Businessman and former City Councilmember Jay Batt has formally announced his candidacy for Orleans City Council District A.

With his wife Andree at his side, Batt confided that he just couldn’t stay on the sidelines while his neighbors in District A continue their struggle to build a better New Orleans. In his comments to a gathering of friends, family and supporters, Batt explained his personal decision to seek to return to the office he held from 2002 to 2006.

“Running for Council District A gives me an opportunity to participate in moving District A and the city in the right direction,” Batt stated. “In working with community groups in the months and years after Katrina, I understand what needs to happen to build a positive future, while protecting the history and culture of our community. I want to seize the exciting opportunities that are there, jump start improvements to our infrastructure such as streets and blight, make our streets and neighborhoods safe from crime for our children and families, and ultimately improve our quality of life.”

In offering himself in service to the people of New Orleans, Jay noted his experience in city government as a member of the City Council as well as his years of community service and involvement in numerous neighborhood and civic organizations.