April 14, 2025 La Plata Town Council Candidate Forum

 The 4/5th Democratic Club hosted a La Plata candidate forum at the Green Turtle, La Plata, on Monday, April 14. 

All candidates attended:
Mayor, Jeannine E. James (incumbent), Ralph Wayne Winkler 
Ward I, Paul C. Guttenberg, David Winkler (incumbent)
Ward II, Richard Gilpin, Patrick McCormick 
Ward III, Tarinna Olley, Gregory Sampson, Jr. 
Ward IV, Tyjon C "TJ" Johnson – unopposed  
 
Questions were provided to the candidates before the forum. 

Format:
2-minute opening statement 
2-minute response to three questions 
2-minute closing statement 

All candidates were requested to provide written or video responses after the form ended.  
The forum was recorded. 

This was an informative event. It provided an opportunity to learn about each candidate, their communication skills, and why they are running.  

Opinions expressed are solely my own and do not express the views of the Town of La Plata.

My view/takeaways: 

Candidates provided thoughtful answers.  
Some were better prepared than others 
Some responses were critical of the Town Council: 

*Approving development without the necessary infrastructure 
*Adequate Public Facilities Ordinance (APFO not done 

Full disclosure- perhaps I'm biased by criticism of the Town Council, but accept them as a current Council member (until May 12, 2025)

While these criticisms are valid, additional facts (good and bad) and perspectives are provided rather than just criticizing the town and processes. 

YouTube Video Link