KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The first of six Mayoral Candidate Forums took place Tuesday night in Kalamazoo’s Edison neighborhood. Four candidates took turns answering questions that were submitted by members of the community.
Candidates who spoke included David Anderson, David Benac, Esteven Juarez and Rob Martinez.
Martinez is not appearing on the ballot, but is participating as a write-in candidate.
Candidate Corey Smith did not attend the meeting.
Some topics covered included the candidates’ opinions of “trickle-down economics.”
“Trickle-down economics, for me, the way I see it has always been about systematic racism,” candidate Esteven Juarez said. “We have to think about it from that context because it’s keeping the poor poor and the rich rich. If we’re not willing to address those issues at a city level, we will never see that system change.
Other topics discussed included affordable housing.
“In the 17-18 fiscal year, the city met about 60% of its goal for housing people in affordable housing,” candidate David Benac said. “I’m a teacher, 60% is a ‘D.’ That’s not good enough, we need to do better than that.”
The next candidate forum will take place next Tuesday, October 1st on the campus of Western Michigan University.
The candidates are campaigning for the seat of Mayor Bobby Hopewell, who will not be seeking reelection.
