Political candidates debate forum
In a bid to foster political transparency and community engagement, the Kiwanis Club of Kingsport organized an Alderman Candidates Forum last Friday afternoon.
The forum offered a platform for candidates running for the Board of Alderman. As part of the event, candidates shared their vision for regional economic development and highlighted key priorities for the city.
Participants comprised Julie B. Byers, a former Eastman Chemical Co. employee and a soon-to-retire Kingsport school board member; Morris Baker, CEO of Goodwill Industries of Tenneva; and incumbent Darrell Duncan, a real estate agent and a retired Eastman employee. However, Alderman James Phillips was noticeably absent from the forum.
Improving regional economic development emerged as a common thread in the discussions. Darrell Duncan spotlighted the ongoing development at Aerospace Park. He expressed optimism for future growth, citing the potential addition of 450 jobs in the industrial park’s Kingsport headquarters.
Julie Byers emphasized the economic advantages of regional growth, even if businesses are not directly located in Kingsport.
Morris Baker, on the other hand, praised the regional cooperation among local governments for facilitating growth. He additionally cited the potential for growth in clean tech and sustainability initiatives in Kingsport.
The candidates were asked about their “unique qualifications” and top priorities if elected. Byers highlighted the diversity her perspective will bring to the Board of Alderman. Baker, on the other hand, underscored his ability to actively listen to the community, coupled with his experience with local government. Duncan pointed to his approachability and availability as unique contributions he brings to the table.
Baker identified infrastructure improvement, workforce development, and city services as his top three priorities. Duncan focused on workforce development and collaboration with TCATs. Byers, meanwhile, underscored the importance of housing, education, and work-based learning.
The non-partisan city election is set to take place on August 1, with early voting to commence from July 12 through to July 27.
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