The New Orleans City Council today voted 4-2 to move ahead with removal proceedings in its case against Gregory Joseph, Mayor LaToya Cantrell's communications director.
"The formal charges, of which there are two: the first is, 'Gregory Joseph did intentionally institute and participate in an oversee a publicly funded advertising campaign attempt to garner public support for Mayor Cantrell and to sway the outcome of the recall effort in direct violation of state law. "His actions in that regard constitute incompetence, neglect of duty, and gross misconduct,'" said City Council President J.P. Morrell.
"Charge two: Gregory Joseph did intentionally provide false testimony under oath before the governmental affairs committee on August 31st, 2023, regarding the role of the recall campaign in connection with the 'City of New Orleans 2022' mailer campaign."
"In general, I don't agree with the removal proceedings that are being brought," said Councilmember Eugene Green. "I felt that there could be a little bit more consulting and that there might be alternatives to this measure."
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But Councilmember Lesli Harris said she was appalled by dishonest testimony.
"Everyone here witnessed the testimony of Mr. Joseph, everyone who has read the documents, and conflicting testimony by Mr. Meyer understands that Mr. Joseph clearly lied to us," said Harris.
Today's vote is just the beginning of the process -- the council has scheduled further action for October 3, if Gregory Joseph does not resign or the mayor does not fire him by then. Joseph will have an opportunity to present a defense, and be represented by a lawyer, at the October 3 hearing.
Councilmembers Morrell, Harris, Helena Moreno, and Joe Giarrusso voted to begin the removal process. Councilmembers Green and Freddie King voted nay. Councilmember Oliver Thomas was absent.