With 2023 in the rearview mirror, LaSalle Parish leaders took time to reflect on the previous year, highlighting accomplishments, and provided their thoughts on what 2024 might have in store.

Despite high inflation, two wars that the United States is involved with, international unrest and a Presidential election year that has already proven unlike any other, La-Salle Parish has remained steadfast with low unemployment rates and retail sales that continue to record historic numbers.

The family-oriented lifestyle of the small, central Louisiana parish maintains continues to be the glue that holds the fabric of LaSalle together, no matter what national or international events takes place.

Walter E. Dorroh, Jr., President of the LaSalle Economic Development District (LEDD), noted a hardworking people allows him to remain optimistic about 2024: “I consider that 2023 was an acceptable year for the Town of Jena, LaSalle Parish, and our business at Dorroh & Kendrick. I am concerned, however, that the economy is slowing down and that this is going to result in problems for our parish. The continued economic slow-down is attributable to the economic illiterates that are running this country, which would include our President, Mr. Biden. The uncontrolled federal spending which resulted in spiked interest rates is the primary culprit for the economic slowdown. This and the insistence on an ill-advised ‘green’ economy does not bode well for the nation at large or for our particular locale.

The biggest event for LaSalle Parish was the success of the Jena Giants Football team in 2023. But for two unfortunate plays, Jena would have been one of the two finalists in the Super Dome for the State Championship in their classification. Considering that many so-called experts thought this would be a rebuilding year for the Jena Giants, this accomplishment was terrific. It brought positive publicity to our town and parish, and speaks very highly of the quality of the coaching staff and the young men who played for the team.

My economic projections for 2024 are extremely guardedly optimism. I use the term “extremely guarded” for this reason: In LaSalle Parish the work ethic and positive determination of the people who live here can over- come many a problem. I am very concerned, however, about the lack of quality leadership in Washington, D.C. The Democrat Party has shown itself to be corrupt, shortsighted, and totally lacking in any practical sense. The Republicans on the other hand have demonstrated that they cannot control themselves, much less the Country, particularly in view of the farcical dance over the Speaker of the House. It appears that for practical purposes the day of the statesman is over and we are being governed by people unable to govern anything. This projects badly for the Nation at large and for our parish in particular.

The greatest strengths of LaSalle Parish are the work ethic of our people and, more particularly, the moral strength of our people. What other parish or county anywhere in the United States has more churches? Our schools have not been victimized by the disturbing trends toward wokeism, gender nullification, and other crazy ideas that laugh in the face of our Creator and make no sense. Even despite the poor leadership we have in Washington, D.C., our parish can prevail because of the positive attributes I just described.

I encourage the people of LaSalle Parish to keep doing what we have been doing for the last ten years. We have excellent local leadership, a strong work ethic, very good public schools, and so many positive attributes to our parish. I would not want to live anywhere other than this parish and at the end of the day am very glad to be here.”

Superintendent Jon Garrett, of the LaSalle Parish School District, noted that the new four-day school week was definitely a big event for all of the parish: “If I had to use one word to describe 2023, I would go with ‘exciting.’ It’s been an exciting year for our school system with the shift to a four-day school week. We also increased opportunities for students by offering exciting classes, clubs and extracurricular activities. And hey, we also transitioned to a new superintendent (which was exciting for me at least). I would say it has been an exciting 2023 for LaSalle Parish Schools but 2024 is going to be even better.

Our transition to a four-day school week is a big accomplishment, not just for our employees and students but also for the whole parish. It is a big challenge for all of us but we can look back on this first semester and feel good about it. Our employees and students are loving it and have adapted well to it. I have been able to talk to quite a few parents who are loving the new schedule as well.

We also expanded opportunities for students in the school system. There are a lot more things for students to be a part of now and new classes for them to enjoy. Fun and excitement should be a part of every kid’s day and it was fun for all of us to put our heads together and finds new ways to bring that fun and excitement into our school days.

As far as the single greatest event that occurred in LaSalle Parish last year, there are several that I could go with. The sheriff’s race for one, that no doubt will impact everyone in our parish. And congratulations to both Sheriff Franklin for his successful tenure and to incoming Sheriff Windham on his new position.

But I will answer this from a school system perspective. The shift to a 4-day week has to be the answer. It impacted every single one of us in some way. This shift was done for several reasons, improving teacher and student morale and wellness being a couple of those reasons. By all accounts it appears to be a success.

Eighty-one percent of our teachers reported that the transition has been a relatively smooth one for them, and 78% of them reported that they have seen an increase in student productivity this year over last. And, 95% of teachers reported an increase in employee morale. We know there is more school year to come, but so far, we have seen many positives.

A close second would be the Jena Giant football program and their run to the semifinals. They generated so much excitement and their hard work and effort set an example for so many of us. The Giants truly were one of the best teams in our state, and the whole state took notice. It was a history-making season, and we appreciate Coach Roark and all of the Jena Giants for taking us along for the ride.

While I may not be the best person to speak to economic projects for the new year, I do know what I get to see every day. I see a vibrant community that supports their own and makes it a point to spend their money right here in LaSalle Parish. I see a parish that has continued to grow and prosper when other parishes have not been able to do so and I know the credit goes to the citizens of LaSalle Parish.

I also have seen the impact on our school system and because of local spending we have been able to issue increased stipends for our employees. While not an official projection from me, I have to believe the support and growth will continue.

Without a doubt, the greatest strength of La-Salle Parish is its hardworking people. There are just a whole bunch of doers here and I continue to be amazed at the people who just roll up their sleeves and get a job done. I love that about our parish.

I also love that people here aren’t afraid to try new things. That is so uncommon, and to find it here in LaSalle Parish is a wonderful strength that makes me even more excited to be superintendent here.

And finally, I appreciate the honesty and forthrightness of the people of LaSalle Parish. I know we won’t all agree on everything, but I love the fact that people will come talk to me if they have a question or will come tell me that they agree or disagree with something. I love that, and when we get to hear all sides it helps us all make good decisions.

In conclusion, my dad always says that ‘it’s better to be kind than right,’ and I agree with that. We want our schools to be top-notch academically, but we also want them filled with smiles and laughter and kindness. I would imagine we all want days like that. There are a whole lot of things that we can’t control in our daily lives, but the kindness we show others is always in our control.

Kindness goes a long way and helps all of us immensely. I hope your 2024 is filled with a whole lot of kindness!

Olla Mayor Rhonda Elloitt noted that 2023 was a year of growth for the Town of Olla and believes that growth will continue into the new year: “We have seen tremendous growth in our town during 2023 with many projects that have benefited all residents.

The town has acquired a new 1.2-million-dollar water plant that is now online that has a new glass fused to steel coating ground storage tank, upgraded electrical system, lighting, GAC (granular activated carbon) treatment plant with new chlorination equipment. This project was made possible by both a Louisiana Community Development Block Grant (LCDBG) grant and a WSP (Water Sector Program) grant.

Plans are being made for a much needed 2.7-million-dollar wastewater treatment plant that utilizes a LEMNA system through DEQ’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF). Funding for this program is provided by federal grants with low interest loans and match funds.

Another project on the town’s calendar is the rehabilitation of both the interior and exterior coating systems of the existing elevated tank, with any required repairs being conducted at this time. This will be made possible by the town’s State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) and the Community Water Enrichment Fund (CWEF).

The town has also received a Roadway Reconstruction project through Capital Outlay for the reconstruction of Church Street from the corner of Blake Street across Highway 127 with the hopes of extending it to Florence St. The Capital Outlay project will be funded in the amount of $300,000 with the town supplying a 25% match.

The Town of Olla has also acquired a Kubota Utility Vehicle acquired through a LGAP grant (Louisiana Government Assistance Program) and is used by the Public Works department that transports personnel for reading meters, weed eating, and garbage pick-up along the highways The town has also acquired a new zero turn Gravely mower for the Publics Work department, as well as two (2) 2023 F-150 trucks.

During the year, the Police Department acquired three (3) Tahoes from the Shreveport Police Department.

Chief O’Bier also acquired five (5) NIJ compliant bullet-proof vests through the 2023 Bureau of Justice Assistance Patrick Leahy Partnership The Police Department also participated in a special grant program “Click It or Ticket” that entailed enforcement of seat belt laws whose aim was to reduce the number of fatal crashes and to promote safety by increased awareness of seatbelt laws.

The department also participated in the ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ campaign that served to prevent impaired driving, whether by alcohol, marijuana, or other drugs. This program encourages those who choose to indulge in having a sober designated driver.

Also, the Town of Olla welcomed a new substation, an extension of the LaSalle Parish Sheriff’s Office, located on Highway 165 N to better serve the citizens of Olla and visitors.

Finally, work is nearing completion on renovating the ‘Holloway Building’ that was damaged during an ice storm in 2021. The building is under state contract for a Louisiana Storm Shelter.

With so many positive things happening in Olla it’s hard for all of us not to be extremely optimistic about 2024.”

Urania Mayor Jay Ivy noted that not having any major, negative issues occur in the Town of Urania during 2023 made for a great year, while several completed projects allow them to look forward to what 2024 has in store.

“The year 2023 has been a good year for our town. We have been able to make the year without any major issues, which always makes for a good year.

The Town was furnished with high-speed internet, this was a big plus for us. We received a much-needed grant for upgrades to our wastewater facility. These should start next year.

We are always excited about the continued success of our local industries. Drax, LaSalle Lumber, Hardtner Medical Center and LaSalle Correctional Center continues to grow and contribute to our area. They are a huge benefit to our town. We are also in the process of updating our police department. We recently purchased a new vehicle and will be installing new cameras and computers in the vehicles to better serve our town.

One of the greatest events that occurred for 2023 was the completion and opening of the Dr. Kenneth P. Mauterer Outpatient Center in our town. We are excited about the new addition to Hardtner and their ongoing expansion projects. It is exciting to see them continue to grow.

We are hopeful for a good 2024. Inflation has hit our small town hard, as it has for all. I’m hoping for a reduction in this and for prices and availability of necessities to improve and stabilize.

I am encouraged for the residence of LaSalle Parish. We are blessed with good folks parish wide…people that are always ready to lend a helping hand when needed. I have seen this many times this year with all the town’s fire departments coming together to help during this extremely dry weather and the many fires we have had. I am extremely proud of our fire fighters. I am also looking forward to our new Governor and his administration taking office and the improvements that they can make for our state and parish.”

said that changes in the Town of Tullos during 2023 have been challenging, however, through all of the issues encountered, lessons were learned setting the stage for a bright 2024: “This past year was certainly one that I would say was challenging. Those challenges came in the form of inflation, changes to the town’s administration and changes with the town’s engineering company. But in all of those challenges, there were also many instances of achievement.

Although we had a major water system problem, one of our biggest accomplishments was we were able to rectify the violation of the leak at the water system’s ground storage with bypassing the tank. A frac tank was installed and connected for the temporary replacement of the ground storage until the town is able to complete the water filtration system which does include installing a new ground storage tank.

Without a doubt, the closure of US 84 in our town in May of last year was the single greatest event that occurred during 2023. When the closure was lifted there was a weight limit of five tons placed upon the overpass which is causing hardships for those who work in commercial trucking or logging. It has been over three years since the press announcement of US 84 overpass construction was to begin. In a previous letter to Tullos’ State Representative from LA DOTD Engineer Administrator the temporary bridge construction should begin in January 2024 and be in service by spring of 2024.

One of the things that we are also hopeful for in 2024 is to obtain additional funding to complete the water filtration system that has been a major project for many years. The water filtration system project is the priority of the Tullos Administration.

Karla Cockerham

Without a doubt, the greatest strength of LaSalle Parish is our people! Community is our strength! The advantage of small, rural towns is that many people who reside within them have strong roots, and are invested in the community. One of the greatest assets in our community is that generations have lived here and the citizens have strong ties to the community.

Let the challenges and obstacles encountered in 2023 serve as lessons to be fundamental in the success of 2024. For the year of 2024 will bring new leadership to our community and state, and I ask for everyone to please keep our local and state administrations in your prayers.”

Paul Tweedy,Sr.

Vice-President and COO of CLB The Community Bank, noted that last year was a year of growth for his institution: CLB The Community Bank is pleased to report that 2023 was a good year! We ended the year with solid growth and strong earnings. While cautious about the current general state of the economy and movement in interest rates and how it affects people and their business, the bank continues offering robust assistance and services to our many customers and the communities that we serve. Everyone should be congratulated and commended for how in working together through the various challenges that we all face, we continue to assist in helping our customers with their needs and dreams in all rate environments.

It seems interest rates have reached their peak given that inflation has shown some signs of decline. While consumer confidence continues low, we see that most people are adjusting well in our markets. Looking forward into 2024, we see continuing indications that the Federal Reserve System hasn’t stopped increasing rates and may start a process of lowering them while they watch the economy.

Our new Holloway Branch on Highway 28 in Rapides Parish is now open and growing nicely. Our full-service branch location at 2701 Johnston Street in Lafayette is growing well; so much so, that new CLB branches are tentatively opening later in the year, one at 4525 Ambassador Caffery Parkway, near the corner of Kaliste Saloom Road in Lafayette. Our Scott branch at 5541 Cameron Street is now open to meet the growing needs of Acadiana. If you are out and about in Lafayette or Scott, please stop by and visit with our friendly staff. We look forward to the growth possibilities in the Acadiana and Northeast Rapides Parish markets.

Whether it be Harrisonburg, Holloway, Jena, Jonesville, Lafayette or Scott, CLB continues to offer friendly service with up-to-date technology that affords our customers different channels of accessibility to our many varied services. Great effort is made to give you an up-to-date, reliable, and secure experience when you bank with us. We do realize that technology is a must to facilitate the ease of doing business. We have all the latest Internet Banking and Mobile Apps, which can be checked out at www.clbbank.com. We offer all the technology that large banks offer and often people say that it is better than what the “big boys” have. You can bank with us whenever you want, even from your comfortable chair at home. We also have available Kasasa, an account type that offers different incentives or rewards for you that pays a great rate. We have the most up-to-date products for you, including Apple Pay and Google Pay, as well as P2P payments, allowing you to send money directly to a friend or family member in real time for your convenience, as well as a Bill Payment online system. To stay connected with our many friends, we even have a Facebook page for everyone to follow at CLB The Community Bank.

Our goal has always been simple, to combine hometown banking to our customers, with conveniences and the latest technology available, while providing an experience unmatched in our area. Some 62 employees within the Bank, each day are ready, willing, and committed to offering quality service and care to you. We have three locations in Catahoula Parish, one location in LaSalle Parish, one location in Rapides Parish and two in Lafayette Parish, soon to be three. For your convenience, our facilities are in Harrisonburg, Holloway, Jena, Jonesville, Lafayette and Scott; with two ATMs in Jena, one in Jonesville, one in Olla, one in Harrisonburg, one on Highway 28 East in Rapides Parish at Holloway and two at our facilities in Lafayette, and more to come.

The people of our communities that we serve are resilient, even given the anxieties over the Pandemic, the ever-changing concerns of the Oil and Gas industries and the Farming concerns, but we continue to foster economic growth and development as we have since the early 1900s.

LaSalle Parish is very excited and looking forward to the construction of the new Rod Brady Campus. The State is making a huge commitment to our region in funding a new educational facility in LaSalle Parish. The caliber of Rod Brady affords students in our region the ability to earn educational credits acceptable at State Universities to pursue degrees, as well as give those pursuing various credentials in the Trades and Medical fields what they need to become productive, well-paid citizens in the work force. LaSalle Parish’s stability and growth has also given rise to greater tax revenue which helps everyone.

There is no doubt that our region has the strength that it does due to the resourcefulness of those that live and work here. Together, we indeed have a lot to be proud of and thankful for. Our continued success is due to our many great customers, our loyal employees, and our local directorate, who are all committed to the continued growth and wellbeing of this area that we call home! We are your neighbors, friends, and family. We know you have a choice when it comes to your financial institution, and we are honored that you chose CLB The Community Bank. If you need anything, please reach out to us by coming into a location, or checking us out on our web site, www.clbbank.com, our app, or on Facebook. We appreciate you.

Ronnie Darden,

President of Homeland Bank, noted that last year was another very successful year for his institution: “Growth continues to occur at Homeland Bank and we are honored to be a part of so many individuals’ lives and businesses in central and north Louisiana. The year 2023 was a great year for us once again and the resiliency of the communities we serve demonstrates that no matter what is occurring nationally, locally, we serve the best people in the nation.

Interest rates surged last year resulting in better profits for banks and projections are that the Federal Reserve is looking at lower rates this year, which will help borrowers.

Despite the national issues that continue to plague our country, it is a different world in the rural parishes of LaSalle and Caldwell. We are thankful to live in this part of America where hard work and honest, ethical people can still be found. It is an absolute pleasure for us to not only serve residents with their banking needs, but to call each one a friend and be a part of their lives.

Homeland has been very blessed to have the support of so many LaSalle residents. Our Jena office, under the leadership of Vice-President John McIlwain, has steadily grown and is an integral part of Homeland’s organization. We are proud to be a part of the different communities of LaSalle Parish and plan to grow and expand our services to continue to provide the best possible service possible.

Currently, Homeland has four locations, including Columbia, Jena, Monroe and West Monroe. ATM locations can be found at each branch location along with Kwik Mart in Columbia, Pearl & Sid’s Store at the LaSalle-Caldwell parish line and on US 165 in Olla.

A fifth branch will soon be built in Olla with construction scheduled for 2024.

The officers and employees look forward to serving you in 2024. Come see us soon.”