Local elections vitally important, Herbert says

OREM — Who cares about local elections?

You should. So says Utah Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert, the state's chief elections officer

"Sometimes we think it's so important who we elect to the governor's office, yet we neglect the importance of . . . our town mayors and council people," Herbert said.

"There's a bigger voter turnout on even years because usually there's a statewide election . . . and somehow in our minds we think it's more important, but it's not. Local government people are the heart and soul of our democratic republic."

The day-to-day issues of a city — paying for police and fire stations and providing water and electrical services — are decided by the mayor and the city council. Those elected officials also deal with taxes, zoning and development.

Do you care yet?

"Local government really is where most people receive their government services," Herbert said. "Local government people pick up your garbage, fix potholes and make sure the roads you drive on every day are maintained."

Herbert said the State Elections Office tries to promote civic awareness and increase voter turnout by helping residents see how crucial these elected positions are. He also travels to schools, encouraging college and high school students to vote.

Since his 21st birthday, Herbert said, he has never missed an election.

Occasionally, however, with busy schedules, the November elections simply fall off the must-do radar. "I think people generally think it's important to vote, but it's, 'Gosh, was that today? I forgot,' " Herbert said. "There is a need to have a reminder."

Reminders during election season, though, seem to be on every surface that doesn't move. They are plastered on lawns and buildings — colorful signs of candidates trying to gain name recognition. And there also are myriad Web sites and "meet the candidate nights" to help encourage public involvement.

And no matter how big or small the city — or how heated the campaign — becoming educated and showing support for the political process is what's important, say civic leaders and government officials.

"If you care about the impact government has in your lives, you'll understand how important it is to go out and vote for mayors and city council," Herbert said.

The Provo/Orem Chamber of Commerce is spreading the word, sending almost 900 e-mails to local businesses with information about candidates and reminders to vote.

"Local mayors and city council members probably have a bigger impact on you as a local citizen than the president of the United States does," said Steve Densley, chamber president.