The Economic Development and Governmental Affairs Committees of New Orleans held a joint meeting on April 29 to review updates from the Department of Safety and Permits, including the introduction of the PermitSTAT program and proposed changes to parking enforcement responsibilities.
The topics discussed at this meeting are significant for city residents as they address efforts to improve customer service, streamline permit processes, and reorganize how parking violations are handled. These measures aim to increase efficiency, safety, and transparency within city operations.
During the meeting, representatives from the Department of Safety and Permits provided an overview of their department’s structure, goals, and current action plan. Director Susannah Kirby said that improving communication with customers is a key priority: “strengthening communication with customers would reduce confusion, complaints, and the burden on Council offices, while making services more responsive and transparent.” The department is also working to address previous performance issues by implementing PermitSTAT—a data-driven performance management program led by the Office of Performance & Accountability—which will track metrics through bi-weekly meetings.
The committee reviewed Ordinance No. 35,425 which proposes transferring responsibility for parking and towing enforcement from the Department of Public Works to the New Orleans Police Department. This ordinance would authorize police officers to enforce parking regulations as well as manage abandoned vehicles. The proposal includes transferring existing civilian employees from Public Works to Police as well as hiring about 50 new officers by summer.
According to officials at the meeting, consolidating these duties under one agency is expected to improve coordination during large events in addition to reducing unpaid tickets and long-term vehicle abandonment. The committee voted in favor of recommending approval for this ordinance; it will be considered further at a regular City Council meeting scheduled for May 7.
