The two candidates seeking election to the Champaign mayor’s office will face off in their first debate at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 16, at the Champaign Public Library.
Incumbent Jerry Schweighart, who has been in office for the last 12 years, is being challenged by political newcomer Don Gerard. 
The debate is being organized by the Junior League of Champaign-Urbana.
“The Junior League of Champaign-Urbana (JLCU) is committed to improving our community. JLCU develops and participates in projects, educational programs, conferences, and advocacy efforts, in areas where needs are unmet and existing resources are minimal,” wrote JLCU president Jen Parastaran in an email to chambanamoms.com. “JLCU is excited to host a debate of the mayoral candidates. It will give community members an opportunity to hear the candidates address issues that are affecting our community.
JLCU asked Laura Weisskopf Bleill and Amy Hatch, editors of chambanamoms.com, to moderate the debate.
The exact format of the debate is still being determined. Questions are being solicited from the community; if you have a question for the candidates, please leave it here in the comments or send it to us (editor@chambanamoms.com) and we will forward it to the debate organizers at JLCU.
Read more about the debate in the March 8 edition of the News-Gazette.