The two candidates vying for the District 4 Commission seat met Thursday night to debate their political ideas and how these ideas apply to students.

Democrat John Barrow and Republican Michael LeHoullier answered questions from the moderator and the audience.

Kirk Miller, president of Young Democrats, said District 4 is of major importance, encompassing nearly all of residential student housing.

"The county commission has the most immediate impact on us," Miller said.

He also said issues such as housing ordinances and the closing time of bars are determined by the commission and are big issues to students and other citizens of Athens-Clarke County.

During opening statements, LeHoullier said his opponent was the "strongest anti-student member of the commission," and student concerns should be taken seriously.

Barrow said he has a history of "leading the way" for student issues and is the most "pro-student" member of the commission.

Barrow said his professional training and experience best qualify him for the commission seat.

"I am deeply involved in public life in the community and the University," he said.

LeHoullier said his experience in government is limited, but it made him a better candidate.

"I can bring new ideas, fire and vigor to do what needs to be done," LeHoullier said.

LeHoullier said running for a seat on the commission was a great sacrifice.

"This is too important to be selfish about," he said.

Barrow has held the District 4 seat since 1991.

Both candidates invited students to attend a county commission meeting to see how a part of local government works.

"That’s one thing we can both agree on," LeHoullier said. "We would both like to see more students at commission meetings."

The debate was sponsored by Young Democrats. Also sponsored by the organization was a question and answer session with Democratic State Senate candidate Doug Haines Thursday night at Phi Kappa Hall. The town hall format meeting was open to all students.

Mara Gassmann, executive director of Young Democrats and moderator of the debate, said every vote counts, especially in local elections.

Oct. 10 is the last day to register to vote for those wishing to vote in November’s presidential election.