This morning I had the pleasure of attending an interesting Mayoral Forum. The event was hosted by the City Hall Fellows. It was co-sponsored by Leadership Houston, American Leadership Forum, Center For Houston’s Future and other premiere groups.
The City Hall Fellows, however, are what made the event impressive. This program “offers America’s best and brightest recent college graduates an unparalleled opportunity to experience local government from the inside out. Their mission is to:
- introduce America’s future leaders to the inner workings of local government;
- bring their talent and energy to bear addressing the challenges local governments face; and
- expose them to meaningful careers in public service.”
A panel of three of these Fellows posed questions to candidates Peter Brown, Gene Locke, Roy Morales, and Annise Parker. The panelists, Niiobli Armah, Bill Bacon, and Tara Grigg Garlinghouse, were extremely articulate, intelligent and self-possessed young people. The Fellows that were greeting guests, collecting audience questions and assisting were equally impressive.
They ran a smooth and interesting forum. Dr. Richard Murray served as the moderator and helped the candidates stay within the allotted time. He also posed an interesting question on term-limits.
The candidates were all much tighter on their messaging than they were when we last saw them a month ago. Their answers were direct and timely. Nothing too controversial emerged from their comments, though. The format did not allow for responses or rebuttals. By the way, they all think term-limits should stay but be modified…..
Kudos again to the City Hall Fellows for drawing 300+ prominent Houstonians to a 7:30 a.m. candidate forum on a Friday in the summer!
Look for audio clips of the Forum soon!
Nancy, thanks so much for the great review on City Hall Fellows and our Mayoral Forum in your blog. I have posted on FB and told everyone I know. I appreciate the support and look forward to the opportunity to get together.