Mayor Jacques Roy addresses cybersecurity breach response in Alexandria city council meeting

The Louisiana Legislature convened on April 24, 2025, to address several pressing issues affecting local governance, with a focus on cybersecurity and civil service regulations. The meeting began with inquiries regarding the advertisement of agenda items and the absence of a formal resolution from the governing authority.

Mayor Jacques Roy of Alexandria took the floor, marking his return to local government after a hiatus. He recounted his initial actions upon resuming office, which included an executive session with the city council to discuss significant findings related to a cybersecurity breach that occurred during the previous administration. This breach, described as a "ransom type," had serious implications for city operations.

Mayor Roy emphasized the importance of agility in responding to such crises, advocating for a reevaluation of civil service rules that may hinder rapid action in emergency situations. He expressed his belief in civil service principles but highlighted the necessity for flexibility in specific roles, such as assistant city attorneys, where adherence to professional conduct is paramount.

The discussions underscored the need for local governments to adapt their operational frameworks to effectively manage cybersecurity threats while maintaining integrity in public service. The meeting concluded with a call for further examination of civil service regulations to ensure that municipalities can respond swiftly to emergencies without compromising their governance standards.