A full house at the Astor Theatre in Liverpool Tuesday night for the first of three mayoral debates.
Incumbent Christopher Clarke along with candidates Scott Costen and David Dagley took turns answering questions about subjects including steps to retain the population.
Costen says getting young families involved in government would help keep them engaged.
Dagley says the population must continue to grow and attracting seniors to live in Queens will also bring jobs to the area.
Clarke pointed to recent work at the Point Mersey Commercial Park as a step in the right direction.
Other topics were highlighted including the deficit at Queens Place Emera Centre, marketing the Region of Queens, attracting new business while supporting existing businesses and if immigration is a priority to each candidate.
Clarke didn’t believe it was a top priority, stating there were only so many hours in the day and more pressing issues in the local area.
Costen seemed surprised by Clarke’s answer, pointing out to the crowd that Clarke is the only immigrant candidate running for mayor.
However, Costen says he’s strongly in favour of bringing refugees to Queens but it won’t solve all problems.
Dagley says he would like to explore options with the future council to support immigration.
Another debate among the three mayoral candidates is scheduled for Wednesday night at 7 p.m. at the Seaside Centre in Beach Meadows.
