Chamber meets with Representative Bernard LeBas

By: MICHAEL BORDELON

News Editor

The Ville Platte Chamber of Commerce held its meeting Monday, March 17, and heard from newly-elected Representative Bernard LeBas, who was returning from special session.

LeBas said during the session, the goal was to issue tax breaks for businesses, both small and large, and spend approximately $1.1 billion in surplus funds. However, LeBas said most of the money went to Baton Rouge and Lafayette. “I’m not saying they don’t deserve some money,” he said. “But it would have been nice to get some for this district too.”

LeBas said he was hoping to get funds to repair local roads and tax breaks for local existing businesses. However, he stated most of those were south of I-10 as well. But he did state local business owners will be remembered at the next session and he will do everything he can to help them out.

The chamber also heard from Holly Domingue of the American Cancer Society, who wanted to make chamber members aware of the Relay for Life event being held May 24, from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. at the Ville Platte High School track.

Domingue said it is very important to raise money for cancer research and invited everyone to attend the event and donate.

The chamber then heard from Kay Thompson and April Soileau of Faith House about their upcoming dance, which will be held March 28, at 8 p.m. at the Northside Civic Center. Soileau said tickets will be $15 for single and $25 for couples.

In other business, the chamber:

•Agreed to increase the cost to attend the annual chamber banquet to $30 per ticket.

•Learned there were three ribbon cuttings recently. They included The Pub and Grill, Dr. Lenderman’s Chiropractic Office and Bella Hair Salon and Spa.