PEARL RIVER POLICE CHIEF DEBATE CANCELED
PEARL RIVER, La. — as of July 30, 2026
The Pearl River Police Chief candidate forum scheduled for Monday, August 3, has been canceled.
The event was intended to give residents an opportunity to hear directly from the candidates and ask questions about the future of the Pearl River Police Department.
Candidate John Polk announced that he will not participate, saying he believes a candidate forum should take place after the qualifying period has closed so that every candidate who officially qualifies can be included. Polk said he would be willing to participate in a structured forum after qualifying. John had previously agreed to the day, and time before he announced he was backing out.
Candidate Steven Ball responded that he was ready and willing to participate Monday, writing, “I’m here. I’m waiting. I’m ready.” Ball said residents deserve answers to difficult questions and that he remains available to answer them.
With Polk declining to participate, the August 3 forum will not move forward as scheduled.
APR•St Tammany will provide an update if another candidate forum or debate is announced.