The Tangipahoa Chamber partnered with Northshore Media Group to host a candidates’ meet and greet and Hammond mayoral forum last night in the Southeastern Student Union Grand Ballroom.
Free and open to the public, the event began with a meet and greet from 5-6 p.m. where candidates from all local contested races were able to share campaign materials while meeting the public.
The Hammond mayoral forum featured incumbent Mayor Pete Panepinto, and challengers Johnny Pecoraro, Darryl Smith, and Tracy Washington Wells.
After introductions the candidates jumped into questions about infrastructure, economic development, engaging young people, education, and the local police force. Crime was a hot button issue with the mayor standing behind his current police chief but the challengers saying they would make a change.
