Council confirms Patrick Beard as director of economic development, he pledges small-business outreach

The St. Charles Parish Council on Aug. 4 unanimously confirmed Patrick Beard as the parish’s new director of Economic Development and Tourism.

Beard, a resident of Destrehan with previous experience at Colliers International and the Port of New Orleans, told the council he plans to rebalance department work to serve both large industrial projects and smaller local businesses.

“So that the information’s getting out there better,” Beard said, describing a plan to “build up some efficiencies” including clearer communications to help entrepreneurs navigate permitting, procurement and occupancy processes.

Councilwoman O’Daniels, who represents a district with many small businesses, pressed Beard on outreach to smaller operators and told the meeting she wanted the department to create a small-business portion that proactively reaches entrepreneurs.

Parish President Jewell said he had tasked Beard, once confirmed, to “rebuild and reimagine” the economic development department and to expand outreach to entrepreneurs who may be deterred by perceived permitting hurdles.

The council recorded a unanimous vote in favor of Beard’s confirmation. No public speakers addressed the confirmation during the public hearing; Beard spoke briefly to thank the council and express his interest in working with parish businesses.

The council did not record a roll-call tally in the meeting minutes; two council members were noted absent earlier in the agenda.