Pontin Featured in Biz New Orleans on Concierge Permit Program

Biz New Orleans recently featured Adams & Reese New Orleans Associate Jack Pontin in an article examining how the city's new concierge permitting program stands to benefit hospitality businesses navigating complex approval requirements.

New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno announced the program on September 23, 2026, with a launch planned for October. Two Office of Safety and Permits staffers will help businesses move through the city’s approval process from start to finish. The pilot begins in New Orleans East, in the Chef Menteur Industrial Corridor and the Canal Corridor, with plans to expand citywide.

Pontin explained why the program could be especially helpful for businesses that need several city approvals before they open.

"Restaurants, bars, hotels, and other hospitality venues typically require multiple permits and approvals, including occupancy permits, health department clearances, fire safety certifications, zoning approvals, and, where applicable, alcohol permits and liquor licenses," Pontin said. "A dedicated concierge staffer who can coordinate across these requirements may reduce delays and eliminate redundant trips to City Hall."

Pontin noted that delays hit hardest before opening day. “Permitting delays can be particularly costly for hospitality businesses, where lease obligations, staffing commitments, and perishable inventory create financial pressure during the pre-opening period,” he said.

He flagged one limit for businesses that plan to serve alcohol: the concierge program only handles city permitting. “Business owners should keep in mind that alcohol permitting in Louisiana involves both state and local regulatory processes,” Pontin said, noting that state permits still go through the Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control.

A New Orleans native, Pontin has worked through the city's permitting process firsthand. While working for the ATG Licensing Consultants, he filed permit applications with the Alcohol and Tobacco Control office in New Orleans and worked with the City of New Orleans Department of Revenue to amend occupational licenses for clients.

Read the full article here >> Concierge Permit Program Could Ease Hospitality Delays - Biz New Orleans.