The Election Where Your Vote Does Count

If you've listened with any regularity to the radio show, you may have noticed that I have a somewhat “ho-hum” attitude when it comes to engaging in presidential elections. It's not that I don't participate in those elections, or that I don't have interest in the outcome. But the reality is that my participation in these national contests results in one vote among millions.

And knowing that I won't have that much impact on national policy with that one vote, I study the positions of the candidates, compare them to my core beliefs, chose the candidate who best matches up with those beliefs, cast my vote, and then move on with my life.

When I came to that decision some years ago, I have to tell you, my life became so much more focused on the things that I need to do to get myself to the goals I want to accomplish.

However, there is an election coming up that has my utmost attention and involvement, and, I believe it should be of more importance to all of you reading this. I'm talking about the municipal elections coming up here in our communities in southern Utah. It is in these elections that our votes have the most impact, and where we have the most influence.

Moreover, it is in these elections that we select the leaders who will most likely have the most impact on our day to day lives.

A city council wields substantial influence over the development, governance, and overall trajectory of a municipality. Comprising elected representatives who act as the voice of the community, a city council's impact is far-reaching and affects various aspects of urban life.

Firstly, a city council plays a pivotal role in shaping the local policies and regulations that govern the city. Through deliberations, debates, and decision-making processes, they establish zoning laws, building codes, and land use regulations. This directly impacts the physical appearance, infrastructure, and functionality of the city. For instance, they determine where commercial zones are located, how green spaces are preserved, and how new developments align with the city's vision.

Secondly, the city council has a direct influence on the allocation of public resources. They are responsible for drafting and approving the city's budget, thereby deciding how funds are distributed across sectors such as education, public safety, transportation, and healthcare. This allocation reflects the council's priorities and can profoundly affect the quality of life for residents. A well-balanced budget can lead to improved public services and infrastructure, while a mismanaged one might lead to shortcomings in essential areas.

Furthermore, the city council serves as a bridge between the local government and the community. They hold meetings, forums, and town halls to gather input from citizens, ensuring that policies align with the needs and wishes of the population. This participatory approach enhances democratic governance and fosters a sense of ownership and pride among residents.

And more to the point, since these council members are, in some cases, literally our neighbors, we know how to find them and get their attention when we have an issue we feel passionate about.

Equally important, the council's decisions can influence the economic vitality of the city. By creating a business-friendly environment, they attract investment, stimulate job creation, and drive economic growth. Additionally, their decisions on issues like taxes and incentives can determine the financial well-being of local businesses and residents alike.

Our ballots arrived in the mail the other day, and so the time is at hand for our communities to make the choices as to who will be guiding the direction we will be moving for the next few years.

Here in Cedar City, there are seven candidates looking to move forward from the primary election on September 5^th to the general election in November. Up in Parowan, an astonishing 10 candidates are looking forward to advancing from the primary to the general election.

So, we have choices to make, and while I won't be telling you how you should vote in these elections, I will implore you to vote. I hope we come to regard it as more important who sits in city hall than who sits in the White House.

We will decide who serves on the city councils in our municipalities here in southern Utah and we need to make good choice as to who will serve on the council in our town. Its decisions resonate with the character and aspirations of the city and directly affect the daily lives of its residents.