Alexandria, LA (2/22/2024) – The City of Alexandria Council has called for a special meeting following a series of events surrounding the removal of Candice Cheney from her position as a Commissioner of the Greater Alexandria Economic Development Authority (GAEDA). Cheney is set to be replaced by Greg Upton.
Councilwoman Lizzie Felter successfully pushed for the removal of Tracye Snow at the regular meeting held last night. Felter stated, “I have not received one personal phone call, email or message asking me to explain my decision. So my constituents that are concerned have not reached out to me.” However, Bennett Roland, Jr. a KALB Anchor, published text messages on KALB.com suggesting otherwise.
The special meeting was prompted after Councilman Lee Rubin’s motion to make the replacement last night failed, as Councilwoman Cynthia Perry voted against adding the item to the agenda.
Citizens have taken to social media to voice their disapproval of the council’s interference in GAEDA’s affairs. One individual commented, “Let’s face it, the Alexandria City Council’s leadership has been a source of major disappointment. They fail to adequately represent the interests of the people, instead appearing to act as puppets of Mayor Roy. SMH.” Another stated, “I keep telling people the need to watch & know what people are really like BEFORE they vote!”
Despite the controversy, many praised GAEDA’s original board for running an extremely professional organization with unprecedented integrity. They also commended the original board for selecting Angela Varnado as Executive Director.
The special council meeting is scheduled to take place on Thursday, February 22, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. The agenda items include a resolution to remove Candice Cheney as a GAEDA Commissioner and another resolution to confirm Greg Upton’s appointment as her replacement.
Persons desiring to address the council during the meeting are encouraged to inform the President at the appropriate agenda item.
Note: The agenda items and meeting details have been paraphrased for clarity and brevity.
