MONROE, La. — The Louisiana Municipal Association marked its centennial year during its 89th annual convention in Monroe, bringing together more than 1,500 municipal officials and professionals from across the state.
The convention drew mayors, council members, administrators and other municipal professionals representing more than 300 municipalities and two consolidated parish governments.
The three-day event included workshops focused on infrastructure financing, disaster resilience, broadband access, blight control and public rail systems, along with discussions about cooperation among local and state governments.
Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis and the city hosted the convention. Speakers included Anita Tillman, founder and CEO of AMCorp International; Baker Mayor Darnell Waites; Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser; and New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno.
As part of the centennial observance, the association presented a Hall of Legacy exhibit recognizing past LMA presidents and their roles in the organization’s history.
The association also installed new executive leadership during the convention. Waites became president, West Monroe Mayor Staci Albritton Mitchell was installed as first vice president, and Addis Mayor David Toups became second vice president.
“What an honor it has been to celebrate this centennial convention in Monroe, and I thank Mayor Friday Ellis for warmly welcoming the LMA to Monroe and for his leadership in hosting this centennial celebration,” LMA Executive Director J. Richard Williams said. “I’m eagerly looking forward to working with our newly installed executive leadership as we continue to recognize a century of leadership and recommit to equipping every Louisiana municipality with the tools, partnerships, and vision needed to thrive into the next 100 years.”
The convention also included the association’s annual banquet and Community Achievement Awards, which recognize municipalities for projects involving community development, economic progress, essential services and technology. Westwego received the association’s Best in Show award.
Monroe businesses, artists, musicians and restaurants were also featured during convention events, including a Host City Party highlighting the city’s local culture.
“Our city stood tall, full of Southern hospitality, grit, and big-souled pride, as municipal leaders from every corner of Louisiana joined us to celebrate 100 years and see the magic of our community,” Ellis said. “Sharing our incredible city with old and new friends has been a true honor.”
The Louisiana Municipal Association represents 306 members, including 127 villages, 111 towns, 66 cities and two consolidated parish governments. The organization advocates for municipal governments and provides education and other resources to local officials.