Former New Orleans city councilmember Jay Batt dies at 64

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Former New Orleans City Councilmember and local businessman Jay Batt died over the weekend.

Batt represented District A from 2002 to 2006. City officials including New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, Helena Moreno and others are remembering Batt as a successful businessman and a devoted public servant.

He is also the brother of actor Bryan Batt.

 “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jay Batt, a devoted public servant, successful businessman, and steadfast advocate for the people of New Orleans. Jay served the City with distinction as the District A New Orleans City Councilmember from 2002 to 2006, a time marked by both opportunity and unprecedented challenges. His leadership during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina was emblematic of his unwavering commitment to the recovery and resilience of our community.”

Beyond his public service, former Councilman Batt was a respected entrepreneur, known for his work as a longtime franchisee of Jos. A. Bank Clothiers and his contributions to the local real estate and retail landscape. He brought the same dedication and integrity to his business ventures that he did to his civic life.

His impact extended far beyond government and business. He was a passionate community leader, generously giving his time to organizations such as the Sugar Bowl Committee, the Orleans Parish Board of Supervisors of Elections, Crimestoppers, and the Beacon of Hope. His legacy of service, civic engagement, and love for New Orleans will be remembered and cherished.

May his memory be a blessing and may his contributions to our City never be forgotten. May he rest in God’s perfect peace.
Mayor LaToya Cantrell

“This is a profound loss. Jay Batt genuinely cared for our city, and even after leaving public office, he always stood ready to assist city leaders. His dedication to serving the community was matched only by his great love for his wife, Andre, and his family. He was also known for his quick wit and sense of humor. Jay will be deeply missed. My husband, Chris, and I extend our heartfelt condolences to Jay’s family and will keep them in our thoughts and prayers.”
Councilmember Helena Moreno

We are deeply saddened by the death of our good friend and dedicated board member Jay Batt. Jay was a longtime and steadfast supporter of City Park and was instrumental in guiding us through impactful and complicated issues.  Jay’s love for City Park was clear at all times.

We send our condolences to his family and all of the people who knew and loved him.

We will miss Jay’s wit, wisdom and good counsel immensely, but we know his legacy in the City of New Orleans and City Park will live on indefinitely.
President and CEO of City Park Conservancy Rebecca Dietz

The cause of death has not been released but according to Batts’ close friend Bill Kearney, Batt died in his sleep on Sunday, May 18.

He is survived by his wife and two daughters.

He was 64 years old.

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