On Thursday, Nov. 2, the Essex Library will sponsor a forum to provide local citizens with an opportunity to hear from candidates vying against each other in this year’s election for first selectman. Incumbent Norm Needleman (D) and challenger Vin Pacileo (R) will appear at 7 p.m. at the Essex Town Hall auditorium. Essex Library Director Richard Conroy will serve as moderator.

The format will be a free-flowing discussion between the two based on questions submitted in advance by Essex residents. Potential questions can be dropped off in person at the library or sent via email to rconroy@essexlib.org or by U.S. mail to: Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT 06426. Questions should be relevant to issues that pertain to Essex, and not reflect a bias toward either candidate.

In a new twist from the debates sponsored by the library in the past, cards will also be available at the door that can be used by those who attend the forum to write questions for the candidates. The final two questions asked will be selected from the pool of possibilities submitted in that manner. Pre-registration is not necessary to attend, but call the library at 860-767-1560 with any questions related to the forum.