NACOGDOCHES, TX – Voting season approaches for local leadership positions. To hear more from the candidates, the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce will hold a Candidate Forum at The Fredonia Hotel & Convention Center on Thursday, April 24, from 12 noon to 1 p.m.
“This is the time to be reminded of the power of our votes in these close-to-home elections,” said Chamber Vice Chair Public Policy Tyrone Curl. “In short, the people elected to these positions will make decisions that directly affect all who live, work, play and do business in our communities.”
Three City of Nacogdoches council members are up for re-election. Two are running unopposed: Council Member Northeast Ward Kathleen Belanger; and Council Member Northwest Ward Brad Maule. However, current Mayor of Nacogdoches Randy Johnson has drawn a challenger, Brigette Kozash.
With Rev. Kallie Pitcock not seeking re-election to the Nacogdoches I.S.D. board of trustees, the at-large seat is available for a new board member addition.
Both mayor’s race candidates have committed to participate as well as the two N.I.S.D. race candidates, Cheryl Brady and Damon Ruckel.
“I am sure everyone understands that local elected officials have the ability to make lasting impacts. Therefore, I believe it is worth the time for voters to consider, to research, to educate themselves as best possible so that when it’s time to enter that voting booth, we can make our voices heard with confidence,” Curl said.
A buffet lunch will be available at the chamber’s forum. The charge for lunch is $30 for chamber member and $35 for non-members. Seating will be available to anyone wishing to attend and listen at no charge. The forum will also serve as the Business Connect chamber membership meeting, and all from the community are invited.
As in recent candidate forums hosted by the Nacogdoches County Chamber, Dr. John Hendricks, SFA Professor/Department Chair, Media and Communication, will serve as facilitator.
Important election dates are: early voting will begin Tuesday, April 22 and end on Tuesday, April 29. Election Day is Saturday, May 3. More on all of these county-wide elections can be found in the Nacogdoches County Chamber’s home web page at www.Nacogdoches.org. Just look for the Chamber News section.