Forum debate centers on using surplus and EDC funds to attract small businesses to Bruceville‑Eddy

At the Bruceville‑Eddy candidate forum, residents pressed candidates on how they would use surplus funds and encourage economic growth that benefits lower‑income residents.

Incumbent Doris McLaughlin said she believes finishing the sewer project and supporting the Eagle Prairie subdivision will attract businesses and jobs. “The more businesses we have in the city, then the more jobs that are available,” McLaughlin said.

Richard Prater said he favors prudent spending: use some surplus for visible community improvements but retain a percentage as a reserve. “Surplus money — I’m all for spending a little bit... I’d like to see held back a little bit of percentage,” he said, adding that signage, holiday decorations and downtown signage could be good investments.

Melissa Futch said some surplus should be conserved for a rainy day and suggested the EDC is the proper vehicle for economic development spending. “Surplus belongs to the taxpayer,” she said; she added she would rather see EDC funds used for downtown projects and keep the rainy‑day fund intact.

Speakers and questioners repeatedly named priorities they would like to see come to town: a grocery store, additional gas stations, and services such as a car wash and oil changes. Candidates proposed incentives or small storefront opportunities for local entrepreneurs rather than relying solely on outside chains.

Ending: No formal budget votes were taken at the forum. Candidates said they would evaluate grants, EDC tools and tax revenue to pursue projects that increase local services while trying to protect lower‑income residents from displacement.