A crowd of about 120 turned out to hear six Clutha District Council Bruce ward, three Otago Regional Council Molyneux ward and four Clutha mayoral candidates stake their claims for office.
Infrastructure, including water and roading, and council accountability were key themes for Bruce ward speakers.
Incumbent councillor Gaynor Finch said there were more reforms ahead of the council, but it was up to the task.
Mrs Finch encouraged Milton to adopt an "ambitious" stance towards business opportunities arising from developments in the town, including the extension to the Clutha Gold Trail expected next year.
Food producer Larry Frost said he had concerns about the growing debt burden of the council.
"I stand for election on a platform of accountability, affordability and [allowing ratepayers to] be heard," he said.
Farmer Dean McCrostie said, if elected, he would adopt a practical and transparent approach to office.
"I believe in honest engagement with you, the voters, and more investment in roading, other infrastructure, and housing."
Truck driving trainer Des Morris said he was simply "standing for change".
"We have ongoing, unaddressed water and infrastructure problems. If elected, I will make solving these my priority."
Waihola resident Peter Smithies said he had one reason only for running — his town’s water.
"My priority, if elected, is to give people drinkable water, instead of water even my dogs won’t drink."
Bruce Vollweiler, also an incumbent councillor, said he had seen a worrying decline in population and services for Milton over the past several years.
"I see a future of growth for the district. Infrastructure must be a first priority, but it’s the extras that define a community, such as libraries and pools."
A further meet-the-candidates evening will take place at Tapanui’s West Otago Community Centre tonight, at 7.30pm.
