Candidates answers questions at forum
Voters had the opportunity to learn more about the candidates during an open forum as the May 4 election draws near.
The Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce and the Taylor Press provided candidates a chance to speak in front of residents during the session in the Taylor Independent School District Events Center Tuesday, April 16.
The event was carried live on the Taylor Press Facebook page.
The forum was held ahead of in-person early voting, which opens Monday, April 22.
“The Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce and the Visitor Center hosts these candidate forums solely for the education and benefit of the citizens of Taylor,” Chamber President Tia Stone said before the forum began. “All candidates for the varying collective offices were individually invited. Each candidate makes the decision whether or not he or she wishes to attend.”
Suzanne Stevens, digital editor for Granite Media Partners, which owns the Taylor Press, moderated the forum and asked school board and City Council candidates questions regarding conflict management, growth and their visions.
Inquiries were submitted by the public or written by the Chamber or Taylor Press.
Both candidates for the Taylor ISD at-large seat, Todd Gratehouse and incumbent Marilyn Tennill, attended and answered questions.
Contenders for the City Council District 2 seat also put in an appearance, including incumbent Mitch Drummond, Shelli Cobb, Terry Burris and Sandra Wolff.
Kelly Cmerek, who is running unopposed for the council’s District 3 seat after Nathan Walker asked not to be considered, had three minutes to tell the audience about his platform.
The District 3 incumbent Brandt Rydell has decided not to seek reelection.
Residents can find a recording of the forum on the newspaper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/GoTaylorTx/.
Stone said about 70 people attended the event.
