STEUBENVILLE — With the Nov. 4 general election less than two weeks away and early voting already taking place in Ohio, area residents are facing important decisions that will have a direct impact on the communities they live in.

Helping to make sure they are informed about the candidates and issues they will see on the ballot is the Ohio Valley Business and Professional Women’s Club, which once again has scheduled a meet the candidates night.

This year’s event will take place from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday in the commons area of Steubenville High School. Organizers explained the Meet the Candidates and Insight on the Issues Night will differ from the past several election seasons — there will be no panel asking questions and no back-and-forth among the candidates.

According to Amelia Taggart of the BPW, candidates who attend will have the chance to give a three-minute presentation where they will be able to introduce themselves and offer details about their backgrounds and their platforms.

Representatives from communities and organizations also will be on hand to discuss issues and levies.

Tables will be set up around the room and feature information about candidates and issues, added Taggart.

Candidates from all parts of Jefferson County have been invited to participate, Taggart explained. From the township and school board levels to seats on village and city councils to the mayor’s position, many candidates are expected to attend, she added.

There are several issues of interest on the ballot, including proposed changes to the Steubenville City Charter. Taggart explained that attendees will be able to see just how those proposals will have an impact on the charter.

Those who plan to attend the event will need to use the school’s Logan Street entrance, said Taggart, who is a co-organizer of the event with BPW member Sarita Asawa.

“This evening will give area residents a chance to get to know more about the candidates and the issues they will be voting on,” Taggart said.

It’s an important event that is in line with the club’s mission of empowering all women through advocacy, education and information, the BPW said in a press release.