League of Women Voters President Mary Houska opened the Christiansburg candidates forum Thursday night with a telling remark about the enthusiasm that exists for the town's government.

"I'm delighted to see people here," she said. "Two years ago, no one showed up."

For a town where council meetings are all but deserted and only five people cared to view the comprehensive plan, one of the league's two questions seemed particularly pointed.

Do you think Christiansburg citizens should be more involved, the league asked. Identify some issues and how you would involve the citizens.

About 30 people listened to the five candidates running for three open town council seats answer that question and several others. Richard Ballengee, mayoral candidate, answered questions too, though he's unopposed.

All the candidates agreed there wasn't enough public participation, and they'd love to see more.

Tacy Newell-Foutz, owner of Coffee Depot in Christiansburg and a former school board member, said she'd like to see the town's newsletter resurrected and the town take a more active role in facilitating groups getting together. She'd also like to see more information on the town Web site.

Ernie Wade, who was appointed to council eight months ago after another member left, said that as he campaigned from house to house, only about 5 percent of the people he talked to had any complaints. Maybe that's why they don't participate, he said: They're happy.

Brad Stipes, vice president of Anderson & Associates and a member of the Christiansburg Planning Commission, said local government is stronger if more people are involved and he'd support any new ideas to get people connected.

Dale Ashworth, an incumbent and vice mayor since 2005, said if people come to the meetings, they'd find out more. He'd like to see people more involved in planning.

Ann Carter, also an incumbent and a member of the regional library board, said residents should try to stay informed. She suggested more coverage or forums.

Richard Ballengee, a longtime council member and former school administrator, said there are already avenues for people to get involved, such as the public address section of council meetings. Officials' contact information is online and in the phone book, he said, and residents should get in touch.

Throughout the evening, candidates were in relative agreement. Most said they weren't satisfied with how the town's aquatic center and revitalization projects had been delayed, but felt sure they were on track now.

Several said they'd encourage more biking and walking opportunities and outdoor recreation areas in new housing developments.

The election is May 2.

Biographical information and more from the forum can be found at civic.bev.net/lwvmc.