Caldwell Tourism Commission hosts local leaders

Richard Meredith, Columbia Town Council, with a rendering of the plans for Sherman Lake shown at the CPTC Annual Luncheon. Photo by Joni Taylor.

by joni taylor
The Caldwell Parish Tourism Commission held their annual meeting with a luncheon Thursday, January 21, with several guest speakers from the community at the Schepis Museum. The guests, which included many local leaders in business, government and other organizations, were treated to lunch. Randy Rentz, cooked his wonderful fish couvion, which was served with salad, bread, fruits and cheeses. Everyone was welcomed by CPTC President Debbie Hodges with her daughter, Adrianne Hodges Steel, who officiated the event.
Richard Meredith, Columbia Town Council, spoke about the Sherman Lake Project. Meredith presented drawing showing how the area would look once the project was completed. He said they are still in the planning stages but several organizations are interested in the development of the wetlands. The lake would give the town a walking trail, children’s park, parking and plenty of room for other events and activities, along with beautiful scenery.
John Gullatt, Superintendent of Education, spoke before the group of local business leaders and organizations about the much needed millage that will be coming up for vote in a few months. Gullatt spoke about how Caldwell’s district has went from a C to a B and he hopes to keep moving forward. The millage is not a new tax but a continuation of one that has been in place for years. Without the renewal of the millage, the loss of revenue would force cutting out positions and much needed upgrades for education.
Monty Adams, Industrial Development Board, spoke about working within the community and trying to help local municipalities through grants and projects. Ben Clark, President of the Caldwell Parish Police Jury, spoke briefly and mentioned looking forward to working with the parish for the future. David Crain, President of the Caldwell Parish Recreation Board, talked about all the improvements made at their facilities and of upcoming projects. Donna Pardue, Vice President of Saving Paws of Caldwell, spoke of having the community pull together to help the organization in funding and volunteers. Beth Hefner, Main Street and Schepis, mentioned upcoming events for the Town of Columbia.
The Caldwell Parish Tourism Commission has their annual meeting to bring together people in Caldwell Parish that are actively trying to bring positive changes and new business and events to the area. It gives everyone an opportunity to find out what is in the works and to work together for the future.
For more Caldwell Parish news, go to www.caldwellwatchman.com.