About 500 people attended the Citrus County Chronicle candidate forum on July 7, 2026, at the County Auditorium in Inverness. The event allowed candidates from five races, including U.S. House District 15, Florida House District 23, School Board District 3, and County Commission Districts 2 and 4, to take the stage and address concerns from local residents.
The forum, a decades-long election tradition, was also streamed live online and will remain available for voters who could not attend. Residents shared issues they hoped to hear addressed, including rising costs, government response to growth, and protecting the community’s character. Tonya Crane of Crystal River expressed concern about Amendment 3, a proposed constitutional amendment on the November ballot that would eliminate property taxes on homesteaded properties. She wanted candidates to explain how local governments would replace lost revenue if the amendment passes.
During the forum, candidates faced questions on taxes, growth, and services. The candidates from the BOCC 4 race, including incumbent Rebecca Bays and challengers Jennifer Grogan and Holli Herndon, prepared to field questions. The event provided an opportunity for voters to hear from candidates and learn about their plans to address local concerns.
The Citrus County Chronicle’s political forum is an important event in the election season, allowing voters to engage with candidates and make informed decisions. For more information on the candidates and their responses, visit the Citrus County Chronicle’s website.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
Sources: Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
