(WSBT)The federal indictment of a South Bend police officer could become an issue in the race for mayor. Republican challenger Juan Manigault was at Tuesday's news conference at the police station before squaring off in a tense debate against Mayor Steve Luecke.

The candidates didn't see eye to eye on many issues, especially the effectiveness of the current South Bend police chief. Manigault and Luecke began attacking each others' proposed policies during opening statements.

Manigault called for a new police chief.

"I will work to build a strong and well trained police department while eliminating corruption in the department," he said.

But Luecke stood by the current chief's side.

"Our men and women in the police department are doing a great job. The leadership in our police department has been strong and effective," he said.

The debate got even more heated when it came to financing the city's spending through property taxes.

"Steve, under your administration for the past ten years, you've increased the city budget to the maximum amount possible," said Manigault.

"Yes, we did levy to the max over a number of years. Part of that was so we could provide 80 percent raises for our police and firefighters, and equipment so they can do their job well," said Luecke.

Luecke says the real problem is the income tax rate. He says a higher local income tax would decrease the tax burden on homeowners.

"We still have two-tenths of a percent available with local income tax option that would raise $3.5 million a year. I think it's important that we have a community discussion about that," said Luecke.

But Manigault says additional taxes are not the answer.

"I would freeze our budget and learn to live within our means before seeking a tax increase," said Manigault.

The candidates also addressed vacant homes and bringing more businesses to the downtown area.

Tom Brown, a third candidate from the Green Party, was also at the debate. He will be a write in candidate on the November 6 ballot.