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Dear Bogalusa Residents,

Have you ever craved a delicious meal at midnight, only to find limited options? Have you ever needed dress clothes and found yourself driving to St. Tammany or another neighboring area? If so, you’re not alone. The time has come for Bogalusa to step into a new era of economic development, and it starts with diversifying our retail and restaurant landscape.

As your mayor, I understand the frustration of not having convenient access to the goods and services we desire. That’s why I am committed to introducing a plan to the City Council at the beginning of the year, aimed at attracting corporate retailers like TJ Maxx and popular restaurants like Raising Cane’s to our community. This endeavor is not just about meeting our immediate needs; it’s about transforming Bogalusa into a destination that draws people from near and far.

Economic development is a key driver of turning our beloved city around. By inviting well-known brands to establish a presence here, we not only enhance the quality of life for our residents but also broaden our tax base. This, in turn, enables us to invest more in essential services, infrastructure, and community programs that benefit us all.

Some may argue that introducing corporate competition will harm local businesses, but I firmly believe that competition is the foundation of capitalism and the American Dream. Rather than fearing it, we should embrace the opportunities it brings. A healthy and diverse marketplace is a thriving marketplace, where businesses push each other to innovate, improve, and provide the best possible products and services to the community.

We must abandon the notion that competition is bad and that it will negatively impact our local economy. Instead, let us focus on the positive effects it can have on job creation, consumer choice, and overall economic growth. Bogalusa has incredible potential, and it’s time we unlock it by welcoming the benefits that come with a variety of retail and restaurant options.

I urge you, my fellow residents, to join me in supporting this initiative. Let us reject fearmongering and instead embrace the promise of a revitalized Bogalusa. Together, we can create a city that not only meets the needs of its residents but also attracts visitors from all around.

Stay tuned for updates on this plan, and let’s work together to make Bogalusa a vibrant and diverse community that we can all be proud to call home.

Sincerely,

Mayor Tyrin Truong