Vermilion Economic Development will ask voters to approve ‘parcel fee’

Since the Vermilion Economic Development Alliance (VEDA) inception, governmental partners have been the primary source of organizational funding, alongside key business investors.
In order to secure long-term sustain-ability for the organization, VEDA will be reintroducing a proposal for a dedicated funding source on the March 23 ballot.
The proposal will reflect a $6.50 fee per parcel of land, which is estimated to result in $224,250 to support VEDA’s small actions and initiatives throughout the parish.
For most landowners, the fee amounts to just two cents a day.
“The proposed parcel fee is less than the cost of a fast-food meal,” notes long-time board member Richard Guilbeaux. The parcel fee will help ensure a path forward for The Alliance, as we work to create a community where our children can live, work, and grow.
The Vermilion Economic Development Alliance said it remains committed to creating a community that embraces its rural and cultural heritage while promoting sustainable growth and development.
VEDA said this funding is essential to maintain its organization, without reliance on third-parties amidst evolving budget changes and changing priorities.
While VEDA works alongside state economic development officials and regional partners, it remains the only organization whose sole focus is Vermilion Parish’s long-term success.
Alliance board members stress that securing a stable funding source will determine the future of the Vermilion Economic Development Alliance and its ability to be a part of state and regional efforts.

VEDA shares highlights of 2023

The Vermilion Economic Development Alliance, (VEDA) recently shared highlights of its 2023 efforts.
For nearly a decade, the Alliance has continually worked as an advocate for businesses and growth in Vermilion Parish.
The Alliance’s work is driven by four priorities: Business Retention & Expansion, Workforce Development, Attracting New Business, and Community Development.
According to VEDA, President, Patrick Duhon, “We’re often asked, ‘What is economic development?’ For us it’s a series of small actions and initiatives that include policies, programs, and activities that prepare our community for growth. It’s about preparing and improving the economic climate and quality of life in Vermilion Parish.”
Among key metrics for 2023, VEDA conducted 35 business retention and expansion visits.
VEDA worked with 10 prospects and new business start-ups who have aspirations of doing business in our parish.
VEDA featured 19 businesses as part of VEDA’s annual holiday and Small Business Saturday campaign, and 7
businesses were sponsored to participate in the Louisiana Small Business Summit. Workforce development became an important area of focus for The Alliance with a newly formed Workforce Committee that focused on linkages between education and the business community.
VEDA launched a collaboration with the Vermilion Parish School System to better leverage their JumpStart and ProStart Programs.
VEDA also co-hosted the parish’s fifth annual Parishwide Job Fair promoting 36 area employers and assisting 115 job candidates.
It also championed the Development Ready Community Assessment on behalf of the parish in an effort to prepare for growth. Alongside the Vermilion Parish Police Jury, VEDA has identified key projects to leverage $2.1 million in Hometown Revitalization federal grant funds and hope to play an instrumental role in the execution of the identified projects.
VEDA also completed 26 governmental engagements, hosted 10 events, and served in a critical capacity for three community-based projects.