Local News - September 2002

Candidate’s Forum scheduled Oct. 3

By ALICE SMITH, LTN Staff Writer

September 6, 2002 - Lincoln County residents will have a chance to hear election candidates’ views on a number of issues at the annual Lincolnton-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce Candidate’s Forum.

The forum will take place Oct. 3 at the Cultural Center.

It will present candidates who survive the Sept. 10 primaries with another opportunity to clarify their stands on certain issues.

Candidates for county commissioner, N.C. House of Representatives and N.C. Senate will have two minutes to present an opening statement.

They will then be asked two questions, which will be mailed to them in advance so that they have the opportunity for preparation.

The questions for commission candidates will deal with such topics as using economic incentives to recruit businesses and the county’s growth in relation to schools and infrastructure.

Questions for General Assembly candidates will touch on the current budget crisis and education.

Candidates will have two minutes to answer each question.

Each candidate will also receive a draw question, which they have not seen in advance.

Draw questions could range from loss of local revenue and land use to tax credits and a  state lottery.

A one-minute closing statement will be allowed for each candidate.

Those running for clerk of court, sheriff and register of deeds will make an opening statement, be asked one question and then make a closing statement.

No questions from the audience will be allowed, to assure a controlled atmosphere.

A reception will kick off the event at 6:30 p.m.

In the past, members of the Student Advisory Council have escorted candidates around and served as hosts, Ken Kindley, Chamber president said.

Committee members are still working out the details, but hope to involve SAC members.

“Everyone has a part in putting this together,” Kindley said.

At the reception, voters will be able to mingle with candidates. Their promotional material will be available.

Chamber committee members expect a good turn-out.

“We’ve had packed houses before,” Kindley said. “People are interested in politics in Lincoln County.”

Local businesses sponsoring the forum are Kennedy & Wulfhorst, PA, Carolina Trust Bank, Dr. Martin Eaddy, Duke Power, Cinema Express, REMC, First Charter, BellSouth, John Gregory/Allmerica Financial, Wireway/Husky, Packaging Un-limited of NC, Inc., Timken, Piedmont Realty Associates.

© 2001 Lincoln Times-News  

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