POST FALLS - Three candidates each boasted distinct strengths to make them the best candidate for the Nov. 5 election.

Jayson Cornwell and Christi Fleischman both challenge incumbent Betty Ann Henderson for Post Falls City Council seat No. 4.

Fleischman, a 38-year-old who co-owns Knock Marketing and Design, said she has the experiences of starting the business during the recession and finding ways to make it successful. That can-do attitude would spread to the council, she said.

"I love Post Falls, but I think that we have some work to do," she said during the forum at City Hall. "What Post Falls needs is an identity (starting with a vibrant downtown core)."

Henderson, 81, is a retired Realtor who formerly owned a home-management corporation. She said her experience on the council and understanding of residents' concerns is an asset to the city.

"Whenever someone calls or sends an email, I respond," she said.

Cornwell, a 28-year-old corrections officer with Spokane County Detention Services, said leadership skills set him apart.

"I'm not only tested, but I'm combat-tested," said Cornwell, who was deployed to Iraq twice and currently serves with the Air National Guard.

Cornwell also recently graduated from Gonzaga University with a master's degree in organizational leadership. He said he's running for council because he believes it can use some younger blood and someone who will bring fresh ideas.

He believes the city can develop better ways to improve communication with residents. Cornwell said residents have also told him that the lighting can be improved in some areas and that manhole covers in streets need to be fixed.

Rallying volunteers, through programs such as Adopt-a-Street and Neighborhood Watch, would be a priority to him to maximize city resources.

Fleischman said more sidewalks are needed in the city to make it more pedestrian-friendly. She said one of her strengths is problem solving.

"I'm not opinionated, but I'm decisive," Fleischman said. "I will not bring my opinions to the city council; I'll bring an open mind and make sure decisions align with the city's strategic vision statement."

Henderson said she'd strive for getting citizens more involved before decisions are made.

She said her suggestion at a recent meeting to form a committee to explore ways to curb abuse of the courtesy snow removal program is an example of ideas she would continue to bring to the table.

"I'm proud of the management of our city," she said. "Everyone works great together."