McLean and Bieter answer questions from the homeless

BOISE, Idaho — Boise Mayor Dave Bieter and City Council President Lauren McLean both took part in a question and answer session with the homeless community on Thursday, Nov. 21.

The event was held at the Interfaith Sanctuary. It was not open to the public.

Organizers say they want to give the homeless population a true voice in an up close and personal meeting with the candidates before the Dec. 3 runoff election.

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The Q & A was streamed live on KTVB.COM and our YouTube page.   

Homelessness has been a major talking point throughout the campaign, as have the major issues of affordable housing, transportation and a livable wage. All things that impact the homeless community.

Guests were able to write their questions to the candidates on comment cards. This is not intended to be a debate, just a Q & A.

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Jodi Peterson-Stigers, the executive director of Interfaith Sanctuary Shelter, shared the questions and offered each candidate a chance to answer. 

Interfaith Sanctuary provides overnight shelter, a warm meal, supportive services to men, women and children who are experiencing homelessness.

We will have full report on the Q and A on the News at 10. 

RELATED: Runoff election for Caldwell City Council seat set for December 3

Meanwhile, early voting began on Monday for the Boise mayoral runoff and a runoff for a Caldwell City Council seat.

The race for Boise mayor is between incumbent Dave Bieter and City Council President Lauren McLean.

Caldwell City Council Seat 6 is between John McGee and Evangeline Beechler, the top two vote getters in the Nov. 5 election.

In Ada County, early voting is being held at two locations weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Nov. 29. They will be closed on Thanksgiving.

Voters can register on the day they vote by bringing a photo ID or proof of residence.

You may request an absentee ballot through Nov. 22 to vote by mail. The absentee ballot request form is available from the Ada County Elections website.

Ada County Early Voting Locations:

Boise City Hall – 150 N. Capitol Boulevard

Ada County Elections – 400 Benjamin Lane, Boise

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As for Caldwell voters, there will only be one voting location for the runoff.

If you're concerned about how packed it will be on December third, you can head to the Elections Office on Chicago Street to vote early.

You can do that Monday through Friday during business hours until next Friday, Nov. 29.