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Other notable ideas and comments from the forum included Alex Gallardo’s suggestion that a few Chuck E. Cheese’s would make Merced more fun, Mayor Thurston’s mention of transportation as a big obstacle for youth and Pedrozo’s strategy of leveraging partnerships with schools and community organizations to help the city meet its goals. Belluomini reiterated that he wanted to see afterschool programs and activities return, Lohr wanted to see more money put into youth programs if the economy grows, and Mowrer was interested in making sure that solutions to youth unemployment and youth activities could be long term and sustainable.
Though Chris Ramirez could not be present, he did provide us with a statement on the importance of providing meaningful opportunities to our youth: “Our youth are not tomorrow’s leader – they have demonstrated that they are today’s leaders. I will continue to foster these leadership skills by continuing to work with youth and youth-serving organizations in ensuring that they are a part of the decision-making process particularly in regards to bringing more activities and opportunities that are relevant to their interests and wallet. As your elected leader, we could look at current incentives available to businesses that employs youth.”
[pullquote_left]Afterwards candidates commented that the event was an enjoyable and important break from the norm. Mowrer thought the format and questions helped make the candidates look human.[/pullquote_left]
Afterwards candidates commented that the event was an enjoyable and important break from the norm. Mowrer thought the format and questions helped make the candidates look human. Padilla was glad to experience a different set of views and questions, and Mayor Thurston thought the turnout was great and the event was “encouraging for the future.” Belluomini thought the forum was worthwhile, though he questioned whether the 30-second time limit on a few of the initial questions was sufficient.
Community members in attendance had more opinionated feedback on the event and the candidate performances. Micaela Stanley, a high school student, said that Villa stood out to her as she found herself agreeing with a lot of what the candidate expressed. Stanley also said that although she’s under the voting age she would be using what she learned in the forum to tell her mother how she thinks she should vote.
