The Governmental Affairs Committee in New Orleans met on March 17 to review several key appointments to city boards and departments. The committee considered candidates for leadership roles in the Department of Finance, the New Orleans Aviation Board, and the Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans.
These appointments are important as they fill critical positions that oversee financial management, aviation operations, and water services for the city. The committee’s recommendations will be sent to the full City Council for final approval.
Alyssa W. Rambeau was considered for confirmation as Director of the Department of Finance. Rambeau holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Southeastern Louisiana University and an MBA from the University of New Orleans. She is currently Vice President of Finance at OrthoSynetics, Inc., with previous experience at Gilded, Inc., and the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. During her hearing, Rambeau discussed her priorities if confirmed: “cash management, strong forecasting, accuracy, transparency, timeliness, and accountability” as areas she plans to strengthen early in her leadership. After questions about her plans and goals, the committee voted to recommend her favorably to the full Council.
James Williams was reviewed for appointment to the New Orleans Aviation Board. Williams graduated from Louisiana State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and earned his Juris Doctor from Washington & Lee University Law School. He currently serves as Head of Litigation at Chehardy Sherman Williams Law Firm. Following questioning by committee members, Williams also received a favorable recommendation.
Jonathan Stewart was considered for appointment to the Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans. Stewart studied at Tulane University’s A.B. Freeman School of Business for four years and has prior government experience with both the Department of Homeland Security and the New Orleans City Planning Commission. He is also involved with local organizations such as the New Orleans Council on Aging and the New Growth Economic Development Association. After discussion, Stewart was recommended favorably by the committee.
The committee deferred consideration of John Milazzo’s appointment to the Finance Authority of New Orleans until a later date.
The next steps involve review by the full City Council before any appointments are finalized.
