NEW ORLEANS - Council President Jason Williams has issued the following statement in response to the recent arrest of fellow Councilmember Jared Brossett:

"First, I pray for the health and continued well-being of both drivers from Sunday's accident. I am extremely grateful that there was no loss of life or more serious injuries.

I've known Jared as a friend and colleague for over a decade. He has been proud to serve District D and is absolutely devastated by Sunday's events. He has made a decision to immediately seek treatment to address an ongoing battle with addiction. I support his decision and will do everything in my power to support him through his recovery.

Regarding the business of the City Council, as Council President, I've taken immediate action to ensure continuity of leadership for District D as well as matters over which Councilmember Brossett would normally preside. Effective immediately, and until further notice, Councilmember-at-Large Moreno has agreed to assume Budget Chair duties and I will assume chairmanship duties of Councilmember Brossett's newly-formed Emergency Preparedness and Cyber Security Committee. We will also continue, from our at-large posts, to work with our colleagues to ensure there are no missed steps and that District D continues to receive quality and uninterrupted service from the Council. I will take on his responsibilities to neighborhood groups and the like, for the foreseeable future. Residents and business owners can call my office at 504-658-1070 for all constituent needs.

This Council owes it to the entire City of New Orleans as well as the leaders of tomorrow to take an in-depth look at all formal policies or lack thereof for regarding take-home vehicles for all City employees."

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Media Contact:

Keith D. Lampkin

Office of Jason R. Williams, Council-At-Large

(504) 758-8913

kdlampkin@nola.gov