GWRABA to Host Roanoke City Council Candidate Forum at October Member Luncheon

Nonpartisan forum will give Roanoke’s business community an opportunity to hear directly from City Council candidates on issues affecting local businesses and the city’s economic future

Roanoke, VA. September 24, 2026 — The Greater Williamson Road Area Business Association (GWRABA) will host a City Council Candidate Forum during its October Member Luncheon on Tuesday, October 20, from noon to 2 pm in the Bella Vista Room at the Berglund Center.

With the November 3rd general election approaching, the forum is designed to give members of Roanoke’s business community an opportunity to hear directly from candidates seeking to serve on Roanoke City Council.

“This forum is about providing our members with meaningful information about the individuals seeking to represent them while also giving candidates an opportunity to hear and better understand the priorities and concerns of Roanoke’s business community,” said Valerie Brown, executive director of GWRABA. “We want to create a productive conversation centered on the issues that directly impact businesses and our community’s economic future.”

GWRABA October Member Luncheon — City Council Candidate Forum

Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Time: Noon - 2 pm
Location: Bella Vista Room, Berglund Center, Roanoke, Virginia

*Anyone planning to attend and who wants lunch (no cost to attendee) must RSVP to Valerie@williamsonroad.org no later than October 14th.

Candidates who have confirmed their participation include:

David Bowers, Independent
Kathy Cohen, Independent
Stephanie Moon Reynolds, Independent
Amanda Marko, Republican
S.M. “Danny” Clawson, Democrat

Democratic candidates Vivian Sanchez-Jones and Raekwon Moore have also been invited to participate but had not confirmed their attendance as of the date of this release. Candidate participation is subject to change.

Moderator for the GWRABA Candidate Forum will be Gene Marrano, award-winning radio journalist for WFIR/Wheeler Broadcasting.

The structured, nonpartisan forum will focus specifically on issues affecting Roanoke’s business community and economic climate. Topics are expected to include economic development, public safety, workforce challenges, taxes and fees, infrastructure, housing, business growth and retention, and the overall business climate in the City of Roanoke.

About GWRABA

The Greater Williamson Road Area Business Association (GWRABA) is dedicated to supporting local businesses, fostering economic development, and building community pride along the Williamson Road corridor. Through advocacy, events, and partnerships, GWRABA creates opportunities for growth and connection.