ST. CHARLES – Four St. Charles mayoral candidates fielded residents’ questions at a forum Thursday, focusing on issues ranging from empty downtown storefronts to Charlestowne Mall.

Candidates Jake Wyatt, Jotham Stein, Ray Rogina and John Rabchuk are vying for the position, and all four attended the forum hosted by the westside neighborhood group 2R2R at the Baker Community Center.

When candidates were asked about what they would do to improve the downtown area, Rogina said he thinks the “blooming rose” of the downtown area is the Arcada Theatre. He suggested that renewing the Arcada by upgrading its heating system, seats and restrooms, for example, would lead to an expansion of broader cultural opportunities downtown. He suggested putting together a task force comprised of civic and cultural leaders to offer a “helping hand” to downtown businesses.