COLUMBIA, MO. -- Columbia residents got the opportunity to meet their 1st ward candidates Saturday at a community forum.   

The event was held specifically for the African-American population to learn more about the individuals running to lead their community.

The first ward candidates participated in a community consultation live over the radio on KOPN 89.5 fm.

Each candidate had about 15 minutes to share their thoughts, they had open dialogue and listened to viewpoints, considerations, and took questions from the community.

"It's a forum to give the people a chance to share their thoughts consult with the candidates, not just the candidates that share their viewpoints,” event organizer Tyree Byndom said.  “I want it to then have some type of collectivity.  At the end we are going to do a secret ballot vote and that vote is going to be the reccomendation from the black community to vote for a candidate."

Byndom said he hopes the forum will bring the community together to have one voice.

Darell foster, Pam Forbes, Mitch Richards and Fred Schmidt are all in the running for the city council's first ward.

Voters will make the ultimate decision Tuesday.