Mayor Young discusses the importance of participating in local elections.
Every election season, we hear about the importance of voting, but when it comes to local elections, far too many people sit on the sidelines. While national and statewide elections often capture the headlines and drive larger turnouts, participation in local elections is frequently abysmal by comparison.
Just look at the difference between Orem’s most recent primary elections:
- 2024 State Primary: 49% voter participation
- 2025 Municipal Primary: 28.6% voter participation
That means nearly three out of every four eligible voters in Orem didn’t cast a ballot in this year’s municipal primary. And yet, the outcomes of local elections often have a greater and more immediate impact on our daily lives than any national or state race ever could.
Your local leaders, city council members and school board representatives, make decisions that shape the community. They determine how your tax dollars are spent, the quality of your local schools, and how our community plans for the future. Local government is where your voice is closest to the people making the decisions.
This year’s election is especially significant as voters will elect a completely new school board that will guide the formation of the brand-new district serving Orem, Lindon, Vineyard, and Pleasant Grove. The individuals chosen will lay the foundation of education policy, opportunity, and important decisions moving forward.
I’m challenging every Orem resident to not only vote but to also be a voice for participation. Encourage your friends, family, and neighbors to do the same. Talk about the issues that matter, share why you care, and remind others that voting is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to make a difference right here at home.
Ballots have started arriving in mailboxes this week. Please take the time to fill yours out and return it promptly. With recent legislative changes, ballots must now be received by the Utah County Clerk by November 4th to be counted.
Voting is important at any level but it really matters here at the local level. When more of us participate, our city grows stronger, fairer, and more reflective of the people who call it home.