League of Women Voters Candidate Forum set for Oct. 23

Voters looking for a snapshot of where candidates vying for local and statewide elected office Nov. 6 stand on the top issues affecting Jasper County will have their chance Oct. 23.

The annual Candidate Forum organized by the League of Women Voters of Jasper County and sponsored by Newton Daily News is scheduled for 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Newton City Hall, 101 W. Fourth St. S.

Attendees will have the opportunity to submit questions for the candidates, read by League members who will moderate the Oct. 23 forum.

First at the podium at 6:30 p.m. will be candidates for Iowa House District 28 and 29 and Iowa Senate District 15, which encompasses Newton and the western half of Jasper County and eastern Polk County including portions of Altoona, Bondurant, Runnells and Mitchellville.

At 7:45 p.m., candidates vying for two seats on the Jasper County Board of Supervisors will take the stage.

Candidates confirmed to attend are:

• Iowa Senate District 15: Democrat Dan Nieland and Republican Zach Nunn

• Iowa House District 28: Democrat Ann M. Fields and Republican Jon Thorup

• Iowa House District 29: Democrat Wes Breckenridge and Republican Ann Howell

• Jasper County Board of Supervisors: Democrats Mike Hansen and Pamela Olson; Republican Brandon Talsma and Independent Jerry Chandler Jr.

Republican Incumbent Supervisor Denny Carpenter has been invited to the Candidate Forum but has not yet committed with the League or the NDN.

The Candidate Forum will include statements from each office hopeful as well as a question and answer period. Those present may submit questions for applicants. The League encourages all interested citizens to attend and participate.

The forum will broadcast live from Newton City Hall on public access television, Mediacom cable channel 85.