Monahan Says He’ll Debate Bennett

County supervisor candidate Jim Monahan said Tuesday that he will debate opponent Steve Bennett at a candidates forum at 10 a.m. Sunday at Temple Beth Torah in Ventura.

Monahan had said Monday that he was too busy to schedule a debate with Bennett. But a day later, a spokeswoman for the candidate said he would attend Sunday’s event.

The two are running for the seat being vacated by retiring Supervisor Susan Lacey, whose 1st District includes Ventura and the Ojai Valley.

Also scheduled to appear at the forum are Assemblywoman Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) and her opponent, Santa Paula City Councilwoman Robin Sullivan, and Michael Case, Democratic nominee in the 23rd Congressional District.

Rep. Elton Gallegly (R-Simi Valley), whom Case is challenging, has been invited but has not confirmed whether he will attend, said Marty Flam, moderator of the event.

The event will start with a brunch at 9:30 a.m., followed by the forum. Each candidate will be given a few minutes to speak, then the forum will be opened to questions from the floor, Flam said.

The event is free. The brunch is $7 in advance and $10 at the door. No reservations are required.

Temple Beth Torah is at 7620 Foothill Road, Ventura. For information, call 647-4181.