Alexandria, La. (11/17/2025) – GAEDA new direction gained momentum during a special called meeting on December 17, 2025, in downtown Alexandria. The turning point came after Councilwoman Cynthia Perry appointed Zandria Whitehead to the commission.
Whitehead’s appointment followed the abrupt departure of Dr. C. Ray Lewis. She was sworn in immediately, restoring quorum and allowing the commission to approve grants, cooperative agreements, and policy actions.
The appointment prevented further disruption to the commission’s work. As a result, GAEDA resumed decision-making at a critical moment for Alexandria’s economic future.
Whitehead described the meeting as a shift in vision for the city. “In order for us to be great in Alexandria, we have to have new vision,” she said.
She pointed to the strength of the current board and its shared purpose. “We are a new GAEDA board with insight, strength, and greatness, and the direction we’re heading is a dynamic journey,” Whitehead said.
During the meeting, commissioners emphasized moving beyond event-based funding. The board outlined priorities focused on workforce retention, neighborhood revitalization, and small business development.
This approach marks a departure from years of recurring grants to select organizations. Those have included the Kent House, Arts Council, Alexandria Museum, and Juneteenth-related programming.
While cultural funding remains part of GAEDA’s mission, supporters of the new direction argue it cannot replace direct investment in struggling neighborhoods. They say true economic development must address jobs, infrastructure, housing, and entrepreneurship.
Concerns were also raised about unfilled seats on the commission. Council members Jim Villard, Chuck Fowler, and Lizzie have failed or refused to appoint replacement members.
Critics say their inaction jeopardizes GAEDA’s ability to function consistently. They also argue it reflects a lack of urgency toward marginalized communities that have faced decades of neglect.
Despite those concerns, Whitehead’s appointment allowed GAEDA to move forward. The commission approved multiple grants and agreements while formally adopting a broader economic development focus for 2026.
The full GAEDA special called meeting, including the swearing-in of Whitehead and discussion of the board’s new direction, is available to the public here:
https://youtu.be/LRsbFPHc7FU
As GAEDA moves into 2026, expectations are high. Many residents now look for measurable progress in neighborhoods that have waited far too long for investment and opportunity.
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