BURLINGTON — A long-standing political tradition for the community of Burlington will once again bring potential officeholders face to face with those whose votes they want.

The “Meet the Candidate Forum” sponsored by the Concerned Citizens of Burlington, will be Thursday, Sept. 27, at 6 p.m. This year the forum will be in a new location, the cafeteria of Burlington Elementary School, instead of the Sybene Senior Center, which is currently closed.

“We started this because you would go to the polls and the only thing I knew was what I read in the paper,” Harriette Ramsey, president of the Concerned Citizens, said. “You don’t have a face to go with the name. This gave voters the opportunity to see these people and asked some questions and make an informed decision.”

Last week the grass-roots advocacy organization sent out letters to 20 candidates who will be on the November general election ballot. Candidates facing opposition and those unopposed have been invited.

“We would like to hear from them and talk to them so we can see their platform and what they stand for,” Ramsey said.

Participants will be given four minutes to talk about their qualifications and viewpoints. The forum is not a place for negative exchanges between candidates, Ramsey said.

After the candidates’ speak, there will be a question-answer period for those in the audience to learn more about the individuals’ platforms.

“A lot of times people don’t get to Ironton and this meeting gives an opportunity to the people in the eastern end to see the people in these offices,” Ramsey said.