The Bandera American Legion sponsored a forum for local candidates on Thursday, Jan. 25, which was attended by over 60 people.
After introducing themselves, candidates in contested races were allowed to answer general questions that had been preselected by the legion.
Each part of the program was timed by legion volunteers.
The forum was conducted by Post Commander Susan Junker. She welcomed the group and laid out the rules of the forum for the candidates and audience.
Some candidates unable to attend due to prior engagements sent statements to be read by Junker.
The audience included local notables Gwenda Tschirhart, Judith Pannebaker, Lynn Palmer, Manny Longoria, Bob Grimes, Darcy Hasty and Debbie Breen.
The order began with the positions of precinct chair and concluded with the position of county attorney.
Each candidate was given two minutes to come to the front of the hall and introduce themselves.
After the introductions were complete, the candidates in contested races were asked three preselected questions. Each candidate was given three minutes to answer the questions.
The 11 candidates that were in contested races were asked to standm and each was given a chance to answer the three rounds of questions.
The Bandera County Republican Party Chair position was first up for the questions.
Their first question was to describe their community service in Bandera County.
The next question went to the candidates for Precinct 2 County Constable. Junker asked them to describe what they bring to the position that their opponent does not.
The next question was posed to the candidates for Precinct 1 County Commissioner.
Junker asked, “What is your plan to work with the commissioners’ court and the law enforcement agencies in the county?”
The candidates for county sheriff were asked what their specific plan to improve and move forward in the management of the Sheriff’s Department.
The second round of questions started with the Republican Party Chair. Junker asked them to describe their experience and what was needed to conduct an election.
The next question for the Precinct 2 Constable Candidates was, “What will you do in your first six months as the new Constable for Precinct 2?”
The second question for the candidates for County Commissioner Precinct 1 was ,“What actions will you take to determine from your constituents what priorities to take as a Precinct 2 Commissioner?”
The sheriff candidates were asked, “As county sheriff, a lot has been said about writing grants. What is your experience in writing grants and successfully receiving grants?” The final question asked at the forum was, “What is your motivation for running for this office?”
After each of the groups answered those questions, Junker thanked the candidates and the audience, and then she invited each group to continue their discussions individually.
The forum concluded in two hours and twenty minutes.
Bandera City Council Woman Debbie Breen commented that the forum seemed to go well and the candidates all did a good job.
The crowd stayed around to chat and talk with the candidates in the more informal setting.
The last day to register to vote is Monday, Feb. 5, 2024.
The first day of early voting is Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024.
The last day to apply for ballot by mail is Friday, Feb. 23, 2024.
The last day of early voting is Friday, March 1, 2024.
Election Day is Tuesday, March 5, 2024.
Ballots close at 7 p.m.
