Lambton-Kent-Middlesex candidates debated in Chatham Council Chambers Wednesday, with plenty of questions surrounding local difficulties.
NDP candidate Rex Isaac says his past political experience has already fostered relationships locally and regionally.
"I've developed a relationship with Mayor (Randy) Hope, with many of the area councillors," says Isaac. "As well as local representatives all across the board."
The Green Party's Jim Johnston says it's time for the federal government to pay closer attention to the provinces and municipalities.
"The key is dialogue," Johnston explains. "Sitting down together and creating plans that will be meaningful for all levels of government."
When asked about infrastructure, all three candidates present agree the federal government's funding decisions should be prompted by communities.
Liberal Ken Filson says he's ready to overthrow the funding system.
"Applications normally come to the federal government and they pick and choose what riding to give money to. That will disappear," says Filson. "Now the decision-making and priorities of the local municipality will come to the fore."
Conservative incumbent Bev Shipley declined to attend the debate, after attending another debate in Wallaceburg the night before. Make sure to tune to AM 630 CFCO, or listen online at BlackburnNews.com October 7 at 7pm, for back-to-back all candidates debates for the ridings of Chatham-Kent-Leamington and Lambton-Kent-Middlesex.
