NEW ORLEANS, LA – In response to the letter from the Department of Housing and Urban Development suspending Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s ability to sign funding contracts, Councilmember Lesli Harris issued the following statement:

“I am deeply concerned about how this instability could impact the workforce and affordable housing in New Orleans. Voters approved dedicating 2% of the city’s general fund - roughly $17 million annually beginning in 2026 - to the Housing Trust Fund precisely to ensure long-term, reliable funding for housing that cannot be derailed by political changes. At the same time, HUD’s suspension of the mayor from procurement activities raises new questions about continuity in our federal partnerships, which are crucial to maintaining a steady flow of housing dollars into local projects.

My priority is to make sure these challenges do not slow progress on the ground. Affordable housing developments already in motion - from new rental units to the rehabilitation of existing homes - must continue without disruption. I will continue to fight to ensure that our workforce and affordable housing commitments are protected and advanced, no matter the political climate.”

Councilmember Harris has long been an advocate for housing stability, including championing the Housing Trust Fund that dedicates 2% of the city’s annual budget to affordable housing initiatives starting in 2026. She remains committed to protecting these resources, ensuring transparency, and delivering results for families across New Orleans.