KEY ISSUES
Strengthening Relationships with Fort Polk
Fort Polk is one of DeRidder’s greatest economic assets, and that relationship must be actively maintained. Strengthening ties means consistent communication with base leadership, supporting military families, coordinating infrastructure and housing needs, and ensuring the city remains a reliable partner. This also includes positioning DeRidder as the preferred off post community for soldiers, civilian employees, contractors, and retirees which, in turn, helps local businesses, schools, and creates more housing stability. I think we have lost our ranking for off post living and we need to regain that as quickly as possible.
KEY ISSUES
Strengthening Relationships with Surrounding Communities
DeRidder must not and will not operate in isolation, we can’t do it alone. Regional cooperation and participation with neighboring cities, towns, villages, along with our parish leadership, and economic partners allows for shared resources, coordinated planning, cross training/learning and stronger regional influence. Whether it’s infrastructure, workforce development, emergency services, or economic recruitment, collaboration reduces duplication, lowers costs, and strengthens Southwest Louisiana as a whole and makes us all a great subject for Louisiana Economic Development. Not to mention just being a good, dependable neighbor!