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September - October 2025 Edition

Strike Team Clears Way for Safer Public Access

Strike Team members Mr. Adrian Cook (right) and Mr. Tajmil Riggins (left) clear an obstructed sidewalk and street in the Lower Ninth Ward.

Blight doesn’t stop at the property line. Overgrown grass, thick vegetation, and debris often spill onto sidewalks, streets, and public walkways—creating safety hazards and eyesores in high-traffic areas. When it gets this bad, the Strike Team steps in.

“Some of these lots need more than just a lawnmower,” said Shaune Gilbert, Strike Team Supervisor. “They look like jungles.”

Unlike the Chapter 66 program, which focuses on privately-owned vacant lots, the Strike Team clears public right-of-ways or easements—areas like sidewalks, streets, and paths that connect neighborhoods to parks, schools, and other community spaces.

Formed in 2024, the team is made up of four members led by Gilbert. Armed with weed-eaters, mowers, and blowers, they work across the city. In addition to clearing overgrowth, the department also issues code violations to property owners, holding them accountable through administrative hearings. Looking ahead to 2026, Gilbert and department leaders hope to expand the team. “We do a lot with just four guys,” Gilbert said. “But with more resources, a bigger team, we could cover more ground and make an even bigger impact.”

Before and After: excessive weeds and grass can often block right-of-ways creating public safety hazards.

Demolition Work Resumes at DeGaulle Manor

On October 9, executive leadership from the Department of Code Enforcement joined District C Councilman Freddie King Jr. and other city officials for a press conference at DeGaulle Manor in Algiers. The site, long known for its severe blight, was the backdrop for the official announcement of the next phase of demolition. The project will begin with asbestos removal, followed by the demolition of two and a half buildings by the end of 2025. The remaining structures are scheduled to be demolished by the end of 2026.

Do You Know the Code?

The city code for minimum property maintenance details how to keep properties safe and compliant. Blight can negatively impact quality-of-life and public health. Understanding how the code applies to your property is the first step in maintaining compliance. To read the code, visit Municode or to view code enforcement processes, visit our website here.

A. Roofs, Chimneys & Ventilation (Sec. 26-172 & 26-177)

Regularly inspect your roof, chimney, and ventilation shafts. Hire a licensed roofing contractor to check for damage to your roof, insulation, and fascia. Tarp coverings are only a temporary solution—not a long-term fix.

B. Sec. 26-168 Premise Identification

Make sure your property address is clearly visible and placed in a discreet but legible location.

C. Sec. 26-161 Rodent Harborage

Keep your property clean and free of clutter where rodents or pests could nest or hide.

D. Sec. 26-157 Sanitation 

Store trash, recycling, and debris in proper containers. Ensure bins are emptied regularly to prevent overflow and odors.

E. Sec. 26-164 Motor Vehicles

Disabled or damaged vehicles must be stored in a secure area—not on your lawn or in front of your home. Painting vehicles on your property is not allowed.

F. Sec. 26-160 Weeds & Plant Growth & 173 Drainage

Keep grass and weeds trimmed. Drain standing water to prevent mosquito breeding and property damage.

G. Sec. 26-178 Handrails

All stairs and steps must have secure handrails or guardrails for safety.

H. Sec. 26-179 Windows

Windows should be in good repair, weather-tight, and safe.

Tea Time to Improve Team Health

During the Department of Code Enforcement’s September All-Hands meetings, Ms. Dawn Hall, a member of the Chapter 66 program, presented a new health improvement initiative called Tea @2.

“I had been researching healthy beverages that help to reduce belly fat,” said Ms. Hall. “To my surprise, I discovered that green tea ranked very high in doing just that!”

She also found that green tea has other health benefits such as containing antioxidants that support the immune system, reducing inflammation, and protecting cells from damage. With other healthy choices, drinking green tea may also help support weight management, promote heart health, enhance brain function, and relieve stress.

Ms. Hall has been a health enthusiast all her adult life. That enthusiasm and her concern for others motivated her to share what she learned about green tea with her Code Enforcement family. She said Tea @2 has been well-received by her coworkers. “The challenge is simple. We started on September 15 and will go to December 15, 2025,” said Ms. Hall. “Each participant determined the goal(s) they want to work towards. We all get together for Tea @2 and provide support and encouragement on achieving our overall health improvement goals.” “The experience has been wonderful!” The tea and conversation allows for deeper connections within the Code Enforcement family. Ms. Hall mentioned that, in addition to building better communication, Tea @2 also provides learning opportunities on the different flavors and types of green tea as well as how natural sweeteners can enhance the flavors of the tea without the extra calories and the sugar rush. Various tasty sugar-free treats are also served periodically. The recent 30-Day Milestone Celebration for Tea @2 was sponsored by Mr. Gregory Alugas, District Supervisor of the Graffiti Abatement program. Ms. Jaun’ee Snear provided delicious, individually packed charcuterie boards for everyone. Ms. Jawanda Brown provided exquisite vegetable trays. Mr. Jay Jolly managed the water supply on a regular basis. Ms. Snear, Ms. Brown, and Mr. Jolly are members of the Title Research team.   Ms. Hall stated that the entire Code Enforcement team has pitched in with donations for tea and treats. “Everyone who participates has provided support and encouragement in one way or another. They have demonstrated kindness in ways I never imagined. I would like to especially thank Director Anthony Davis and Chief of Staff Ariane Patton for allowing us to implement the initiative. I sincerely appreciate each and everyone for being the most important part of Tea @2!”

Pink Out Day Spreads Hope

The Department of Code Enforcement came together on Friday, October 24, to celebrate Pink Out Day—a special day dedicated to honoring the courage of breast cancer fighters and survivors.

Team members proudly wore pink to show their support, raise awareness, and spread a message of hope to those living with breast cancer. The day served as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection, community support, and continued research in the fight against the disease.

Code Enforcement Spreads Holiday Cheer! The Department of Code Enforcement has officially launched its annual Christmas drives to support a local daycare and senior care facility this holiday season. This year’s Angel Tree is being coordinated by Ms. Toshia Norris and Ms. Aja Turner. The tree is beautifully decorated with handmade paper angel ornaments, each one crafted by children from Shiloh Gardens in Central City. Each angel includes a child’s small Christmas wish list. Staff members are invited to select an angel from the tree and help make a child’s holiday brighter by purchasing a gift from their list.

In addition to the Angel Tree, the Department of Code Enforcement is also collecting socks and blankets for seniors at care facilities around the city. This heartwarming effort, known as the Socks and Snuggles Drive, is being led by Ms. Norris. Thanks to the department's generosity, it was a huge success last holiday season—and we’re excited to bring it back!

August Employee of the Month August Employee of the Month was Ms. Evelyn Adams with the Finance team. Ms. Adams was selected for her work with processing tax lien reductions and assisting with day-to-day financial oversight.  A graduate of Southern University at New Orleans, she enjoys working with constituents to ensure they understand the department's processes.

September Employee of the Month September Employee of the Month was Mr. Jay Jolly with the Research team. Mr. Jolly was selected for his professionalism and diligence in maintaining effective research processes.  A graduate of Southeastern Louisiana University, he likes working to help the people of New Orleans resolve blight issues.

October Employee of the Month October Employee of the Month was Ms. Michelle Woods with the Finance team. Ms. Woods was selected for her years of work with the department and her strong knowledge of city financial processes.  She has been with the city for over 13 years, and loves working with the people in her department.

Supervisor of the Quarter Supervisor of Q3 is Shaune Gilbert, Inspection Supervisor over the Strike Team which abates right-of-way obstructions and hazards.  Mr. Gilbert has been with the city for 16 years. He's most proud of his team's willingness to accomplish their daily tasks correctly and their work in making a difference to the citizens of New Orleans.

Birthday Celebrations!

L to R: Ms. Michelle Woods, Ms. Ashaundra Varnado, Ms. Jawanda Brown, Ms. Justine Perriatt, Ms. Vanessa Logan, Mr. Kerry Foster, Ms. Kimberly Reid

L to R: Mr. Matthew Brisco, Mr. Blake Cunningham, Ms. Connie Daniels, Mr. Shaune Gilbert

Code Enforcement in the Community Join us in the community! We meet with neighbors and community leaders, sharing department updates and ways to keep the neighborhood safe, happy, and healthy. For a full list of city events, click here. Saturday, November 1 - Neighborhood Summit - New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Hall E, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm Tuesday, November 4  - District E - New Orleans East Regional Library (5641 Read Blvd.), 11:30 am - 12:30 pm