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Discussion and consideration of a candidate forum for 2026 local election candidates
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Submitted by:
Zach Kessler - Director of Municipal Services
Deyanira Nevarez - City Clerk/Management Analyst
Department:
Municipal Services
A. Issue
At the April 2026 Spring Election, voters will elect Alderpersons for the City's twelve new aldermanic districts, and a Municipal Judge. Prior to previous local elections, the City coordinated candidate forums to provide the public with an opportunity to hear from candidates running for office.
At this time, staff are seeking direction from the Common Council regarding the date and format of a 2026 candidate forum and Council approval of a resolution establishing the forum format.
B. Background/Options
Historically, the City has coordinated candidate forums before local elections, offering residents a structured opportunity to learn about candidates.
In 2024, the Wauwatosa-West Allis Chamber of Commerce facilitated the candidate forum in the Common Council Chambers on Thursday, March 7, at 6:30 PM. The Chamber has expressed interest in facilitating a similar forum in 2026 and has indicated availability on the following dates:
* Wednesday, March 4
* Thursday, March 5
* Wednesday, March 11
* Thursday, March 12
Four of the twelve aldermanic races are competitive, each with two candidates running for office. There is no Mayoral election in 2026, but the office of Municipal Judge will be on the ballot. There is only one candidate for the office of Municipal Judge.
Staff propose that a 2026 candidate forum include candidates for both Alderperson and Municipal Judge. Removing mayoral-related provisions from the 2024 format and adding details related to the Municipal Judge election, staff suggest the following framework for a 2026 candidate forum:
Host/Moderator:
* The event will be hosted by the Wauwatosa-West Allis Chamber of Commerce ("Chamber") and facilitated by the Chamber's Board President or another designated...
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