Local elections have the power to directly impact residents’ daily lives. Decisions made by city, county and town governments affect everything from the potholes in their streets to their access to healthcare, education, and jobs. In fact, some of the most significant policy changes in history have started at the local level before growing into national movements. It’s essential for residents to participate in local elections by voting and encouraging others to vote.

But in a political climate where voters are often confused and unprepared, it’s even more critical to ensure that all citizens vote with informed decisions. This means educating voters on the candidates and policies that they will be voting on and providing accessible, reliable information to help them understand the issues at stake.

A variety of nonpartisan online resources provide comprehensive election candidate information including background, beliefs and stances on policies, as well as ballot questions to be considered. Creating civic education campaigns and disseminating this information through community events, recreation programs and government meetings are important components to increasing voter participation. Offering early voting options like in-person and by mail is also a great way to help voters overcome concerns about long lines.

Voters must be able to easily find and reach their polling stations in order to have a meaningful impact on their communities’ elections. This is especially important for historically marginalized populations of color and low-income individuals whose voices are often excluded from local government.