Questions addressed public safety and crime, youth violence, the Louisville Metro Police Department’s budget and how residents should help shape police policies and priorities. Candidates were also asked whether reopening the youth detention center would curb violence; the debate’s published breakdown did not include their answers to those questions.

Economic development and technology were also on the agenda. The candidates were asked what role data centers should play in Louisville, whether the city should restrict where they can be built, and whether projects should receive tax incentives or other public assistance. Other questions focused on the use of artificial intelligence by Metro government and whether residents should be notified when AI informs decisions about them.

The forum also raised issues with direct effects on household budgets and access to opportunity: the shortage of affordable housing, barriers facing people who are homeless, and funding pressures at TARC, the region’s public transit system. Candidates were asked how they would improve downtown and support growth beyond NuLu, including in south and west Louisville, as well as how the mayor could support Jefferson County Public Schools and encourage graduates to stay in the area.

Additional questions covered infrastructure priorities, government transparency and accountability, and each candidate’s record and case for election. The debate came as voters prepared to choose between the incumbent mayor and Parrish-Wright in the Nov. 3 general election.