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The Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce is preparing to host the final two debates of the Norfolk County municipal election season this week, giving residents an opportunity to hear directly from candidates ahead of Election Day.
Chamber President Renee VanKooten says the debates are an important part of helping voters make informed decisions about the people who will represent them at the municipal level.
With seven candidates running for Norfolk County mayor and 10 candidates seeking the Ward 5 council seat, the Chamber has split the debates over two evenings to accommodate the large number of candidates.
The mayoral debate takes place tonight (October 13) at the Port Dover Community Centre.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the debate scheduled to run from 7 to 9 p.m.
The Ward 5 candidates debate follows Thursday (October 15) at the Simcoe Legion.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the debate beginning at 7 p.m.
VanKooten says the events give voters an opportunity to hear candidates discuss important local issues directly.
She also understands that there may be conflicting scheduled or individuals who are unable to make it to the Port Dover Community Centre or Simcoe Legion to watch the debates in person.
Residents who cannot attend in person will still be able to follow the debates.
The Chamber notes that campaign materials will not be permitted inside either venue, in accordance with Norfolk County by-law requirements.
Bottles of water will also be available by donation to the Legion during the Ward 5 debate.
The debates come ahead of municipal Election Day on Monday, October 26.
Online voting is available now through October 23.
Residents can watch the livestreams and find recordings on the Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce YouTube channel here.
