They may not be as flashy or exciting as national elections, but local level races in municipal elections are every bit as important.

Local races this year will affect everything from the taxes residents pay, to the cost and availability of utilities, to the judges overseeing those facing their day in court.

The duties performed and decisions made by those elected have as much, and sometimes more, impact than federal-elected officials’ actions do, and often in a more direct manner.

Even at the primary level, the choices residents make have far-reaching results. In many cases, candidates who make it through the primary Tuesday will run unopposed in the general election. In those cases, every vote cast today is just as important as those cast in November.

While it may not draw the crowds a presidential election does — and definitely doesn’t attract the money and hype — we urge readers to exercise that most important, fundamental right of being a U.S. citizen and make it to the polls Tuesday.

It only takes a short time out of your day to help choose those who will help steer the course of your and your neighbors communities for years to come.

— JP