Council member fights to revive Cape TV candidates forum

During a recent city council meeting, a passionate plea was made to reinstate the Cape TV candidates forum, which was previously halted by former city manager Rob Hernandez. The speaker, who has made multiple attempts to revive the forum since the 2022 election, emphasized its importance in educating voters about local representatives during a critical election period that includes gubernatorial and presidential races.

The speaker expressed frustration over being told there was insufficient time to organize the forum, despite the city manager's assurance that it would not impose undue hardship on city staff. They argued that the forum provided a valuable opportunity for residents to engage with candidates in a non-partisan setting, countering claims that it resembled a political rally.

Highlighting the community's support for the forum, the speaker noted that it had previously garnered positive feedback from local media and residents alike. They urged the council to take a leadership role in bringing back the forum, asserting that it belongs to the citizens and should be held in the city council chambers.

The discussion reflects ongoing efforts to enhance civic engagement and ensure that voters are well-informed about their choices in upcoming elections. The council's response to this request remains to be seen, but the call for reinstating the forum underscores the community's desire for greater transparency and accessibility in the electoral process.