PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Incumbent Daniel Bianchi criticized challenger Linda Tyer for not participating in a debate in Springfield on Friday afternoon.

 

The two are seeking the corner office for the city's first four-year term. 22News out of Springfield organized the debate, which Tyer declined on Oct. 7. Bianchi went ahead with an appearance on the station and latter issued a statement saying he was disappointed Tyer hadn't showed.

 

"My opponent and I have agreed that the most important part of any campaign is the opportunity to discuss the issues facing our community; which is why, after the preliminary election, I immediately challenged my opponent to a series of debates. I was pleased that my opponent accepted the invitation immediately and, in fact, she was quoted in the local papers as saying 'bring it on.' " Bianchi wrote.

 

"Today, I participated in an empty chair debate at 22News at 12:30 p.m. I was extremely disappointed in my opponent's decision to decline 22News' invitation for a television debate."

 

Tyer, however, said she was unable to attend on Friday and declined accordingly. Bianchi challenged Tyer to five debates and she has already participated in five with another one still scheduled.

 

"Linda has eagerly participated in these important forums as she believes they are the best ways to have open, frank discussions on the many issues facing the Pittsfield. Unfortunately, she was unable to attend today's debate and that declination was provided to WWLP on Oct. 7. Linda is still working hard full time to serve the people of Pittsfield as city clerk and is doing her best to manage all of her responsibilities as city clerk and mayoral candidate," campaign officials wrote in response.

 

Bianchi said declining to participate in Friday's debate shorted voters of the chance to hear from both candidates. WWLP put on a question-and-answer period with only Bianchi.

 

"While I understand the rigors of scheduling this late in the campaign, and certainly appreciate the challenges we each face balancing our responsibilities as public officials while campaigning, I believe that the voters in Pittsfield deserve every opportunity to hear from both candidates as often as possible before Nov. 3," Bianchi wrote.

 

The two faced off in debates on Oct. 8 hosted by the Westside Initiative, Oct. 19 by the Pittsfield Gazette, on Oct. 20 by Berkshire Community College's Service Learning, on Oct. 21 with the United Educators of Pittsfield, and on Oct. 23 on the Berkshire News Network. The final debate between the two is scheduled for Oct. 29 and is being hosted by Dan Valenti.