POST FALLS - Post Falls mayoral candidates fired questions at each other during Thursday night's forum at City Hall.

Ron Jacobson accused Kerri Thoreson of not being as firm against tax increases as she says she has been. He asked her why she voted in favor of a hike two years ago at the time when an ordinance was passed, altering her previous stance.

Thoreson said the decision had all but been made at that point in the procedural process based on votes from the other council members. "It was a moot point," she told Jacobson in front of 40 people.

Thoreson fired back, asking whether Jacobson would be up for fulfilling the mayoral job since he already has a full-time job as a senior vice president for Inland Northwest Bank. She said her work as a semi-retired independent writer and photographer would allow more flexibility than what Jacobson can offer.

"It's not an issue," Jacobson said. "If it was an issue, I would not be running for the position of mayor."

Jacobson said he's spoken with his employer about how he can make it work if he is elected. He said he's willing to start his days early and end them late to be at the city, that he'll be accessible and has some flexibility during the day, as evidenced by filling in for Mayor Clay Larkin in the past.

He said Larkin, who is retired, is the first to admit he spends more time at the city in the part-time position than he needs to. Larkin opted to not seek re-election on Nov. 5.

Both mayoral candidates are current City Council members, long-time Post Falls residents who have done extensive community service, and want to attract new businesses to ease the tax burden on residents.

Thoreson, former publisher/editor of the Post Falls Tribune and a former executive director of the Post Falls Chamber of Commerce, lost to Larkin for the mayoral position in 2001.

Thoreson, 61, said serving as mayor has been her goal ever since. "It's time (to be elected as mayor)," she said.

Thoreson touted her ability to work with people, form relationships for a common good, and her love for the community. She considers her management style as being participatory and wants to create enthusiasm both at City Hall and in the community.

Jacobson, 57, said his financial background in the banking industry for 35 years would be an asset. He's also a certified public accountant. That experience, he said, would help the city lure new businesses.

Jacobson said he would continue efforts Larkin has started, including leading the Mayor's Youth Commission and efforts to attract a state veterans' home to Post Falls. He also wants to establish a new commission to improve the veterans section at Evergreen Cemetery and organize events that honor the military.