In less than a week, Ohioans who have not already voted will head to the polls for the Nov. 4 general election. According to the Ohio Secretary of State’s office, as of Monday there had been 61,308 absentee ballots returned and 98,382 early in-person ballots cast. Nearly 160,000 people had already weighed in on the candidates and issues.

But at about this time last year there were 8,159,946 registered voters in Ohio, and 71.71% of them turned out to vote. Admittedly, that one was a bit more of a headline-grabber — but it was certainly no more important than the decisions that will be made this time around. In fact, in terms of having an immediate effect on our daily lives, this one could be more important.

Generally, “off-year” elections in Ohio tend to result in voter turnout under 50%; sometimes dipping as low as approximately 27%. That is a shame. Imagine having to live with the decisions about who will represent your interests on city council, or whether an important levy will be renewed based on the opinions of less than one-third of those registered to vote.

Don’t count on others who share your perspective flocking to the polling places to do the work for you. If there is a voice you want to make sure is heard, you’re going to have to cast your ballot yourself.

The early voting schedule for the rest of the week:

Thursday – Friday, October 29-31: 7:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, November 1: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Sunday, November 2: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

The Columiana County Board of Elections is located at 7989 Dickey Drive, Suite 3, Lisbon.

Then, be sure you have the proper ID with you and head to your polling place between 6:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.

There is plenty at stake in this one. Don’t leave the decisions to someone else. Vote.

For information call 330-424-1448 – Main Number

Email: electioninfo@columbiana.boe.ohio.goy

The Columbiana County Board of Elections is located at 7989 Dickey Drive, Suite 3, Lisbon.