Each candidate was given a five-minute window to give his or her platform. After the candidates introduced themselves and announced their platform, citizens were allowed to ask questions. Candidates were then given two-minutes to address the question or concern. Positions addressed at the forum include Coroner, Clerk of Court, District Four Commissioner, District Five Commissioner, District Four Board of Education, District Five Board of Education and Sheriff.
Jared Murphy addressed the forum with his accomplishments and future goals if reelected as coroner. Murphy will face off against Dennis Everrett, who was not in attendance.
Marsha Thomas presented her platform and shared information about her experience as the current Clerk of Court. Krisan Dyal also gave her platform and goals if elected Clerk of Court.
Ronnie Rentz addressed the citizens of District Four with his current achievements and his future goals if re-elected for a third term as commissioner. Rentz will face off against Joe Carter, who was not in attendance.
D. Edward Spell, Jr. addressed the citizens of District Five with his platform and goals if elected commissioner. Spell will face off against Charlie Leggett, who was not in attendance.
Reid Lovett and Jody Arnold both gave their platforms and goals if elected to serve on the Board of Education for District Four. Carlos Crosby and Justin Orvin both presented their platforms and goals if elected to serve on the Board of Education for District Five.
Mark Melton, George O’Quinn and Lee Sweat presented their platforms and goals if elected Sheriff of Appling County. Several questions were asked and each candidate provided an answer and explanation. Sheriff Benny Deloach made comments in regards to some of the questions and comments made by the candidates. Melton, O’Quinn, Sweat and Clint Bass, who was not in attendance, will face off against one other for Sheriff of Appling County.
At the end of the forum, candidate for Georgia State House, District 156 Lee Burton along with State Senate candidates Blake Tillery and Delvis Dutton had an opportunity to present their platforms and goals.
The 2016 Primary Election is to be held on Tuesday, May 24. Early voting is set to begin May 3.