Think about the things that affect the quality of your life on a daily basis. What happens when the trash doesn’t get picked up on time, when street repairs delay your morning commute or when the public restrooms in the park are closed?

Now think about those things that truly matter in our lives. Are streets safe? Does the city fire department have what it needs to quickly and adequately respond when emergencies arise? Is the local economy creating salaries on which residents can live and thrive?

Today, Natchez will vote for some of the people who have the biggest influence on the things that matter in our daily lives, those who may soon fill the seats of mayor, city aldermen and municipal court judge.

From 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. today, voters in the City of Natchez head to the polls to elect six aldermen and a new municipal judge and the Democratic nominee for mayor who will face independent candidate Eric Junkin in June’s general election.

Sadly, if this year follows the pattern of other local elections, we can expect the voter turnout to be low. Four years ago, election commissioners expressed disappointment when less than half of the registered voters in Natchez cast ballots. Less than 1,000 votes were cast in some aldermen races in 2012. With such a low turnout, each and every vote has the potential to have a big impact on the election.

If you are a registered voter in the City of Natchez, please take the time to go to the polls today. Our community’s future is in your hands.