As New Orleans continues its 2026 budget hearings, Week Two updates outlined expansions in city service contracts and measures to address fiscal challenges. The Budget, Audit, and Board of Review Committee recommended amending the OpenGov, Inc. Master Services Agreement to add $231,000 for asset management and extend the contract through mid-2027, as per the New Orleans City Council release.
The committee also approved an exemption for the Office of the Inspector General from the city’s fossil-fuel vehicle ban, citing infrastructure and safety concerns. The exemption will be reviewed again. Discussions also included priorities from the Mayor’s Office and the New Orleans Aviation Board, focusing on security and departmental coordination.
On Day Five, the New Orleans Health Department presented its 2026 plan to improve medical access and support community health programs. The city also received $5 million from the Wisner settlement, which will be allocated to the General Fund for health and recreation purposes.
An emergency Budget Committee meeting was called on Wednesday after the Chief Administrative Office reported a cash flow problem caused by delayed federal reimbursements during the government shutdown. To prevent disruptions to payroll, the Council approved a resolution allowing the City to seek up to $125 million in Revenue Anticipation Notes. The plan still requires approval from the State Bond Commission before proceeding with the sale.
