Stockton citizens, city leaders unite in search for solutions

Submitted by Paul Janes, News 10 Web Producer

STOCKTON, CA - Many Stockton residents have questions they want answered and are seeking solutions to the challenges facing their city.

On Sept. 27 at 7:00 p.m. ABC News10 will host "Stockton in Crisis, Searching for Solutions," a free town hall forum held at University of Pacific's Long Theatre.

The event will present a five-party panel featuring, Mayor Ann Johnston, District Attorney James Willett, Deputy Chief of Police Rick Salsedo, Eberhardt School of Business Professor and Director of University of the Pacific's Business Forecasting Center, Jeff Michaels, as well as Pastor Glenn R. Shields, a community representative and religious advocate. These individuals will comment on the issues facing the City of Stockton, and provide feedback to questions posed by the audience.

"We want to use News10's strong voice to reach beyond coverage of crime and bankruptcy. Our journalists who live and work in Stockton are advocates for strengthening the community. This event will allow us to discuss problems, but more importantly it will bring the community together to find solutions," said News10 News Director, Jerome Parra

"Higher education institutions have a responsibility to their students and community to provide forums of discussion," said Ted Leland, University of the Pacific Vice President of External Relations. "This type of event allows the University to join the dialogue and establish a neutral setting for a constructive conversation about the city's weaknesses."

News10 will be integrating audience and online questions throughout the town hall, allowing community members an opportunity to have their comments and concerns addressed directly by participants.

News10's very own Cristina Mendonsa, Dale Schornack and Stockton Reporter, Tim Daly will moderate the discussion. A live stream of the event will be available on News10.net. Reporter, Leigh Paynter will moderate the online conversation fielding questions and comments from News10 viewers.

Tickets are available via the Eventbrite order form on the Stockton in Crisis web page or you can RSVP by phone at
916-441-2345.

*Must be at least 16 years old to attend