Local leaders urged to become OneAcadia partners

By Paul Kedinger

“We’re looking for partnerships to carry this parish forward,” said Paul Molbert of Rayne and he and two other current partners of OneAcadia addressed a get-acquainted gathering of community leaders Thursday night in The Green Room. 

Molbert talked about the need to create a business climate in Acadia Parish to promote existing businesses and create opportunities for new businesses. “The future is very bright,” he emphasized as he cited the parish’s two major assets: Interstate 10 and its people. 

Henry Helo of Crowley spoke of the importance of economy development being parishwide. “OneAcadia is the key to drawing Acadia Parish people together,” he said. 

Chris LeBas of Church Point, noting that he has lived “all over South Louisiana,” remarked that Acadia Parish “is the place to be. While admitting Acadia Parish is the last Acadiana parish to form a parishwide economic development organization, he said OneAcadia is an opportunity to make a big impact.. “The sky is the limit,” he said about the potential to impact the business and family life of the parish. 

Laurie Suire, interim executive director, pointed out that the Lafayette Chamber has adopted a theme of “regionalism” and in keeping with that goal has become a platinum level member of OneAcadia. She remarked the seven Acadiana parishes are poised to become a “super region.” 

The level of partnership, Suire continued, “is not dependent on the size of a business, but a matter of personal choice. Annual membership options range from  Platinum ($1,000), Gold ($750) Silver ($500), to Bronze ($250). Other options include non-profit partnerships ($150) and Young Professional Associates ($100). 

Suire pointed out that Rayne was the first parish municipality to enroll as a Platinum member. Currently, a total of 55 partnerships have been formed, reported Suire, as she invited her audience to sign on as new members. 

Pat Bordes II, president of the board of directors, described OneAcadia  as a unified force for the parish as it breaks down barriers.