Robert Morgan

The board reviewed the fiscal year 2026 financial statement, noting performance against revenue projections, under-spending, and the need to restructure the event portfolio to improve future sponsorship results. The director provided an update on the assistant director hiring process, including the screening of applicants and the planned timeline for interviews. Additionally, the board discussed recent downtown safety concerns following an incident in the district.

This document, the 2026 Tangipahoa Parish Hazard Mitigation Plan Update, identifies natural hazards and risks within the parish to outline a comprehensive strategy for enhancing disaster resilience and reducing vulnerability. Its core objectives include identifying and pursuing preventative measures to reduce future hazard damages, decreasing repetitive flood losses across the parish and its municipalities, and regulating sound development to minimize hazard impacts. The plan emphasizes addressing high-risk hazards such as flooding, tropical cyclones, and strong winds, aiming to safeguard life and property while promoting long-term community safety.

The City Council conducted a public hearing and a regular session. The public hearing addressed ordinances regarding a variance for a fraternity house, a major subdivision proposal for the Northshore Technical Community College, a conditional use request for a mobile home, and two street renaming proposals. During the regular session, the council introduced an ordinance to establish an unassigned fund balance policy to ensure financial stewardship and adequate emergency reserves. Additionally, the council authorized an agreement with the Tangible Communication District for 911 services.

The council conducted a public hearing and a regular meeting regarding several key items. Key agenda topics included the adoption of the City of Hammond budget for the Fiscal Year 2026-2027, the naming of a courtroom in the Leon Ford Memorial Justice Building, and various land use ordinances including a variance, a rezoning request, a major subdivision, and an expanded conditional use request for a mobile home. The council also authorized street renamings, confirmed a reappointment to the Planning and Zoning Commission, and approved contracts for janitorial services and police and fire department uniforms. Additionally, a waiver for an open container ordinance was granted for an upcoming downtown event.

The council held public hearings regarding the adoption of the municipal budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year and an ordinance to rename a courtroom in honor of Judge Grace Bennett Gassaway. The meeting included discussions on specific budget amendments, including adjustments to sidewalk projects, drainage improvements, and park lighting upgrades. Youth representatives also presented requests for recreational improvements at Mooney Avenue Park, leading to a discussion on the availability of outdoor recreational facilities and potential transportation for youth programs.