Candidates for the Washington City Council Ward 1 special election shared their views on areas of improvement and priorities during a forum hosted by the Washington Chamber of Commerce Wednesday evening.

Chamber Executive Director Michelle Redlinger moderated the forum between Bethany Glinsmann and Deran DeLong who are vying to represent the northwest quadrant of the city in an election being held Tuesday, April 5th. The candidates were given some questions in advance of the forum, and attendees had the opportunity to submit questions during the event.

When asked what they would like to see the city accomplish if elected, a few priorities Glinsmann mentioned were tackling vacant downtown storefronts and expanding broadband internet access, “Number one is expanding child care facilities. I heard a lot from young families when I was going around talking to folks the last two weekends that we just don’t have enough spots for all the young folks who need to be in child care at this time. So focusing on that is kind of the top priority, so that young families don’t have to make a choice between who gets to have a career and stays home and takes care of the kids, they have options.”

DeLong’s priorities included completing the Wellness Park and updating the city’s comprehensive plan, “I think the city does have a housing shortage, I’d like to see the city continue to partner with developers to create more housing. I think we also need more low to moderate income housing opportunities available. I’d like to see us provide incentives for this type of housing as well. I think a vibrant downtown is important to small communities and I’d like to see us continue to enhance our downtown and encourage small business.”

Only residents of Ward 1 can vote for the special election, which can be done now until 5 p.m. Monday April 4th at the Washington County Auditor’s office at the courthouse. The deadline has already passed to request a mailed absentee ballot, and those with a mailed ballot can bring them to the auditor’s office until 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 5th. Ballots received after that time cannot be counted, and polls will be open from 7 a.m.-8 p.m. at the Washington YMCA on West 5th Street.