Eight out of nine candidates for the Gloucester County Board of Supervisors had their first so far, and likely their only opportunity, to publicly display and defend their platforms for public office during a forum Monday night at T.C. Walker Elementary School.

Ware district candidate Andy James, still recovering from injuries related to an automobile accident, was unable to attend the forum, which was sponsored by the Middle Peninsula League of Voters and the Gloucester County Chamber of Commerce.

Several controversial topics were brought up during the forum, including what to do with Page Middle School, school funding, and whether the costs of the county’s ailing utilities department should be borne by all of the citizens.

The first question posed to the candidates was whether they would be in favor of categorical versus lump sum funding for the county’s school system.

Richard Elmore, at-large independent candidate, said both boards are elected by the people, an...