 While the candidates running for Bemidji Mayor squared off in a forum last night in Bemidji, former Mayor Richard Lehman is seeking office once again as is current Mayor Rita Albright. The candidates took questions submitted by those who attended the forum. The questions ranged from crime and oil pipelines to the recent changes at the Sanford Center in the development of Bemidji's rail corridor. I think it's very critical that we reduce the development of the corridor to enhance the downtown area and make sure that it fits well with the existing downtown area. It includes mixed use, which means a mix of different uses, residential and commercial. I would also add that it needs to complement, not compete with the downtown. And, you know, the existing downtown and be an extension of our downtown so that it is adding to it, not detracting. The citizens for an informed electorate hosted the forum, which also included candidates for Bemidji City Council Ward 5 seat, as well as Beltrami County Commissioner candidates. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.