NATCHEZ — The five candidates for mayor of Natchez will take the stage for the first time tonight at the Natchez Convention Center.

The Natchez-Adams County Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a mayoral candidate forum from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

The event is open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend, said Stephanie Hutchins, a member of the chamber’s legislative committee.

The mayoral candidates are, Larry L. “Butch” Brown, Democrat; Bill Furlow, Independent; Jake Middleton, Democrat; Phillip West, Democrat; Robert E. “Bob” Buie, Republican.

Candidates will be allowed to give introductory remarks before answering prepared questions asked by a moderator.

All candidates who choose to attend will be present while their opponents talk.

Questions will be those submitted by the community to the chamber and written questions from the floor.

To submit a question today, e-mail natchezchamber@natchezchamber.com.

Candidates will also be given time for closing remarks.

The primary election is May 1. The general election is June 5.