Unlike the high-stakes national politics that are often reflected in the media and on social media, local elections happen every year and have a profound impact on daily life. Local elected officials make decisions that affect schools, housing, transportation and police. They create budgets that determine funding for local services and programs like parks, emergency services, and school construction. Local elections also decide whether your hard-earned tax dollars will go to help your community. Some of the most successful policy changes start at the local level and grow into national movements.
Because turnout is so low in local elections, every vote matters more. In fact, local decisions can be decided by a single vote. Local elections can also be impacted by disinformation campaigns that sow doubt about the importance of local elections or voting procedures, thereby discouraging participation.
Local government officials should promote civic education through the media and local events. They should provide voters with easy-to-access information about the election, including how and where to vote, and encourage people to participate by offering early voting opportunities. This can be done through websites, email notifications, cable channels and social media, as well as in person or by mail. Officials should also make sure that all local voting facilities are accessible to people with disabilities and people with limited mobility, and ensure that these voters are included in the electoral process. In addition, they should consider implementing technology that allows residents to submit their concerns directly to their elected officials through online portals or a mobile app.