Pictured from the left are Monica Walker, Facilitator and commissioner candidates, Pat Hall, Tron Stegman, Shannon Crawford and Walt Beesley. Meet the Candidates Forum 2024 took place Thursday, July 11 in the Memorial Hall in Hugoton.

Meet the Candidates Forum 2024 took place in Memorial Hall Thursday, July 11. Facilitator for the event was Monica Walker, County Extension Agent from Ulysses. Candidates are County Commissioner District 2 incumbent Pat Hall, County Commissioner District 3 incumbent Tron Stegman, and Shannon Crawford and Walt Beesley, both running for County Commissioner District 2.

The candidates were asked questions with a two minute time limit to answer.

First question was an introduction of each candidate and why they felt they were qualified to hold the office of Commissioner for Stevens County. Each gave information on their families and how long they have been in Stevens County along with qualifications for the commissioner seat.

The next question asked was “what do you believe is the biggest challenge facing Stevens County and how would you address that challenge”. Taxes were the main challenge each candidate felt was facing the county. Trying to keep the taxes down and bringing in new businesses was the main topic addressed as a way to help.

“What do you see is the most pressing need for infrastructure or capital projects in the county” was the next question asked of the candidates. The candidates each felt there wasn’t a pressing need at the present time as they felt the county infrastructure is in good shape.

The fourth question was two parts. The first part was what are your views on the potential wind farm in Stevens County including what the set back rules should be and are you in favor or opposed to this development. The second part if the wind farm is not approved what industry or business can be brought into the county to replace that revenue to the landowners, county and school district.

Beesley, Stegman and Crawford each said they were for the wind farm. Hall stated he was against the wind farm. Beesley also talked about a solar farm and maybe getting KDI factory back up and running again. Hall talked about seeing consequences of failed corporations in the county like Abengoa and KDI. Crawford talked about the benefit of the wind farm and potential income for the county and school. He thought the setback should be 1500 feet. Stegman felt the wind farm would be good for the county as it would bring in revenue.

The fifth question was, “Do you plan to promote any changes to existing taxes and why”. The main topic was keeping the taxes as low as possible while maintaining the standard of living for the county residents.

The candidates each gave their closing remarks. Marty Long and Benjamin Fuentes introduced themselves to the audience and said a few words.

If you missed the forum, you can see it on Facebook.com/Hugoton ChamberofCommerce.

The Primary is August 6 and General Election is November 5. (The Primary votes will decide the commissioner candidate, since all are Republican candidates).