In two weeks, residents will pull the red, white and blue curtain closed and make their selection to pave the way for a new board member they hope will make changes to the current regime – or support an incumbent they feel has worked to make their towns and school system better for them.
But that number of residents who make their mark is far too low. Nov. 6 marks a day for you to have an opportunity to have your voice heard. It is a chance for you to help in the planning of your city or town’s future.
Driving through town, signs touting candidates are littered on front lawns and busy intersections – but education is key and there is still time to make sure you know more about the person asking for your vote than just the color of their advertisement.
These days it is far too easy to learn about the candidates – and it is simply unacceptable for residents not to know what they stand for. Candidate’s nights are the perfect opportunity to get up close and personal with those wanting to serve you. Attend them and ask the questions you want to know. If you are unable to attend in person, check your local cable access program where they are scheduled to run repeatedly up until Election Day.
Candidates also are happy to speak with you over the phone or through email. Take the time to learn what they have to offer. The Leader is also hoping to help you make an educated choice and we will feature overviews of the candidates and the ballot questions in its pages for the next three weeks.
And, while Nov. 6 is the official day to cast your votes, with polls open 12 hours for your convenience, you can also head to town hall at any time during open hours and cast an absentee ballot.
There is no excuse for not having your voice heard.