Debate Tonight: Democratic candidates for Freehold Boro Council to Face Off

Three Freehold Democrats competing in the party's  in over 35 years will meet in a public debate tonight at , 62 West Main St. The debate is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. in the second floor meeting room.

The participants in the debate will be incumbent her running mate, , and Dan Xavier.

"We're looking to advance our patform and let people know exactly what we stand for," said Griffiths.

The three Democrats are seeking nomination for 2 open seats on the Borough Council. The terms of Sharon Shutzer (D) and John Newman’s (R) are expiring. The nominations will go to the two top vote-getters. They will face Newman, who is seeking re-election, and Republican MaryAnn Earle in the November election.

Xavier, a current member, reached out to his fellow candidates and requested a a face-to-face public .

"While each of the candidates are already busy making our case to the voting public individually, I think voters should also have the opportunity to consider each of our candidacies side-by-side," said Xavier in his .

The League of Women Voters will moderate the debate, which will be conducted according to established League rules.

"The League wil pass out index cards for people to pose questions," Griffiths said.

For live coverage of this event, .

Freehold Borough is organized under the borough form of government. The six-member Borough Council and mayor are directly elected by the voters in partisan elections held in November. Borough Council members serve three-year terms and the mayor serves four-year terms. The members of the 2012 Freehold Borough Council are Mayor Nolan Higgins, George Schnurr, Michael DiBenedetto, Kevin A. Kane, John F. Newman, Sharon Shutzer and Jaye Sims.