cberger@thecherawchronicle.com
CHERAW - A public forum was held at the Pee Dee Union Baptist Church on Oct. 25, giving the public a chance to ask questions of mayoral candidates for Charlie Rose and Scott Hunter.
The Rev. Jerry Corbett, pastor of Pee Dee Union Baptist Church acted as moderator. Cheraw Town Councilwoman Jackie Ellerbee arranged and coordinated the forum.
"I wanted a public forum so that the people of Cheraw could come and hear both sides as to what each candidate had to say, and to have a venue for them to come to," said Ellerbe.
Around 104 residents ventured out to the forum to hear viewpoints from both candidates on many issues.
"What are you going to do if you are not elected as mayor," was one of the questions asked of both candidates.
"Being elected mayor will not make me a better man, just like not being elected won't make me a worse man," answered Rose. "I will still continue to work on my houses and help this town as much as I can." .
Hunter's response was similar.
"If I am not elected, I still have my two businesses and will continue to work at those, but if I am elected, I will do everything I can to better the town," Hunter replied.
Other questions asked were in reference to youth programs, taxes, keeping corruption out of the town, law enforcement, gangs and grant issues.
Another question - should a young black youth be allowed to hang out after dark in Wal-Mart parking lot? - drew the attention of many at the forum. Both candidates had the same answer - no.
"Whether he is black or white, no young person should be hanging out after dark at Wal-Mart or anywhere else," said Rose.
A second forum is scheduled to take place tonight at the Chesterfield-Marlboro EOC Building. The program begins at 7 p.m.
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