The New Orleans City Council has been busy at its latest meeting, passing several motions and ordinances that will shape the upcoming Mardi Gras season and the city's financial future. One key development is the adoption of Motion M-26-50, which sets the parade routes and start times for the 2026 carnival parade season. This means the festivities will kick off on February 6 with the Oshun parade at 5:00 p.m., following the Uptown A route, and last until February 17. Details of the parade routes and times are outlined in the linked motion provided by the City Council's official statement.
In addition to the parade schedule, the City Council has laid out specific public safety rules to guide the revelry of Mardi Gras 2026. Parade float riders will need to refrain from throwing beyond Tchoupitoulas Street, and confetti is banned due to its history of causing power outages and other safety concerns. Other prohibited items along parade routes include tents, generators, open flames, and upholstered furniture. Safety precautions extend to ladder placement, which must be six feet back from the curb, and the roping off of public space. Adding to the list, pets are not allowed on parade routes excluding service animals, enforced by a previously adopted ordinance.
The financial stability of New Orleans was also a topic addressed with the adoption of Ordinance No. 35,296, setting a citywide election for November 3, 2026. This initiative will put forward a charter amendment aimed at improving the oversight of city spending and refining the budget process. If passed, this would prevent departments from exceeding their allocated budget without formal consent from the Council and would mandate monthly expenditure reports to maintain fiscal responsibility. As noted by the City Council's summary, the potential changes are set to be effective starting January 1, 2027.
In response to a financial crisis, the City Council has implemented Motion M-26-55, mandating unpaid furlough days for unclassified City Council staff from February 15 through December 31, 2026. This measure establishes a tiered exemption system based on salary levels, with those earning $39,733 or less being fully exempt. Concerning city operations, the Council also decided to renew its contract with Granicus for a year, relying on their digital tools for public meeting management solutions at a cost of $82,684.38.
Security during Mardi Gras is another focal point, with the Council authorizing a cooperative effort agreement between the city and the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office. Motion M-26-56 allows for the deployment of additional law enforcement to support the New Orleans Police Department, ensuring a safer celebration for both locals and tourists alike. This plan will be in effect from February 1 to March 31, enhancing parade coverage and reinforcing security within the French Quarter.
