NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Beaver Mill's First Thursday discussion group for September will feature a talk with four candidates for City Council.

The group invited four of the 18 candidates who had "indicated a specific interest in exploring the best ways the city, via the council, can utilize the art community for mutual benefit," according to a press release from the group.

Appearing will be Eric Buddington, Nancy Parisien Bullett and Jennifer Breen Kirsch, and incumbent Keith Bona. Gail Sellers had been invited but will be out of town that night.

"Since this is not meant to be a full council-candidates' debate, we have limited the participants to just four candidates, so that there will be time for a discussion with all participants," said Eric Rudd of the Beaver Mill, who said another discussion may take place in October. "Obviously, the arts have been an important economic engine for the city; how we continue this relationship could determine how successful the city is in the future."

The initial First Thursday discussion in July featured Mayor Richard Alcombright and new tourism director Veronica Bosley; the August one, trademark/copyright attorney Paul Rapp.

The talk will take place Thursday, Sept. 1, from 6:30 to 8 in Leibman Studios. Light refreshments will be served. Access is in the rear of the building; turn onto McCauly Road from Beaver Street and take a left. Space is limited so attendees are asked to use the parking lot across the street from the mill to ensure parking for those with difficulty walking.

The First Thursday talks are designed for, but not limited to, the arts community.