"A comprehensive plan is designed to strengthen the decisions that bind a community to build a common progressive future,” according to Executive Committee member Steve Oubre.

Attendees took part in visioning exercises. In the initial exercise visioning teams drew up "ideal outcomes” and identified challenges that may be met along the way. The afternoon exercise listed strategies as to how the community could accommodate growth and change. Attention was given to retaining valuable attributes, investing in new resources and identifying what must be abandoned.

The Chamber has been a staunch advocate of a comprehensive plan. A number of Chamber members, including Chairman, Flo Meadows, served on the planning firm selection committee. Meadows says the comprehensive plan must "enhance our unique culture, protect our quality of life and encapsulate our ‘joie de vivre.” She adds that the plan must also "capitalize on our innovative technology and entrepreneurship and give our government tools to be more efficient.”

That innovative and entrepreneurial spirit was highlighted in panel discussions on final day of the conference.

Rob Guidry, Chamber President & CEO, says the Lake Charles conference site was selected as part of the Chamber's regional outreach. The event was attended by representatives from St. Mary, Jeff Davis, Calcasieu, Acadia Iberia and Lafayette parishes.

Four members of the Lafayette Consolidated Council attended the annual event along with Parish President Joey Durel. Guidry thanked the council for allocating the funds to hire a nationally recognized consulting firm to guide the community process.

Going forward the Chamber will serve as a convener to bring the various stakeholders from throughout the community into the planning process. The process is expected to take one year to complete.