Denis Bechac has conceded to Donald Villere in the race for mayor of Mandeville.

With 20 of 21 precincts reporting, Villere carried approximately 55 percent to Bechac’s 45 percent.

“I’m thankful to everyone who helped with this extraordinary campaign, and I look forward to continuing my work in the community to make Mandeville a better place,” Bechac said to a crowd of supporters at the Lake House on Lakeshore Drive a few minutes ago.

“Living my entire life here and serving on the Council, in business and in community efforts, it is an incredible feeling to receive the support I’ve gotten in the last few weeks. Regardless of whether I hold elected office, I will never tire of working for you.  I wish Mayor Villere the best as he prepares to begin his term of office in July.”

Bechac, a small business-owner, served on the Mandeville City Council from 1992 to 2008.