Naples Florida Weekly
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Vote on Aug. 23, it’s your right and responsibility




 

 

Tuesday, Aug. 23 is Primary Election Day. Collier County votes are more important than ever. There are serious issues and numerous candidates whose opinions range across a broad spectrum. For information about specific candidates, visit www.vote411.org or www.CollierVotes. gov.

The results of the Aug. 23 Primary Elections will have far-reaching consequences. Primary winners set the stage for the upcoming Nov. 8 General Election, which will affect governance for the next two years, as well as the 2024 Elections.

Some elections will be decided by the Primary, such as County Judge and possibly any School Board candidate who wins just over 50% of the vote. Otherwise, the top 2 vote-getters per district will have a run-off election on Nov. 8. County Commissioner Republican winners in the Primary will face an opponent, such as Democrat Bebe Kanter for District 2, or a write-in candidate for District 4. Also, the referenda on the ballot, one for the City of Naples (expanding where the City Manager can live), two for Marco Island (beach rejuvenation and short-term home rental), plus a fourth regarding expansion of the Collier Mosquito Control District, will be decided by the Primary.

Every Vote Counts — Voter turnout in a mid-term (non-presidential election year) primary election is frequently low, around 30-35%. That is especially true in Southwest Florida where many voters are “up north.” Low turnout increases the possibility of special interest candidates being elected by relatively small groups that may not represent the majority. The best defense is for every registered voter to vote.

Our Youth are Our Future — All voters have a vested interest in the quality of Collier County Schools, even voters who no longer have school age children. Schools affect all aspects of a community — the economy, jobs, cultural environment and resources, and the future potential of children in Collier County. All registered voters are eligible to vote for School Board members.

On Election Day, Tuesday, Aug. 23, vote from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in assigned precincts. Bring a current, valid photo/signature ID. Questions? Visit www.ColllierVotes.gov or phone 239-252-VOTE (8683). Voters can return a Vote-By-Mail ballot at 3750 Enterprise Ave., Naples before 7 p.m. on Aug. 23., or return at the North Collier Government Services Center, 2335 Orange Blossom or the Heritage Bay Government Services Center, 15450 Collier Blvd., before 6 pm.

Exercise your right as a citizen. VOTE! ¦

The League of Women Voters is a non- partisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government. For information visit https:// www.lwvcolliercounty.org. For information about candidates and offices, visit https:// www.vote411.org.

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