The loss of federal and insurance dollars post-hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the downturn in the national economy and the uncertainty of future oil and gas revenues present a significant challenge to cover mandated expenses and to improve services and products to Louisiana citizens.

Upgrading U.S. 90 to interstate standards remains a priority for the delegation. However, again a lack of federal and state revenue sources remain a major challenge. The consensus was that serious consideration must be given to generating I-49 South dollars through the use of tolls and / or TIFs.

The completion of I-49 South is the main focus of the Lafayette Chamber and the Acadiana Regional Alliance, which co-hosted "Money Talks.”

The positive message was that the Lafayette legislative delegation, which includes eight members of the House of Representatives and four in the Louisiana Senate, are working as a team with other Acadiana lawmakers to assure that our region gets its fair share in the budget making process.

In a motivational talk prior to the panel discussion, Ragin' Cajun Football Head Coach Mark Hudsbeth noted that, no matter the nature of the challenge, the "players” must be willing to work as a team; remaining committed to establish goals.