Voting vital during this election season
Our Viewpoint Editorials

Early voting has begun for elections in Jasper. So far, turnout has been good and that's a good sign.

This is an important election for the Jasper area. Voters will not only determine the new direction of both the Jasper Independent School District but Jasper's city council as well.

Vital positions are at stake in the May 10 election with big issues awaiting the new members of the board and council.

At the school level, the new board members will have to get quickly acquainted with the process and choose a new educational leader for the district.

With the retirement of Bill "Butch" Dean, the board will have to seek out and find a new superintendent for the school district. One that will continue to lead the district in a progressive manner and be able to face the challenges of leading a district in a rural area.

At the city level, voters will election three council positions. Two incumbents on council face challengers while another seat will be filled by one of three challengers.

The city also faces many challenges ahead and these decisions will be met and made by the members who are elected to office May 10.

Voters will also face two issues that are "hotbed" issues for this community.

One issue deals with the legalizing sale of beer and alcohol at restaurants and at local stores in Jasper.

A second issue deals with reducing JEDCO's funds by 1/4 of a percent and placing that money into street repairs in the city.

This is not the time to sit on your hands and not make your voice heard. There are too many challenges ahead for this area and we need competent leaders on board to help out with these decisions.

A low voter turnout is not needed during this election process. Your voice needs to be heard. The future direction of both the school board and the city council may well ride with this election.

Don't allow others to make this decision for you.