Fall is almost upon us! Students are returning to school, Northern Arizona University’s campus is coming back to life, and soon the aspens will turn golden. Fall also means election season is heating up.
One of the many things I love about my hometown is that we care, we get involved, we speak up and we vote. Early and often as the saying goes. While national issues may take up most of the media’s attention I want to urge everyone not to forget about local issues.
We have housing and transportation on the ballot. We have three open seats on city council. Coconino Community College has an initiative on the ballot. The environment is a priority here in Flagstaff and there’s a renewable energy initiative on the ballot as well as two open seats on the Arizona Corporation Commission (the body that oversees APS). Education is a top priority for many voters and there’s a statewide funding initiative, as well as a local bond initiative for the Flagstaff Unified School District. It’s also important to remember that every statewide seat and the entire Arizona legislature is up in November. The entire state government, every single seat.
Below are the important dates to know. Elections are our opportunity to shape our democracy, it is our right as well as our obligation. If you need help registering to vote, or have questions about voting in this year’s election please contact Coconino County’s (excellent) County Recorder’s office http://www.coconino.az.gov/195/Elections.
Primary Election
Independents can vote in this election but will need to request a ballot from a party, you can do so by contacting the Coconino County Recorder’s office at the website listed above or 928-679-7860.
- The last day to register to vote: Monday, July 30
- Early voting begins and early ballots mailed: Wednesday, Aug. 1
- Deadline to request an early ballot by mail: 5 p.m., Friday, Aug. 17
- Deadline to vote early in person: 5 p.m., Friday, Aug. 24
General Election
Last day to register to vote: Tuesday, Oct. 9
Early voting begins and early ballots mailed: Wednesday, Oct. 10
Deadline to request an early ballot by mail: 5 p.m., Friday, Oct. 26
Deadline to vote early in person: 5 p.m., Friday, Nov. 2
Finally, a tip. The best way to make the phone calls and door knockers go away is to cast your ballot early. If you are not on the early voting list (you really should be), you can update your voter registration to have the option (you can still go to the polls if you want!) at https://servicearizona.com/webapp/evoter/selectLanguage or at the County Recorder’s office.