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Gov Edwards' Panel To Address Rural Economic Revitalization

Courtesy: Chuck Smith / Red River Radio News

RURAL COMMUNITIES DECLINE  - Louisiana’s Gov. John Bel Edwards has created a study group aimed at identifying and responding to the decline of rural communities.  Population  in  Louisiana’s  rural areas  has  dwindled  amid  problems  with  job creation, infrastructure  and  education systems.  Last Friday,  the  Democratic governor spoke at the Police Jury Association of Louisiana’s annual convention in Shreveport,  he  emphasized  the need  to  address problems  in  rural  communities.

"We have to make sure there are opportunities for success and prosperity everywhere," Edwards said. "And make sure also that people don't lack the basic necessities like healthcare, education, economic development."

At the conclusion of his remarks, Edwards  signed  an  executive  order  establishing a  Governor's Advisory  

Credit Courtesy: La.Gov
/
Courtesy: La.Gov
Governor John Bel Edwards, (D) of Louisiana

Council on  Rural Revitalization.  It will have a panel of 34-members  charged with determining the needs of rural communities  and  find  financing  options  to  help address  the  problems.   A strategic plan is due by January 2021.

Chuck Smith brings more than 30 years' broadcast and media experience to Red River Radio. He began his career as a radio news reporter and transitioned to television journalism and newsmagazine production. Chuck studied mass communications at Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia and motion picture / television production at the University of California at Los Angeles. He has also taught writing for television at York Technical College in Rock Hill, South Carolina and video / film production at Centenary College of Louisiana, Shreveport.