As I look into the past of the Town of Homer, I see many people who have dedicated much time, energy, and money into making this town a better place to live. It was this effort that got the excellent fire departments and insurance ratings in our parish, the historical district on the square and our Ford Museum, our medical community including the Homer Memorial Hospital, Wade Correction, Vo-Tech, the airport, and Lake Claiborne.

But we must not live off of these past efforts. We too must give time and energy if we want to leave the next generation a community in as good standing as we received it. Our population is falling, our money and resources are less. Wal-Mart has left, while it puts Supercenters in Springhill to our west and Farmerville to our east. Bernice has Highway 167 four-laned to El Dorado and where are we? Forty years ago we had five car dealerships in the parish. Today we have one. People can shop in Minden and Shreveport as easily as they can here. If our kids want jobs, they leave.

For many years I have watched efforts to bring business to this parish, and it has been difficult. We were not able to keep Ludlow management in the parish, whose business was already located here. If we want to attract business and give our children jobs, I believe we must create a long range plan to make this a community that is united in one cause, to be the best that we can be. We should want to have the best schools, the best recreation facilities, and the lowest crime. We should want to have the best services including hospital, roads and utilities, and in general the BEST QUALITY OF LIFE.

I believe we need to aggressively study how to maximize our abilities and resources, not just for today, but for our future. I believe we should build on the Visions for Claiborne Parish efforts by Nelson Philpot and many people in our community and set a long term plan that will assist our Town for many years. I am asking for your help, volunteers to give ideas and time to research our alternatives.

In this long range plan, I would like to see a Recreation District that would support recreation programs for both kids and adults. This would improve our quality of life and make us more attractive to businesses that will locate here.

I intend to appoint committees to study and make recommendations regarding every aspect of the Town. I will ask the current Finance Committee, chaired by Mr. Elmer Poss to continue their efforts for the Town and I will personally meet with them and solicit their financial advice monthly.

I intend to work with our dedicated Town employees to carry out the administrative functions of our local government in an effective and efficient manner. I intend to give the Town of Homer a presence in Baton Rouge, making certain that we obtain all available financial support and consultant assistance from the State and Federal government. And to remove any doubt, the activities of my law practice will not be merged with those of the Town.

Our resources include many wise and knowledgeable people and I need your assistance. This must be a team effort. My prayer is that, with your help, we will leave a better community for the generations that follow.

The Office of the Mayor Welcomes you to our Town of Homer Web Site. We hope you enjoy your stay! Updates will be made regularly, so please check back often.

When in town, feel free to stop by our office for an in-person visit.