Commerce City Hall hosts candidate forum for ISD and mayoral elections

Commerce City Hall hosted a significant candidate forum on April 17, 2025, marking a pivotal moment for local governance as residents prepare for the upcoming elections. This forum featured candidates for both the Commerce Independent School District (CISD) Board of Trustees and the mayoral position, providing a platform for community engagement and dialogue.

The forum began with an introduction from local leaders, emphasizing the importance of civic participation. Notably, the CISD Board of Trustees Place 3 seat is contested this year, with incumbent Ray Green not seeking reelection. Candidates Abby Harper and Henry Watts presented their visions for the school board, each given a minute for opening statements followed by a structured question-and-answer session.

In the mayoral race, current Mayor Tammy Reel is running for reelection against challenger Court Center. The format allowed each candidate to respond to prewritten questions, ensuring clarity and fairness in the discourse. Candidates were allotted two minutes for their responses, fostering a thorough examination of their platforms and priorities.

The forum was well-attended, despite competing events such as youth sports, indicating a strong community interest in local governance. The event was recorded for those unable to attend, ensuring broader access to the candidates' positions and discussions.

As the election approaches, the forum serves as a crucial opportunity for voters to familiarize themselves with the candidates and their plans for the future of Commerce. The engagement demonstrated at this event highlights the community's commitment to informed decision-making in the upcoming elections.