– Leading Louisiana: The Long Game of Growth — Mayor Jan-Scott Richard on Strategy, Infrastructure & Development

Episode 2 – Leading Louisiana

Leading Louisiana: The Long Game of Growth — Mayor Jan-Scott Richard on Strategy, Infrastructure & Development

When water is waist deep just blocks from your home, it’s eye-opening. My first priority as mayor was to partner with experts and create a plan to prevent that from happening again.

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Episode Summary

Jan-Scott Richard joins host Kathryn Fenstermaker to discuss how thoughtful leadership and long-term planning have shaped one of Louisiana’s fastest-growing cities. Drawing from his experience as a four-term mayor, Richard explains how balancing infrastructure, community input and funding strategies is key to sustainable growth.

A major focus of the conversation is the Apollo Road corridor, a transformative project that improved connectivity, supported economic development and addressed drainage challenges. Richard shares how decisive action and creative funding helped bring the project to life when traditional support was limited.

The episode also explores how the city of Scott has approached resilience following the devastating 2016 floods. Through a data-driven drainage plan developed in partnership with Fenstermaker, the city created a blueprint that continues to guide infrastructure investments and protect the community.

Throughout the discussion, Richard emphasizes communication, accessibility and public engagement as essential leadership traits. From town halls to community festivals, he highlights the importance of listening to residents and building trust while planning for the future.

“Communication is key… capital outlay means having a good rapport with our delegation.”

“Tax Increment Financing allows us to reinvest growth back into the community.”

Meet the Leader Behind the Vision

Jan-Scott Richard is a four-term mayor of Scott, Louisiana, known for guiding the city through a period of rapid growth with strategic planning and steady leadership. A lifelong resident of Acadiana, he began his public service on the Scott City Council before being elected mayor in 2018.

During his tenure, Richard has led transformative initiatives including the Apollo Road corridor, a comprehensive drainage improvement plan and the city’s 2023 Master Plan. By leveraging tools such as Tax Increment Financing and fostering strong public-private partnerships, he has positioned Scott for long-term success while maintaining a strong connection to the community.

“When water is waist deep, it changes your perspective immediately.”

“Finishing Apollo Road was a no-brainer for growth and drainage.”

From Flooding to Forward Thinking: Jan-Scott Richard on Building a Resilient Scott

On this episode of Fueled, we sit down with Jan-Scott Richard to explore how strategic planning and leadership are driving growth in one of Louisiana’s fastest-growing cities. From completing the Apollo Road corridor to developing a data-driven drainage plan after the 2016 floods, Richard shares how resilience, communication and community engagement shape his approach to leadership.

“If we’re not engaging the public, then we’re leading wrong.”

“Public input is necessary to create a plan that’s truly our plan.”

Episode Highlights

• Completing the Apollo Road corridor to improve connectivity, drainage and economic development

• Balancing major infrastructure projects including wastewater facilities, highways and drainage systems

• Responding to the 2016 floods with a data-driven drainage plan and long-term resilience strategy

• Developing the 2023 Master Plan to guide growth, investment and community identity

• Leveraging funding tools like Tax Increment Financing and phased development

• Coordinating with state leaders to secure capital-outlay funding and advance key projects

• Engaging residents through town halls, workshops and community events like the Boudin Festival

• Leading with calm resolve, strong communication and a commitment to listening

• Planning future investments including a 4-H facility and expanded recreational infrastructure

• Focusing on sustainable growth that balances infrastructure needs with quality of life

“Calm leadership and steady communication build trust over time.”

“Growth has to be managed with intention and responsibility.”

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