The Kenner City Council meeting on January 9, 2025, opened with a heartfelt tribute to Wendell Dufour, a long-serving city employee who passed away unexpectedly at the end of December. Council members shared their memories of Dufour, highlighting his dedication to the community and his significant contributions to the planning department. Councilwoman McKinney described him as a "gem" and a "huge loss" for the city, while other council members echoed sentiments of shock and sorrow, emphasizing his fairness and commitment to educating others about city planning.

In addition to honoring Dufour, the council recognized other community members who had recently passed, including Jack Ziwi, William King Jr., and Salie Molina. Council members expressed their condolences and encouraged the community to keep these families in their thoughts and prayers.

The meeting also addressed ongoing issues with Entergy Louisiana, the city's electrical service provider. Council members voiced their frustrations regarding the slow response to requests for utility pole removals and maintenance. Councilwoman McKinney specifically mentioned a utility pole that had been standing unused for nearly ten months, calling for more accountability from Entergy. In response, Entergy's customer service manager, Jimmy Aiken, acknowledged the issues and committed to improving communication and service in the future.

On a more positive note, the council discussed the upcoming 41st annual Martin Luther King Jr. March and Ceremony, scheduled for January 20, 2025. The event aims to honor the legacy of Dr. King and promote community unity.

The meeting concluded with a prayer for the community and a pledge of allegiance, reinforcing the council's commitment to serving the residents of Kenner. As the city moves forward, the council aims to address the challenges raised during the meeting while honoring the memory of those lost.