Voters will have a chance to meet many of the candidates seeking local office this summer as the Highlands Republican Executive Committee prepares for its July 9 Candidate Forum at The Genesis Center in Lake Placid.
Unlike many political events where statewide and congressional races dominate the conversation, organizers say this year’s forum is being designed to give additional attention to candidates running for Highlands County School Board and Highlands County Commission seats.
The evening begins with a meet-and-greet from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., allowing voters to speak directly with candidates, ask questions, pick up campaign literature and learn more about the people who could soon be making decisions affecting local schools, roads, budgets and county services. The forum itself begins at 6:30 p.m.
Organizers say details are still being finalized, but the goal is to ensure local candidates have meaningful time before voters. Several candidates running for Congressional District 9 and governor have already appeared at previous local events as guest speakers, creating an opportunity for School Board and County Commission candidates—many of whom have had fewer chances to address large audiences—to receive additional exposure. Residents registering for the event may also submit questions. Organizers say they will do their best to incorporate those questions into the forum discussion.
The current lineup includes candidates running for Highlands County School Board Districts 1, 4 and 5, Highlands County Commission Districts 2 and 4, Congressional District 9 and governor.
The forum will be held at The Genesis Center, 218 E. Belleview Street in Lake Placid.
To register for the event: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfJD7To0q8_b5riYuQKz1_dMDfjh5nkGHFQRnVUXAHOAo8BOQ/viewform?pli=1
