Record Crowd Turns Out for 2026 State of the Parish

LIVINGSTON PARISH, LA — August 13, 2026 — The Livingston Parish Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2026 State of the Parish address on August 12, drawing more than 300 attendees — the largest crowd in the event's history. Business owners, elected officials, and community leaders filled the room to hear updates on the parish's growth, infrastructure, and the road ahead.



The event opened with a welcome from Ross Kinchen, a prayer from Justin Barksdale, and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Sen. Valarie Hodges. Deric Murphy served as Master of Ceremonies, guiding the program alongside remarks from Forte & Tablada's Brad Holleman, the presenting sponsor of this year's event.
Livingston Parish President Randy Delatte delivered the keynote address, reflecting on three years of work aimed at improving everyday life for parish residents — from road improvements and drainage projects to flood protection and long-term planning. Delatte emphasized the parish's continued focus on bringing tax dollars back home and preparing responsibly for future growth.



"We've accomplished a lot, but there is still plenty of work ahead of us," Delatte said. "I'm proud of the direction we're headed, and I'm grateful for everyone who came out to hear firsthand what's happening across our parish."
Sheriff Jason Ard provided a public safety update, and legislative remarks were shared by members of the parish's state delegation, including Sen. Valarie Hodges, Rep. Kellee Hennessy Dickerson, and Rep. Roger Wilder. Delatte thanked the Livingston Parish Council and the state delegation for their continued partnership, noting the collaborative spirit that made the event — and the work behind it — possible.

The morning wasn't without a lighthearted moment, either — Rep. Kellee Hennessy Dickerson led the entire room in a rendition of "Happy Birthday" for fellow Rep. Roger Wilder, a fun reminder that even a room full of business and government leaders knows how to celebrate together.



"Thank you to the Livingston Parish Chamber of Commerce for putting on such a great event and bringing our community together," Delatte said following the address.
The Chamber extended its own thanks to the local businesses whose support made the event possible. This year's Presenting Sponsor was Forte & Tablada, with DEMCO serving as Platinum Sponsor. Gold Sponsors included Bank of Zachary, Oxy, Enbridge, Quality Engineering & Surveying, DDG, Bonvenu Bank, and The Kinchen Group.

"Events like the State of the Parish only happen because of the businesses willing to invest in our community," says Angela Alessi, Interim CEO. "We're grateful to our sponsors and to everyone who joined us for what was truly a record-setting day for Livingston Parish."



The Parish President's office indicated that videos and highlights from the address will be shared in the coming days, offering a closer look at the projects and investments discussed. The Livingston Parish Chamber of Commerce thanks all who attended and looks forward to continuing to serve as a bridge between local government, business, and the community it represents.

A full album of photos from the 2026 State of the Parish is available to view HERE

About the Livingston Parish Chamber of Commerce: 
The Livingston Parish Chamber of Commerce supports and promotes the business community of Livingston Parish through advocacy, networking, and events that connect local businesses, residents, and government leaders.