Why Local Elections Matter More Than You Think

When most people hear the word "election," they think of presidents, Congress, or the chaos on national news. But here in Mansfield, the decisions that impact your everyday life aren’t made in Washington, they’re made right here at home.

Your Road. Your Taxes. Your Voice.

Local elections determine:

• Property taxes

• What gets built—and where

• Whether farmland is preserved or turned into warehouses

• How is your children’s safety protected

• Who represents you when deals are made behind closed doors

That’s not fearmongering. That’s the truth.

A single vote in a local election can sway decisions that change the character of your neighborhood forever.

The “Off-Year” Problem

Here’s the catch: many local elections happen in off years—times when most people don’t even know there’s an election happening. That means a small group of insiders, party loyalists, and special interests often decides the outcomes.

In a town of over 7,000 people, sometimes only a few hundred show up to vote.

That’s not democracy. That’s apathy being exploited.

Why This Year Is Different

This year, something is shifting. Residents are paying attention. Questions are being asked. Budgets are being reviewed. And for the first time in a long time, there’s a serious conversation happening about government transparency, farmland preservation, and whether the system still works for the people.

Whether you agree with me or not, your voice matters. But only if you use it.

Be the Voter They Didn’t Expect

If you’re tired of decisions being made without your input or feeling like nothing will ever change, this is where it starts.

• Learn the issues.

• Ask hard questions.

• Show up on Election Day.

Let them know Mansfield is paying attention.

- Michael Bollard

Voice your concerns here