Round two of the primary election forums featured three of the four at-large candidates making their initial foray into the Frankfort political scene as incumbent Eric Woods was joined by newcomers Megan Sheets, Isac Chavez and J.J. Tate at the forum for the two at-large spots in the May 7 election Thursday night at the Frankfort Middle School cafetorium.
“I admittedly was nervous when it began,” said Sheets. “But, I was prepared and it gave me a great opportunity to share who I am and my plans for city council and opportunities I think we have as Frankfort.”
Chavez said he didn’t know what to expect.
“I just turned 21 years old a few weeks ago and this is a great opportunity to get out and show the community what I have to offer and introduce myself to those who don’t know me,” said Chavez. “I’ve been involved since I was 16 and for me to be here is an exciting step to get my career going for the City of Frankfort.”
Tate said he has lived in and around Frankfort for all but two years of his life.
“I’m a regular blue collar guy,” said Tate. “What I lack in experience I make up for in good common sense.”
Woods has been an at-large member of the city council for eight years in addition to serving one stint in District 3.
A majority of the questions centered around the revitalizing the downtown, all the new projects that have been done and are in the process of getting done as well as the increased amount of amenities.
“The downtown attracts investments which leads to other opportunities,” said Sheets. “Hopefully, that spreads throughout the city.”
Sheets added those things have enhanced the quality of life in the community.
Woods said amenities are very important.
“We need as many amenities as can afford,” said Woods. “We need places for our kids. We need people who have to be willing to invest in the community.”
Chavez all the improvements are the reason he’s running.
“It’s about quality of life and quality of place,” said Chavez. “I believe Frankfort is moving in the right direction. We’ve taken way too many steps forward to stop now. We need to continue to move forward.”
Woods said we need to be a little more efficient with some of our projects.
“We need to prioritize,” he said. “We won’t really know if these projects really add to the overall welfare of the community for several years.”
All the candidates said projects like Ivy Tech, Nickle Plate Flats, Donaldson’s, Prairie Creek Park, the TPA Park Pool, IU Health and road infrastructure improvements are things that have benefited the community.
The third and final election forum takes place Tuesday night at 6 p.m. in the Frankfort Middle School cafetorium. This will be a mayoral forum with Mayor Chris McBarnes and challenger Lewis Wheeler. McBarnes will be seeking a third term as mayor, while Wheeler currently represents District 3 on the city council.