RESOLUTION - NO. R-26-3 - BY: COUNCILMEMBERS MORENO, MORRELL, GIARRUSSO, HARRIS, KING, GREEN AND THOMAS Brief: Pledging to work collaboratively with the incoming administration to ensure issuance of the retention bonus payments as promptly as is feasible in partnership with the NOPD and the Louisiana Legislative Auditor. Annotation: (This matter was introduced on 1/8/26).

This resolution, R-26-3, introduced by multiple council members, pledges the City Council's commitment to collaborate with the incoming administration to expedite the issuance of retention bonus payments for eligible New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officers. The resolution acknowledges that funds previously designated for these bonuses have been depleted, creating a funding gap. It notes that the Louisiana Legislative Auditor has confirmed the use of the City's Revenue Anticipation Note (RAN) payroll loan as a funding mechanism but has also raised concerns about potential errors and omissions requiring a more substantive review. The incoming Mayor-Elect has affirmed her commitment to honoring these bonuses once a comprehensive review and audit of employment records are completed. The Council agrees to work with the incoming administration, NOPD, and the Legislative Auditor to ensure prompt and compliant payment.

This resolution aims to ensure that NOPD officers receive their promised retention bonuses, which is critical for maintaining police morale, retention, and operational stability within the department.

high