The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Candidate Forum was held Monday night at the Fire Station Headquarters. The event featured a forum for USD 383 School Board candidates and a forum for Manhattan City Commission candidates.
USD 383 School Board candidates include: Pat Hudgins, Mitch Beims, Marcia Rozell, and Aaron Estabrook.
Pat Hudgins, said she brings a wealth of experience at all school levels, and wants to foster education for all students.
Mitch Beims, said he believes in local control of decisions that affect the children in our community.
Marcia Rozell, said she’s a big idea person who will take the time to listen to all sides of an argument to make the best decisions for the school district.
Aaron Estabrook, said he wants to look for efficiencies in schools and believes schools need to be properly funded as a long term investment in the future.
Manhattan City Commission candidates who participated in the forum include: Karen McCulloh, Bob Strawn, Rich Jankovich, Usha Reddi and John Ball.
Karen McCulloh, said she wants to promote civil discussion and build consensus on the tough issues facing Manhattan.
Bob Strawn, said he would like the city to come together and conduct a study about consolidating city/county government and the RCPD.
Rich Jankovich, said he wants to focus on the future of Manhattan while providing necessary services for the community and not over-stressing the taxpayers.
Usha Reddi, said she wants to collaborate with regional partners to diversify the economy and create quality jobs.
John Ball, said City Management is all about the balance of Taxes vs. Services, Debt vs. Economic Development and Critical infrastructure vs. Social Services.
All candidates answered questions from the audience, and Chamber members. Manhattan City commission elections will be held along with USD 383 school board elections on April 2nd. Stay tuned to KMAN for on-going election coverage.
