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14 of 18 Candidates Make Appearance At Special Community Event

The Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and The Big 1520 AM/92.3 FM WHOW, 95.9 FM WEZC and dewittdailynews.com co-hosted a meet the candidates forum that was open to the public.

Around 50 were in attendance to hear from 14 of the 18 candidates that will appear on the ballot in April. Candidates for the Clinton Board of Education and the City Council of Clinton fielded questions relevant to their respective areas of service. Each was also given the opportunity before and after to express their platforms.

Mike Bray is challenging for Commissioner of Streets and Public Improvements on the Clinton City Council. Bray says he wants to see improvements to streets, and adress the Clinton Power Station, the Dr. John Warner Hospital and economic development.

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Clinton Mayor Carolyn Peters is being challenged for her seat. She points to the many accomplishments under her tenure, however, she credits the community for those accomplishments, and calls herself only a "facilitator".

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For Commissioner of Public Health and Safety, Danny Ballenger is challenging for a seat at the Council. He says major change needs to come to the Department. He feels the fire department is understaffed and there are other major problems within the department that need addressed.

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Incumber Commissioner of Streets and Public Property, Nan Crang says her platform four years ago was an opportunity for change. She believes she has accomplished some of the things she set out to, and says she has more to accomplish.

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Former Mayor, and challenger for Mayor this year, Roger Cyrulik focused on economic development. Additionally, he wants to focus on the Dr. John Warner Hospital.

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Commissioner Jerry Milton is the current Commissioner of Public Health and Safety. He is being challenged and defends his departments. He says they are well trained and they have a healthy number of staff.

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Commissioner John Wise is running unopposed for the Commissioner of Public Property. He points to several accomplishments he has seen through and points out, despite running unopposed, he will continue to work for and listen to the residents of the community.

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Because of health reasons, Commissioner of Finances, Tom Edmunds could not be a part of the night before the community. He too, is running unopposed.

Among the topics addressed among the Council members included economic development, funding challenges, the Dr. John Warner Hospital and a new fire station.

Former Principal of Clinton High School, Ron Connor will be on the Board of Education. He explains his sole focus is to do what is best for the kids of the school.

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A teacher is Lincoln is seeking a seat on the Board of Education. Chris Hammer is a life long time resident of Clinton. He explains he has coached football here and currently teaches and holds several leadership roles at Lincoln High School.

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Mike Walker is seeking a seat on the Board of Education. Walker calls himself dedicated, community oriented, and experienced. He feels he has made a large impact within the school district.

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Incumbent Russell Long is seeking re-election to the Board of Education. He points to the many areas of oversight he has had in his professional career and feels he has extensive knowledge in them as well. He also points to his hiring experience.

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Long time community member Evan Severson is seeking a spot on the Board of Education. He is running to give back. He hopes the community will consider his qualifications as a CPA and his experience dealing with money.

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Incumbent Board Member Nancy Stokowski addressed a number of issues that weren't addressed Tuesday night such as transportation and facilities. She points to the many things that have gone on during her time on the Board of Education.

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Former teacher in the Clinton School District, Mitchi Tucker says her experience will allow her to be an effective Board of Education member. She feels she sets herself to a standard of excellence that can be evidenced through her former students.

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Among the topics discussed among the School Board of Education candidates included a new Superintendent starting this summer, the future of the Exelon Power Station and it's funding of the school system, and bullying.

Keep it tuned to Regional Radio News leading up to the election as we'll highlight all the topics discussed Tuesday night.

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