Kalispell candidate forum planned

Tuesday’s monthly Kalispell Chamber of Commerce luncheon includes a question-and-answer forum with candidates running for the Kalispell City Council.

The forum is expected to include Chad Graham, Erik Jerde and Wayne Saverud, who are running for a Ward Two seat; Kari Gabriel, who is unopposed for a Ward One seat; and Randy Kenyon, who is running for re-election to a Ward Three seat and whose opponent, Walter Keathley, dropped out of the race.

Phil Guiffrida, who is running for a Ward Four seat against Cecilia Lee, also expected to attend the forum. Lee has said she will be unable to attend because of a prior commitment.

Forum topics include tax increment finance districts and projects, the city budget, retail transaction fees, the proposed tax levy for the 911 Center, removal of the railroad tracks in downtown Kalispell and fairground improvements.

“We think it’s important for people to hear from the candidates,” said Joe Unterreiner, president of the Chamber.

“This helps people learn about the candidates and hear what some of the key issues of the day are that the city is grappling with.”

The forum is being sponsored by the Chamber, Flathead Building Association, Flathead Business and Industry Association and Northwest Montana Association of Realtors.

Unterreiner said the event is open to the general public, but people who want to eat lunch will need to make reservations.

“We always set up chairs at the back for people who want to attend but not eat lunch,” he said. “Come join us for lunch or just sit in at no cost.”

The luncheon runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Red Lion Hotel Kalispell on Oct. 18. For more information, call the Chamber at 758-2800.