FLASH: Council member irked by ‘offensive’ petition from P&Z member pushing ‘younger’ choice for empty seat

Zuckerman complains to council, officials about ‘offensive’ petition Nicholas Cressy sent to council

Questions ‘appropriateness’ of P&Z member lobbying council during appointment process

MANDEVILLE — Newest Planning & Zoning Commissioner Nicholas Cressy triggered a heated response from Councilman at Large Jason Zuckerman today (November 22nd) over a petition he sent to the council yesterday (November 21st) with 32 signatures urging presumably that Shawn Potter be appointed to the vacant P&Z seat.

Although the petition and Cressy’s email avoid naming any of the three P&Z applicants, the platitudinous language of the text made it clear to Zuckerman and other sources familiar with the situation that Cressy is openly lobbying on behalf of Shawn Potter:

“We ask the City Council to strongly consider a candidate who can bring a fresh, long-term perspective to the commission. Including younger voices in the decision-making process will enhance the diversity and depth of thought on the commission, benefiting all Mandeville residents—today and in the years to come,” Cressy wrote in part.

The ages of applicants for the open P&Z seat are: Judge Pat Rosenow at age 70, Ernest Burguières at age 72, and Potter at only 45.

“I am deeply concerned about the appropriateness of a sitting Planning and Zoning Commissioner circulating what amounts to a petition, weighing in publicly on an appointment for that same Commission, and lobbying the Council during the appointment process,” Zuckerman replied via email to his fellow City Council members, Mayor Clay Madden, and other city officials.

Potter’s nomination to the P&Z hit a procedural snag last night and faces long odds to gain the appointment after three of the five council members expressed opposition to his appointment at the October 24th meeting.

Cressy was nominated to the P&Z by Zuckerman and former District II Councilman Dr. Skelly Kreller to replace Nixon Adams. Cressy was confirmed on August 24th, 2023.

The text from Zuckerman and Cressy’s emails along with the petition are below. Click here to download Cressy’s PDF petition with 32 signatures.

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Text of Zuckerman’s email to City Council and other officials:

Chairman Discon, fellow Council Members, Mayor Madden:

As you all know, I do not participate in discussion or debate concerning matters before the Council via group email, and that is not my intent here in replying to all regarding this email and the “Open Letter to City Council” that is attached to it.

Setting aside the issue of whether considering a “younger” candidate over an “older” candidate because of their age is appropriate (I actually find it offensive), or how one even would define such a thing if one were to consider that, I am deeply concerned about the appropriateness of a sitting Planning and Zoning Commissioner circulating what amounts to a petition, weighing in publicly on an appointment for that same Commission, and lobbying the Council during the appointment process. While this email and petition does not mention any specific current applicant by name, its intent is clear.

In my opinion, it’s inappropriate at the very least and should be addressed by the Planning & Zoning Commission.

Respectfully,

Jason Zuckerman
City of Mandeville, Council At Large

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Text of Nicholas Cressy’s email to the City Council:

Dear Members of the Mandeville City Council:

Please find the attached letter containing 32 signatures from Mandeville residents in support of this public comment. We urge the City Council to consider candidates who can bring a fresh, long-term perspective to the Planning and Zoning Commission, including younger voices. Incorporating younger individuals, particularly parents and young families, will enhance the commission’s diversity and improve decision-making for all Mandeville residents, both now and in the future.

While we value the qualifications of the current applicants, we believe the commission would benefit from more representation from younger individuals who will be directly affected by planning decisions in the years to come. As Mandeville revises its Comprehensive Land Use and Zoning Ordinance (CLURO), we must consider the long-term impact on future generations. The

“Thrive 2048” initiative reminds us of our responsibility to plan for the future, not just for today’s residents but also for those who will inherit this city.

Including diverse age perspectives will help address the needs of families raising children today and ensure that the city develops in a sustainable, vibrant, and safe manner for future generations.

Thank you for your consideration.

NICHOLAS V. CRESSY
Partner
1222 Annunciation Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
Т. 504.605.0777
F. 504.322.3884
nicholas@fcjlaw.com
http://www.fcjlaw.com

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Text of Cressy’s petition to City Council
(Click here to download PDF and view 32 signatures.)

To: The Mandeville City Council

We, the undersigned, respectfully submit this petition to urge the City Council to consider the importance of age diversity when selecting candidates for the open position on the Planning and Zoning Commission.

While we recognize and appreciate the qualifications and capabilities of the current applicants, we believe the commission would benefit greatly from the inclusion of younger perspectives, particularly those of parents and young families. Though the current commission is diverse in terms of gender and race, it lacks significant representation from younger individuals who will be directly impacted by the planning and zoning decisions made in the years to come.

As Mandeville begins the process of revising its Comprehensive Land Use and Zoning Ordinance (CLURO), it is crucial to take into account the long-term implications these decisions will have on future generations. The title of the current planning survey, “Thrive 2048,” underscores the forward-thinking responsibility we carry. Decisions made now will shape our city’s development not only for today’s residents but also for children, grandchildren, and beyond.

For many families, particularly those with young children, it is essential to have a voice in this process. Parents who are raising children today are deeply invested in creating a community that is safe, vibrant, and sustainable for the next generation. A commission that reflects a range of age perspectives will bring more inclusive and innovative solutions to the challenges ahead.

As a millennial, I have seen firsthand the barriers and challenges younger generations face when trying to get involved in local governance. While we are often encouraged to participate, when we do, there is sometimes resistance. However, it is critical that we begin involving the next generation in shaping Mandeville’s future now—before it is our turn to lead. Engaging younger individuals will ensure that we are well-prepared to be responsible stewards of Mandeville, considering not just the immediate needs but the lasting impact of the choices we make today.

We ask the City Council to strongly consider a candidate who can bring a fresh, long-term perspective to the commission. Including younger voices in the decision-making process will enhance the diversity and depth of thought on the commission, benefiting all Mandeville residents—today and in the years to come.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

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