NEW ORLEANS, LA - During the Governmental Affairs Committee meeting on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, the Committee held hearings to consider the confirmation of Dr. Jennifer Avegno as Director of the Department of Human Services and Charline Gipson as City Attorney and head of the Law Department. Additionally, the Committee heard several presentations from members of the Mayor’s administration, including the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and the Deputy Mayor of Public Safety.

Committee Recommends Approval for Key Roles in Mayor’s Administration

Following comments from Mayor Helena Moreno, the Committee held a hearing to confirm Dr. Jennifer Avegno for the position of Director of the Department of Human Services. Dr. Avegno, an experienced physician and public health leader, addressed the Committee regarding her goals if appointed as director. Avegno reassured the Committee that she and Mayor Moreno are committed to improving healthcare in the city and to leading a restructured Health and Human Services Department.

The Committee unanimously recommended approval of Dr. Avegno as the Director of the Department of Human Services to the full Council, following questions from each member.

The Committee then proceeded with the hearing of Charline Gipson as the City Attorney. Gipson, an experienced lawyer educated at Cornell University and Cornell Law School, has previously worked at firms like Baker Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC, and Davillier Law Group, LLC. She noted that Mayor Moreno’s commitment to reclaiming resources rightfully belonging to New Orleans' citizens inspired her. Gipson also referenced the administration’s partnership with the Council on the former Wisner Trust. She is seeking to initiate a cultural reset for the Law Department, in line with Mayor Moreno’s guidance.

The Committee unanimously recommended to the full Council approval of Gipson as the City Attorney and head of the Law Department, following questions from each member.

CAO and Deputy Mayor of Public Safety Speak Before Committee

The meeting concluded with comments from CAO Joe Giarrusso and Deputy Mayor of Public Safety Michael Harrison on their respective plans for the new mayoral administration.

CAO Giarrusso acknowledged that, although the mayor's administration has only been in place for three days, the team is already working well together. Giarrusso assured the Committee that he and his team are committed to facing the challenges ahead and reaffirmed that there will be significant changes in how the administration conducts its business. The Committee expressed high expectations for CAO Giarrusso and showed confidence in his ability to succeed in the role.

Deputy Mayor Michael Harrison highlighted his experience and commitment to public safety, underscoring his support for Mayor Moreno's vision. He plans to coordinate public safety efforts ahead of Mardi Gras by strengthening communication with key stakeholders and residents to reduce vulnerabilities and prevent incidents.

To view the meeting agenda, click here or To view the full meeting, click here.