Participants in CLED make a major investment of time and resources so preplanning is essential to be sure that the parish is ready for major citizen involvement. It usually takes six-12 months of planning before the session begins. We are available to meet with a planning committee to explain the program, offer suggestions, etc.
Every parish is unique, but the generic checklist below can serve as a starting point.
The atmosphere in the parish is conducive to leadership development. There is support from political and business leaders. A steering committee has been formed. The committee should include a representative from a Cajun Electric co-op and at least one local extension agent. Other representatives might include the Chamber of Commerce, a banker, an economic developer.