Presentation from Odyssey House Louisiana

OHL representatives briefed the committee on the operations at the City's LBS, highlighting improvements made under the non-profit's management and discussing the shelter's part in the City's broader homelessness response.

OHL began expanding services in June 2024 to serve individuals experiencing homelessness. The LBS offers a comprehensive, client-centered approach that connects guests with healthcare, housing, case management, recovery support, and more. The non-profit aims to position the LBS as a solution that reduces encampments and improves health outcomes.

In 2025, the shelter operated at full capacity, filling all 296 beds. The LBS helped 349 individuals secure housing or reunification and provided each guest with an individualized care plan. Future expanded services would include access to healthcare, substance use treatment, daily meals, crisis response, and enhanced safety measures.

Additionally, the non-profit's LBS Satisfaction Questionnaire achieved a high response rate, reflecting positive guest satisfaction with facility safety, cleanliness, case management support, and more. The LBS also delivers approximately $9,445,158 in cost savings and $39,844,998 in economic impact.

To view the full presentation, click here.

Amendments to Demolition Contracts

The Council voted on two amendments to two demolition contracts between the City and Durr Heavy Construction. The first vote was for the 4^th amendment to the contract for emergency demolition services. If approved, it would extend the term for one year and increase the maximum amount payable by $1.5 million. That money would fund emergency demolition projects in the Greater New Orleans area for one year. The committee voted to recommend the amendment for approval by the full City Council.

The second vote was for the 4^th amendment to the contract between the City and Durr Heavy Construction for non-emergency demolition services and to extend the term by one year. The committee voted to recommend the amendment for approval by the full Council.

To view the meeting agenda, click here.