The three candidates for the Belmont County commissioner’s race discussed their platforms while agreeing on one issue: they’re ready for the election to be decided.

The race of the commissioner’s seat has included the story of the incumbent, who at one point during the campaign faced and beat a criminal trial. (PREVIOUS STORY: Jury finds Belmont Co. commissioner not guilty of assaulting officer). Tonight, he’s defending himself against two challengers.

Non-partisan candidate Jerry Echemann said jobs are the No. 1 issue on his agenda, along with seniors.

"They've been through a lot lately with Senior Services. I really didn't support this move to Job & Family Services and now it looks like the commissioners are already trying to get away from that, so I think we need some stability in the oversight of Senior Services," Echemann said.

Non-partisan candidate Doug Longenette said he has a whole new respect for anyone running for office, since he had to put his life on hold for this campaign. Longenette noted he's especially thankful for family support.

"Unfortunately I lost my father-in law Friday morning and we actually buried him this morning. And one of his last things is he wanted to make sure I won the election. He was one of my biggest fans. I could not have done this without the support of my family and friends," Longenette said.

NEWS9's Kate Davison will be at the Belmont County Board of Elections to report the latest results throughout the night.

Stay with NEWS9, WTOV9.com and WTOV9 Mobile for continuing Decision 2012 coverage.