Voters in a number of cities throughout Polk County will go to the polls Tuesday for a variety of municipal elections.
“There are eight city elections including Bartow, Davenport, Eagle Lake, Frostproof, Haines City, Lake Alfred, Mulberry and Polk City. In some of those cities, we have city commission races and in others. we have referendums that the city residents will be voting on.” said Lori Edwards, Supervisor of Elections for Polk County.
When asked about the importance of voting in these municipal races, Edwards explained; “City governments can affect your life in so many ways, many times people get their water and sewer services from the city government, they often get their waste removal services from city government, the roads that you drive in are from city government, and also of course many recreation items. All of this is decided by your city commission, this is an opportunity to make your voice heard.”
In some of the cities, voters will be weighing in on referendums and amendments to the local charters.
“People can have the opportunity to see what the important document of their city, the charter is like the Constitution of the city and so this is a way for voters to have input into what’s in their Constitution,” Edwards said.
The polls will be open Tuesday from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. Edwards’ office said 6,846 ballots have been issued for pre-election voters and 2,388 have been returned.
Elsewhere, the Pasco County cities of New Port Richey, Port Richey and Zephyrhills will be holding their municipal elections Tuesday, April 10. All ballots must be returned to the elections’ office by 7 p.m. The last day to request a ballot by mail is Wednesday, April 4.
Ballots will still be available for pick up over the counter at the three Pasco County elections offices until 5:00 p.m. on April 9.
