NEW ORLEANS, LA — During its meeting on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, the New Orleans City Council’s Governmental Affairs Committee held confirmation hearings for appointments to the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORDC) and the Audubon Commission, reviewed Mardi Gras related motions, and heard presentations from senior City leadership.
Board and Commission Appointments
The Committee first heard testimony from Kevin Kimbrough, a nominee to the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission. Kimbrough expressed his desire to serve the community and advocate for at-risk youth in New Orleans. Following the hearing, the Committee recommended approval of his appointment to the full Council.
The Committee also heard testimony from Mike Farley, another nominee to NORD. Farley discussed his interest in helping move NORD forward by leveraging his business and civic experience. He currently serves as a member of the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club. The Committee recommended approval of his appointment.
Hearings for Sheldon Polk, nominated to NORD, and Pierre Villere, nominated to the Audubon Commission, were deferred to a future meeting.
Mardi Gras Season Motion Discussed
Committee members also discussed Motion M-26-50 which, in accordance with City Code section 34-6, submits parade positions and start times for the 2026 Carnival season. Following discussion, the Committee recommended approval of the motion to the full Council.
Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with Orleans Parish Sherriff's Office Discussed
The Committee also discussed a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement (CEA) between the City of New Orleans and the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office to provide supplemental public safety services during Mardi Gras 2026. The agreement would run from February 1 through March 31, with a not-to-exceed amount of $3,704,167.00. Following an explanation from the New Orleans Police Department, the Committee recommended approval of the agreement to the full Council.
Deputy Mayor Presentations
Committee members heard presentations from Renee Lapeyrolerie, Deputy Mayor for External Affairs, and Kevin Ferguson, Deputy Mayor and Chief of Staff. The Deputy Mayors outlined their roles and approaches to working collaboratively with the City Council.
Ferguson emphasized continued efforts to address homelessness, infrastructure, and sustainability, as well as improving transparency with attendance by board and commission members. Lapeyrolerie discussed neighborhood engagement efforts and shared that her office is developing a plan to be distributed to Councilmembers next week.
The Committee later entered executive session to discuss litigation matters before adjourning.
To view the meeting agenda, click here or To view the full meeting, click here.