The Banks County Chamber of Commerce has planned a “meet the candidate” event for 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 1, at the Banks County Recreation Center in Homer.
Candidates who will be on the ballot in the July 20 election are invite to attend. Each candidate is asked to contact the Banks County Chamber in advance to confirm their attendance.
Those who attend are asked to bring a list of questions for the candidates.
The chamber is also planning a political forum for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 15, at the Banks County Annex Building in Homer.
“The chamber’s goal is for every voter to be able to make confident decisions in the upcoming election,” chamber director Tara Fulcher said. “Every citizen living in Banks County is affected in every decision our local government leaders make. Elections are in place to create an opportunity to put the right person in the right leadership role; make sure you make the informed decision.”
Fulcher offers the following tips for voters:
•Look at the candidates’ background and their experience. How prepared are they for the job?
•Observe the candidates’ campaigns. Do they give speeches to different groups – even those groups that may disagree with the candidates’ views on issues? Do their campaigns emphasize media events, where the candidates can be seen but not heard?
•Review their campaign materials. As you read the materials and watch their campaign develop, make mental notes that provide insights into candidates’ personalities and leadership qualities. For example, do campaign materials emphasis issues or image? Are they accurate?
•If their election into office and decisions are based on where they can be of advantage to a few instead of where the majority can benefit, should they hold that position? Do you really want them as part of your county leadership?
“Each of you as Banks County voters need to do the research about each candidate before voting,” Fulcher added. “Meet with them and ask them questions about issues that are important to you. Find out how they feel about your issues, to what extent they are educated with the issues their possible position will face before they take office as a leader for the city or county. All of these things will affect how they will base their decisions during their term in office. Their education and influence will determine the future of Banks County as a whole. The Banks County Chamber of Commerce is a non-partisan organization, which means the chamber doesn't tell you how to vote but rather only that you should vote.”
For more information, contact Fulcher at Banks County Chamber of Commerce, 706-677-2108, or bankscountychamber@windstream.net.
