- Watch the debate online and read a recap of what the candidates discussed
- Watch a replay of the debate on TV on Oct. 4 at 3:06 a.m.
- Head to Facebook and Twitter (using the hashtag #debate3) to see what Memphians were talking about during the events with WREG’s Adam Hammond and April Thompson
- Read a play-by-play of the debate below
Wharton reminds viewers that he couldn’t do as much without Collins’ and Strickland’s votes on City Council — “Where were they? … It’s easy to criticize.”
Strickland points out increased ratings in dangerous crime, unemployment and poverty rate. “We need a better Memphis after eight years … I believe I’m the man who understands our problems and has a sense of urgency to fix them.”
Collins says he is “someone who’s going to work for you, hard, every day … I will fight for you.”
Preventing population loss needs to be a top priority, Strickland says, adding that reducing crime will help this.
Wharton wants to focus on increasing property values in the city and developing the core city. “Density is our friend.” He emphasizes increasing value over increasing tax rate.
Collins says Lipscomb had so many roles, it was hard to know what was going on.
“I’m big on making sure that one person does one job.” — Collins
Collins proposed a small increase, but Strickland counters this has nothing to do with the benefits cut.
Collins challenges Strickland.
A property tax increase would hurt Memphis; our property tax is driving people away, Strickland says.
When you cast a vote, “you need to see it to the other side,” Collins says, adding that the mayor should be able to foresee potential consequences to his actions.
Strickland’s campaign has focused on being tough on crime; he rejects the notion that he has voted against crime fighting in the past.
“There are a number of things that we’re open to change.” — Wharton
Strickland highlights accountability as the biggest issue with Memphis Animal Services. He calls for cameras and animal advocates.
“If you’re not ready to hold your employees accountable, how will you be willing to stand up and tell the truth to the city?” — Collins
Collins says having the right staffing is important — “the operation needs overhauling.”
The public is chatting about Memphis Animal Services, and how the candidates will help.
Collins frustrated with difficulty of getting bus routes to Nonconnah business district. He says “we need need new ways of thinking.”
Wharton says MATA suffered due to a “financial predicament,” but Memphis has received funding to redirect bus routes to be more useful, which is being done right now, and is developing alternate forms of transportation.
Strickland wants to move to the grid system for public transportation and give businesses an incentive to build near a bus route.
“Help’s on the way,” Strickland says, promising “massive change” come Oct. 8.
“There are some challenges in our city, but we as adults need to be responsible for our actions and where we go.” — Collins.
How would the candidates respond to Memphians or visitors who say they don’t feel safe in our city?
Wharton points out Strickland’s past actions against laws that would help address blight.
Strickland has created a program and grant to address blight; he says he will expand these programs to further fight the issue.
“The vote on the benefit cut was the hardest vote I ever had in my life,” Strickland says. Blames issue on Mayor Wharton’s refinancing and state requirement to fully fund pensions. Strickland says he will give full transparency.
“I’m not going to make a promise” about benefits, Wharton says. The money needs to come from somewhere, he says.