A look back at former South Bend mayors: Part One

As the City of South Bend prepares to celebrate a major milestone, ABC 57 News is taking a look back at the faces that helped carry the city into the future. Including current Mayor Pete Buttigieg, the past six mayors still live in the area. 

On Thursday, we talked to former Mayors Roger Parent and Joe Kernan.

They both talked about the legacy they left behind, including specific initiatives that they were instrumental in bringing to the city during their time as mayor.

Roger Parent has a long list of accomplishments, including the East Race Waterway Project.

He's also responsible for obtaining funding for the former Coveleski Stadium. He also personally asked Stanley Coveleski for naming rights.

Joe Kernan is proud of his work on the city's budget, and helping to revitalize downtown South Bend. He's also proud of his work with the South Bend Police Department, as he was able to get officers take home cars and laptops. 

Both mayors reflected on their legacy and have a lot of high expectations for the future, as they help celebrate the 150th anniversary in South Bend.