I had the pleasure of attending, as an audience member, the League of Women Voters Town Council/Mayoral Forum. Highlights: it began with two of three candidates for Mayor, for a twenty minute allotment out of the 1.5 hours total, with the third candidate arriving roughly 5-10 minutes into it (Kevin Wolff). In the intros, mayoral candidate Sookram mentioned he would love to meet Kevin Wolff at some point (Kevin Wolff hasn’t been actively campaigning), and his wish of course came true a few minutes later. I’m not sure they actually “met”, but perhaps they had some time after the mayoral portion to spend some time. Maybe not.
Obviously I didn’t “live blog” this event, as I truly admire those that do this on other events, but I thought this was a good forum. It’s too bad though that there was simply not enough time to answer! I think the candidates had a hard time with the “yes or no” answers and raising their hands. But, it goes with the territory. I guess you didn’t HAVE to answer one way or the other. What’s the penalty? If you weren’t sure and didn’t raise your hand, as a viewer sitting out there in the audience, (and as a voter), I didn’t hold that against you. Donna Bell did mention in the forum itself that it was tough to answer those yes/no’s, given she might not have had enough information. Candidates had so little time to answer in general…but they did a good job of trying to get the info out in that little time.
Impressions on council candidates: incumbents did a great job of pulling their “experience” into answers and being very educated on the topics (and well spoken). Challengers showed very well their reasons for wanting to enter the fray (equally well spoken). In fact, I was so impressed and grateful for a group of smart candidates who want to give their time (and that is a lot!!) to this job of making Chapel Hill a better place.
I know I write in platitudes on this and am somewhat vague on my opinions, but I really, really feel that there are tough choices to make this time around (for council). All of the council candidates will bring different perspectives, and important perspectives, to the table.
Bottom line? PLEASE ATTEND A FORUM. THERE ARE OTHERS COMING!
