Williams News Logo
Grand Canyon News Logo

Trusted local news leader for Williams AZ and the Grand Canyon

Guarantee your presence at the polls by voting early

The city of Williams primary election is behind us. However, the May 16 general election will be here before we know it. Voters must take measures to assure they are registered to vote and then make a firm commitment to vote.

Of the 1,556 registered voters, only 485 ‹ or 31 percent ‹ cast a vote in the March 14 primary election. These numbers are frightening. The primary election was highly important since three council seats were up for re-election. These elected officials make decisions that affect the quality of living in our small city and whom we elect to fill these positions is crucial. Voting should never be taken lightly. Yet 69 percent of Williams' voters failed to have a say in the future of our city when they chose not to vote.

For some casting a ballot at the polls was frustrating. One voter had recently purchased a home and had not changed her address. It took approximately 10 minutes for poll workers to verify this information, as a line formed behind the voter in question.

Another voter failed to have her driver's license in her purse when she attempted to vote. The driver's license was in her car. Instead of being allowed to retrieve said license from her vehicle parked just outside, she was required to bring not only the license, but a photocopy of the driver's license as well.

A third voter ‹ a city employee ‹ felt harassed by poll workers. This employee was not on the city's time clock at the time and was merely exercising his right as a citizen to vote.

We are not saying that poll workers make voting difficult most of the time. We appreciate the services poll workers provide. However, there are alternatives to casting votes at the polls.

Ninety-eight voters cast early ballots ‹ 38 voted at city hall and 60 voted by mail. Early voting for the general election begins April 13. Voters can cast ballots at city hall, 113 S. First St. or at the Coconino County Elections Department at 110 E. Cherry Ave. in Flagstaff. Early voting is not only convenient, but guarantees that one will be able to cast a vote in a timely manner. By calling the elections office at 779-6589 by May 5, an early ballot can be mailed to your home. The last day to vote early is May 12.

More importantly, be sure that you are registered to vote. If you encountered any difficulties verifying your identity at the polls March 14 or were unable to vote, the time to remedy the situation is now. The last day to register to vote for the May 16 election is April 17. Voters can register at the Motor Vehicle Division, city of Williams or County Elections Department.

It is our hope that more than 31 percent of voters cast ballots in the May 16 election. Have a say in the future of Williams by voting.


Donate Report a Typo Contact