News

Meta AI facility to be built in Rayville

Published

5 months ago

December 5, 2024

Staff Reports

RICHLAND PARISH, La. – Facebook and Instagram parent company Meta announced it will build a $10 billion artificial intelligence data center in northeast Louisiana, a transformational investment that cements the state’s status as a major innovation hub and puts this picturesque rural community on the leading edge of a global digital revolution.

Meta projects the data center will support 500 or more direct new jobs in Richland Parish. LED estimates the project will result in the creation of more than 1,000 indirect jobs, for a total of more than 1,500 potential new jobs in the Northeast Region. The company estimates 5,000 construction workers at peak of construction on the 2,250-acre former Franklin Farm megasite that sits between the municipalities of Rayville and Delhi, about 30 miles east of Monroe.

“Today, Louisiana begins a new chapter. Today, we are delivering new jobs and economic growth on a scale unimaginable before we took office,” Governor Jeff Landry said. “Meta’s investment establishes the region as an anchor in Louisiana’s rapidly expanding tech sector, revitalizes one of our state’s beautiful rural areas, and creates opportunities for Louisiana workers to fill high-paying jobs of the future. I thank Meta for their commitment to our state, and to the State Legislature for positioning Louisiana to win this project by passing new tax reform legislation that attracts capital investment and improves Louisiana’s business tax climate.”

Hyperscaler data centers such as the one planned for Richland Parish are housed in huge physical structures designed to process the vast amounts of data required to support digital technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) workloads. The facility is the largest of more than 20 Meta data centers around the world.

“Meta is building the future of human connection and the technology that makes it possible. And this data center will be an important part of that mission,” said Kevin Janda, Meta Director of Data Center Strategy. “Richland Parish in Louisiana is an outstanding location for Meta to call home for a number of reasons. It provides great access to infrastructure, a reliable grid, a business-friendly climate, and wonderful community partners that have helped us move this project forward. We’re thrilled to be a new member of the Richland Parish community and are committed to investing in its long-term vitality.”

LED expects the project, one of the largest private capital investments in the state’s history, to spark new economic activity and investments throughout northeast Louisiana as multiple industries benefit from the billions of dollars invested. Meta makes a concerted effort to source labor and materials locally, and partners with local schools and organizations to advance STEAM education and digital skills that can be used to compete in the digital workforce.

“This project is an example of what Louisiana can accomplish when economic development partners play offense rather than waiting for good projects to come to them,” LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said. “Louisiana has been actively positioning itself as a hub for AI innovation, with plans to support startups, grow a skilled workforce, and shape forward-thinking policy. Meta’s historic investment is just the beginning of a bold strategy to drive economic growth through AI, expand and diversify the state’s tech sector, and prove to the world that when Louisiana says that we are ready to compete on the global stage, we mean business.”

To power the data center, which at its largest point extends more than one mile from front to back, Entergy will add clean, efficient power plants to its system to meet growing power demands, including from the data center. Meta has pledged to match its electricity use with 100% clean and renewable energy and will be working with Entergy to bring at least 1,500 MW of new renewable energy to the grid through its Geaux Zero program. In addition, Meta has committed to contribute up to $1 million a year to Entergy’s “The Power to Care” low-income ratepayer support program, a figure that will be matched by Entergy Louisiana.

“This partnership underscores Entergy Louisiana’s commitment to powering progress and driving innovation,” Entergy Louisiana President and CEO Phillip May said. “By supporting this transformational investment, we are not only delivering the energy needed today, but also building the infrastructure that will support a brighter, more sustainable future for all of Louisiana. Together, we’re laying the foundation for economic growth that will benefit generations to come. We could not be more proud to play a critical role in this monumental endeavor.”

In addition to Meta’s commitment to match its electricity usage with clean and renewable energy, the company prioritizes water stewardship in its operations, including minimizing water use at its data centers. Meta has pledged to restore more water than it consumes at this data center by investing in water restoration projects in Louisiana.

To support both the construction and eventual operation of the data center, Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) has committed $250,000 in Workforce Rapid Response funding to Delta Community College to develop programs and expand capacity. Delta will scale up its construction trades programs to meet the initial construction needs, and partner with peer institutions experienced in developing and delivering curricula for data center operations.

“The parish is excited about the project we look forward to assisting in every way,” Richland Parish Supervisor Joey Evans said. “I am so proud of the collaboration and cooperation among our state, regional, parish and local partners. The manner in which the communities of Rayville, Holly Ridge and Delhi came together to make this project a reality speaks volumes about our parish’s ability to rise to any challenge.”

Meta expects construction to continue through 2030 with site work beginning in December. The company has also committed to invest more than $200 million in local infrastructure improvements, including roads and water systems.

The company is expected to take advantage of a new Louisiana incentive program, established by Act 730, that offers qualifying projects a state and local sales and use tax rebate on the purchase or lease of data center equipment. Meta is also expected to participate in the state’s Quality Jobs program.

“This project will create a transformational change for the residents of the entire Northeast Region,” Grow NELA President and CEO Rob Cleveland said. “Meta chose northeast Louisiana because of the availability of reliable, low-cost energy; access to flat, developable land and a business-friendly environment led by Governor Landry. This project opens the floodgates for data center development in Louisiana, and we are prepared for what’s ahead.”

News

Voters Head to the Polls Today for ‘El Dorado WINS’ Funding Initiative

Published

7 hours ago

May 13, 2025

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — Voters within the city limits of El Dorado are casting ballots today in a special election that will decide the fate of El Dorado WINS, a proposed funding initiative aimed at strengthening public services, infrastructure, and community development.

Polls are open today, Tuesday, May 13, 2025, and only registered voters residing inside the El Dorado city limits are eligible to vote. The outcome of the election will determine whether a new revenue stream will be adopted and distributed across six key areas of investment.

Under the proposal, funds would be allocated as follows:

25% to Parks & Recreation to improve and expand public parks and event spaces
20% to Public Works for upgrades to streets, water systems, and sewer lines
20% to Public Safety for police and fire service enhancements
20% to Future Development to support long-term city planning
10% to Economic Development to attract businesses and stimulate growth
5% to South Arkansas College to maintain and operate the El Dorado Conference Center

In recent weeks, city leaders and community advocates have held town hall meetings and public forums to provide information and gather feedback on the proposal. Discussions also touched on the city’s long-term vision, particularly around recreational improvements and infrastructure needs.

Officials are urging residents to participate in shaping the future of El Dorado. The WINS initiative, they say, represents a targeted investment in the city’s growth, safety, and livability.

Voters who did not participate during the early voting period at the Union County Courthouse have until polls close today to make their voices heard.

News

El Dorado School District to Host Groundbreaking for New Intermediate School

Published

7 hours ago

May 13, 2025

Staff Reports

EL DORADO — The El Dorado School District, in collaboration with Ideal Construction Company and CADM Architecture, will officially break ground on a new Intermediate School during a ceremony on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. The event will take place at 501 North Timberlane Drive in El Dorado.

The groundbreaking marks a major milestone in the district’s continued efforts to enhance educational facilities and provide state-of-the-art learning environments for students. School officials, project partners, and community leaders are expected to be in attendance to celebrate the beginning of construction on the long-anticipated campus.

“This is an exciting day for El Dorado,” said district leaders. “Our new Intermediate School will not only offer modern amenities and improved learning spaces but also reflect our commitment to academic excellence and community growth.”

The public and local media are encouraged to attend and cover the event, which will feature remarks from key stakeholders, a ceremonial shovel dig, and architectural renderings of the new facility.

The project is being led by Ideal Construction Company, with architectural design by CADM Architecture, Inc.

For more information, contact the El Dorado School District at (870) 864-5006.

News

Allen Announces Candidacy For Circuit Clerk

Published

7 hours ago

May 13, 2025

Grant Merrill

EL DORADO — Longtime legal professional Tonya Allen has officially announced her candidacy for Circuit Clerk of the Thirteenth Judicial District in Union County, pledging to bring professionalism, modernization, and community-centered service to the office.

A lifelong resident of Union County and graduate of Parkers Chapel High School, Allen brings more than 35 years of experience working as a secretary and paralegal for local attorneys. Her decades in the legal field have provided her with firsthand insight into the critical role the Circuit Clerk plays in the community.

“After much heartfelt reflection and encouragement from the people of Union County, I am honored to announce my candidacy,” Allen said in a campaign statement. “I pledge to work tirelessly to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and ethics you require from this office.”

Allen emphasized the importance of both technological advancement and personal service in her vision for the Clerk’s office. She plans to pursue modernization of record-keeping systems to increase efficiency and accessibility, while maintaining a welcoming environment for the public.

“My vision is to advance the development of the Circuit Clerk’s office into a model of efficiency and accessibility,” she said. “At the same time, I believe that providing friendly and positive personal service to the public is vitally important.”

Framing her campaign as a commitment to public trust, Allen said she is dedicated to serving with integrity and transparency.

“All of us living and working in Union County deserve a candidate who will look out for our community and drive progress in the Circuit Clerk’s office,” she said. “I look forward to the opportunity to share my vision and to earn the trust of its voters.”

Allen will be meeting with residents across Union County in the months ahead as she begins her campaign.

News

Camden Fairview To Host Graduation Ceremonies Friday

Published

7 hours ago

May 13, 2025

Grant Merrill

CAMDEN — Camden Fairview High School will honor the Class of 2025 with a graduation ceremony on Friday, May 16, at 8:00 p.m. in Cardinal Stadium. Families, friends, and community members are invited to attend the event and celebrate the achievements of this year’s senior class.

The graduation caps off a busy spring filled with milestone moments for seniors. The school hosted its College and Career Signing Day on April 21, where students formally committed to postsecondary education, military service, or entering the workforce. On May 3, students gathered for prom in the high school commons, with a walk-in event beginning at 6:00 p.m.

The week leading into graduation featured two more senior traditions. On May 11, students participated in the Baccalaureate ceremony, followed by the annual Senior Awards Assembly on May 12, both held in the school gymnasium.

Camden Fairview officials said Friday night’s ceremony will recognize not only academic accomplishments but also the resilience and character of the graduating class.

Graduates are encouraged to arrive early, and attendees are advised to bring seating and plan for evening weather conditions. For more information, contact Camden Fairview High School.

News

Union County Offers Free Large Item Disposal This Saturday

Published

7 hours ago

May 13, 2025

Staff Reports

EL DORADO — In an ongoing effort to keep Union County clean and accessible for all residents, the Union County Solid Waste Department will once again offer its free large item disposal service this Saturday, May 17, 2025. The drop-off site at 2450 Champagnolle Road in El Dorado will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The monthly service, held on the third Saturday of each month, provides a convenient way for residents to dispose of large household items such as washers, dryers, and mattresses at no cost.

County Judge Mike Loftin encouraged residents to take advantage of the program and help maintain the region’s natural beauty. “Please use this free service and help keep our woods clean,” Loftin said.

While the service is free, there are restrictions on what can be accepted. Perishable items, household garbage, and hazardous materials will not be allowed.