As promised, here are the details. We have unleashed the questions on all candidates via email. If you’re a candidate and you did not get the email (bad, bad Internet) then let us know. Candidates who are unable to attend will be asked to submit their responses in writing for posting here. None of their answers will be posted until after Sunday Night. Candidates who did attend, but who also wish to submit written respones can do that too. They will have till Sunday night to submit them.
Meanwhile, this is what we sent out:
Sunday’s debate should be fun and informative. The format will be as follows:
Below you will find 6 questions. Depending on time, you will be asked 5 of them on Sunday.
When you arrive, you will draw a random number to determine where you will sit. (There will be 3 tables in the front of the room and each table will have 5 candidates).There are no microphones. When answering your question, you may stand if you wish.
The moderator will introduce you by your name and the office you seek.
There will be no opening statements. (In other words, this will be very similar to how the actual council runs).
Random numbers will be drawn to determine the speaking order on each question.
The questions will be asked from panelists comprised of representatives of the sponsoring organizations.
Everyone will have an opportunity to answer the question. Following that round, anyone wishing to rebut what has been said will be given that opportunity.
We ask that you limit your answers to 1 minute and your rebuttal to 30 seconds. A timekeeper will keep track of this.
This format will continue for all questions.
This will conclude the debate.
The audience will be told that they can ask questions informally of anyone who is able to stay for a few minutes after the conclusion.
You may submit your answers in writing by 6pm on Sunday whether you participate in the event or not.
Answers to questions will appear on www.yourct.comAnd now - the questions:
This year’s flooding problems showed that infrastructure should be more of a priority in Norwalk’s spending. Where do you think we should be spending our money?
We have several different redevelopment projects planned for the urban corridor. What will you do to ensure that the developers work together so the end result will benefit the city?
The past budget cycle was contentious about funding for education. Do you philosophically support funding Norwalk’s education more or less - and why?
What will you do to address quality of life issues such as crime, traffic, housing, etc.?
If elected, what would you do to reach out to the community?
The year is 2030 and aliens from outer space have just landed in Norwalk. How would they describe what they see?We reserve the right to ask more or less than 5 questions depending on time. We also may ask these in a different order on Sunday.
If you have any questions or concerns, please let us know. We are doing this debate/panel for you.
Maribeth Becker (CNNA), Jackie Lightfield (yourCT.com),
Any comments by members of our studio audience are appreciated in the usual place.
UPDATE: The League of Women Voters has been withdrawn from this event.
