NATCHEZ — Voters worried about the issues facing Natchez will have their chance to get to the meat of the matter today.

Candidates for mayor and aldermen will answer questions at a candidate forum at 5 p.m. at the Natchez Convention Center.

Seventeen candidates, including all three men running for mayor, will answer questions pre-submitted by the public and asked by a panel.

Former Judge Mary Toles and current Justice Court Judge Charlie Vess will ask the questions. Retired Entergy Customer Service Director Forest Persons will serve as moderator.

The questions will be based on issues — from roads to jobs — and will be tailored to the candidate’s desired office.

Prior to the questioning, candidates will be on hand to present campaign materials and talk to voters.

The event is sponsored by the Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce, the Natchez Business and Civic League, The Natchez Democrat and First Natchez Radio Group.

It will be in the Mississippi Room of the Convention Center and is open to the public.