Mt. Pleasant candidate forums to give voters closer look

MT. PLEASANT — The Mt. Pleasant Area Chamber Alliance Government Relations Committee and KILJ Radio will host two public forums this week to help voters learn more about the candidates running for local offices. The events are designed to encourage civic engagement and give residents an opportunity to hear directly from those seeking to serve the community ahead of the Nov. 4 election.

Both forums reflect the Chamber’s ongoing effort to promote transparency and informed participation in local government. Organizers hope the discussions will help voters better understand where candidates stand on key issues before casting their ballots.

School Board Candidate Forum

The first event will focus on the Mt. Pleasant Community School District Board of Education. It will take place Wednesday, Oct. 15, at 6 p.m. at Mt. Pleasant Community High School.

Five candidates are running for open seats on the school board: Craig Hurd and Melinda Huisinga for District 1, Derek Mullin and Kevin Schrader for District 2, and Josh Maher for the at-large position.

During the forum, candidates will answer questions about their priorities for the district, including topics such as student success, school safety, financial management and community involvement. Each will have an opportunity to share their goals for supporting teachers, students and families across the district.

Members of the Mt. Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce are encouraged to submit questions in advance through the link provided in “What’s Up Weekly” or by contacting the Chamber office. The forum is free and open to the public.

Mayoral Candidate Forum

The following evening, attention will turn to city government as candidates for mayor take the stage. The City of Mt. Pleasant Mayoral Candidate Forum will be held Thursday, Oct. 16, at 5:30 p.m. in the Civic Center Meeting Room, 307 E. Monroe St.

Incumbent Mayor Steve Brimhall and challenger Kasey Conrad will answer questions about the city’s future, including infrastructure, economic development, public safety and community engagement. Both candidates will have the chance to outline their visions for Mt. Pleasant’s continued growth and vitality.

This event is also hosted by the Mt. Pleasant Area Chamber Alliance Government Relations Committee. Chamber members are invited to attend and submit questions for the candidates through “What’s Up Weekly” or by contacting the Chamber office.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com