Keeping young professionals in Ames was a topic addressed by mayoral and City Council candidates at a forum Monday night.

Candidates shared their visions during an open forum sponsored by the Ames Chamber of Commerce, Women’s League of Voters and the Young Professionals of Ames.

“I am a true young professional and I think we need to help them really buy in and take ownership of the community,” said Jeremy Davis, 3rd Ward candidate. “We need to carry on open dialogue to help them understand the issues and why they are important.”

Ryan Doll, 3rd Ward candidate and senior in political science, said he agreed with Davis on open discussions but added the council needs to reach out more and go to where the young professionals are.

“The Young Professionals of Ames is a wonderful group that gives an opportunity to step up and make a difference in the city,” said Robin Habeger, 1st Ward candidate. “The young professionals would like a voice and I hope to lead by example.”

Jon Shelness, mayoral candidate, said opening up Ames’ government is an important step in getting young people involved at the local level.

“I want to open the city government to make it more transparent,” he said.

Daryle Vegge, 3rd Ward candidate, said getting involved in city committees and groups can help get young professionals involved in the government policies.

Plans to keep Ames economically vibrant differentiated between candidates, but the one solution everyone agreed upon was providing more amenities to residents.

Dan Rice, 1st Ward candidate, said expanding the biotechnology industry and making Ames more progressive with innovation could bring in more jobs.

Russ Cross, at-large candidate, said biotechnology is important but assessment is needed to determine where it is heading.

“This is a rapidly changing world and we need to make sure that’s still the vision,” he said.

Ann Campbell, mayoral candidate, said quality of life attracts people to Ames and, in turn, that will provide a vibrant economy.

“We need to attract young families with amenities such as rec facilities and our schools,” she said.

Jim Popken, at-large candidate, said providing successful jobs and entertainment opportunities is important.

“Programs like the research park and the industrial park are great,” Popken said. “Recreational opportunities, in particular a pool, and the arts are also important.”