By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News

The Livingston County Farm Bureau held its Candidates Forum last night at Pontiac Township High School, where candidates could answer questions and give statements in support of their campaigns.

LeAnn Dixon began the night, as she is running unopposed for the position of circuit clerk. She has worked in the clerk’s office for 18 years, saying she started at the bottom at that office and has worked her way up to where she is now.

Keri Jo Schmidt and Dan Watson are both campaigning for Livingston County Coroner. Schmidt has been a registered nurse for 21 years and has worked in various departments, from emergency departments to hospice.

Dan Watson is currently a deputy coroner for the county and also has experience as a sheriff’s deputy, fire department and ambulance service.

The two answered questions, ranging from what qualifications they bring to the position, what they would do within the department should their budget get cut and if they would implement any changes in their department should they be elected.

For state’s attorney, incumbent Seth Uphoff was joined on stage by challenger Randy Yedinak. Uphoff has served as the Livingston County State’s Attorney for more than three years and brings with him the experience he gained while working in the same office in Peoria.

Yedinak began his career in DeKalb County before working in the department in Livingston County. He is currently the state’s attorney for Ford County.

The two answered questions including explaining details of the job, whether they opposed or supported mental health and drug courts and how they expect to combat the drug problem in the county.

For more information about local races, a sample ballot or voting locations, visit livingstoncountyil.gov.