NEW ORLEANS, LA -  The City Council and Mayor Helena Moreno received a legal win for the City that could secure more than $6 million a year to support New Orleans annually. On Thursday, January 15, Civil District Court Judge Kern Reese recognized Mayor Helena Moreno as the lawful trustee of the former Wisner Trust.

The City Council and Mayor Moreno argued that the trust assets belong to City New Orleans. This includes massive tracts of coastal land Edward Wisner donated to the city 111 years ago, and lucrative leases at a major Gulf port that could yield more than $6 million more every year for public coffers.

“The Wisner Trust saga is coming to a close, and we can finally move on together as a unified city government. Thankfully, the people of New Orleans have a mayor that is interested in getting more money for the city, not less. With this chapter nearly behind us, we can begin to move forward in a new direction for residents,” said Council President JP Morrell.

“I am pleased to have clarity and alignment between the Mayor and Council. We can move forward with a public process that puts our residents first. This is exactly the kind of collaboration our city needs, and  I look forward to working together to ensure these resources serve the people of New Orleans,” said Council Vice President Matthew Willard

“We’re glad to now be officially aligned with the administration in the Wisner lawsuit. This unity puts the City in a stronger position, and we’re hopeful it will improve our ability to fully secure the Wisner trust assets to help replenish our reserves and support New Orleans’ long-term financial health,” said Councilmember Lesli Harris.

“The City Council's win in the Wisner Fund lawsuit brings New Orleans one step closer to improving the living conditions of our most vulnerable residents. The freeing up of much needed resources allows us to demolish blighted buildings, turn on streetlights, and repair streets and sidewalks," said Councilmember Freddie King. "These are the fundamental investments that make communities safer, stronger, and more livable. When we focus on these core quality-of-life issues, we improve not just individual blocks, but the well-being of the entire city,” King continued.

“Over 100 years ago philanthropist Edward Wisner left resources meant for the benefit of the citizens of the city that he loved New Orleans. It is apparent that leadership of our city in the form of the mayor and city council should be able to act upon the will that was expressed by Mr. Wisner,” said Councilmember Eugene Green. "Today’s ruling confirms that the residents of New Orleans are entitled to the benefits in full that are derived from the trust. Judge Reese’s ruling is welcome, and I look forward to Mayor Moreno and the city council having the ability to apply the proceeds of the Wisner Trust in a manner that serves as the highest and best use for our city and its citizens.”