The Friends of Hixson and the Hixson Kiwanis are hosting a City Council Candidate Forum on Thursday, Jan. 31, from 7-8:30 p.m. at the North River Civic Center located behind Northgate Mall in Hixson.
David Queen, chairman of the Friends of Hixson Steering Committee said that "the board felt that a combined District 2 and 3 forum made more sense for the community than having separate meetings. If you look at the city district zones you will see that half of District 2 and almost all of District 3 is represented by Hixson. The issues that are of concern to the Hixson community should be address by candidates from both district."
District 2 and 3 are currently represented by Sally Robinson and Pam Ladd, respectively. Ms. Robinson is not seeking re-election while Ms. Ladd is being challenged by Ken Smith in District 3. Those vying to replace Sally Robinson in District 2 are Roger Tudor, Priscilla Simmons, and Jerry Mitchell.
The city election is slated for March 5, with early voting beginning on Feb. 13-28. The moderator for the community event will be Hixson resident and News 12 anchor John Mercer. After giving an introductory statement, each candidate from District 2 & 3 will participate in a Q&A session which will include some time for audience questions in addition to the prepared forum questions. Afterwards, the candidates will offer closing statements. The public is invited to come and ask the candidates their questions.
Geoff Holden, president of the Hixson Kiwanis, said that “the Hixson Kiwanis have had a history of hosting numerous political forums for the community over the last 50 years.” David Queen of the Friends of Hixson, said, “This event has been promoted in numerous ways,” and he expects a capacity crowd from interested community voters.
For questions and information about the forum, please contact David Queen at 875-5338 or email at dqueen@qfsc.com.