Tackling the issues

The battle for mayor is on in Summerside.

Those vying to lead Summerside will have a chance to debate the issues in front of voters at an upcoming mayoral debate sponsored by the Journal Pioneer, Harbourfront Theatre, Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Summerside Inc.

On Monday, Oct. 22, mayoral candidates – who include former mayor Basil Stewart, current city councillor Brent Gallant and businesswoman Nancy Beth Guptill – will take the podiums in public contest answering questions about current issues and topics impacting the city.

Questions can be emailed to: newsroom@journalpioneer.com for consideration.

The event begins at 6 p.m. with a meet and greet reception for the public and candidates. Then at 6:45, the councillor introductions will begin. Once each councillor candidate has had their two minutes, the debate will start.

“Debates are a great forum, especially at the municipal government level,” said Brad Works, managing editor of the Journal Pioneer. “The issues that will be contested here are arguably the ones that are closest to the residents. This is the meat and potatoes of grassroots politics.

“It’s also a great opportunity for voters to truly see who these people are, what they stand for and how they intend to conduct themselves if and when they are elected,” added Works, who will also serve as the moderator of the debate.

The free event is open to all members of the public and, prior to the mayoral candidates taking the stage, will also feature remarks from each of the candidates seeking councillor seats.