It is time to start thinking about local elections and why your vote counts.
Colorado County will have four elections on Saturday, May 3.
If you live in the Rice Consolidated Independent School District, you will elect a school board member for position 5.
Registered voters in the city limits of Eagle Lake and Weimar will have an election for city council members.
All registered voters in Colorado County will have an option to vote on the Emergency Services District 1.
It is crucial to understand the importance of local elections. These elections deserve your attention and consideration as much as the federal and presidential elections. Many of these positions and propositions impact your everyday life and your community.
On average, local elections tend to have a lower turnout but require the same resources as a state or federal election. No funding comes from state or federal resources.
Many citizens don’t realize that all elections are 100 percent funded locally by your tax dollars and yet turnout in local elections has a much higher cost per ballot cast.
City councils are members who make budget decisions. They get final votes in creating ordinances and decisions concerning utilities and services.
School board members set poli-cies and procedures, vote on funding and budgets, and play a critical role in school administration and employment.
The proposition for the Emergency Services District 1 has several town hall type meetings scheduled throughout the county for voters to ask questions. You are encouraged to attend and become informed to make your choice. Local elections are for you, your family and your community. Don’t let the opportunity to become informed and vote pass you by.
Your vote counts. Early Voting starts Tuesday, April 22 and runs weekdays through Tuesday, April 29. Election Day is Saturday, May 3.
