Photos by Max Cooper
In two weeks, Asheville’s three mayoral candidates will be fielding questions before members of the public for the second time since their campaigns began. Conducted by The League of Women Voters of Asheville-Buncombe County, and co-sponsored by the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, Mountain Xpress and Asheville FM News Hour, the political discourse will take place Thursday, Sept. 19 at 6 p.m. at the Asheville Chamber of Commerce Board Room (36 Montford Ave.).
According to a press release from the local League of Women Voters, Esther Manheimer, John Miall and Martin Ramsey have all confirmed their attendance. The event is free and open to the public.
“The League of Women Voters is committed to providing voter education opportunities whenever possible,” stated local League President Karen Oelschlaeger. “We always encourage strong voter participation and want to help voters feel confident and knowledgeable when they enter the polls. Attending candidate forums like is one of the best ways to make an informed decision on Election Day.”
The forum will be moderated by WCQS News Director David Hurand and will be simulcast by the Asheville FM News Hour on AshevilleFM.org. The format will include a mix of predetermined questions as well as questions submitted by the audience.
During a critical issues luncheon hosted by Leadership Asheville at the Asheville Country Club last week, the trio of mayoral candidates debated issues affecting the city, which ranged in topic from funding the Asheville Art Museum to adopting the living wage ordinance.
The League will also host an Asheville City Council candidate forum on Thursday, Oct. 10 at 6 p.m. at the UNCA Reuter Center.
Caitlin Byrd can be reached at cbyrd@mountainx.com or 251-1333, ext. 140.
