BLOOMINGTON - Local candidates agree adding middle-income jobs to the Twin Cities is needed, but they differ on how to do it. | Election HQ: Stories, candidate bios

Candidates for contested races on the Bloomington and Normal city councils and the Heartland Community College board had a chance Wednesday night to talk about creating jobs and their stands on issues specific to organized labor.

The forum hosted by the Bloomington and Normal Trades and Labor Assembly drew about 75 people to the Laborers Local 362 Hall in Bloomington.

The election will be Tuesday.

Attracting companies that will add 50 to 100 jobs at a time to Bloomington's economy was part of Mayor Steve Stockton's goals for economic development for the area. Stockton is being challenged in his re-election bid by Tari Renner and Eric Decossas.

Renner said Bloomington needs to capitalize on its location in Central Illinois and its connection to Abraham Lincoln to bring more attention to the city.

Decossas did not attend.

Bloomington Ward 7 Alderman Steven Purcell said the city's partnership with the Bloomington Normal Economic Development Council was vital. James Keeran, who is challenging Purcell, focused on redevelopment of the city's west side and downtown.

Ward 7 candidate Chuck Irwin did not attend.

Normal Mayor Chris Koos and the three incumbent candidates for Normal council seats agreed redevelopment of uptown Normal is a significant step toward revitalizing businesses and attracting new companies to the town.

Koos' challenger, Andrew Matthews, said economic development needs to shift from bringing in retail and dining businesses to businesses that will provide good-paying jobs.

Adam Nielsen, Jason Chambers and Cheryl Gaines are seeking re-election to their seats on the council. They are being challenged by Scott Preston, who did not attend.

Heartland Community College trustee candidates Terry Baggett and John "Jack" Copes also participated in the forum but Craig Gatto did not.