Alexandria, LA — December 2, 2025 — The Alexandria City Council meets today at 5 PM, and two major issues dominate the agenda: the return to the 2022 district map and a renewed push to grant Mayor Jacques Roy full authority over all 2026 event and marketing contracts. Residents say both issues confront the city’s core concerns: representation, transparency, and accountability.
Although the council approved similar spending authority last year, the public now questions whether expanding executive control aligns with the city’s needs or its legal and ethical obligations.
Redistricting Returns With Strong Public Support
Council President Cynthia Perry introduced the ordinance to repeal the 2024 Felter map and restore the 2022 boundaries. Residents strongly support this move. They argue that the 2022 map followed census requirements, protected equal representation, and honored the principle of population balance.
Public debate grew louder over the past year. Many viewed the 2024 changes as politically motivated. They said the adjustments benefited specific officials rather than voters. Perry opposed that map when it passed. Her support today reflects community calls for fairness and compliance with state law.
Furthermore, residents want the council to prioritize legal consistency before entering an election year. They believe the city must protect the integrity of district lines while confronting other urgent issues.
Larvadain Pushes for Oversight on Spending Authority
Councilman Malcolm Larvadain requested full committee review of the mayor’s contracting authority proposal. His push for transparency received immediate public support. Residents said Larvadain raised the exact concerns they have expressed for months.
They do not oppose events or economic development. Instead, they want clear documentation. They want to know how vendors are selected, how much they are paid, and how those contracts help the city. They also want to see fair access for local businesses.
Moreover, residents said the city should not expand spending authority while questions remain about how last year’s dollars moved through departments.
Discrepancy Study Raises Serious Equity Questions
Residents raised a deeper question that dominates today’s discussion. They asked how expanded mayoral authority aligns with the findings of the city’s Discrepancy Study. That study documented historical barriers for minority-owned, women-owned, and small local businesses. Many said those businesses struggled for fair access to city contracts.
They argued that granting the mayor full control of marketing and event spending could worsen these disparities. Without council oversight, historically excluded vendors may remain shut out. Public reporting gaps from last year made those fears stronger.
Furthermore, residents noted the absence of corrective action. No new procurement systems improved equity. No outreach changes expanded opportunity. No updates showed progress on reducing bias.
Because of this, citizens urged the council to question whether expanded authority addresses the disparities the study identified. They said the city should prioritize inclusion before widening executive power.
As one resident said, “We should fix the inequities before we extend the power.”
Trust, Transparency, and Representation on the Line
Tonight’s meeting reflects broader concerns across Alexandria. People want lawful district lines. They also want accountability in every contract. They expect transparency from every department. They want honest and open leadership during a year filled with pressure, crime concerns, and uncertainty.
Residents supported Cynthia Perry’s move to restore the 2022 map. They also backed Malcolm Larvadain’s push for oversight. They called these steps necessary for trust and stability.
The council meets today at 5 PM in the City Council Chambers.
Tonight’s decisions will influence representation, contract equity, and public spending throughout 2026. Moreover, they will shape whether citizens believe their leaders govern with fairness and transparency.
