FreepOpinion live chats kick off today at noon. They're a chance for readers to put questions to the hopefuls.

First up: City Council candidate John Bennett, 46, who runs the website Detroit Uncovered. His chat will be held here: http://freep.com/article/20090908/OP...ohn-K.-Bennett

Says Bennett: "I'm the only current organized labor rank-and-file city employee in this race, and that's important ... when you look at the cuts the mayor is talking about. I think you need someone who has a care and concern for city employees."
You can see Bennett's answers to the Free Press questionnaire here: http://www.publius.org/info/freep/cc_johnbennett.pdf

Up today at 12:30 p.m.: Detroit City Charter Commission candidate Cara Blount, 60, a retired deputy police chief. Her chat will be held here: http://freep.com/article/20090908/OP...e-Cara-Blount-
A graduate of the University of Detroit with an advanced degree from Wayne State University, Blount believes Detroiters would be better served if at least some City Council members were elected by and accountable to single-member districts, and favors giving council more authority to advise or overrule the mayor in some circumstances.
You can see Blount's answers to the Free Press questionnaire here:
http://www.publius.org/info/aug09/charter/blount.pdf

If you miss the live chat, you'll be able to view transcripts at: freep.com/haveyoursay