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HARRISON, N.Y. Voters got another close look at their Harrison candidates Tuesday night when those running for mayor, town board, clerk, and judge answered questions at a candidates forum hosted by the Harrison League of Women Voters.
"I think it went well," said Lola Geiger of the League. "The candidates did a good job. I think the voters will benefit from this."
It was the second time residents got to see their mayoral candidates, incumbent Joan Walsh (D) and Ron Belmont (R, C, I), spar over town issues. However, it was the first public forum of debate for town clerk candidates, Jackie Greer (R) and Frank Corvino (D).
Town board candidates Stephen Malfitano, Fred Sciliano (R), Howard Hollander and Pat Vetere (D) also fielded questions posed by residents at the forum.
Hot-button issues included the revitalization of Harrison's downtown, the possibility of creating a town manager position, and the slumping real estate market.
"Ninety-nine percent of my focus has been on expenses, money and spending," Walsh said in her closing statement.
Belmont, Walsh's opponent, used his time to squash rumors that, if elected, he would censor residents at town hall meetings and overspend taxpayer dollars.
"If you hear someone saying those things, tell them to read my palm card or give them my number," Belmont said. "I'd be happy to straighten those issues."
The public forum was the second large event in Harrison. Candidates for mayor and town board spoke in a West Harrison public forum Sept. 21 in an early attempt to let the voters compare them side-by-side.
What issues were most important to you at the forum? Stay posted for further analysis on the debate.
Let us know what you think in the comments below.
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