Last week, the Concerned Citizens of Burlington hosted its Meet the Candidates forum, one of two that takes place for each election.

While last year’s off-year election drew a scant number of officeseekers to Burlington Elementary and had a large number of no-shows, this year’s event had a solid turnout by those on the ballot.

Of those invited, all turned up, except for three, with one of those sending a representative in his place due to a prior commitment.

Forums like the one offered by the Concerned Citizens give voters a chance to interact with candidates and ask them questions and the events tend to be one of the best ways to inform oneself about those appearing on the ballot in Lawrence County.

In addition to the candidates, the audience was packed, with supporters of those running, as well as people who just wanted to get more information.

We are thankful the candidates took their duty seriously and came out to meet voters on Thursday and are strongly encouraged by the attendance at the forum.

We are fortunate enough to live in a country with free elections and events like the one in Burlington are a shining example of democracy in action.

We commend the Concerned Citizens and its president, Ed Moellendick, for organizing the forum and hope fall’s event sees a similar turnout.