After its summer hiatus, the Liberal Ladies group opened its meeting season with a candidate forum Aug. 1.

Five of the six Fountain Hills town council candidates and a mayoral candidate addressed some 150 members of the Liberal Ladies.

The candidates gave brief descriptions of their backgrounds and platforms, then answered three questions provided by the organization.

Council candidates attending the meeting included Gerry Friedel, Sharron Grzybowski, Alan Magazine, Mike Scharnow and David Spelich. Ginny Dickey was in attendance as mayoral candidate.

Council candidate Marcus Bulow von Dennewitz and mayoral candidate Cecil Yates did not attend.

The items discussed were what each candidate considers the most critical issue facing the town, the budget shortfall and what each candidate suggests could be done to attract people to Fountain Hills.

The most pressing issue to most of the candidates is the budget shortfall. Government transparency, communication and trust also were notable issues.

Cutting expenses, raising revenues and strategic partnerships were some of the ideas given to solve the shortfall. Bonds also were mentioned as a possible source of money for the town.

No candidate provided a solid answer about what they thought could be done to attract more people to Fountain Hills. All recognized the need, as well as the challenges to bring people here but all agreed collaboration, education and thinking outside the box would help in making the community a place people want to live and to visit.

The candidates gave a closing statement, asking for votes from club members and visitors.

Friedel, who brought a pair of worn-out shoes to demonstrate the amount of time he has spent campaigning, said he is a “hard worker with a solid financial background. I believe I can really help the community.”

Grzybowski said she would be glad to meet with people before the election to expand on her ideas and get their input.

“I am genuine, honest and I speak my mind,” Grzybowski said.

Magazine said he intends to provide more information to the public about town activities.

“I want to be televising more meetings, such as Planning and Zoning, to get as much information out there as we can,” he said.

Scharnow cited his experience as a leader and the skills he has to serve Fountain Hills.

“I think my background gives me broad appeal and a historical sense of the community,” he said.

Spelich said he would look at police protection in Fountain Hills, as well as keep communications open.

“I guarantee I will not hold closed door meetings if I am elected,” he said.

Dickey told the audience that this election is a vital one.

The mayoral race will be decided on the 28th (of August),” she said. “I hope I have your vote.”