New Yorkers Can Voice Their Concerns At Town Hall Meetings Ahead Of Mayoral Debates

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Plans were announced Thursday afternoon for debates in the New York City's mayoral race, and CBS2, 1010 WINS and WCBS 880 will be holding town hall meetings to hear from you in advance.

Members of the New York City Campaign Finance Board stood on the steps of City Hall announcing plans for the debates, which the candidates must attend if they take public funds.

"Our sponsor groups have created robust plans for incorporating the voices of New Yorkers into these public conversations about our city's future," said Amy Loprest of the Campaign Finance Board. "The results will be a series of debates reaching a broad and diverse audience."

Half of the debate schedule was awarded to a group that includes CBS2, 1010 WINS, and WCBS 880, as well as Common Cause, the New York Immigration Coalition, and City University of New York.

Dick Dadey, the executive director of Citizens Union, told 1010 WINS' Carol D'Auria the debates are a great way to judge the candidates.

"This year, we see three incumbents running for reelection, and these debates will be an opportunity to hold them accountable for the promises that they made to the voters four years, ago," he said.

The Campaign Finance Board has set the first mayoral primary debates for Aug. 16 and Aug. 23. Mayoral general election debates will be held Oct. 10 and Nov. 1, and there will also be debates for city comptroller and public advocate.

CBS2's Maurice DuBois will be moderating the debates, and was on hand Thursday to talk about how vital they are to the city.

In preparation for the debates, CBS2 is holding a series of town hall meetings to hear from New Yorkers. Please give your input at the first one on Monday night at Lehman College in the Bronx at 7 p.m.

You can also participate online here at CBSNewYork.com.