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Policy
In September, the Center for Planning Excellence (CPEX) led a study tour in Germany, gathering two cohorts of Louisiana’s business, energy, and policy leaders for a deep dive into Germany’s offshore wind industry. Over the course of four days, our Louisiana delegation explored one of the world’s most innovative renewable energy ecosystems, experiencing firsthand the technology, safety, and policy frameworks driving Germany’s success in offshore wind.
One of the early lessons I learned about policy work is that battles are fought in theory first. Policy experts have to piece together historical data, look for patterns, imagine what could happen in the future, and develop recommendations to solve real-world problems. The policy work I do at CPEX – planning for initiatives and platforms that power up Louisiana with access to clean energy resources – requires a high level of tenacity. I have to constantly update and revise my knowledge base as new research and technology emerges in the field. At the same time, great policy is only created through people power, so thought revision occurs while engaging with various community leaders and stakeholders who have diverse perspectives and interests.
On a sunny day in July 2023, a group of Louisiana state legislators, representatives from state agencies, and individuals from Louisiana-based law firms, businesses, ports, and schools gathered on the deck of a chartered vessel just off the shore of Point Judith, Rhode Island.
Whether by inland rivers, stormwater, or coastal storm surge, Louisiana is facing increased risk from both the magnitude and frequency of flood events. Dubbed the Great Flood of 2016, Louisiana experienced two historic rain events that impacted 56 of Louisiana's 64 parishes and highlighted statewide vulnerabilities and exposed the lack of water and land management. More than 145,000 rental and owner-occupied homes across the state were flooded–an estimated $10 billion in damages. These historic flooding events exposed deficiencies in floodplain management approaches at all levels of government.
As a city planner, a Baton Rouge native, and a parent, I spend a lot of time thinking about the future of this place that I love. My goal is to build a safe, healthy community where all residents can thrive and newcomers can find plentiful opportunities. I want my kids and future grandkids to enjoy a vibrant, productive life in a strong and resilient city. I know that others share this vision, and if we are to achieve this future for the Baton Rouge region, we have to choose right now to work together to seize some big, exciting opportunities.
Last week, the Supreme Court ruled 6-3 to restrict the ability of the Environmental Protection Agency to regulate carbon emissions. In a nutshell, the EPA no longer has the authority to mandate that energy companies shift to cleaner sources in order to cap carbon emissions. That responsibility now falls to Congress – a political body beholden to many interests other than understanding and curbing climate change effects.
Raymond Jetson, founder and CEO of MetroMorphosis, discusses the importance of equitable planning and how we can bring value to undervalued communities through sustainable growth.
Justin Lemoine discusses how the Better Block and Government Street project has had long-term positive effects on Mid City’s economic growth, quality of life and role as a Baton Rouge cultural hub.
Thoughtful historic preservation is at the heart of placemaking. It also revitalizes our community and spurs economic growth.
