The New Orleans City Council adopted several ordinances and resolutions on March 26 during its regular meeting, including new oversight requirements for criminal justice agencies and support for an economic development district in the West End area.
These actions are intended to improve financial transparency within city agencies, clarify housing fund management, and promote economic growth in historically significant neighborhoods.
One of the main items was the adoption of an amended ordinance requiring criminal justice agencies to use the city’s enterprise resource planning system, known as BRASS. The amendment extends implementation timelines for some agencies while mandating regular progress reports and quarterly briefings to ensure detailed financial tracking. The ordinance is set to take effect on June 1.
The council also updated regulations related to the Housing Trust Fund by revising membership criteria for its advisory committee. The changes include adding members with lived housing experience and adjusting appointment processes during municipal election years. Reporting deadlines were revised but existing oversight structures remain intact.
A resolution supporting Louisiana House Bill 892 was passed, endorsing the creation of a West End Economic Development District across Orleans and Jefferson Parishes. The district aims to revitalize an area that has declined since severe hurricane damage by fostering economic growth through a structured governing board.
Additionally, councilmembers approved steps toward a comprehensive overhaul of utility regulation rules in New Orleans by establishing a new docket focused on updating customer protections and complaint processes. This includes creating a Utility Regulatory Manual with input from stakeholders such as utilities, advocacy groups, and advisors.
Earlier in the meeting, proclamations honored both the KIPP Morial Middle School Debate team for academic excellence over five years and Education and Sharing Day on March 29. Rabbi Mendel Rivkin spoke about education’s role beginning at home: “Education doesn’t just start at school—it begins at home and continues onward.”
