U.S. Congressman Steven M. Palazzo plans to visit Pearl River County next week in an effort to reach out to the community.

The Gulf Coast native, who currently serves South Mississippi’s fourth congressional district, is set to make two public appearances on Oct. 13 at PJ’s Coffee in Picayune, located on Main Street, at 9 a.m. and the Pearl River Community College in Poplarville at 12:30 p.m.

Press Secretary Jill Duckworth wrote in an email that Palazzo plans to discuss current events in Washington D.C. and provide a legislative update to the community. He also plans to answer any questions from constituents. Palazzo was recently re-elected to his third term in 2014.

Palazzo was first sworn into office on Jan. 5, 2011. In his political career, Palazzo has been instrumental in the passage of RESTORE Act legislation in support of environmental and economic development projects to the Gulf Coast and space legislation known as the “Space Exploration Sustainability Act.”

Palazzo is also a Persian Gulf War veteran, member of the Mississippi National Guard and a former member of the Mississippi House of Representatives, according to the U.S. House of Representatives website.

Picayune Mayor Ed Pinero said he, along with city officials, are looking forward to his visit.

“It’s great that our congressman is visiting the city of Picayune to answer any of the citizens questions and concerns. He is always there to answer questions and this is a benefit to having a very active congressman,” Pinero said.

The public is invited to attend both meet-and-greets.