The potential relocation of the Medline distribution facility expansion from St Tammany to Tangipahoa Parish took another step forward last night.
The Hammond Planning and Zoning Board met before a sizable crowd at City Council Chamber on E. Charles St. and voted 4 to 1 to recommend rezoning 41 acres at 2100 Industrial Park Rd from single-family residential to light industrial. Before the vote, Hammond Mayor Pete Panepinto said he had been reassured that every concern would be addressed by Medline. Others speaking in support of the proposed facility included local chamber officials and real estate professionals. People opposed to the move include residents who fear the massive facility will bring a lot more traffic and the potential for flooding.
The next step could be on Monday, Nov 23 when the City Council will vote on the introduction of an ordinance to rezone the 41 acres. There could also be additional action to annex 17 acres for a retention pond as recommended by Planning and Zoning. Then on December 8, the City Council could vote to approve the final ordinance rezoning the 41 acres for the proposed Medline distribution facility.
