The views stated here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors of this newspaper. We welcome supporting or opposing views on any published item. Received November 2, 2023.
This Election Day, we each have an opportunity to make our voice heard. It is reported that only one in three eligible voters vote in municipal elections. While state and federal elections typically result in greater voter participation, municipal elections have a significant impact on our daily lives and who we elect to manage our towns is vitally important.
These public servants, many of whom are volunteers, are tasked with issues that touch residents across the life span. These issues may include affordable housing and land use, transportation and road maintenance, town infrastructure, the environment and waste management, public health and safety, funding for the local library, fire department or senior center, and, of course, education of the young, and property taxes.
Our public officials are the folks who determine policy and ordinances, plan the town budget, and provide routine and emergency management. Municipal elections provide us with an opportunity to elect candidates who will be our voice and advocate for the issues that are important to us. For
example, members of the school board are the link between the classroom and the community.
They set policy about how and what students learn, determine curriculum, and prepare budgets, in addition to dealing with social and cultural issues impacting youth today. School board members also typically decide on funding for sports, music, the arts, and after-school programs. They also establish guidelines for teachers and other personnel, as well as make hiring decisions for school and district administrators.
The candidates we vote for will have a major impact on our daily lives. Learn who they are and how they will contribute to better town governance. Leadership matters. Your vote is your voice. Be involved. Stay involved. VOTE on November 7th. It is democracy in action.
Claire Walsh, Killingworth
