Thanks to the Registrar’s Office for this information being on their website. Elected officials are the ones who are making or are responsible for the individuals making decisions that affect your life in many ways (traffic, taxes, stormwater, development, economic development, water, sewer, garbage, fees, recreational facilities, Aquatic Centers, sidewalks, walkways, trails, and even filling those blasted potholes).
Did you know that:
- In 1998, 11% (1,007) of the possible voters in the Town of Christiansburg determined who was elected to public office in the town.
- In 2000, 12% (1,225) of the possible voters in the Town of Christiansburg determined who was elected to public office in the town.
- In 2002, 21% (2,279) of the possible voters in the Town of Christiansburg determined who was elected to public office in the town.
- In 2004, 8% (971) of the possible voters in the Town of Christiansburg determined who was elected to public office in the town.
- In 2006, 11% (1,398) of the possible voters in the Town of Christiansburg determined who was elected to public office in the town.
- In 2008, 11% (1,527) of the possible voters in the Town of Christiansburg determined who was elected to public office in the town.
In 1998, 2002, and 2006, the office of Mayor was up for grabs. Only the 2002 election spurred a larger turn out than the 2008 election for Christiansburg. In 2010, the office of Mayor will again be up for grabs. If whatever it was that spurred on such turnout in 2008 happens again, we may have another record breaker.
For now though, think about these numbers as a reminder that whether it is local, state, or national, each election has the strong potential for a minority to dictate the dance for the majority. The only way to make a difference is to register to vote and then VOTE! For voter information including where to register, where to vote, who’s running, etc. The League of Women Voters of Montgomery County and the Montgomery County Registrar supply information.
Don’t forget that Christiansburg residents will get a chance to choose whether to keep election in May or move them to November to be combined with other elections saving your tax dollars. However many citizens show up and vote, those are the ones who will determine the outcome of the referendum.
