PRINCE GEORGE, BC – Following on the heels of the successful Downtown: Let’s Get Started rally, Downtown Prince George is gearing up to host a Mayoral Candidates Debate on Monday, November 10 at the Ramada Hotel Skylight Ballroom, starting at 7:00 pm.

“We feel that the future of our downtown is one of the top issues, if not the top issue, in this municipal election,” said Kirk Gable, past President and current board member of Downtown Prince George. “The community has taken a keen interest in the downtown’s future, and we want to make sure it has the opportunity to be fully informed of the Mayoralty candidates’ visions and action plans for the the heart of our city.”

The debate, moderated by former city councilor and downtown resident Bruce Strachan, will focus on a number of key themes, including homelessness, public safety, downtown economic development, street scape improvement, zoning, public art, culture, and the development of a comprehensive downtown plan, among other themes. The evening’s format includes a formal debate, with opening and closing remarks, and where candidates will be asked to respond to questions as well as each other’s answers. There will also be a general question and answer session with participation from those in attendance.

The general public is also encouraged to submit questions and issues to the moderator for possible inclusion in the debate. Submissions can be e-mailed to Downtown Prince George at jmoore [at] downtownpg [dot] com, faxed to 250-614-1550 or dropped off at the office at 202- 1300 - First Avenue.

“We feel it is very important for the next Mayor and Council to make downtown a top priority,” continued Gable. “We expect to fully understand what each mayoralty candidate’s vision and strategic plan is by the end of the evening, and hopefully residents can take that information with them into the voting booth.”

In addition to the focus on the mayor’s chair, Downtown Prince George will be compiling downtown position statements by all city council candidates, and will be making the information available at the debate and online. Packages will be available for download following the debate at www.downtownpg.com and www.downtownletsgetstarted.com.

There is no charge for the event, and water, coffee and tea will be provided. Doors open at 6:30 pm, and the event is scheduled to run until 9:00 pm.

For more information please contact:
Jill Moore, Interim Executive Director, Downtown Prince George
250-614-1330
jmoore [at] downtownpg [dot] com