Opinion - Our View

POSTED: Saturday, Oct. 10, 2009

This fall's election vitally important in Whatcom County

Every two years the most important elections come along.

No, we are not talking about the Presidential election. We are talking about elections like the one this year, when a myriad of important local positions will be filled.

We believe local elections are very important. The decisions made by the people elected this November will have a very direct effect on all of our lives.

Local officials decide how much traffic there will be on your way to work, how much rural land will be paved over in our county and how high your property taxes will go.

How quickly will medics, fire trucks or police officers get to your house if you need help?

How will Bellingham's historic waterfront be redeveloped?

How will we preserve Lake Whatcom and how will we pay for it?

What services will you receive from your libraries and parks?

How much will you pay for water?

All of these questions are answered by the people elected in this year's election.

Unfortunately, tradition tells us the voting in presidential-year elections is always higher than in years when local offices and issues dominate the ballots. We encourage those of you who plan on passing on this year's elections to rethink your strategy.

In Lynden, a new mayor will be seated for the first time since Jack Louws was elected in 2001. Louws is not seeking re-election, hoping to spend more time with his family and "recharge" after eight strong years in charge of the city.

The majority of the Whatcom County Council is up for election, with at least one newcomer to be elected as one seat does not have a current or former council member on the ballot.

The majority of the Port of Bellingham commission is also on the ballot, with strong challengers threatening the re-election of long-standing incumbents.

There are also seats up for election on every council and several school boards.

County election officials are set to mail out ballots starting Wednesday, Oct. 14. Please take the time to vote in this most-important election.