In a special program at the Cock’s Tail Restaurant today (Wednesday) , Cleco Power’s Business Development Department announced that a 60 acre site at the Ward One Industrial Park is now certified in its Smart Sites program. The smart sites program develops Cleco communities by attracting business, creating jobs and supporting existing business development efforts. Cleco Smart Sites are certified by McCallum Sweeny Consulting and meet site readiness criteria. The Ville Platte site is located near I-49 and offers a skilled labor force and a competitive operating cost environment.

   Dr. William “Tojo” Ward, President of the Evangeline Parish Industrial Board said “This is a momentous day for Evangeline Parish. We are ushering in a new era of economic development. Evangeline Parish is open for business.”

    The certification does not guarantee an industry will re locate here but it gives the Ville Platte a huge competitive edge in attracting industry that is searching for a site.

     Industrial Site Consultant Mark Sweeny  echoed Ward’s comments: Congratulations to everyone in Evangeline Parish. It is the beginning of a new day for economic development.” Sweeny is responsible for consulting with such industries as Nissan, Boeing and Michelin.”

     Also speaking at today’s (Wednesday) event were Evangeline Police Jury President Eric Soileau and Ville Platte Mayor Jennifer Vidrine.