News-Press Editorial: Remember to vote Tuesday

Glendale residents have a full plate when they go to vote Tuesday.

It looks like the rule of threes: Three measures and three open seats on the school board and city council. But wait, there’s more: Voters will make their choice for city clerk, and, depending on the outcome to Measure A, we will have a newly-elected city treasurer.

Things are improving on the economic front, but we are far from financial stability. We need wise, trustworthy and dedicated leaders, more now than ever.

This is not the time to sit out an election.

Oh, we’ve heard the excuses for low voter turnout. “My vote won’t make much of a difference,” is a favorite among those who are apparently comfortable with letting a minority of voters decide Glendale’s. There are also those who aren’t interested in politics at a municipal level and haven’t spent any time studying — let alone, giving serious thought to — local issues.

Why should you care about casting your votes in this election?

—Because you have a vested interest in public safety. The City Council makes decisions related to fire and police protection of your person and your property.

—You’re comfortable in your neighborhood and don’t want an unsightly or traffic-clogging development to encroach on your peace of mind. Again, you’re going to want like-minded members on the city council handling zoning issues on your behalf.

—You love your children. Learn everything you can these final days leading up to the election and seat school board members who will have the students’ best interests at heart.

—You own property here, an investment you want to protect. Nothing keeps property values higher than a well-run city and strong schools.

Don’t let other people decide the future of Glendale for you. Participate in the municipal election. Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m.