Chamber leadership presented recommendations to the St. Tammany Parish Home Rule Charter Committee at the committee’s meeting on Thursday, August 14, advocating for government reforms that would create a more efficient and business-friendly environment.
On behalf of the Chamber, Board Chair-Elect Ronnie Simpson, Board Member Doug Ferrer, CEO Lacey Osborne and Vice President Michelle Biggs attended to present the Chamber’s position on creating a more nimble and efficient local government. The recommendations focused on implementing a Parish Manager model to streamline administrative processes and reduce bureaucracy; establishing an Office of Inspector General to foster more accessible and transparent government; utilizing referendums when appropriate for citizen engagement; and evaluating the size of the Parish Council to foster efficiency and cooperation between branches of government.
“A nimble and efficient local government can significantly catalyze local business growth by removing barriers, providing support and creating a favorable environment for entrepreneurship, innovation and job creation,” stated Chamber Chairman Carrie Calvin in the letter presented to the committee. “This, in turn, leads to a stronger local economy and a better quality of life for our residents.”
Click here to read the complete letter with detailed recommendations here. The Chamber’s presentation to the committee can be viewed here (with timestamps at 44:00 and 49:34).