphine St (Contributing, Marigny full control): Retention of roof shingle color (approved), but denial of retaining removal of ridge tiles/ridge cap vents and installation of porch gate. Owner cited safety concerns for gate and contractor error for roof. Motion to support staff recommendations (allow shingle color, deny retention of ridge tiles removal and porch gate) passed unanimously. - 926 Joseph St (Contributing, Uptown partial): Retention of partial roof demolition (58%) completed without C of A. Owner had medical issues; contractor acted against instructions. Staff recommended approval with tier one fine. Motion to approve with no fine passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Landmark Nomination of 8133 Spruce Street: Approved for study (unanimous). - 1830 Fern St Demolition: Denied (7-0). Owner has 10 days to appeal to City Council. - 734 Austerlitz St Demolition: Approved (7-0). - 5615-5617 Perrier St Demolition: Approved (7-0). - 802 Third St / 2613 Annunciation St Demolition: Approved with proviso (7-0). - 203 Walnut St Retention: Approved with no fine (7-0). - 714 S Carrollton Ave Retention: Approved after vote change (7-0). - 1505-1507 Esplanade Ave Retention: Partially approved per staff recommendations (7-0). - 1426-1428 Dauphine St Retention: Allowed shingle color; denied retention of ridge tile removal and porch gate (7-0). - 926 Joseph St Retention: Approved with no fine (7-0). - Ratification of ARC and Staff Actions: Approved unanimously. - Upcoming: HDLC 50th anniversary celebration on September 30, 2026.

The meeting was held on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at 10:00 AM in the City Council Chamber. The commission approved the previous meeting's minutes, the consent agenda, and a retention application for inappropriate mortar repairs at 1111 S Peters St with conditions, and ratified ARC and staff actions. A commissioner voiced disappointment about a prior retention decision. Consent Calendar - 750 Carondelet St: Renovation of a Contributing-rated two-story commercial building including new storefronts. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Minutes of August 12, 2026 meeting: During consideration, an unnamed commissioner expressed disappointment about the commission's decision on a retention application from the previous month, arguing that the precedent argument was flawed and that the commission should consider each case individually. Other commissioners acknowledged the discourse but defended the decision. The minutes were approved unanimously after the comment. - 1111 S Peters St – Retention of Inappropriate Mortar Repairs: The applicant, George Upui, president of the Bakery Condominiums Homeowners Association, presented for the retention of mortar repairs completed on a Contributing-rated four-story residential building. Staff reported that the work deviated from the approved Certificate of Appropriateness, which required mortar matching the historic in strength, composition, color, and tooling. The repairs were expanded in scope without approval and are visually incompatible. Staff had no objection to retention provided that all future mortar repairs match the historic mortar. The applicant explained the leaks drove the need for extensive tuck pointing and that they had used the same mix for years without prior color requirements. Commissioners discussed the need for test patches, proper craftsmanship, and coordination with HDLC and the Preservation Resource Center. After a roll call vote resulted in a 3-3 tie, the commission suspended to discuss ramifications. Upon resumption, the motion to approve the staff recommendation carried. Key Outcomes - Minutes of August 12, 2026: Approved unanimously. - Consent Agenda (750 Carondelet St): Approved unanimously. - 1111 S Peters St Retention: Motion to approve staff recommendation (retention with condition that all future mortar repairs match historic mortar) passed after a tie vote (3-3 initially, then approved after further discussion). - Ratification of Architectural Review Committee and Staff Actions: Approved unanimously. - HDLC Reports: Announcement of the New Orleans HDLC's 50th anniversary open house on September 18, 2026 at the New Orleans Public Library, and a celebration on September 30, 2026 at the Preservation Resource Center.

The Criminal Justice Committee met on August 31, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. to discuss the withdrawal of the National Guard from New Orleans, a proposed carnival gap fee, contract renewals, and the New Orleans Police Department’s drone program. The meeting featured presentations from the Metropolitan Crime Commission, the NOPD, the Mayor’s Office, and the ACLU of Louisiana/Eye on Surveillance, with extensive public testimony on the fee and drone policies. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The committee unanimously approved the minutes of the July 27, 2026 meeting (3 ayes, no opposition). - LeadsOnline Contract Amendment (Item 5a): Amendment No. 3 to the agency agreement with LeadsOnline, LLC for electronic reporting and criminal investigation software, extending the term by one year and increasing the maximum payable amount, was approved unanimously (4 ayes, 0 nays). - CREST MOU (Item 5b): The Memorandum of Understanding with the State of Louisiana authorizing NOPD’s participation in the Critical Response Emergency Search Team (CREST) for endangered missing persons and mass-casualty events was approved unanimously (4 ayes, 0 nays). Public Comments & Testimony - Carnival Gap Fee: - James Clark (Magazine Street corridor resident): Proposed that all carnival krewes (except possibly one) be required to start parades at Magazine and Jefferson to increase sales tax revenue. He calculated that current routes provide about 16 hours of parade time past a single point on Magazine Street; expanding routes could increase that by 77%. - Elizabeth Boudreau (lifelong resident, parade rider): Urged that the gap fee be applied to all parade permit holders (second-line parades, races, etc.) year-round, not just krewes with floats, and suggested allowing throws on Chapatula Street if Magazine Street is not feasible. - Bruce Riley (French Quarter resident): Questioned the city’s deficit calculation, arguing that Mardi Gras generates substantial tax revenue (hotel/motel, sales) that benefits the city. He urged that the fee not be placed solely on parade participants and suggested looking at overall revenue rather than just policing costs. - Val Cupett (online comment): Argued that the fee is a tax, not a fee, and questioned why the city targets Mardi Gras rather than other major events (Jazz Fest, Saints games, etc.), suggesting that the fee should be paid directly to cover specific services. - Drone Program: - Nikki R. W. (community member): Opposed drones, citing over-surveillance of Black communities (second lines, protests, parades) and research showing drones are less accurate at identifying Black faces, risking wrongful arrests and racial profiling. - Bruce Riley (VOTER): Called for a standing civil rights and technology task force, questioned the lack of transparency and accountability given NOPD’s consent decree history, and asked about cybersecurity risks (hacking) of drones. - Alfred Marshall (VOTER organizer, formerly incarcerated): Warned that drones could trigger probation/parole violations for formerly incarcerated people simply by being surveilled, potentially increasing incarceration rates in a city with the highest incarceration rate in the world. - Ethan Elstead (Music Culture Coalition): Raised concerns about process: at the April 16 council meeting, officials assured the public that the drone policy contained protections (e.g., requiring MOUs for federal partnerships). He noted that those protections were removed from the policy shortly after the vote, and questioned whether the change was known beforehand and why it wasn’t disclosed. - Janice (last name unclear): Thanked council members who opposed the drone program, expressed frustration that two of the four council members who voted for the program were absent. She reiterated that the public’s concerns have been realized and called for suspension of the program, noting the lack of transparency. - Jess Pinkham (French Quarter resident): Thanked presenters, connected drone technology (SkyDio) to its use in Palestine as an environmental and ethical concern, and questioned why NOPD did not stay for the presentation. Discussion Items - National Guard Withdrawal and Public Safety (Item 3): - Rafael Goyeneche (Metropolitan Crime Commission) presented crime statistics: homicides down 34%, nonfatal shootings down 24%, carjackings down 3%, armed robberies down 34% year-to-date versus 2025. He attributed these reductions partly to the National Guard deployment. The Guard conducted over 4,100 patrols (31,000+ hours) as a visible deterrent. He noted the deployment was federally authorized in March 2026 and was always intended to end in August, allowing NOPD and state police to plan. - Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick (NOPD) outlined the post-withdrawal plan: added 16 officers to the 8th District (French Quarter/CBD), increased Bourbon Promenade coverage from 10 to 15 officers, and strengthened platoons in surrounding districts. She highlighted the Downtown Enhancement Unit (focused on quality-of-life issues), continued partnerships with Louisiana State Police and OPSO, expansion of Harbor Police cooperation, use of reserve officers, and reliance on technology. She noted that 60 new recruits are in the academy and will be assigned to the 8th District. - Councilmember Green thanked the presenters, noting he saw no constitutional issues with the Guard’s presence, and stressed that crime reductions are due to local, state, and federal cooperation. He expressed concern about the state’s decision to end the paid deployment despite a $47 billion state budget, but affirmed confidence in NOPD to maintain safety. - Carnival Gap Fee Ordinance and Amendment (Item 4): - Mr. Tony (Mayor’s Office) presented the revised fee structure: a three-tiered fee per krewe ($5,000 / $7,500 / $10,000) based on pull units, replacing the original per-float fee. This is projected to raise about $265,000 per year, applied only to the 2027–2031 carnival seasons. The fee is intended to offset the city’s Mardi Gras deficit (estimated at $3.75 million per year, given $10.62 million in costs versus $6.87 million in tax receipts). - Councilmember King thanked the administration and noted the fee was developed in consultation with Mardi Gras krewes. He emphasized the fee is a compromise from an earlier $25-per-rider proposal, and that krewes found it fair. - Councilmember Harris suggested that the fee should be indexed to CPI and that the city should also review fees for other parades exempted from this ordinance (e.g., St. Patrick’s Day). He noted that the city is looking at all permit fees. - Councilmember Green observed that the city’s deficit is partly due to the state capturing the majority of hotel/motel tax revenue (city gets only 1.5% of the 15% tax), and urged a broader discussion of state revenue sharing. - The amendment to Cal. No. 35,495 was approved 4-0; the ordinance as amended was approved 4-0, to go before the full council on September 3, 2026. - Drone Program Policy and Data (Item 6): - Sarah Whittington (ACLU of Louisiana) and Edith Romero (Eye on Surveillance) presented an analysis of NOPD’s drone policy changes from 2024 to July 2026 and data from public records requests. Key concerns: - The 2024 policy required MOUs with other agencies, supervisor approval before each flight, detailed logs, quarterly internal reviews, and an annual public report. These requirements were eliminated or gutted in the 2026 policy. - A draft policy posted June 21, 2026, allowed weaponization of drones (later retracted as a draft, but no investigation into who wrote it). - Data from 1,000 flights (2025) showed massive non-compliance: 78.7% missing incident type, 93.1% missing incident details, 94.1% missing activity summary, 94.1% missing supervisor approval, 98.9% missing whether the drone assisted officers. Data from 2026 (187 flights) showed even worse compliance (100% missing most fields). - Known drone uses included monitoring a homeless person blocking a sidewalk, protests, second lines, festivals, and the Sugar Bowl, raising First and Fourth Amendment concerns. Some flights occurred outside Orleans Parish (Kenner, Chalmette) without evidence of required MOUs. - Drones as First Responder (DFR) program approved April 16, 2026, was criticized for lacking transparency, independent evaluation, and meaningful data on effectiveness. They noted that Jefferson Parish reported 6,000 drone flights leading to 200 arrests (3.7% effectiveness). - Recommendations: Suspend the drone program until enforceable accountability measures are in place; require quarterly independent reviews; create a public-facing dashboard; mandate demographic reporting; ensure data retention limits; and establish a mechanism for public reporting of drone sightings. - Councilmember Harris thanked the presenters, requested the raw data and any best practices from other jurisdictions, and expressed concern about surveillance of private spaces, urging a hard look at suspension. Key Outcomes - National Guard Withdrawal: The committee received the presentation and plan; no vote was taken. NOPD’s plan will be implemented. - Carnival Gap Fee: The amendment to Cal. No. 35,495 was approved 4-0, and the ordinance as amended was approved 4-0. It will be forwarded to the full council for the September 3, 2026 meeting. - Contracts: Both the LeadsOnline amendment and the CREST MOU were approved unanimously (4-0). - Drone Program: No immediate vote was taken. The committee heard extensive testimony and public comment. Councilmember Harris stated he would examine the data and consider suspension. The ACLU’s presentation and recommendations will be shared with all council members. NOPD was not present to answer questions.

The Criminal Justice Committee of the New Orleans City Council met on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. The published agenda included a presentation on the National Guard’s presence in New Orleans, a proposed Carnival parade fee ordinance, contract approvals under Council Rule 57, and a review of NOPD drone policy. Because no meeting minutes or transcript were provided, this summary reflects the agenda items only and does not include any recorded votes, deliberations, or public testimony. Discussion Items - Roll Call and Approval of Minutes – The meeting opened with roll call. The committee was scheduled to approve minutes from the July 27, 2026 meeting; the outcome is not documented. - National Guard Presentation – Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick (NOPD), Lieutenant Sam Palumbo (NOPD), and Rafael C. Goyeneche III (President, Metropolitan Crime Commission) were listed to present commentary on the National Guard’s deployment in New Orleans, including its impact and the conclusion of the current operation. - Carnival Gap Fee Ordinance (Cal. No. 35,495) – Councilmember King (by request) introduced an ordinance to create a Carnival Gap Adjustment for Parades Fee ("GAP Fee") in Section 34-3.1 of the City Code. The accompanying amendment would replace the proposed per-float fee with a tiered fee based on pull units, matching existing parade permit tiers, and would limit the fee to the 2027 through 2031 carnival parade seasons. - LeadsOnline Contract Amendment – The committee considered Amendment No. 3 to the Agency Agreement with LeadsOnline, LLC for electronic reporting and criminal investigation software. The amendment would extend the contract term by one year and increase the maximum amount payable to the vendor. - CREST Memorandum of Understanding – A proposed MOU between the City and the State of Louisiana would authorize the New Orleans Police Department to participate in the statewide Critical Response Emergency Search Team (CREST), a rapid-response team for endangered missing persons and persons missing after critical incidents or mass-casualty events. - NOPD Drone Policy Presentation – Sarah Whittington (Advocacy Director, ACLU of Louisiana) and Edith Romero (Organizer, Eye on Surveillance) were scheduled to present a comparison of NOPD’s drone policies from 2024, June 2026, and July 1, 2026, along with data from the 2025 pilot period and recommendations for amendments to existing legislation. Key Outcomes - No votes, decisions, or formal actions are documented in the available agenda. The only scheduled action items were the approval of the July 27, 2026 minutes and consideration of the legislative and contract items listed above, but their resolutions are not recorded.