Two candidates running for state Senate met in Oak Harbor Wednesday for a community forum.

State Sen. Barbara Bailey, R-Oak Harbor, and challenger Angie Homola, D-Oak Harbor, went head to head on issues at Regency on Whidbey, a retirement and assisted living community.

Sande Mulkey, community ambassador for Regency, asked the two candidates questions and gave each candidate three minutes to respond.

The candidates were asked what their highest priority would be if elected. They were also asked what their plans would be to maintain and enhance programs for senior citizens in Island County.

Homola said she believes that the Public Works trust fund was “swept” by the Legislature leaving little to no funds to support various programs.

“My opponent has not done her homework,” Bailey responded. “That is just not the truth.”

“I recently got my ,aster’s degree in environmental law and graduated summa cum laude from Vermont Law School,” Homola said. “I have never been accused of not doing my homework.”

While the candidates had differences, both said they agree that serving the aging population in the community is a priority.

Services such as public transportation, sidewalks and community senior centers should be available to enhance quality of life for all, they said.