CONVENT — Peter Dufresne of Paulina has announced he is running for St. James Parish President in the upcoming fall election.

Dufresne said he is the most well-rounded and qualified candidate after starting and operating a successful business for over 25 years.

Dufresne models himself as a motivated self-starter. Growing up in St. James Parish, he became a first generation sugar cane farmer who established himself as one of the state’s sugar leaders through the American Sugar Cane League.

Working with the Sugarcane League, he said, has brought him into government where he has garnered experience lobbying the Legislature and Congress to protect jobs and support local businesses.

Initiative, problem-solving, communication, motivation and innovative decision making, describe his leadership, he said.

Dufresne said he wants to unify the West and East Bank, while working in cooperation with the School Board, Levee Board and others for the benefit of the taxpayers.

He hopes to bring more retail opportunities and manufacturing facilities, which will provide end-user products. His goal is to bring more jobs in all skill levels to the parish.

Dufresne said he would like to see a re-entry program put in place to guide individuals as they are released from jail, something to offer them the motivation to avoid becoming repeat offenders.

He also wants to seek solutions and alternatives for common problems in parish infrastructure, like delays at railway crossings and long overdue road repairs while being mindful of drainage, flood protection and other issues community members are concerned about.