Final Mayoral Debate Before Next Weeks Election in Fort Wayne, IN

On stage together for the final time before next week's election Democrat Tom Henry and Republican Matt Kelty faced off for one final time. The hour long debate was held at Indiana/Purdue University Fort Wayne and was sponsored by WANE TV.

Unlike the previous debate, the effect of Kelty's nine-count indictment was directly asked of the two candidates, specifically whether Fort Wayne would look bad for electing a candidate facing seven felony and two misdemeanor charges. Kelty was indicted this year on campaign finance violations and perjury.

Kelty responded "I am not guilty, Let me say that again. I am not guilty."

Kelty said dealing with the legal issues is difficult but said a sign of leadership is how someone handles adversity.

Henry responded by saying "Just because a person is indicted does not mean they are guilty. We must as a community realize the difference between these two," Henry said. "I truly hope these charges are dismissed."

The candidates did disagree on some matters, especially economic development. Kelty said the community has too many economic development boards and commissions and it would make more sense to consolidate many of their functions into the role of the Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance. Henry, however, supports bringing the heads of all the different groups together to ensure they are working toward a common goal. The two also took their usual sides on the Harrison Square debate, with Henry supporting the project and Kelty condemning it.

When asked whether the other would make a good candidate for mayor. "I believe he would make a fine mayor," Kelty said of Henry. "I think my opponent would make a good mayor," Henry said of Kelty. Henry then joked, "I think he would be a great mayor if he would make me his deputy mayor."

"All the joking aside hopefully last nights debate will help the Fort Wayne community make wise decisions as the get out and elect a new mayor next week" one spectator said.

Elections will be held next week and the race is expected to be close.