Students interested in local politics will have an opportunity to meet several regional mayors tonight at 6:30 in the University Center during the “Meet the Mayors” forum.

The forum, which is organized and sponsored by the 2006 Leadership Weakley County class, will feature the mayors of Martin (Randy Brundige), Dresden (Danny Forrester), Sharon (James Gary Roberts), Greenfield (Ed McKelvy) and Ron Gifford, Weakley County mayor.

“This is a rare opportunity for citizens to hear major elected leaders in our county gathered in one location to discuss issues that affect everyone,” said Doug Obetz, president-elect of the Weakley County Chamber of Commerce and member of the Leadership Weakley County class.

“We’re grateful to these officials for agreeing to participate, and we encourage citizens to both submit questions and attend the forum,” said Obetz.

Nick Dunagan, UTM chancellor, will give the opening remarks at the forum. After which the forum will be moderated by Tommy Moore, Weakley County general sessions judge.

After the officials make their opening statements, they will then respond to questions submitted earlier by Weakley County citizens. “Our hope is that this forum will become an annual event,” said Gretchen Rozeboom, Westview High School agriculture teacher and member of the leadership class.

“The more we’re all informed, the stronger Weakley County will be as we solve problems and plan for future growth,” said Rozeboom. Leadership Weakley County, which is sponsored by the Weakley County Chamber of Commerce, is a program designed to involve local citizens. The citizens participate in participate in seven seminars designed to enhance awareness and develop leadership skills.

The leadership class has several Martin members, including Bud Grimes, UTM Director of University Relations.

The forum is a group project by the 2006 leadership class.