Sarnia's five mayoral candidates have yet to face each other in a debate, after an early departure by Bill Dennis at a youth-led forum.
The all candidates event Wednesday evening at the Lambton College Events Centre brought together about 200 people.
It was organized by local youth and community groups including Rebound, Literacy Lambton, the Sarnia-Lambton Youth Wellness Hub and the Sarnia-Lambton Children's Aid Society.
According to a social media post, Dennis claims he was told he was no longer permitted inside the venue, after he stepped out to return campaign pamphlets to his vehicle before the event officially started.
Sources say there was a verbal dispute between Dennis and another individual prior to him going outside, and he never returned.
In his post, Dennis said "he showed up early and in good faith to participate in a candidates forum".
He said despite the incident, he intends to remain active in the campaign and will continue discussing key issues facing Sarnia.
Along with Dennis, incumbent Mike Bradley, Carrie McEachran, Scott Molson and George Stanko are running for the mayor's seat.
Voters will have another chance to see the candidates face off soon. Sarnia News Today is hosting a mayoral debate on Thursday, October 1. It will be held at the Dante Club from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., with doors opening to the public at 6:30 p.m.
Admission is a $10 cash donation at the door for the United Way of Sarnia-Lambton.
The debate will also be livestreamed on Sarnia News Today's YouTube channel, and broadcast live on Big Country 103.9FM.
All five mayoral candidates are scheduled to participate.
Meanwhile, the City of Sarnia said residents will notice voter information letters (VILs) arriving in the mail this week.
The letter includes all you need to cast your vote on October 26, including instructions on how to vote in person or online.
If you don't receive your VIL by the end of September, you're advised to check to make sure you are on the voter's list on the city's website.
