Library to host forum for two candidates in Green Forest's election for new mayor

The Green Forest Public Library will host a forum for the two candidates for mayor of Green Forest. The forum is set for 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 2, and the election will be held a week later, on Feb. 9. The library is also continuing efforts to acquire the building to the east of the library, for needed expansion. Librarian Johnice Dominick said the building's owners have accepted an offer, and the library is putting together funding. Dominick said she hopes the closing will take place in late February, and the library board is continuing to urge patrons and friends of the library to help in fund-raising for the expansion project. Mike Ellis / CCN

GREEN FOREST -- Voters here will have an opportunity to meet the two candidates in a special election to fill the remainder of the term of former mayor Richard Deweese.

Deweese announced his resignation in mid-October, as he moved to Oklahoma to take a job in aircraft maintenance. State law requires a special election if more than a year remains on a mayoral term, and Deweese's term was due to end at the end of 2010.

Charles Reece and Paul McCormick each filed for the vacant position, and an election on Tuesday, Feb. 9 will determine the winner.

The Green Thumb Garden Club used to sponsor opportunities for the public to meet candidates for city and county government, but the club has disbanded. Those meet-the-candidate sessions were often held at the Green Forest Public Library, and Librarian Johnice Dominick decided to carry on the tradition.

A forum is planned for 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 2. It should last about an hour, and will be a combination of moderated topics and questions from the audience. Dominick will serve as moderator, and she advises, "Seating will be limited, so I'm encouraging people to arrive early if they need a seat." 

The election will be held Tuesday, Feb. 9. Voters will cast their ballots at the United Methodist Church in Green Forest.