NATCHEZ — All nine candidates set for the Nov. 7 special election have agreed to a forum Wednesday evening at city council chambers.

The Adams County Democratic Executive Committee is hosting the forum, but Chair Robert Pernell said this meeting is not party exclusive.

“It does not matter your party affiliation,” Pernell said. “We need to hear from the candidates and let them introduce themselves to voters so we can make an informed decision.”

Nine candidates have qualified for three positions, county prosecutor, justice court judge for the southern district and District 5 Election Commissioner. Alma Fletcher is running unopposed for District 5 Election Commissioner.

Bryan Callaway, Shameca Collins and Scott Pintard have qualified for county prosecutor.

Danny Barber, Timothy Blalock, Jack Blaney, Eileen Mary Maher and Stanley N. “Bucky” Merritt have qualified for justice court judge of the southern district.

The positions are open after former justice court judge Charlie Vess and former county prosecutor Barret Martin retired before their terms had been completed.

Fletcher had previously been election commissioner but did not seek reelection in 2016. When no one else qualified, she was appointed as interim and has since decided to seek her former position.

Pernell said the nine candidates would each have three to five minutes to introduce themselves.  Then, Pernell said moderators would ask questions.

Pernell said the audience would also have time to ask questions. Pernell said moderators would give out cards to people fill out questions, which the moderators would read.

“We are trying to do it where we can keep it moving and keep it as orderly as possible,” Pernell said.

Pernell said he hopes the forum would last two hours at the most.

A table will also be set up with campaign literature, Pernell said.

The forum is set for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at city council chambers located at 115 S. Pearl St.