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NEW ORLEANS, LA - On Monday, March 9, 2026, the Governmental Affairs Committee convened to review multiple appointments to different Boards and Commissions. Committee members also reviewed an ordinance to amend and reordain a section of the city code related to carbon monoxide detector requirements, as well as a discussion of the 2026 Mardi Gras season and incidents that occurred during it.
Board and Commission Appointment Review
The Committee reviewed six different appointments to boards and commissions in New Orleans. The Committee voted to recommend Dawn Hebert favorably for membership on the City Planning Commission. If appointed, Hebert would serve for a term ending on June 30, 2030. The Committee also recommended Anthony Jackson for membership on the City Planning Commission. If appointed, Jackson would serve for a term ending on June 30, 2026.
Next, the Committee heard from Ann Duplessis, Erika Mann, and Barbara Major separately on why their membership appointments on the Regional Transit Authority's board should be confirmed. Following the discussion, the Committee voted to recommend their appointment to the full council. Duplessis's, Mann's, and Major's terms would also be effective upon approval by the Council and will expire at the discretion of the Mayor.
Finally, the Committee recommended Daphney Young for a position on the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORDC) board. Young would represent Council District E and begin her service upon Council approval for a term that will expire on June 30, 2027.
Discussion of the 2026 Mardi Gras Season
The Committee received presentations from members of the Downtown Development District, the Department of Sanitation, and members of several carnival krewes regarding the 2026 Mardi Gras season.
The Committee heard from the Downtown Development District (DDD) about challenges in removing and cleaning viewing stands across the city. Representatives described difficulties in cleaning large waste under bleachers, especially on St. Charles Ave. DDD noted that, due to a staggered removal schedule, full downtown cleanup after Mardi Gras takes over a week. The Committee agreed on the time involved but stressed the need for a clearer bleacher removal schedule. It also suggested revising laws on when parade-goers are allowed to set up ladders, as this is a key factor in waste buildup. To view the full presentation, click here.
The Committee heard from the Department of Sanitation about the challenges and achievements of Mardi Gras 2026. Director Matt Tori explained that efficient parade rollouts led to earlier end times and easier clean-up. However, the 2026 season saw a 24% increase in debris due to larger crowds. Tori also noted that managing the large number of plastic bags during cleanup proved difficult, and residents lingering on routes extended clean-up times, potentially risking safety and efficiency. To view the full presentation, click here.
Following these presentations, the Committee spoke with and received reports from several Mardi Gras Krewes regarding incidents that occurred during the 2026 season. During the festivities, reports emerged of dangerous objects being thrown from floats, offensive throws, and more. When questioning krewe leadership of parades where incidents occurred, the Committee emphasized that Mardi Gras must remain an open, accepting, and celebratory holiday season for residents and visitors, and that acts that cause physical or emotional harm to parade-goers will not be tolerated.
The Committee condemned the misconduct and called for swift action and transparent dialogue surrounding any ongoing investigations related to these actions.
Ordinance Regarding Carbon Monoxide Detectors
The Committee recommended Ordinance No. 35,332 for approval. This ordinance amends Section 26-656 of the New Orleans City Code to specify when carbon monoxide detectors are required in rental units under the Healthy Homes Program. It states that carbon monoxide detectors with long-life, sealed batteries are required only when mandated by the City Fire Code or Louisiana law, not in all rental units.
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