Beyond the Ballot: Why Local Elections Matter More Than You Think

Local Policy, Immediate Impact

Decisions made at the local level affect nearly every facet of daily life, often more directly and immediately than national policies. City councils determine zoning ordinances that influence housing density, affordability, and land use. Mayors and county executives allocate funding for infrastructure projects, emergency services, and community initiatives. School boards set curriculum standards, approve budgets, and hire superintendents, shaping the educational environment for families in their districts. These institutions collectively influence the quality of life in ways residents experience every day, from the condition of their streets to the safety of their neighborhoods.

For example, in many jurisdictions, city councils decide whether to support affordable housing developments or enact restrictive zoning laws that limit construction. These decisions directly affect housing costs and availability. In turn, they influence who can afford to live in a community and whether long-time residents can remain there. Public safety is another area where local leadership has significant authority. Police department budgets, policies on use of force, and community policing strategies are typically set by city councils and mayors, not federal authorities. These policies shape residents' daily interactions with law enforcement and can either build or erode public trust.

Understanding the Scope of Local Authority

While national elections attract high voter turnout and media attention, the scope of authority granted to local elected officials is often underestimated. In most U.S. states, local governments are responsible for administering public utilities, overseeing sanitation, managing libraries, and maintaining parks and recreation facilities. These services are essential for community well-being, yet the officials who manage them are often elected with turnout rates below 20 percent in off-cycle elections, according to the National Civic League¹.

School boards, in particular, wield substantial influence over public education. They decide on school closures, resource allocation, and disciplinary policies, all of which affect student success and equity. A well-functioning school board can improve graduation rates and close achievement gaps, while a disengaged or politicized board can destabilize districts. Recognizing the extensive authority these bodies hold is the first step in understanding why participation in their elections matters.

Barriers to Participation and Voter Turnout Challenges

One of the persistent issues facing local elections is low voter turnout. Many local elections are held in off-cycle years or months, such as May or August, which tend to attract fewer voters. According to a study by researchers at Portland State University, the average turnout for local elections across 50 U.S. cities was just 27 percent². This low participation rate means a small subset of the population often determines leadership and policy direction for entire communities.

Several factors contribute to this trend. A lack of awareness about local election dates, uncertainty about the roles and responsibilities of local offices, and limited media coverage all play a role. Additionally, registration and voting processes can