The City of Franklin Department of Community Development is responsible for supporting the community and voluntary sectors in Human Resource Management. Specifically, developers facilitate the building of healthy, sustainable, and empowered communities that are better equipped and skilled to tackle their local concerns and to relate positively with other communities.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STAFF

Marla L. Chirdon Director, Community Development / Main Street Program Manager Voice: 337-828-6326 Email:  mchirdon@franklin-la.com

Marla began her career in the private sector, working for home health businesses, where she started in Human Resource Management, and Marketing. She has lived abroad in Ottawa, Canada where she did volunteer work for an environmental non-profit and has spent time in East Africa. She was an Americorps volunteer in New Orleans, participating in reforestation projects and environmental education initiatives. She also interned with the UNO Dept. of Sociology to address youth violence prevention, culminating in the creation of a violence prevention manual.

Marla holds a BS from LSU-Baton Rouge and an MPA from the University of New Orleans. Most recently, she has worked as an educator in St. Mary Parish and worked at a summer technology camp for youth. She has applied urban planning principles to build community and she is working to secure a downtown master plan. She is currently coordinating community and economic revitalization efforts for the City Of Franklin.

Responsibilities of a Main Street Program Manager

• Coordinate activities of Main Street Program Committees
• Develop in conjunction with Board and committees, downtown revitalization strategies, ongoing public awareness and education programs
• Assist business and property owners with business and property improvement projects
• Serve as an advocate for downtown issues
• Encourage a cooperative climate with other downtown or community organizations.
• Build public/private partnerships
• Win the hearts of minds of many; have thick skin

Responsibilities as Director: Capacity building and leadership

• Provide assistance to increase skills and capacities of residents and organizations to plan and problem-solve issues
• Facilitate action at local level to improve community conditions and outcomes
• Design strategies to build relationships, address diverse needs, and manage complex community issues.
• Liaise with other service providers, business leaders, and government organizations to address identified needs and achieve positive community change
• Foster voluntary sector networks