From Staff Reports
In Summary:
Apopka Involved Voters will host a city commission candidates forum at Victory Church on Thursday, beginning at 7 pm. The debate will be moderated by Dr. Hank Dunn and will be open to the public, with a livestream available for residents who cannot attend. Organizers say the goal is to help voters compare platforms and determine which candidates best align with their vision for Apopka’s future.
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Apopka voters will have one last opportunity to hear directly from local candidates as the Apopka Involved Voters group hosts its final election forum of the season.
Related: Apopka's final mayoral debate shows three governing styles — and one candidate still fighting old battles.
The group will hold an Apopka City Commission candidates forum on Thursday, February 12, at Victory Church, 509 S. Park Ave. The event begins at 7 pm and is open to the public.
The commission forum follows a mayoral candidates event held earlier in the week as part of the organization’s back-to-back debate schedule.
According to Apopka Involved Voters, the goal of the forums is to give residents a clearer understanding of where candidates stand on key issues facing the city.
“The forums will apprise Apopka voters which candidate’s platform best aligns with their view of a community based on a sustainable quality of life,” the group said in a statement.
Thursday’s event will feature seven commission candidates sharing the stage and answering questions before a live audience.
- In Seat #1, incumbent Commissioner Alexander Smith faces former commissioner Sam Ruth.
- In Seat #2, incumbent Commissioner Diane Velazquez takes on first-time candidates George Smith and Dr. Angela Turner.
- In Seat #4, Yesenia Baron is up against Malika Harrison.
The discussion will be moderated by Dr. Hank Dunn and will follow a similar format to the mayoral forum, with timed responses and opportunities for voters to hear candidates explain their priorities side by side.
Organizers say the forum will focus on issues central to city governance, including growth, infrastructure, budgeting, transparency, and overall quality of life.
City commissioners play a key role in shaping those decisions, from approving development agreements and setting utility policies to allocating funding for public safety and capital projects. With several seats on the ballot this cycle, the forum offers residents a chance to compare how each candidate approaches those responsibilities.
For those unable to attend in person, both the mayoral and commission forums will be livestreamed here:
Key Points:
- The forum is on Thursday, February 12, at 7 pm at Victory Church, 509 S. Park Ave.
- Seven City Commission candidates are invited to participate
- Moderated by Dr. Hank Dunn
- Open to the public
- Livestream available on The Apopka Chief’s YouTube channel and Facebook page
