Published on July 31, 2024; republished on October 15, 2024; republished on October 30, 2024
By KAREN LAGRANGE COX
The following questionnaire was emailed to the candidates for the Youngsville City Council Division D position in the special election on November 5, 2024. The candidates are Todd Istre (Republican), Logan Lannoo (Republican), and Nicholas “Nick” Niland (Republican).
The November 5, 2024, special election is to fill the remaining term of former Council Member Ken Stansbury, who resigned in October 2023 after being elected to the Lafayette Parish Council for District 3. Jamie Creed is currently serving as Division D Council Member until the winner of the upcoming special election is determined.
Responses are directly from each candidate.
1. What reason(s) are you running as a candidate for Youngsville City Council Division D?
Istre
Todd Istre for Youngsville City Council Division D, I have several compelling reasons for seeking this position. As a resident and family man of Youngsville for over 40 years, my commitment to serving the city is evident through, involvement in various community boards and the families of Youngsville. Here are some key reasons why I am running for City Council.
- Community Connection: A long-standing residency and family man in Youngsville, gives me a unique perspective on the city’s needs and challenges. I understand the local culture, values, business needs and aspirations of its residents.
- Education and Experience: A Bachelor’s Degree Composite Business Law, Theology & Latin, Minor in Psychology. Graduate studies at Louisiana State University. My educational background equips me with valuable skills to contribute effectively to city governance.
- Leadership Skills: Drawing upon my experience serving on community boards and engaging in extensive community service, I have honed strong leadership and problem-solving abilities. These skills empower me to tackle pressing issues faced by Youngsville with determination and effectiveness.
- Priorities: As a council member include addressing traffic concerns, improving road safety, and streamlining business regulations. I am committed to building a brighter future for Youngsville by focusing on families, infrastructure, and financial responsibility.
Lannoo
I’m running for Youngsville City Council because service is at the core of who I am. Throughout my life, I’ve been drawn to roles that allow me to give back to my community:
- Community Service: From being an altar server at church to my time in the Boy Scouts, I learned the value of community involvement early on.
- Public Safety: As a former corrections officer with Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office, I worked to keep our communities safe.
- Healthcare: After college, I served as a Respiratory Therapist, helping people during their most vulnerable moments.
- Small Business: As a travel planner, I’ve helped families create wholesome vacation memories.
- Local Government: My time as an appointed Youngsville City Council member was the highlight of my public service career.
But it’s my roles as a husband and father that drive me the most. I want to ensure Youngsville remains a great place for all our families. During my brief tenure on the council, I faced challenges and criticisms, but I also saw firsthand the positive impact we can make. I believe this role is what I was designed to do. I’m running because I love Youngsville, and I’m committed to its future. I want to be a man of action on the council, tackling our city’s challenges head-on, communicating clearly with residents, and always pushing for progress. Your concerns are my concerns, and I’m ready to be your voice on the council. Together, we can make Youngsville an even better place to live, work, and raise our families.
Niland
As a citizen who is actively involved in my community, I saw this as an opportunity to serve my community at a higher level and to help make a lasting positive impact on our community. I do not take running for office lightly; it is truly an honor to be elected as a public servant of my community and I know that with my work ethic and passion to serve others I will be a strong addition to the city council. As a husband and a father, I strive to always do right by my family, and I will bring that same mindset with me in serving the needs of my community.
I am running for city council because I have served in various leadership roles both professionally and within community organizations over the past decade, and I bring experience, knowledge, innovation, and energy to the table. I collaborate daily with other leaders, and I know how to listen to others’ ideas, formulate a strategy, and come to common ground when working with others. I know the importance of listening to others, accepting feedback and criticism, and admitting when I am wrong.
I think my body of work as a leader both professionally and in my community over the years has prepared me to be an effective and well-rounded member of the Youngsville City Council.
2. What qualities and skills do you have that make you the ideal choice for Youngsville City Council Member Division D?
Istre
- Deep Roots in the Community
- family man
- Leadership skills
- Serving on Multiple Community Boards
- Education
- Vision
- Decision-Making
- Adaptability
- Communication
Lannoo
As your neighbor and fellow Youngsville resident, I bring five key strengths to the council:
- Action-oriented: I don’t just talk about problems; I solve them.
- Bridge-builder: I bring people together. On the council, I’ll work with everyone, regardless of differences, to get things done for Youngsville.
- Clear communicator: I’ll explain council decisions in plain language, not government jargon. You deserve to know what’s happening in your city.
- Accountable: When things go wrong, I own up and fix them. I’ll bring this same transparency to the council.
- Forward-thinking: I’m always looking ahead. I’ll work to ensure Youngsville remains a great place to live for our children and grandchildren.
These qualities mean I’ll be a councilman who listens to you, works hard for you, and always puts Youngsville first.
Niland
I pride myself on my ability to take action. I had a coach growing up that always used to say, “Don’t talk about it, be about it” and I have always tried to be that way. I enjoy putting a plan into action and being involved in the process.
I am an innovative thinker and have received recognition because of this. During my time in leadership at LGMC I received the Innovation Excellence Award.
My passion and drive to better my community was recognized when I was awarded the first ever Rotarian Impact award with Youngsville Rotary Club for my dedication and support to my community.
My drive to serve and care for others aligns with my profession as a nurse. In 2019, I was one of twenty healthcare professionals across the state who had the honor of being recognized with the “Face of Healing” award.
Over the years I have continued to learn and grow as a leader both professionally and within my community. The list below are highlights of various leadership roles and recognitions for the body of work I have put together that I think make me the ideal candidate to serve on the Youngsville City Council:
- President of the Student Nurses Association
- Delegate and Treasurer with the Louisiana State Nurses Association
- Health and Sciences Representative for Civic Engagement Program at LSUE
- Head of the Class for Leadership Youngsville Class I
- Membership Chair for Youngsville Chamber of Commerce
- President-Elect for Rotary Club of Youngsville
- Top 20 Under 40 Honoree
I hope in providing a short glimpse into my body of work over the years provides a testament to what I have to offer our great community.
3. What higher education degrees or special training have you received, and where did you receive your degrees or special training?
Istre
Bachelor’s Degree: Composite Business Law, Theology & Latin, a Minor in Psychology, University of The Ozarks
Law, Human Rights in Criminal Justice Studies, University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL)
Master’s degree Studies: Psychology, Organizational Behavior & Management, Louisiana State University (LSU)
Structural Pest Control Licensing and Registration, Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) (LSU)
Lannoo
I hold an Associate of Science degree in Respiratory Care, which I earned from Louisiana State University Eunice in December 2010. While my formal higher education is focused in healthcare, my professional journey has provided me with a diverse range of experiences and skills that are directly applicable to serving on the City Council:
- Healthcare Training: My respiratory therapy education taught me critical thinking, problem-solving, and how to work effectively under pressure – skills crucial for addressing complex city issues.
- Law Enforcement Training: As a former corrections officer, I received specialized training in public safety, conflict resolution, and crisis management.
- Business Management: Running my own travel planning business has given me practical experience in budgeting, customer service, and strategic planning.
- Public Service Training: During my time as an appointed City Council member, I participated in municipal governance workshops and training sessions.
I believe that the combination of my formal education and professional experiences equips me with a well-rounded skill set to serve effectively on the Youngsville City Council. I’m committed to continual learning and will always seek to expand my knowledge to better serve our community.
Niland
My highest level of education was obtaining my Masters in Business Administration with a focus in Healthcare Management from Western Governors University.
I obtained my Bachelors in Kinesiology with a minor in Adaptive Physical Education from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette
I acquired my Associates in Nursing from LSUE.
I have certifications with FEMA:
- IS-100 Introduction to Incident Command System
- IS-200 Basic Incident Command System for Initial Response
- IS-700 Introduction to National Incident Management Systems
4. Are you a veteran of any United States Military Branch? If yes, which branch and when did you serve?
Istre
No.
Lannoo
No, I am not a veteran of the United States Military. While I didn’t have the opportunity to serve in the armed forces, I have the utmost respect for those who have. Our veterans and active-duty military members have made incredible sacrifices for our country, and their service is deeply appreciated.
Niland
No, I am not, but God Bless our troops and I am thankful to all who have and are currently serving.
5. Have you ever previously held a public office? If so, what public office(s) have you held, and when did you hold these office(s)?
Istre
No response from this candidate.
Lannoo
Yes, I have had the honor of serving our community in public office. From April to October 2023, I was appointed as a Youngsville City Councilman representing Division A.
While this term was brief, it was an incredibly valuable experience that deepened my understanding of our city’s needs and operations. During those seven months:
I participated in critical decision-making processes that directly impacted our residents’ daily lives.
I gained firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities facing Youngsville.
I worked closely with other council members, city staff, and, most importantly, our citizens to address key issues in our community.
I helped oversee the city’s budget, ensuring responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
This experience, though short, confirmed my passion for public service and my commitment to Youngsville. It showed me that with dedication and collaboration, we can make real, positive changes in our city. Now, I’m seeking to build on this experience by running for the Division D seat. I believe the knowledge I gained, combined with my fresh perspective, makes me well-equipped to serve Youngsville effectively from day one if elected.
Niland
No, I have not.
6. What do you currently see as the most urgent issue in Youngsville? And what is your plan to address that issue?
Istre
Budget Review: Identify areas where spending can be optimized.
Analyze Expenditures: Ensure critical services (Police and Public Safety) receive adequate funding.
Evaluate Revenue Sources: Assess Revenue streams. (taxes, grants, fees). Streamlining Business Regulations to Support Business Growth.
Long-Term Planning: Develop multi-year budget plans.
Lannoo
The most pressing issue facing Youngsville today is balancing our rapid growth with maintaining our small-town charm and quality of life. Here’s my three-point plan to address this:
- Smart Development: I’ll push for responsible zoning that attracts businesses while preserving our neighborhoods.
- Traffic Solutions: I’ll champion infrastructure improvements to ease congestion, especially during rush hours.
- Community Engagement: I’ll host regular town halls to ensure your voice is heard in every major decision.
By focusing on these areas, we can grow smartly while keeping Youngsville the wonderful place we all love to call home.
Niland
Outside of infrastructure, economic development needs to be the focus of our city. When you think of maintaining a cities infrastructure: roads, drainage, regular maintenance, etc. having a strong economy to create a tax base to support all of that is essential. When we develop a strong economy within our city, the sky will be the limit for what Youngsville will be able to accomplish. It is exciting to think about the future of a self-sustaining Youngsville, capable of managing all its needs within the confines of our own city for our citizens.
My plan to address this issue is to make it as friendly and advantageous as possible for businesses to come here, whether that be incentivized with tax breaks over a certain period or other means to help lower the initial cost for them wanting to come here. I would also like to look at our regulations on our current businesses from an advertisement standpoint. In conversations I have had with some of our local business owners, they have said that we make it difficult as a city for our small business owners to advertise and bring business to their shops with some of the rules and regulations that we have in place. There can be a common ground amongst business owners and the city when it comes to these regulations. Working together to help our businesses grow and prosper, while also making sure that we maintain a clean and orderly city is my goal and I hope to achieve this for both our current businesses, future businesses, and our city.
7. If elected, what are your top priorities as a council member for Youngsville?
Istre
Families and Quality of Life
Road Improvements
Drainage
Police and Public Safety
Analyze Expenditures
Fiscal Prudence
Supporting Local Businesses
Lannoo
My top priorities are the issues I hear about most from you, my fellow Youngsville residents:
- Smart Economic Growth: Attract businesses that provide good jobs without sacrificing our quality of life.
- Traffic and Infrastructure: Improve our roads and drainage to keep pace with our growth.
- Community Spaces: Enhance our parks and recreation options for families, youth, and seniors.
- Fiscal Responsibility: Ensure your tax dollars are spent wisely and efficiently.
- Public Safety: Support our police and fire departments to keep Youngsville safe.
I’ll work tirelessly on these priorities to make our great city even better for all of us.
Niland
I would like to focus on our small businesses. I think going out and getting feedback from them on what we can do as a city to better support them is a top priority for me.
I would also like to bring a heavy focus on economic development. Pinpoint what we need to do as a city to bring businesses into Youngsville and then devise an action plan to create steps to make this a reality. Creating a strong economic platform in our city is an absolute must.
I would also like to focus on Foster Park. The city did a fantastic job in getting this park back up and running, but we have a hidden gem in this community park that would benefit from some more upgrades. I would like to see the park made into an amazing community park that we can utilize for families and people of all ages. I would like to see the park transition into an actual park where people can take their families for picnics, family gatherings, etc. instead of it being heavily utilized as another sports complex. My vision of Foster Park is being a park like how Moncus Park is utilized in Lafayette. Our citizens need a place like this to escape the hustle and bustle and stress of everyday life.
8. What experience do you have with large budgets?
Istre
My experience in managing budgets resources for volunteer Organizations and overseeing financial aspects within the company that I help manage,
Lannoo
My experience with large budgets comes from several key areas of my life and career:
- City Council Experience: During my time as an appointed Youngsville City Councilman in 2023, I was directly involved in passing the city’s budget. This gave me invaluable hands-on experience with municipal finance, including understanding revenue sources, allocating funds, and balancing community needs with fiscal responsibility.
- Small Business Management: As a small business owner, I’ve managed my company’s budget, making tough decisions to ensure financial stability and growth. While not on the scale of a city budget, this experience taught me the importance of careful financial planning and resource allocation.
- Rotary Club of Youngsville: As an active Rotarian, I’ve been involved in budgeting for various community initiatives. I currently serve on the scholarship committee and chair the grants committee, roles that require careful financial consideration and responsible fund distribution.
- Event Planning: As the creator and chair of Rotary’s Pickle & Pints fundraiser, I’ve managed budgets for large-scale community events, balancing costs with fundraising goals.
While these experiences vary in scale, they’ve all contributed to my understanding of fiscal responsibility, the importance of transparent financial management, and the need to align spending with community priorities. If elected, I’ll apply these skills to ensure Youngsville’s budget is managed effectively, transparently, and in the best interest of our residents.
Niland
I have had experience with several different sized budgets throughout my career. As a manager at Lafayette General, I oversaw my departments P&L statements. I made sure we were staffing appropriately and minimizing as much contract labor as possible. I also made sure we were utilizing supplies and equipment appropriately to decrease any waste and unnecessary spending.
As Treasurer for the LSNA District IV I oversaw our finances and made sure that we stayed within our budget and had the proper funds necessary for our events, scholarships, etc.
In my current role as Director of Quality at IMC, I oversee my departments budget, as well as various contracts with vendors that we use within my department. I also meet with outside vendors to obtain quotes for services that we could potentially utilize within the organization.
9. How is your campaign being funded?
Istre
Personal Funds, Fundraising Events, Individual Donations
Lannoo
Currently, my campaign is funded the Youngsville way – through hard work and community support. My wife and I have invested our own money because we believe in this cause. Many of you – our friends, neighbors, and fellow residents – have also chipped in. I’m proud that my campaign is powered by the people of Youngsville, not outside interests. This means when I’m on the council, I’ll answer to you, not to special interest groups.
Niland
Family, friends, and personally.
10. What civic organizations or non-profits have you been an active member of within the last four years?
Istre
Knights of Columbus of Youngsville
Salvation Army Acadiana
Catholic Charities of Acadiana.
Louisiana Historical Society
United Way of Acadiana
Acadiana Republican Women
Fleur de Lis Republican Women
Rotary Club of Youngsville
Youngsville Pot Head Coffee Club
Parish Proud of Acadiana
Lannoo
Over the past four years, I’ve been actively involved in several civic organizations and non-profits, each allowing me to serve our community in unique ways:
Rotary Club of Youngsville: As an active Rotarian, I’ve taken on several key roles:
- Current chair of the grants committee
- Member of the scholarship committee
- Creator and chair of the Pickle & Pints fundraiser
- Served as a board member for the 2023-2024 year
Southern Board Game Festival: I’m a member of the planning committee for this event, which serves as a fundraiser for New Hope Lafayette, supporting their mission in our community.
Youngsville Chamber of Commerce: As an active member, I work to promote and support our local business community.
St. Pius Elementary School: As a parent, I’m deeply involved in school activities:
- Serve on the committee for the Cougar Classic golf tournament
- Member of the Gala fundraiser committee
These involvements reflect my commitment to Youngsville’s growth, education, and community spirit. I believe that active involvement in civic organizations is crucial for understanding and addressing our community’s needs. These experiences have broadened my perspective and deepened my commitment to serving Youngsville.
Niland
I have been an active member of the following civic organizations and non-profits over the past several years:
- LSNA (Louisiana State Nurses Association) District IV
- Served as a Delegate during Session at the State Capitol
- Served as Treasurer
- Rotary Club of Youngsville
- Served as Program Chair, I am currently President-Elect.
- Youngsville Chamber of Commerce
- Served as Membership Chair
- The705
11. What is needed to attract more businesses and job opportunities to Youngsville?
Istre
Infrastructure Investment:
- Road Improvements: Prioritize major repairs, upgrades, and efficient road networks. A well-maintained infrastructure attracts businesses.
- Utilities Enhancement: Invest in water and sewage systems to support growth and development.
Business-Friendly Policies:
- Tax Incentives: Offer tax breaks or incentives to businesses that create jobs locally.
- Streamlined Processes: Simplify permitting and licensing procedures for new businesses.
- Promotion and Marketing:
- Showcase Advantages: Highlight Youngsville’s location, quality of life, and family-friendly environment.
- Business Parks: Develop designated areas for businesses to thrive.
Lannoo
Attracting more businesses and job opportunities to Youngsville is crucial for our city’s future. Here’s what I believe we need to focus on:
Showcase Youngsville’s Strengths: We need to educate business owners about what makes Youngsville special.
- Unparalleled Infrastructure: Thanks to Mayor Ritter, his staff, and experts like Pam Granger and McBADE Engineers & Consultants, our infrastructure is second to none. The flood mitigation efforts since 2016 have made us arguably the safest city from excessive rain in the state. This protects not just residents, but businesses too.
- Safety for Businesses: Our low crime rate is a significant asset. According to crimegrade.org, Youngsville’s robbery rate is just 0.0718 per 1,000 residents annually. This safety record is attractive to businesses looking for a secure location.
- Exceptional Workforce: Youngsville boasts a young, vibrant, and educated community. With an average resident age of 33 and about 40% of our population holding higher education degrees, we offer an ideal pool of entry-level and skilled workers.
Community Support: We need to emphasize that Youngsville residents are eager to support local businesses. Our community prefers to shop and dine locally when given the opportunity.
Balanced Approach: While we may not always be the cheapest option for businesses, our stringent standards ensure long-term stability and protection. We need to communicate this value proposition effectively.
Streamlined Processes: We should review our business development processes to ensure they’re efficient while maintaining our high standards.
Targeted Outreach: We need to actively reach out to businesses that align with our community’s needs and values, showcasing why Youngsville is the perfect place for them to thrive.
Continued Infrastructure Investment: We must maintain our commitment to top-notch infrastructure, which is a key selling point for businesses considering relocation or expansion.
By focusing on these areas, we can attract businesses that will provide quality jobs and services to our community, contributing to Youngsville’s continued growth and prosperity. It’s about creating a win-win situation where businesses thrive, and our residents benefit from increased local opportunities.
Niland
I think it will be a combination of tax breaks and tax incentives that we need to give businesses that are interested in coming here. We can then over a period bring those businesses back in line with our regular taxes as they become established. I think providing that tax break in the beginning can help these businesses get their feet underneath them and create a solid foundation for their future.
With new businesses comes job opportunities, so these really go hand in hand with one another.
12. If you received a $1 million grant to use for Youngsville any way you desired, what would you do with it, and why?
Istre
Road Improvements: $500,000
Major repairs and upgrades to key roads, ensuring safe travel for families and businesses
Enhancing drainage systems to prevent flooding, protecting family homes and business properties
Improving road safety features (e.g., signage, lighting) to keep families and business areas safe
Water and Sewage Improvements: $200,000
Upgrading water treatment facilities to ensure clean and safe drinking water for families and businesses
Enhancing sewage systems to prevent overflows and protect the environment
Improving infrastructure to support future growth and development for both families and businesses
Police Department Enhancements: $200,000
Equipment and Technology Upgrades: $100,000
Purchase of new patrol vehicles to ensure quick response times for family and business emergencies
Advanced communication systems
Body cameras and other surveillance equipment to enhance community safety
Training and Development: $100,000
Specialized training programs (e.g., crisis intervention, de-escalation techniques) to better serve families and businesses in distress
Leadership development for officers
Community Engagement Initiatives
Programs to build trust between the police and families in the community
Youth outreach programs and mentorship to support family well-being
Supporting Local Families and Businesses: $100,000
Creating incentives for new businesses to enter the market, providing more job opportunities for families
Lannoo
If Youngsville received a $1 million grant, I’d propose a strategic plan to maximize its impact and benefit our entire community:
- Infrastructure and Community Investment: I’d allocate $700,000 towards securing state infrastructure matching funds. Louisiana offers an 80% match for municipal projects, which means we could potentially turn this $700,000 into $3.5 million for critical improvements. Here’s how we could use these funds:
- Flood Protection: We’ve made great strides in making Youngsville one of the safest cities from excessive rain in the state. We could further enhance our drainage systems to protect both our homes and businesses.
- Road Improvements: Ensuring we have clean, safe roads to drive on is crucial for our growing community.
- Community Center for Performing Arts: My long-term dream is to expand our Parks and Recreation offerings beyond sports. We could use part of these funds to kickstart a municipal theater for plays and entertainment. This space could serve multiple purposes – hosting local dance studios, providing banquet space, and even accommodating our local Mardi Gras Krewes. The exciting part is that we’d put the final decision in your hands. As a community, we’d vote on which projects to prioritize, ensuring that we’re addressing the needs that matter most to you.
- Debt Reduction: The remaining $300,000 would go towards paying down city debt, particularly for the sports complex expansion and amphitheater. This fiscally responsible move would save us money on interest in the long run, freeing up future funds for services we all use.
This approach is about making smart, strategic choices that could potentially turn $1 million into several million dollars’ worth of improvements for Youngsville. It balances addressing our infrastructure needs with enhancing our community spaces, all while maintaining fiscal responsibility. By leveraging state resources and involving you, the residents, in choosing priorities, we can make Youngsville an even better place to live, work, and raise our families. This is about investing in our city’s future while being responsible with our resources today.
Niland
This is a fun question. I think that the city has been doing a lot of work in relation to drainage, road improvements and expansions, and infrastructure, so I am going to pivot from that and focus on community. Also, with grants comes regulations and stipulations on how the money can be utilized, so I will look at this grant in the sense that it can only be used from a Parks and Rec or Community based grant.
If I could get a $1 million dollar grant that was stipulated only to be used for one project in relation to community, I would focus the funds on Foster Park. As I previously spoke on, the city did an excellent job in getting this park up and running again with some fantastic upgrades, but if given the opportunity I would like to do more. I think being able to further remodel and improve this park would provide our community with a place for all our citizens, young and old to enjoy being outdoors and interacting with other members of the community.
I think it would be great to have a new walking track, upgraded playground equipment, installation of park benches, outdoor workout equipment, in ground BBQ pits, mini-amphitheater, and landscaping that includes creating hills to provide a unique and fun environment.
This park has untapped potential and I think with the right people involved we could turn this into a cool and fun place for all residents to frequent.
Life is stressful and as a healthcare professional, I know the importance of mental health and wellbeing. As an elected official of this community, I would love to have a hand in helping my community in this way.
Thank you BYLocalNews for this interview and allowing me to get my thoughts, experience, and ideas out there for the community to see. It is a pleasure working with you and I look forward to reading your future articles.