Why vote in local elections?
24 September 2013
Well why not? After all, many people regard voting as a citizen's duty. And there is no point in complaining about a council policy if we haven't made the effort to vote for the people we want to represent us.
Voting is one of the things that separate democracies from other forms of government. It reminds us that central and local government exist to serve the people, and it is our ability to vote that ensures governments and councils don't get complacent.
Voting is one of the ways for communicating to our councils and elected representatives what we think is important. It is through voting, and also making submissions and other forms of communication, that we let our representatives know what we think and whether we are happy with the manner in which they have managed local issues.
An important responsibility of elected members is to make choices about how public resources will be allocated. When preparing long terms plans, for example, elected members will be making decisions about how much to invest in different services, such as libraries, swimming pools, roading, water supplies, culture and sports events, and economic development.
It is through voting that we ensure our elected members reflect our values and understand local priorities. Of course, they must still make decisions based on the greater good of the community as a whole, including generations yet to come.
Residents should by now have received their voting papers in the post if they are on the electoral roll. Even if you have not yet enrolled you may still have time to do so, however, you will then need to contact the council in order to make a special vote.
Completed voting papers must be received before 12 noon on Saturday 12 October.