By Paul Kedinger

LSN STAFF WRITER

Planning for a convention and economic development center for Acadia Parish “is moving along,” reported Paul Broussard, to members of the Acadia Parish Tourist Commission.

Isabella delaHoussaye, who serves as project coordinator, added she has made contact with Senator Mary Landrieu’s office and LSU officials about financial and expert support regarding plans for the center to be erected on seven acres adjacent to the tourism center on Tower Road. Commission members agreed to hold an informal session at noon on Wednesday, Oct. 28, to hear a presentation by officials with the Moore Planning Group of Alexandria, who are providing advice on the placement of the center, landscaping and access from a future service road off Interstate 10.

In other action, the Commission adopted its 2010 budget based on almost equal funding from the Louisiana Enterprise Tax Fund and the hotel/motel tax of $267,000.

Treasurer Paul Broussard also pointed out the budget contains a $100,000 carryover for a bond payment to be made next year.

The budget projects $78,300 for advertising and promotion of parish festivals and tourism and $77,000 for convention center development and land costs.

Fran Bihm, as chair of the marketing committee, reported the Commission has promoted the Germanfest, Rice Festival and the Christmas Prairie Trail events and will promote the upcoming Frog Festival.

Executive Director Gwen Hanks reported Trent Angers of Acadiana Profile will feature Louisiana museums, including the German Heritage Museum in Roberts Cove and Crowley’s Rice Interpretative Center and Museum in the magazine’s upcoming issue.

Hanks also reported on two new tourism operations in Acadia Parish, the Crowley Rice Cottage on North Avenue I and Lake Felix RV Park off Highway 91 between Eunice and Iota.

The board decided to accept nominations for officers at its December 10 noon meeting, with elections at the January 2010 meeting.