A forum will be held for the Charleston City Council and the Charleston School Board candidates tonight at 7 p.m. at the Coles County Center of Human Services on 18th Street in preparation for elections on April 17.

Council members Jeff Lahr and Larry Rennels are running for re-election while Tim Newell and T. K. Slaughter are vying for seats on the council.

The candidates will make opening statements, participate in a question-and-answer session and will be able to read their closing statements at the forum.

The election for the board has five candidates competing for three seats.

Members Jeff Coon and Kelly Miller are seeking re-election along with Jerry Esker, Ron Gholson and, former board member, Jack Moore.

City council candidates plan to participate in the forum from 7-8 p.m., and the School Board candidates from 8:15-9:30 p.m.