Leading into the state Republican primary and our local School Board election on June 2, we have all had ample opportunities to view live and recorded debates with candidates for governor of South Dakota. If you believe, like I do, that local candidates are just as important as state races, you should feel fortunate that someone has stepped up to organize two candidate forums this month.
The May 12 School Board Candidate Forum, sponsored by Brookings Area Indivisible (a local, non-partisan organization), drew about 30 community members on May 12. We might have been a bit disappointed that only one of the candidates participated, although both were invited and initially accepted. Still, Marcie Dierks did not disappoint. She fielded several questions prepared in advance by Indivisible, followed by a Q&A with audience members. We got a clear picture of how she sees both the responsibilities and the limitations of the school board and how she could contribute to the work they do.
It’s unfortunate that Kelsey Bowman was not there for us to hear side-by-side, in-person responses from both women, but for voters who want to make an informed choice, there are sources you can turn to. Both candidates were interviewed by Brookings radio. (Search the internet for Brookings radio Dierks or Brookings radio Bowman for a summary transcript and an audio link to the full interview). Each woman also has a Facebook page devoted to her School Board campaign. In addition, the forum with Ms. Dierks was recorded and is posted on the Brookings Area Indivisible Facebook page.
Next up was the Brookings County Sheriff Candidate Forum on May 18 at the Brookings United Church of Christ with candidates Dave Biteler and Shawn Hostler. Co-sponsored by Community Law Enforcement Action Response (CLEAR) Partners. Note: They will be on the primary ballot for voters registered as Republican. One of them will face off with independent Manny Langstraat in the general election this fall.
Don’t forget to vote on June 2. Or vote early, Monday-Friday at the Brookings City & County Government Center, 520 Third St.
Mary Kraljic
Brookings Area Indivisible
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