We were very fortunate to have Ricky Mathews, President and Publisher of the Times-Picayune/Nola Media Group, and Kenner Mayor Mike Yenni at our Board Meeting in March. Big thanks to St. Martin’s school for hosting our 68-member board! If you haven’t seen their facilities, you should arrange to take a tour.
A lot of controversy still surrounds the Times-Picayune’s decision to go to a 3-day-a-week print newspaper, but after seeing Mr. Mathews presentation, we see how the advancements and cultural change will bring about more of a regional approach to its news. It was amazing to find out that they can now write about 40 more stories per day than before! Personally, I was invited and participate on a community round-table with the publisher, editors and community leaders from around the region. It is great that they are reaching out to the business community for input, and hopefully, you’ll be reading more about the progress and achievements of our community.
And speaking of progress, have you seen Mayor Yenni’s proposed development plan for Kenner? A $29 million plan has been layed out for Kenner, and in it, is the beginning of a movement to refresh the city and make it stand out. Here is the vision statement of the “Kenner 2030” Strategic Plan for a Prosperous Future –
“As 2030 approaches, Kenner will be known as a thriving, suburban, “boutique” community
that is uniquely attractive, appealing, and a wonderful place to live. Residents of Kenner and the entire
region will enjoy the city’s two community focal points: bustling Rivertown and Laketown. With a
gleaming Louis Armstrong Airport as its primary engine, Kenner’s economy will offer residents a wide
range of employment opportunities and a thriving entrepreneurial environment. Accessible by beautiful,
tree-lined boulevards, Kenner’s neighborhoods will provide a safe, attractive environment for a diversity
of families. These neighborhoods will be known throughout the region as one of the most sought after
communities for both residents and businesses.”
As for our Chamber, our Board voted unanimously to support this plan and to help make it a reality. I’ll leave you with a few graphics of the proposed improvements.
