At a public forum this evening held at the Port of CW Community room, Port commissioner candidates were invited to
give their opinions on a variety of subjects ranging from Grove field issues, marina issues, Riverwalk and the industrial park.

Lampton and Smith were noticably absent from the forum as candidates hargrave and perman discussed issues and fielded questions to a packed crowd.

Audience members were visably upset and vocal about the two no-shows - many unaware of the candidates outspoken opposition to Grove field safety upgrades and FAA funding to accomplish this.

The audience consisted of a diverse crowd of airport supporters, CCIA members, port staff and voters with no connection to either of the two groups. Many came to hear the candidates and expressed their dissapointment that two candidates would refuse to attend a public forum - asking if this is reflective of how they will act as commissioners - avoiding controversy and avoiding people that may disagree with them.

will the duo refuse to attend the 2 October forums if they disagree with someone as well?