Defy Expectations, Tolland!

(Written by Steve Jones, Chair of the Tolland Democratic Town Committee and candidate for Town Council):

We have an opportunity, Tolland!

In our last three municipal elections, our average voter turnout is lower than 25%. That's right, less than one in four of your neighbors will actually remember to go to our Town Hall or Senior Center, to chose who directly affect their daily lives for Town Council, Board of Education, Planning and Zoning Commission, and the Zoning Board of Appeals.  As of now, this year is expected to be the same, with only about 3,500 ballots ordered for a town with nearly 10,000 registered voters.

Why it is important to vote?  30 or so individuals from across our town have stepped up to the plate.  They would like a chance to make Tolland's education the strongest possible, its business environment friendlier, and it's population stronger and more vibrant.  These individuals are your neighbors and your friends.  You often see them on a daily basis at the grocery store, the library, or at the weekly farmers market.

Compare our municipal election turnout.  84% of our town voted for one individual to represent over 300 million people to the rest of the world.   Still, you will never run into a sitting president at a grocery store and talk with them about the issues your town faces.

Our opportunity?  We can do better by our community.   I urge my neighbors across Tolland to first learn more about this group of 30 individuals on October 29th at the Tolland Community Women's Meet the Candidates Forum  Then, join me on November 5th.  Defy expectations.  Vote for the men and women who will serve you best in town and break through the 3,500 expected votes for that day.

Your voice will be heard in Tolland, and we will listen.