Message from Our CEO

As the voice of business, our leadership has been engaged in many conversations with our Parish President, Northshore legislators, and Parish Council members. We were asked to host a meeting at the Chamber last week to hear three proposed solutions for funding the criminal justice system, at least on a short-term basis.

We encourage our members to stay informed through local print and television news sources and to review available facts vs. opinions circulating on social media. We also encourage patience as discussions continue regarding a proposed 0.3-cent sales tax that may appear on the November ballot, as there is a significant amount of mis information circulating online.

We all share the same goals—responsible use of taxpayer dollars and ensuring St. Tammany remains one of the safest parishes in our state.

You can hear the presentation from the Special Parish Council Meeting last week by clicking here. The presentation begins at the 11-minute mark. You can also read more here. 

Top photo (l-r): DA Collin Sims, Chamber Chairman Ronnie Simpson and ChamberPAC Past Chairman Scott Delacroix.

Bottom photo (l-r)t: Lacey Osborne, Kirk Landry representing the ChamberPAC, Parish Council Chair Cheryl Tanner, Russell Richardson with St. Tammany Economic Development Corporation and ChamberPAC Chairman James Richardson.

Louisiana Election Changes Leave Voters Confused

Confusion marked the first days of early voting in Louisiana with new primary rules, court rulings and canceled House races. Election officials are working to guide voters. Early voting continues this week. Read more.

Gina Hayes First to Announce Entering Parish President Race

St. Tammany Parish CAO Gina Hayes has officially announced her candidacy for parish president in 2027, becoming the first confirmed candidate. With more than 20 years in local government, including 14 as CAO, she cites extensive experience and leadership as key strengths as the race begins to take shape. Read more.

Slidell Leaders Consider Charter Changes, Including Term Limits

Slidell city leaders are reviewing potential charter changes, with term limits a main topic. Additional proposals include residency requirements and civil service updates. A decision on whether to send measures to voters is expected later this month. Read more.

Covington Explores Reviving Recreation District

Covington leaders are exploring reorganizing Recreation District No. 10 to support new amenities, including a senior center and event space. The effort would create a broader tax base to fund parks and community facilities across the area. Read more.

State Lawmakers Advance Bills Targeting Imported Seafood Mislabeling

Louisiana lawmakers are advancing bills to strengthen enforcement against mislabeled imported seafood. Proposed measures would expand investigation authority, require recordkeeping and support domestic seafood promotion. Read more.

Welcome New Members

We’re excited to welcome our newest members to the Chamber. These businesses and professionals bring fresh energy and expertise to our growing network. We look forward to supporting their success and fostering valuable connections.

• Bon Sake Sushi & Bar
• Evolve Coffee + Matcha
• Fifth District Savings Bank
• Fleur De Lis Event Center
• Grit + Grind Coffee
• Ken Schallenberg Photography
• Lifetime Roofing

• Metronet Business
• Neaux Stigma Inc.
• Orangetheory Fitness Mandeville
• Snack Cravin Vending, LLC
• T-Mobile for Business
• Urban Essentials

Chamber CEO Joins Newell Normand on WWL Radio

During our Chamber’s monthly WWL radio interview with Newell Normand yesterday, Lacey Osborne discussed the purpose of our first National Civics Bee (which took place yesterday evening). She also highlighted the recent “Meet the Judges” reception at the courthouse, where judges shared insights on the record workload of civil and criminal cases in St. Tammany. The conversation concluded with proposed solutions to fund the criminal justice system and a reminder for citizens to vote in the May 16 election.

To listen to the interview, click here, then choose the "chapter" starting at 10:24 AM.

Featured Event: This Thursday. Register here.

Tuesday, May 12

11:30 AM to 12:00 PM

Ribbon Cutting for

Orangetheory

3549 Hwy. 190,

Mandeville

Wednesday, May 20

4:30 PM to 6:30 PM

American Bank's

Covington Branch

1819 N. Columbia,

Covington

Thursday, May 21

8:30 AM to 9:30 AM

Chamber's Covington Office

610 Hollycrest Blvd.,

Covington

Early Voting Is Underway—Make Your Plan to Vote

Early voting for the May 16 election is happening now through Saturday, May 9. Skip the lines and cast your ballot early. Click here for helpful election resources, including sample ballots and voting locations. You can also watch the video below from our Meet Your Slidell Candidates forum to hear directly from those running before you vote.

Congratulations to Graze Craze on their first Louisiana location! We were excited to celebrate with a ribbon cutting at 6102 Pinnacle Pkwy. in Covington. Known for stunning charcuterie boards and boxes, their team is ready to elevate your next occasion. Welcome!

Congratulations to Lifetime Roofing on their new Slidell location! We were proud to celebrate with a ribbon cutting at 61103 Airport Road. From storm damage to repairs and inspections, their team is ready to serve the Northshore—be sure to check them out for your roofing needs!

We were proud to celebrate Louisiana Family Eyecare’s new office at 107 Terra Bella Blvd. in Covington with a ribbon cutting! Thank you for 20 years of serving our community with exceptional, personalized vision care. Congratulations—we’re grateful for your continued investment in our community!

Congratulations to Ochsner Health on earning the 2026 USA TODAY Top Workplaces award for the sixth consecutive year, rising to No. 65. This recognition highlights their commitment to a people-first culture and employee engagement. Read more.