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
April 9, 2026
NEW ORLEANS, LA — Today, the New Orleans City Council passed Resolution R-26-137, endorsing the City’s Safe Streets for All Safety Action Plan, a comprehensive strategy to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries citywide.
The plan, approved following a presentation to the Transportation and Airport Committee, identifies high-risk corridors and prioritizes safety improvements, including better lighting, visible crosswalks, protected intersections, and traffic-calming measures to protect pedestrians and cyclists.
April 8, 2026
NEW ORLEANS, LA — Council Vice President Matthew Willard and District A Councilmember Aimee McCarron issued a formal statement today opposing a set of bills advancing through the Louisiana Legislature, including SB256, SB217, SB197 and HB911. These bills would consolidate – and thereby eliminate – several elected positions in the Orleans Parish court system, including elected judges and clerks of court.
March 26, 2026
NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, the redevelopment of West End is one step closer to the finish line after continued efforts from Councilmember Aimee McCarron, Mayor Moreno's administration, and Jefferson Parish and state officials.
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