Helena Moreno Appoints Joe Giarrusso as Top Deputy in Upcoming Administration

Moreno Taps Giarrusso as Chief Administrative Officer in New Orleans Transition

New Orleans, LA – december 2, 2025 – Mayor-elect Helena Moreno is set to announce outgoing Councilmember joe Giarrusso as her Chief administrative Officer, according to sources within her transition team. The announcement is expected at a press conference Tuesday, marking a key step in Moreno’s preparation to take office on January 12th.

While the transition team spokesperson, todd Ragusa, offered no comment Monday, citing plans to unveil key management members tomorrow, two sources familiar with Moreno’s plans confirmed Giarrusso as the top choice for the pivotal role. Giarrusso himself declined to comment.

The selection of Giarrusso, who has served two terms representing District A, signals Moreno’s intent to prioritize accessibility and effective policymaking. Known for his deep understanding of city governance, Giarrusso previously considered a run for Moreno’s former at-large council seat but ultimately opted to join the government relations and public policy team at Phelps dunbar.

Giarrusso played a critical role in navigating a recent cash-flow crisis that threatened the city’s ability to meet payroll. He accompanied Moreno to Baton Rouge on two occasions, successfully advocating for a $125 million bridge loan.

As Chief Administrative Officer, Giarrusso will be responsible for supervising department heads, managing the city budget, and representing the administration before the City Council, as outlined in the New Orleans Home Rule Charter. this appointment underscores the importance Moreno places on experienced leadership and a smooth transition into office.

How might giarrusso’s prior experience with zoning adn land use impact future advancement projects in New Orleans?

Helena Moreno Appoints Joe Giarrusso as Top Deputy in Upcoming Management

A Strategic Partnership for new Orleans Leadership

Helena Moreno, the incoming New Orleans City Council President, has announced the appointment of Joe Giarrusso as her top deputy, officially titled Chief of Staff, for her upcoming administration. This key leadership decision signals moreno’s commitment to experienced, collaborative governance as she prepares to take office in January 2026. The appointment has been widely discussed within New Orleans political circles, with many viewing it as a stabilizing force and a continuation of effective city planning strategies.

Giarrusso’s Proven Track Record in New Orleans Politics

Joe Giarrusso brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as a Councilmember for district 7 from 2018 to 2024. During his tenure, Giarrusso focused heavily on:

* Zoning and Land Use: Championing responsible development and neighborhood preservation. He was a key figure in navigating complex zoning issues across the city.

* Infrastructure Improvements: Advocating for critical upgrades to roads,drainage systems,and public transportation.

* Budget Oversight: Demonstrating fiscal responsibility and ensuring efficient allocation of city resources.

* Community Engagement: Prioritizing constituent services and fostering open dialog between residents and city government.

His deep understanding of New Orleans’ unique challenges and opportunities makes him a valuable asset to Moreno’s team. Giarrusso’s previous role provided him with extensive experience in navigating the intricacies of the City Council and building consensus among diverse stakeholders. This experience will be crucial in implementing Moreno’s policy agenda.

Moreno’s Vision and Giarrusso’s Role in Implementation

Helena Moreno’s campaign platform centered on key issues like affordable housing, public safety, and economic development.Giarrusso’s role as Chief of Staff will be instrumental in translating these campaign promises into concrete policy initiatives.

Specifically, Giarrusso is expected to:

1. Lead Policy Development: Oversee the drafting and implementation of legislation aligned with Moreno’s priorities.
2. Manage Council Relations: Facilitate communication and collaboration with other Councilmembers to build support for key initiatives.
3. Coordinate City Agencies: Ensure effective coordination between different city departments to streamline operations and improve service delivery.
4. Serve as a Key Liaison: Act as a primary point of contact for community groups, businesses, and other stakeholders.

Impact on Key Policy Areas: Affordable Housing & Economic Development

The appointment is notably important considering Moreno’s strong stance on addressing the city’s affordable housing crisis. Giarrusso’s experience with zoning regulations and land use planning will be vital in implementing strategies to increase housing availability and affordability.

Furthermore, his focus on infrastructure improvements aligns with Moreno’s commitment to fostering economic development by creating a more attractive environment for businesses and investment. Expect to see a renewed emphasis on projects that improve the city’s infrastructure and support local businesses.

Giarrusso’s Previous Work on Flood Protection & Resilience

Beyond housing and economic development, Giarrusso’s past work on flood protection and coastal resilience is particularly relevant. New Orleans continues to face significant risks from climate change and rising sea levels. His expertise in this area will be crucial as the city develops and implements strategies to mitigate these risks and protect its communities. This includes advocating for funding for infrastructure projects designed to improve drainage and protect against future storms.

What This Means for New Orleans Residents

This appointment signals a commitment to continuity and experienced leadership. Residents can anticipate a pragmatic approach to governance, focused on addressing the city’s most pressing challenges through collaborative problem-solving. The combination of Moreno’s vision and Giarrusso’s operational expertise positions the upcoming administration for success in tackling complex issues and improving the quality of life for all New Orleans residents.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

While the appointment is largely viewed positively, the new administration will face significant challenges. These include:

* Budget Constraints: Navigating a tight city budget while addressing critical needs.

* Political Polarization: Building consensus in a politically divided environment.

* Ongoing Recovery Efforts: Continuing to address the long-term impacts of past disasters.

Tho, the appointment of Giarrusso suggests a proactive approach to these challenges, leveraging his experience and relationships to build support for effective solutions. The upcoming months will be crucial in shaping the direction of New Orleans,and this leadership team is poised to play a pivotal role.