Matthew Willard is a first-term member of the New Orleans City Council, serving as Councilmember At-large, Division 1. He brings a results-driven approach to restoring trust in local government and delivering basic services that work for everyone across New Orleans. He previously served as the Louisiana State Representative for District 97 and as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, where he built a reputation for bipartisan collaboration, fiscal responsibility, and pushing meaningful legislation across the finish line.
A proud graduate of the University of New Orleans, Matthew’s public service has focused on strengthening communities, improving affordability, and modernizing government to better serve residents. During his six years in the Legislature, he successfully passed dozens of bills ranging from housing stability to workforce development and public accountability.
Known for tackling the big challenges, Matthew championed improving birth outcomes for Louisiana families, lowering homeowners' insurance rates, and creating better job opportunities for Louisiana families. His legislation made the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program permanent, ended estimated water utility bills, and capped out-of-pocket copayments for insulin. Matthew also founded the bipartisan STEM Innovation Caucus to expand K-12 STEM education, grow high-wage jobs, and diversify Louisiana’s economy.
In the private sector, Matthew serves as Director of Marketing and Communications at Yokogawa Fluence Analytics, a global leader in advanced analytics for the polymer and biopharmaceutical industries. His professional background allows him to bring a data-driven, outcomes-oriented mindset to public service and to bridge the gap between innovation, economic growth, and effective governance.
His leadership has earned him recognition as the Legislator of the Year by the Alliance for Good Government, a Gambit 40 Under 40 honoree, and multiple awards for his social advocacy and economic development initiatives.
As Councilmember At-Large, Matthew is focused on improving infrastructure, making New Orleans more affordable, ensuring City Hall functions effectively and efficiently, and on delivering exceptional city services to everyone in New Orleans.
A proven collaborator, visionary, and advocate for opportunity, Matthew Willard continues to shape our future—one bold idea at a time.
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Latest News
July 30, 2026
NEW ORLEANS, LA — Today, a joint City Council committee took the first step in reforming the governing structure of the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans.
June 24, 2026
NEW ORLEANS, LA — Today, the New Orleans City Council voted to move forward a zoning amendment for the Omni Hotel project following extensive tax and labor agreement negotiations led by Council President JP Morrell and Council Vice President Matthew Willard.
June 10, 2026
NEW ORLEANS, LA — The New Orleans City Council’s Community Development Committee, chaired by Council Vice President Matthew Willard, voted today to advance Fortify NOLA, a $635,375 Fortified Roof Gap Funding Grant Program that will help income-qualified homeowners cover the remaining costs to install a fortified roof, building on the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program.
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