TAMPA, Fla. — Retired banker David Straz has agreed to three debates with former police chief Jane Castor as both candidates prep for the Tampa mayoral run-off election. 

Heavily favored Castor, 59, and Straz, 76, emerged from the seven-person March 5 primary. Castor collected 48.1 percent of vote while Straz received 15.5 percent of vote. 

The two will debate April 5 on WEDU, April 11 on Spectrum Bay News 9 and have a debate on radio on April 12 on WTMP (1150-AM). 

The run-off election is April 23.

"I look forward to the debates," Straz said in a released statement. "And sharing my vision for Tampa with the community."

Last week, outgoing mayor Buckhorn joined Castor at WaterWorks Park in Tampa to announce his endorsement of his former police chief.

"There is only one person in this race who is equipped, who is prepared, who is ready to be the mayor of this great city," Buckhorn said.

Straz, meanwhile, said he plans to spend whatever is necessary and run an honest campaign.

Straz said he believes debates in the runoff are an important and necessary part of the process. 

"We do have a campaign to run," Straz said. "And (I) will be having a series of events and meetings with voters outside of the debate and forum process."