Benton County | TBD Date/Location

Town Hall Rules

1) Format and fairness (90 Minutes / 3 Candidates)

• This is a community-led, nonpartisan town hall.

• The moderator enforces the same rules for everyone.

• All candidates receive equal time (including any follow-up questions).

2) Speaking order (random draw before the event)

• Speaking order is determined by a random draw before the event (A–B–C).

Opening statements (3 minutes each)

• A–B–C (random draw)

Questions (rotating order each round)

• Q1: A–B–C

• Q2: B–C–A

• Q3: C–A–B (repeat as needed for additional questions)

Closing statements (2 minutes each)

3) Time limits (strict)

• Answer time: 90 seconds per candidate per question

• Moderator follow-up (if needed): up to 30 seconds per candidate

• Time limits are enforced. A large visible timer will be provided so candidates can track their time.

• The moderator/timekeeper will give a 10-second warning, and microphones may be cut when time expires.

• If a follow-up is asked, it will be offered to each candidate under the same time limit.

4) Questions

• Questions are submitted by county residents to the moderator.

• The moderator may combine duplicates and rephrase for clarity (without changing meaning).

• Candidates answer the same question in the same round.

5) Audience conduct

• Be respectful. No shouting, heckling, or personal attacks.

• Applause is welcome, but repeated interruptions may end audience participation.

• Signs are allowed if they do not block views or create disruption.

6) Candidate conduct

• Address the question and respect time limits.

• No personal attacks, threats, or discriminatory language.

• No direct engagement with audience members during Q&A (all through the moderator).

7) Campaign materials

• No fundraising during the event.

• Campaign materials may be placed only in a designated area (if provided), not distributed during Q&A.

8) Late arrival

• If a candidate arrives late, they may participate upon arrival, but time is not extended and the event schedule will

not be delayed.

9) Recording

• The event may be recorded and posted publicly.

• By attending, candidates and audience members acknowledge they may appear on video.