Incumbent Martin Mayor Randy Brundige announced Monday he would not take part in a debate against challenger and UTM student Brent Smoyer.

The debate, which was to be sponsored by The Pacer, would have taken place at 3 p.m. Wednesday and be moderated by UTM professor Henry Parker.

Smoyer agreed to the terms of the debate last Wednesday, but Brundige cited lack of adequate preparation time and scheduling conflicts in foregoing the debate.

“Considering the late notice, I don’t really have time in my schedule to do a debate,” Brundige said. “I keep a pretty booked schedule.”

However, Brundige did say he could participate in a debate against Smoyer on the afternoon of Nov. 6, one day ahead of the Nov. 7 election.

The Pacer denied that offer, citing inadequate time to properly inform the public as to the contents of a debate at such a late hour. The debate’s timing would not allow adequate printing time for The Pacer ahead of polls opening.

Smoyer was disappointed at what he sees as a missed opportunity.

“I was looking forward to debating the mayor on both his record while in office and my own ideas for helping Martin.”