NEW ORLEANS CITY HALL – As part of a whirlwind first week, key leaders tapped by Mayor Helena Moreno to lead the law and human services departments have been unanimously approved by the City Council’s Government Affairs committee. These two women are the first of four new Moreno department leaders that must be confirmed in public hearings pursuant to the recently enacted city charter confirmation provisions.
“The nominees I bring before the City Council and in full view of the people of New Orleans epitomize my commitment to accountability, transparency, and effectiveness. These incredible individuals share my focus on delivering results with urgency and integrity,” said Mayor Moreno. “Charline Gipson is an extraordinary leader, strategist, and attorney who is respected across the city for her poise and legal acumen. And we know my dear friend Dr. Jennifer Avegno – a woman with an exceptional commitment to getting it done for the people of New Orleans no matter what the challenge -will be a game changer for public health and our children and families as our new Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services.”
Dr. Avegno, the current Director of Health, has led the City’s public health response to COVID-19 as well as crafted award-winning programs focused on improving maternal health, cancelling medical debt, standing up transformative violence interruption programs, and delivering new behavioral health resources to thousands of kids across the City. Avegno has been tapped by Moreno to also now lead a reorganized and revitalized Department of Human Services, which will take on critical work for our youth and underserved families.
“We have an exceptional opportunity to bring together resources and talent in the new Health and Human Services department, increasing collaboration and efficiency across government while developing real and sustainable solutions to improve the health and well-being of the people of New Orleans. I want to thank Mayor Moreno for her dedication to improving health for every resident – from infants to elders – and her willingness to think creatively to build better systems to improve outcomes.”
Attorney Charline Gipson was selected by Moreno to lead the city’s law department. Gipson, an experienced litigator and corporate outside counsel, is a graduate of Cornell Law School and has more than 20 years of experience in complex corporate and strategic matters. She previously served Of Counsel at the Baker Donelson law firm.
“I’m honored to have this opportunity to lead the city’s law department and represent our most important client: the people of New Orleans,” said Gipson. “I pledge to drastically increase transparency, collaboration, efficiency, and the impact of the law department so help the Mayor and the City Council deliver more effective city services and a government of which the people can be proud.”
The Council Committee also heard introductions by First Deputy Mayor and Chief Administrative Officer Joe Giarrusso, as well as Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Michael Harrison. According to the City Charter, while neither requires Council confirmation, Mayor Moreno sought to highlight her steadfast commitment to collaboration and transparency by requesting a courtesy presentation and time for public questions for both key leaders in front of the Council.
Gipson and Avegno are now scheduled for a final confirmation vote at the full City Council meeting on Tuesday, January 27th, beginning at 10a. Watch live at Council.Nola.com/live.