The South Knoxville Neighborhood and Business Coalition (SKNBC) invites the public to an event to increase information and turnout for the August 1 election.

It will be held on July 9 at 6:30 pm at the South High Senior Living, 835 Tipton Avenue. SKNBC is composed of volunteers from neighborhood associations and businesses south of the Tennessee River in Knoxville who meet monthly to address a variety of issues affecting our community and neighborhoods.

All candidates that influence South Knoxville were invited including US House and Senate, State Senate District 6, State House Districts 15, 18, and 19, County Commission District 9, Criminal Court Judge Division II District 6, Property Assessor, and County Law Director. As of May 7, with 23 candidates invited (Siobhan Costanzo will be on the ballot but withdrew), 17 responded and a majority (14) were available on July 9.

The March Primary had low voter turnout and some races were decided by just a few votes. Now, most of the news is about the November presidential election but this August election is in many ways more impactful on citizens of Knox County.

All candidates will have up to 5 minutes to introduce themselves and address three questions:

• Why do you believe you are the best qualified person for the position?
• What do you know about South Knoxville/South Knox County?
• What, if anything, will you do to improve the area?

There will be time after introductions for the public to meet and speak with candidates one-on-one.

The event will be held at South High Senior Living. This facility has been a great community asset and hosted 2 previous SKNBC-sponsored candidate events that were well attended. Light refreshments will be served.

SKNBC thanks South High, the candidates, and all the South Knoxville neighbors and businesses who are coordinating this important event.