Forum set for Thursday at Burlington Elementary

As the March primary approaches, voters will have the opportunity to get to know their candidates.

As they have done for each election cycle for the past few decades, the Concerned Citizens of the Burlington Area will host its Meet the Candidates forum at 6 p.m. on Thursday at Burlington Elementary School.

Ed Moellendick, president of the group, said no state candidates have responded to the invitation, but several local politicians will be in attendance.

“So far, 12 have responded that they will be there,” he said. “But every single time, more show than call.”

In the race for county commissioner, Moellendick said all but one candidate has responded that they will attend the forum.

Each candidate is allotted time to speak to the crowd, which will be followed by a question and answer session where the public can speak.

Following the forum, there will be a reception with refreshments.

“People can mingle one-on-one with them (the candidates) and speak about their concerns,” Moellendick said.

Moellendick said, considering there are many candidates vying for just two commission seats, it is important for the public to attend the forum.

“I think it’s extremely important to be knowledgeable of who these names are,” he said. “They are not just names on a ballot. It is important to know their personalities and their thoughts and hopefully their government experience.”

The Concerned Citizens will have another forum on the fourth Thursday in September before the general election.