Oh, Ouachita! Louisiana’s Best-Kept Secret
Located on the banks of the Ouachita River resides one of Louisiana’s best-kept secrets – Ouachita Parish. Beyond its natural beauty, this parish tells a story of vibrance, collaboration, and a collective commitment to building a brighter tomorrow.
The heart of Ouachita Parish beats with pride for community, where progress is not measured by statistics, but by the quality of life it offers its residents and visitors. Serving as the parish’s governing body, the Ouachita Parish Police Jury plays a vital role in guiding progress and enhancing the community. The Ouachita Parish Police Jury works hand-in-hand with other organizations to create a place everyone can feel proud to call home – a place that emphasizes healthy living, opportunity, and growth.
“I’m thankful we have a jury that collaborates and works together to prioritize the needs of our parish,” said Ouachita Parish Police Jury President Shane Smiley. “It is this cooperation that leads to responsible public service. In addition, we are dedicated to being responsible financial stewards of our taxpayer’s money. That is a responsibility we do not take lightly.”
A key part of the parish’s growth is creating a healthy living environment where residents can thrive. The Ouachita Parish Police Jury prioritizes initiatives that ensure the safety, well-being, and overall happiness of the community. Initiatives such as litter reduction campaigns and educational programs through Keep Ouachita Parish Beautiful and Ouachita Green contribute to an overall cleaner, healthier environment all while ensuring public health and safety remain a top priority for all who call Ouachita Parish “home.”
Further supporting this mission is The Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) on the campus of the University of Louisiana at Monroe. The first graduating class was 2024, which made history as the state’s first class of osteopathic physicians, helping solve the physician shortage in Louisiana and the Delta region. Working to assist residents in rural areas of the parish, the police jury partnered with VCOM in securing two mobile medical units to expand healthcare access not only in Ouachita Parish but across northeast Louisiana. These mobile units also provide valuable hands-on training for the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Ouachita Parish’s growth is central to a strong economy that is driven by collaboration between the public and private sectors. Economic development continues to drive progress by creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and attracting new opportunities that strengthen financial stability for generations to come. Workforce development initiatives, such as partnerships with local manufacturers and businesses, help match skilled workers with local, stable, and rewarding careers. An example is the Northeast Louisiana Manufacturing Alliance Consortium (NelaMAC), which partners with manufacturers to find qualified workers and train them for good jobs. The Police Jury’s partnership with the private sector is proving to be successful in attracting and retaining qualified workers and keeping jobs in the parish by helping build the workforce of tomorrow. Thoughtfully planned infrastructure improvements not only support current business but also make way for new ventures, keeping Ouachita Parish a hub for innovation and commerce.
The result is a robust quality of life rooted in vibrancy. Investments in public spaces, educational institutions, and cultural projects–like museums and libraries–help create a rich environment that residents have grown to love. The Ouachita Parish Police Jury has invested in and supported projects such as an expansion of the Ouachita Parish Public Library, ADA accessible access to the Cheniere Lake, the Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum, Chennault Aviation & Military Museum, the Northeast Louisiana Delta African-American Heritage Museum, and the Biomedical Research and Innovation Park. Modern infrastructure, youth development programs, and opportunities for community engagement further contribute to a well-rounded lifestyle where families can thrive and take pride in the place they call home.
At its core, Ouachita Parish’s success is driven by its people. The Ouachita Parish Police Jury remains committed to listening, understanding, and serving the community. A shared dedication ensures that Ouachita Parish continues to grow, not just in numbers but in spirit. As the story of Louisiana’s best-kept secret unfolds, it’s clear that the foundation of Ouachita Parish is built on collaboration, vibrancy, and a deep-rooted pride in calling this remarkable place home. Come explore the culture and charm that make Ouachita Parish truly special – plan your visit today and discover all the remarkable things this parish has to offer.
Oh, Ouachita – there’s no place like home!